23 Things To Do In Lonavala For A Memorable Trip In The Lap Of Nature!

23 Mar 2023

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Located approximately 106 km away from Mumbai, the hill station of Lonavala is known for the spectacular beauty of the green valleys that surround it. While there are umpteen things to do here, this list will give you an idea about the best things to do in Lonavala. What you can’t miss during your trip to Lonavala are Bhaja Caves and Karla Caves. Both of them are popular Budhhist shrines visited by thousands of tourists every year. Featuring intricate sculptures, these caves are considered to be the next best to those at Ajanta and Elora. You will also get an opportunity to experience the Bhushi Dam which often overflows during the monsoon seasons.

23 Exciting Things To Do In Lonavala

Lonavala is a respite for people residing in Mumbai and Pune as it serves as an ideal weekend getaway spot to capture the true essence of nature and unwind amidst lush greenery. There is no dearth of places to visit in Lonaval nor their is scarcity of exciting things to here. If you happen to be on a vacation in Lonavala, make your holiday more exciting with these experiences. Let’s find out what are the best things to do in Lonavala for an ideal escape to nature’s best!

Tiger’s Leap: Experience The Splendid Beauty
Duke’s Nose: Soak In The Panoramic Views
Bhushi Dam: Rejuvenate Yourself Up
Lion’s Point: Witness The Sunset
Aamby Valley: Enjoy Your Weekend Gateway
Rajmachi Fort: Enjoy The Breathtaking Scenery
Wax Museum: Strike A Pose With Celebrities
Karla Caves: Revisit History
Valvan Dam: Enjoy Tranquility
Lohagad Fort: Revisit The Relics
Lonavala Lake: Soak In The Views
Amrutanjan Point: Enjoy A Picnic
Ryewood Park: Take A Stroll
Kune Falls: Trip To The Falls
Bhaja Caves: Explore The Ancient Trail
Narayani Dham Temple: Find Solace
Visapur Fort: Trek All The Way Up
Della Adventure Park: Go Bungee-Jumping
Aundholi: Camping Experience
Imagica: For A Fun Experience
Shopping: Generally Calming Experience
Tikona Fort: Hike To The Top
Lonavala Lake Waterfall: A Peaceful Time

1. Tiger’s Leap: Experience The Splendid Beauty

Located at a distance of 8 km from Lonavala, Tiger’s Leap is one of the most visited places in Lonavala. Visiting this tourist attraction tops the list of best things to do in Lonavala. This cliff top lets you enjoy the breathtaking view of the surrounding hills of Western Ghats. Once you reach this vantage point, you will have an opportunity to go for hiking and trekking. This activity is one of the top things to do in Lonavala in monsoon as well.

Location: Tiger Valley, Khandala, Lonavla, Maharashtra

Best Experience: Enjoy the gorgeous view of surrounding valley from this Tiger’s Leap.

Timings: Open all day.

Must Read: 20 Best Resorts In Lonavala: Embark On A Getaway From Mumbai And Pune

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2. Duke’s Nose: Soak In The Panoramic Views

If you are looking for top things to do in Lonavala, visiting Duke’s Nose should top your list. Located approximately 7 km away from Lonavala, this landmark is known for letting you rejuvenate yourself with the magnificent view of the Sahyadri Ranges. Not only will you be engrossed with the sylvan beauty of the dense forests but also will get a chance to go for trekking here. Trekking here will take you through long trails through the forest.

Location: Duke’s Nose, Trail Kurvande, Maharashtra 410402

Best Experience: Take yourself for an adventurous trekking and rock climbing through the dense forest.

Best time to visit: October and March.

3. Bhushi Dam: Rejuvenate Yourself Up

Visiting the Bhushi Dam located on the Indrayani river is one of the best things to do in Lonavala in monsoon. What you will truly enjoy here are the overflowing water and the rocky terrain. Visited by tourists during the monsoon weekends, this dam is the most picturesque spot you will ever find in the quaint hill station of Lonavala. Spending time by the dam is one of the best things to do in Lonavala in May.

Location: Bushi Dam, Lonavla, Maharashtra 410401

Best Experience: Enjoy the water overflowing over the steps at the Bhushi Dam.

Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4. Lion’s Point: Witness The Sunset

Your Lonavala trip will be incomplete without watching sunset at the Lion’s Point. Being one of the top things to do in lonavala, Lion’s Point is known for being home to magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once you make your way to the top of the hill, you will find yourself amidst cascading waterfalls which certainly add to the memory of Lonavala trip. If you don’t want to miss experiencing the beauty of majestic mountains and lush greenery, add Lion’s Point to your bucket list right now.

Location: Lion Point, Hudco Colony, Lonavla, Maharashtra 410401

Best Experience: Enjoy the cascading waterfalls and watch sunset at the Lion’s Point.

Timings: For best experience, visit Lion’s Point before noon.

5. Aamby Valley: Enjoy Your Weekend Gateway

A skydiver glides over the picturesque landscapes as he lands.

Located approximately 24 km from Lonavala, Aamby Valley is known for its magnificent landscape. Developed by Sahara India Parivar, this township is spread over 10,000 acre hilly terrain. This landscape has been designed to be environment-friendly and adorns itself with international standard infrastructure. Experiencing the beauty of Aamby Valley is one of the best things to do in Lonavala for couples. Whether you are going here for a weekend or a picnic, Aamby Valley won’t disappoint you for sure.

Location: Aamby Valley CityMaharashtra 412108

Best Experience: Experience environment-friendly landscape and international standard infrastructure at Aamby Valley.

Timings: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

6. Rajmachi Fort: Enjoy The Breathtaking Scenery

Standing in between Lonavala and Khandala, Rajmachi Fort is one of the most prominent places to visit during your trip to Lonavala. Being one of the best things to do in lonavala, visiting this fort rejuvenates your senses as you experience beautiful landscapes. The fort complex consists of two peaks i.e. Shrivardhan Peak and Manaranjan Peak. You will be able to see the Duke’s Nose from here. Other places that you will be able to see from the top include Ulhas river, Bhimashankar, Matheran, Karnala, and so on.

Location: Rajmachi, Maharashtra 415105

Best Experience: Experience the spectacular surroundings from the top of the Rajmachi Fort.

Timings: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

7. Wax Museum: Strike A Pose With Celebrities

If you are looking forward to do some unique things to do in Lonavala, visiting the Wax Museum should be on top of the list. You will find wax statues of different celebrities including Michael Jackson, Kapin Dev, A R Rahman, Rajib Gandhi, and so on. Many consider the wax statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji to be the best at this museum. Having fun at the museum is one of the best things to do in Lonavala for kids.

Location: Lonavala Junction, Lonavala Square Mall, Takve Kurth, Pune, Maharashtra 410401

Best Experience: Witness the wax statues of famous personalities here.

Timings: 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

8. Karla Caves: Revisit History

Visiting the Karla Caves is one of the best things to do in lonavala for couples. Situated on the Pune-Mumbai highway, this cave is believed to be one of the few caves that have been unearthed in Sahyadri Hills. Adorning itself with halls and monasteries, this cave is believed to be built in between the 2nd century BC and the 5th century AD. You will be able to see the caves narrating some of the most amazing stories here.

Location: Karla, Ekveera Devi Road, Lonavla, Maharashtra 410405

Best Experience: Experience ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves at Karla Caves.

Timings: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

9. Valvan Dam: Enjoy Tranquility

Being one of the best things to do in Lonavala in summer, visiting Valvan Dam should top your list in case you are looking forward to spend quality time with your loved ones. Located within close proximity from Lonavala, the Valvan Dam is a water barrage that serves water for electricity generation at Khopoli Power Station. Surrounded by spectacular sceneries, this dam is the best spot for those who love nature and are looking for tranquility. Many photographers also visit this place to capture breathtaking views.

Location: Valvan Dam, Maharashtra 410405

Best Experience: Experience the scenic beauty at Valvan Dam.

Best time to visit: October and May.

10. Lohagad Fort: Revisit The Relics

Located approximately 52 km away from Pune, Lohagad Fort is one of the best places to visit near Lonavala. Being one of the top things to do in lonavala in summer, this fort adorns itself with Maharashtrian architecture. You will be able to enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings from the top as well. This Iron Fort used to be home to prisoner during the regime of Shivaji. Later it was used to contain treasure looted from different parts of the country.

Location: Lohagad Fort, Lohagad Trek Rd, Maharashtra 410406

Best Experience: Enjoy the spectacular surroundings and revisit the history at Lohagad Fort.

Timings: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

11. Lonavala Lake: Soak In The Views

Image Source One of the top things to do in Lonavala is to visit Lonavala Lake and soak in the charm of this enchanting water body. Lonavala Lake is an iconic attraction that will sway you away with its ethereal beauty. The charm of this place is at its peak during the monsoon when it is surrounded by fifty shades of green, making it one of the best places to visit in Lonavala in rainy season. Anybody who is visiting Lonavala makes a point to first visit this place and the cover other major spots in Lonavala.

Location: Lonavala, Maharashtra

Best experience: Relaxation

Best time to visit: Monsoon

12. Amrutanjan Point: Enjoy A Picnic

Image Source What makes visiting Amrutanjan Point one of the cool things to do in Lonavala is the magnificent aerial views. Situated in the beginning of Khandala Ghat, Amrutanjan Point is a vantage point to enjoy the lush surroundings and aerial views of Khopoli. The various hues of green and invigorating environs makes it one of the best places to visit in Lonavala in May. One should definitely bring their family or friends and enjoy a fun picnic here.

Location: Khandala Ghat, Lonavala, India

Best experience: Enjoy the aerial views of Khopoli and Duke’s Nose

Best time to visit: All round the year

13. Ryewood Park: Take A Stroll

Located close to Lonavala market, Ryewood Park is a municipality park where locals come to take a stroll or have a short break. Playing catch ball is one of the best things to do in Lonavala for kids in the evening. It once enjoyed the status of being a botanical garden but even now people enjoy the calm and quietude of the place. The chirping of birds and lush green environs add soothing elements to the scenery.

Location: National Highway 4, Siddharth Nagar, Lonavla, Maharashtra 410401

Best experience: Take a stroll or play outdoor games with kids

Best time to visit: 8 AM – 5 PM

14. Kune Falls: Trip To The Falls

Image Credit: Ron Mitra for Pixabay One of the fun things to do in Lonavala is to take a day trip with your friends to the falls. Located very close to the Bushi Dam, Kune Falls is one of the most popular spots for youngsters. One can find food stalls selling hot piping maggi and coffee. The waterfall is gushing in the monsoons and the verdant greenery surrounding the falls adds more value to the scenery. Since it is one of the most popular waterfalls in the region, one should not miss visiting this place on their Lonavala honeymoon.

Location: Khandala, Lonavla, Maharashtra 410301

Best experience: Have hot maggi by the falls

Best time to visit: Monsoons

15. Bhaja Caves: Explore The Ancient Trail

Image Source Apart from Karla Caves, Lonavala is also famous for ancient Bhaja Caves. A group of 22 caves, the archaeological site is believed to be as old as the 2nd century and lures the attention of many tourists. Visiting the caves is one of the most activities to do in Lonavala. Many photographers come here for photography sessions. It is also a popular site for pre-wedding and modeling shoots. Located just above the Bhaja Village, one can note significant inscriptions and stupas inside the cave that make great historical evidence of human evolution.

Location: Bhaje Caves Road, Near Bhaja Village Maval District, Lonavla, 412106

Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM Entry Fee: INR 25 for Indians

Best time to visit: October-March

16. Narayani Dham Temple: Find Solace

Image Source You may not include worshipping in the list of all the activities to do in lonavala but it is suggested that you visit Narayani Dham Temple. The gigantic temple in Lonavala is constructed in four storeys with carvings in white marble. The temple is flooded with worshippers on religious festivals and is decorated like a bride. Although dedicated to Ma Narayani, all major Hindu deities are worshipped in the temple.

Location: Yoga Center, Plot No 28/199, Near Kaivalyadhama, Tungarli Rd, Tungarli, Lonavla, Maharashtra 410401

Timings: 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

17. Visapur Fort

Image Source One of the offbeat things to do in Lonavala is to trek to Visapur Fort. One of the most popular getaways near Lonavala, adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers come here for the thrills. The verdant greenery along the trail is soothing to the eyes. Since trek is not that difficult, even novice and amateurs can do the hike easily. However, it gets slippery during the monsoons. Coming to the fort, it was built by the first Peshwa of Maratha Empire. One can gauge the prowess of Marathat rulers by the gigantic fortifications.

Location: Malavli, Maharashtra 410406

Best experience: Trekking

Best time to visit: June-Feb

18. Della Adventure Park: Go Bungee-Jumping

Image Credit: Pixabay Are you in search of thrill and excitement? Then bungee jumping experience is one of the most adventurous things to do in Lonavala for you? The activity is organized at Della Adventure Park where you will find a range of adventure activities to indulge in. take a plunge from 150 ft above the ground. Even though the activity is 7-10 minutes long, its after-effects remain on your mind for a long time.

Location: Lonavala, Kunegaon, Maharashtra 410401

Cost: INR 2500 per person

Timings: 11 AM – 9 PM

19. Aundholi: Camping Experience

Image Courtesy: pxhere.com Aundholi is a small village in Maharashtra that is famous among travelers for an exquisite camping experience. If you are someone who takes more joy in camping than staying in a hotel, then this experience is for you. The village is famous for encompassing landscapes and ethereal natural beauty. There are many organizers who plan camping activities and much more for people interested in one-day getaway to the village.

Location: Mawal Taluka

Best experience: Enjoy camping under the stars and amidst lush greenery

Best time to visit: October-May

20. Imagica: For A Fun Experience

One of the best things to do in Lonavala is visiting the ever fun Imagica World – an amusement park that will highly lift your spirits up. The park is composed of a themed park, a water park, a snow park, stays, restaurants, shopping and so much more. Visiting here would be fun and a fulfilling experience. If you are holidaying in Lonavala with family then this is the perfect place to be.

Location: No. 30 31, State Highway 92 near Lonavala, Sangdewadi, Khopoli, Maharashtra 410203

Best experience: Thrilling rides

Best time to visit: Any time of the year

21. Shopping: Generally Calming Experience

It is quite generic but it’s a favored activity as well. You can enjoy the markets of Lonavala and buy a few items. If one such special thing you want to buy in Lonavala, then it is Chikki, a nut-based sweet. Otherwise you can go for some clothing, some souvenirs and general shopping.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year

22. Tikona Fort: Hike To The Top

Also known as Vitandgad, one of the best things to do in Lonavala would be to take a tour of the Tikona Fort. It is a hill fort located in the Maval region of Lonavala. The fort is located on a 3500 ft high hill and shaped like a pyramid. The very reason why this came to be known as “triangular” or Trikona or Tikona Fort.

Location: Tikona, Tikonapeth, Mulshi, Maharashtra 412108

Best experience: Hiking to the top

Best time to visit: Any time of the year

23. Lonavala Lake Waterfall: A Peaceful Time

The Lonavala Lake waterfall is a beautiful attraction especially during the monsoon season when the greenery pops up. The vivid colors of the surroundings really pave for a special time in this part of Lonavala. The gushing waterfall has a nice vibe making it ideal for picnics.

Location: Bhangarwadi, Lonavla, Maharashtra 410401

Best experience: Enjoy tasty Maggi and eat some momos

Best time to visit: Any time of the year

Further Read: The New Fossil Park To Open In Maharashtra Will Help You Relive Your ‘Jurassic Park’ Memories!

With that, we have come to the end of our list and we’re sure you found plenty of things to do in Lonavala that are enough to plan a weekend getaway to Lonavala and enjoy a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life! Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Lonavala

What are the top attractions to visit in Lonavala?

Some of the best tourist spots in Lonavala are Tiger’s Leap, Bhaja Caves, Karla Caves, Bhushi Dam, Duke’s Nose, Tikona Fort, Pawna Lake, Lohagad Fort, Ryewood Park, and Valvan Dam.

What are the best outdoor activities in Lonavala?

Some of the best outdoor activities that you can enjoy are:
1. Witness the alluring sunset from Tiger’s Leap
2. Revisit history at Karla Caves
3. Go bungee jumping at Della Adventure Park
4. Enjoy a fun-filled day at Imagica
5. Hike up to Tikona Fort
6. Spend some peaceful time at Lonavala Lake Waterfall

Can I visit Lonavala during the current Covid situation?

Yes, you can plan a visit to Lonavala during the current Covid situation. However, make sure that you are completely vaccinated and always carry your vaccination certificate. Besides this, you need to follow government protocols that include wearing a mask when in public, sanitizing hands at certain intervals, and maintaining social distance.

Is one day enough for Lonavala?

You can certainly cover the most popular tourist attractions in one day. You can hire a cab to visit the most prominent spots here. However, if you want to spend your vacation in a relaxed manner, you should be planning for at least 2-3 days.

What is the best time to visit Lonavala?

Due to heavy rainfall, it is not recommended for you to visit Lonavala during the months, between June and September. The best time to visit Lonavala is the winter months, between October and May.

How can I go to Lonavala from Mahabaleshwar?

Since there is no direct train, you need to book a private car that will take you from Mahabaleshwar to Lonavala.

Which are some of the best places to visit near Lonavala?

Here is a list of some of the best destinations near Lonavala:
1. Khandala
2. Lohagad
3. Kamshet
4. Matheran
5. Karjat
6. Hadshi
7. Pune

Which are the best places to eat in Lonavala?

Check out these cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a wonderful meal time:
1. Dhiraj Restaurant
2. Rama Krishna
3. Grill Zone
4. Mumbai Masala
5. Homey Kitchen
6. Mountainview Fine Dine