Lonavala - The Misty Hills..
Lonavala, sequestered between two major cities Mumbai and Pune, Is a popular get away and a weekend destination. Lonavala sprawl over an approximate area of 38 sq km with some of the most popular forts like Lohagad, waterfalls and lakes. Lonavla an hours drive away from Pune and Mumbai is one of the best spots for a weekend one day trip from Pune especially during and just after monsoons.
The twin hill stations of Lonavala anand Kandala Lonavalais blessed with valleys, hills, milky waterFalls, lush greenery and pleasant weather almost all through the year. Lonavala is however at its majestic best just after monsoons. Lonavala got its name from 'lenya' marathi for caves, thanks to the numerous caves strewn around the valley, Karla caves about 10 kms from Lonavala being the most prominent amongst all the caves in Lonavala.
Lohagad
Lohagad fort is a formidable fort near Pune. Lohagad makes an ideal trekking destination for trekkers from Pune because of its accesibility, ease of the trek and lush green surroundings. Lohagad is 3400 feet high and is a very wide spread fort. There are 4 doors to Lohagad from the nearby village Lohagadwadi. The trek from 'Bhaje gav' to
Believed to be built in the later part of the 2nd century Karla caves have one of the largest collection of Chaityas. Built during the hinayana period asteep climbs lead up to the caves. At the entrance is a recently built temple; accompanied by a pillar from the Buddhist period. There is a 45-meter (148 foot) long Chaitya, possibly the finest of its kind in the country in Karla caves.
There are many spots in Lonavala ideal for a one day picnic. Tiger's Leap 1.6 km from INS Shivaji with a sheer drop of over 650 mts offer magnificent panoramic view. Bhushi Dam with a fabulous waterfall near the dam is one of the most exciting spots in Lonavala. Duke's Nose, 12 km from Lonavala, clearly visible from the highway is popular with hikers. Rajmachi Point is located about 6.5 km from Lonavla.
Lonavala Chikki..
From the modest 'gurdana'; over a century ago, Lonavala chikki has come a long way. Initially just a simple mixture of jaggery and ground nuts Lonavala chikki has graduated to many varities including Kesar and pista which would cost you close to Rs 500 a kg, groundnut chikkis are still just 80 a kg!
Distance from Major cities..
