10 Places To Visit In Lonavala

OT Staff

Lonavala

Located in the stunning Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats, Lonavala is a popular hill station for campers, trekkers and nature lovers looking to savour its waterfalls, lakes and forests. Here are 10 places you should visit.

Pawna Lake | Shutterstock

Tiger’s Leap

This viewpoint with its sheer drop and panoramic views is inspired by the resemblance of the cliff's shape to that of a tiger leaping into the valley below. The place is renowned for its majestic sunrises and sunsets.

Tiger's Leap viewpoint | mysticdreamvillevilla/Instagram

Karla Caves

The Karla Caves are a complex of 16 rock-cut caves which were used by Buddhist monks as living quarters. The oldest of these caves were built over 2000 years ago. The “chaitya griha” (prayer hall) in cave 8 is decorated with fine sculptures.

Karla Caves | Shutterstock

Lohagad Fort

“Lohagad” means iron. The fort served as a crucial military base for many kingdoms and the structure is said to be one of the oldest in the region. It's a trekker’s delight, offering gorgeous views of the Sahyadri mountain range and the lush green landscape.

View from Lohagad Fort | Shutterstock

Ryewood Park

This public garden has lush lawns, old trees and colourful flower beds where you can spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy a leisurely meal. Children can play on the slides and swings while adults can stroll around the gardens and breathe in the fresh air.

Ryewood Park | dhanlairenlakpam/Instagram

Sunil’s Celebrity Wax Museum

This place houses around 100 wax sculptures in the style of Madame Tussauds. With national and international celebrities standing still, you can take selfies with the likes of Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar, Michael Jackson and even Narendra Modi during your visit.

Wax statue of Kareena Kapoor | celebritywaxmuseum.com/Website

Lonavala Lake

Situated on the outskirts of Lonavala, this lake is fed by the Indrayani river and is best viewed during the monsoon season. Visitors can bird watch and partake in boating, swimming and angling here.

Lonavala Lake | Shutterstock

Bhaja Caves

These 22 Buddhist caves were built over 2000 years ago and are known for their intricate rock-cut architecture, giving you a peek into the region’s rich history. Sculptures and religious relics found in the caves signify it was a sacred place.

Inside the Bhaja Caves | Shutterstock

Rajmachi Fort

Made up of two fortresses, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan, the Rajmachi Fort offers beautiful views of the Sahyadris and its mist-clad valleys. The area's hiking trail takes you through lush forests and water-dripping rock.

Rajmachi Fort | Shutterstock

Kune Falls

Kune Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the country. This three-tiered water body cascades from a height of 200m and is surrounded by verdant landscapes. The waterfall is at its best during the monsoon. You can go for a swim or simply soak in the peace and calm of the area.

Kune Falls | Shutterstock

Della Adventure Park

Whether you’re an adventure junkie or a family looking for a day of fun, Della Adventure Park has over 50 adventure activities. Enjoy ziplining, paintballing, ATV rides, archery, rappelling and more at the amusement park.

Bunjee jumping at the Della Adventure Park | dellaadventure/Facebook

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Chandoli National Park | Shutterstock