Lonavala Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Lonavala featuring hiking or walking and tranquil scenes
Venture into cave temples, hike up mountains and see wax sculptures of famous celebrities in this hill town in the west of India.

Explore the hills, valleys, waterfalls and caves that Lonavala is known for. Situated at an altitude of 2,050 feet (650 metres), the popular hill town is surrounded by spectacular scenery. 

Lonavala’s name comes from the Sanskrit word for cave, “lonavli”, as there are many throughout the area. Investigate Bhaja Caves that were carved out by Buddhist nuns approximately 2,000 years ago. The cavernous spaces contain carved reliefs, statues, a monastery and stupas. These are dome-shaped shrines that were built to contain Buddhist relics. Inside Karla Caves, find some of India's largest rock-cut Buddhist shrines and a prayer hall with 37 huge octagonal pillars.

Outdoor lovers should trek to Tiger’s Leap for extensive views of the valley below and the countryside around Lonavala. The cliff top has a drop of approximately 2,130 feet (650 metres) and during the monsoon season there is a small waterfall here. Pack a picnic and head to Tungarli Lake. This attractive man-made body of water is a popular recreation spot that serves Lonavala with some of its drinking water.

Wander through Ryewood Park, a large green expanse with play areas for children. While you are here, check out the old Shiva temple.

If you are in Lonavala during monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, go to the Bhushi Dam. When the dam overflows, water gushes over steps and a stony path. This event attracts crowds who come to splash in the overflowing water.   

For some amusement, look inside the Celebrity Wax Museum. On display are life-size wax sculptures of famous Indian and international figures from history and the present day.

The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is both the quickest and most beautiful way to get to Lonavala. The 6-lane road corridor is surrounded by forests and mountains, providing an early introduction to the area’s natural splendour. Lonavala also has its own railway station.

Where to stay in Lonavala

Meritas Picaddle Resort - Lonavala
Meritas Picaddle Resort - Lonavala
4 out of 5
137 A, Opp Tata Power House, Old Mumbai Pune Highway, Lonavala, Maharashtra
The price is ₹5,499 per night from 25 Sep to 26 Sep
₹5,499
per night
25 Sep - 26 Sep
Stay at this 4-star spa resort in Lonavala. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the property condition in their reviews. Popular ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (166 reviews)
"Needs pest control and appropriate supply of towels."

Reviewed on 8 Sep 2023

Meritas Picaddle Resort - Lonavala
The Upper Deck Resort
The Upper Deck Resort
3 out of 5
13/15, Pangloli Village, Thakurwadi, Off. Tungarli Lake, Lonavala, Maharashtra
The price is ₹5,687 per night from 16 Oct to 17 Oct
₹5,687
per night
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Lonavala. Enjoy free parking, a rooftop terrace and breakfast. Popular attractions Shrivardhan Fort and Tungarli Lake are located ...
7.2/10 Good! (15 reviews)
"The staff was very good and helpful, taking care of our special food requirements, however, the property is a little overpriced for the condition of it., mostly commanding it for the view it has. The bathroom fixtures in many places were broken, with no hot water. Walls outside in balcony had water ..."

Reviewed on 25 Sep 2022

The Upper Deck Resort
The Dukes Retreat
The Dukes Retreat
3.5 out of 5
Pune Mumbai Road, Khandala, Lonavala, Maharashtra
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ₹6,666 per night from 27 Sep to 28 Sep
₹6,666
per night
27 Sep - 28 Sep
Stay at this 3.5-star spa hotel in Lonavala. Enjoy free parking, a full-service spa and breakfast. Our guests praise the property condition in their reviews. ...
7.6/10 Good! (108 reviews)
"The property location is so good,Feels close to nature,Enjoyed the stay and all staff members are excellent, would like to go again."

Reviewed on 8 Sep 2023

The Dukes Retreat
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lalit Hills Resort
Lalit Hills Resort
3 out of 5
Lalit Hills Resort, Tungarli, Lonavala, Maharashtra
Stay at this 3-star villa in Lonavala. Enjoy free parking, a 24-hour front desk and a garden. Popular attractions Narayani Dham and Celebrity Wax Museum are ...
Lalit Hills Resort
Amã Stays & Trails Whispering Heights, Pawna Lake, Lonavala
Amã Stays & Trails Whispering Heights, Pawna Lake, Lonavala
5 out of 5
s.No. 139, Pale Pawan Ma, Pawna Lake, behind baba maharaj satarkar aashram, Lonavala, Maharashtra
Stay at this 5-star luxury villa in Lonavala. Enjoy free parking, a garden and a picnic area. Popular attractions Valvan Lake and Shingroba Temple are located ...
Amã Stays & Trails Whispering Heights, Pawna Lake, Lonavala
Amã Stays & Trails - Villa Seven, Lonavala
Amã Stays & Trails - Villa Seven, Lonavala
5 out of 5
Plot No. 2&3, 24 Frichley Hill Road, Behind Fariyas Hotel Tungarli, Lonavala, Maharashtra
Stay at this 5-star luxury villa in Lonavala. Enjoy free parking, 10 indoor pools and a garden. Popular attractions Shooting Point and Della Adventure are located ...
Amã Stays & Trails - Villa Seven, Lonavala
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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