The marvellous Kune Falls in the valley of Lonavala is located at a distance of 101 kilometres from the city of Pune in Maharashtra. The waterfalls come from a height of 195 metres to drop with a pompous roar in a rocky valley. It is located near the Kune River and best seen during monsoons when water cascades down the rocky edge in a wonderfully beautiful sight. The trekkers love the falls since it takes one hour to cover the distance to get there on a moderate trail with green vegetation. Monsoons also bring Kune Falls alive, and it has become a favourite shooting location and holiday destination for people who want to witness the wild beauty of nature.
Places To Visit Near Kune Falls
This blog will unveil the beauty of Kune Falls and tell you about its other attractions. Tourists can enjoy the caves and other different spots. Some of the best attractions to visit near Kune Falls are –
1. Karla Caves
Image Credit: Mriganka Das for Wikimedia Commons
The Karla Caves are a group of original Buddhist cave temples carved into the hillside near Kune Falls, Maharashtra. Constructed 200 years before Christ and lasted for 800 years, the facades of these monuments are carved in rocks, and there are 22 caves. Among these, the largest and the most beautiful is the twelfth cave, called the Great Chaitya, with a giant arch-like, horseshoe-shaped ceiling which measures 39.2m in length, 5.21m in height and 14.65 m in breadth. The building serves as a chaitya, which is built and dedicated to the Buddha, while on the front, there are carved images of human and animal figures, geometrical patterns, and floral designs.
Other caves are much more decorated with fine pillars, excellent carvings, and moonstone fittings. The Buddhist architectural development in India can be evident through the features provided in the Karla Caves; some of the best examples of rock-cut architecture remained in India during the ancient period when it was a major Buddhist monastic centre and place of worship. The Karla Caves has been turned into a tourist attraction site that shows the Art and Architecture of Buddhists in Maharashtra.
Distance: 12 km from Kune Falls
Address: Karli, Lonavala, Maharashtra
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2. Bhaja Caves
Image Credit: Aparna Mandava for Wikimedia Commons
Near Kune Falls are the Bhaja Caves, which are 22 caves carved out of a mountain facing and are a historical monument in the Pune district near Lonavala in Maharashtra, India. They are one of the oldest discovered caves in India, and being of ancient times, they hold significant importance. The caves are sprayed cut on the face of a high cliff that overlooks a deep ravine. The largest and most elaborate cave is the Chaitya Hall, or Cave XII, which has a ribbed ceiling and an apsidal end with a stupa. Other caves include living shelters for monks known as Viharas and monasteries known as Chaityagrihas.
The caves contain detailed sculptural decorations, artistic carvings, and paintings, including inscriptions and donor inscriptions, which help understand early Buddhist trends. Paintings are also discernible in some cases, and remnants are still present. The carving witnessed here is considered a landmark in the evolution of rock-cut architecture in India under early Buddhist patronage. They fall under the protection of ASI but need better care and attention, being as old-fashioned and culturally significant as they are.
Distance: 15 km from Kune Falls
Address: Bhaje Caves Road, Malavli, Maharashtra
3. Tiger’s Leap
Image Credit: Tdxiang for Wikimedia Commons
Tiger’s Leap is also a significant attraction for tourists visiting Kune Falls. It is situated in Maharashtra, adjacent to the Vasai Fort. This is a picturesque and towering cliff located at an altitude of approximately 550 metres on the standard level. The view of the valleys, hills, and villages around Tiger’s Leap is awe-inspiring, and one can see the vast expanse of greenery in the area. Some people, mainly the locals, believe that this cliff was named after an incident where a tiger was cornered and in its attempt to get away from the hunters, it jumped off the cliff and barely survived. Tiger’s Leap is another magnificent place, especially when the monsoons are around or during the subsequent months.
Tiger’s Leap offers a commanding view of the nearby hill stations of Matheran and Lonavala, depending on the angles and heights available at the spot. Trekkers also enjoy the trek through the forest that leads to the cliff, although the trail is considered moderate difficulty. Besides the beautiful view around, the exciting climb and the inspiring stories of how Tiger’s Leap got its name make this destination quite appealing not only to nature lovers but also to the adventurous souls who are planning to visit the ancient forts of Vasai and Bassein not too far from this point.
Distance: 8 km from Kune Falls
Address: Tiger’s Leap, Kurvande, Maharashtra
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4. Lion’s Point
Image Credit: Anurag Singh for Wikimedia Commons
Lion’s Point or Lion’s Head, or Malang Point, is a widely known cliff in India situated in Alibag, Raigad district, Maharashtra, close to Kune Falls. Lion’s Point is a vantage point located approximately 182.9 metres above mean sea level, providing a spectacular view of the Arabian Sea and the coastal area around Alibaug. It is reachable by a steep hike where hikers must use approximately 700 narrow stairs. Moreover, once on the top, one is graced with stunning views of expansive blue sea expenses and hilly terrains covered with greenery for as far as the eye can see.
It is most especially beautiful during the monsoons when grey clouds hover over the cliffs. Several photographers visit Lions Point with the intention of making picture-perfect images of such an environment. Lion’s Point has retained its natural beauty and is cherished by visitors who come to the Konkan regions of Maharashtra for tourism and other adventurous activities, as it offers a perfect view of the villages and forests.
Distance: 12 km from Kune Falls
Address: Lions Point, Lonavala, Maharashtra
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Thus, Kune Falls is a beautiful waterfall site near Lonavala, a city in Maharashtra where one can get a natural break. Featuring a three-tier drop of water, a mini forest and a serene environment, it is ideal for resting and extreme activities. The visitors can get a feel of the mist, view the surrounding environment, and listen to the sound of the water. If you are searching for some serene and quiet time or an adventurous experience, Kune Falls and nearby areas will surely give you an exciting time on your trip to Maharashtra.
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Cover Image Credit: Rudy Kirchner for Pexels
Frequently Asked Questions To Kune Falls
When is the best time to visit Kune Falls?
The best time to go to Kune Falls is during the rainy season, which runs from June to September.
Can additional charges be paid to access the Kune Falls?
Absolutely not. There are no charges to access Kune Falls.
What is the procedure for getting to Kune Falls?
It is easily reachable by car because it is situated in a fairly developed area. Lonavala is approximately 3 kilometres away and is easily accessible by rail and road from major cities such as Mumbai and Pune.
Is there any accommodation that can be found at Kune Falls?
Kune Falls does not offer any particular amenities, so it is recommended that you bring your water, food, and other necessities. However, there are nearby towns and villages where basic needs like food, shelter, water, etc., are easily available.
Is it comfortable to swim in Kune Falls?
Swimming is prohibited around Kune Falls as the water is deep and has swift currents accompanied by large irregular rocks.
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