subject: Adventures Places Lonavla And Khandala [print this page] These twin resorts may be playing the same hackneyed tune, but their timeless appeal always bowls you over. Lonavala commands an exalted position on the western slopes of the Sahyadris, at a height of 625 m and Khandala is a little lower. The picturesque drive winding around the Western Ghats and the equally splendid train journey weaving through at least twenty tunnels cut into the basaltic rock before it ends at Lonavala-Khandala is some experience. Both these hill stations are sure to bowl you over - so come and let Lonavla and Khandala cast their spell on you!
Historically Speaking
The history of Khandala states that the origin of the hill station is obscure. Khandala had once been a part of Chattrapati Shivaji''s empire. After the Marathas, the territory of Khandala passed under the Peshwas. When the British came, the territory was taken over by them in 1811. Lonavla got
its name from "Lonavli", which means ''city surrounded by caves'' and the town is surrounded by many caves, with the Kurla Caves being the most well known.
How to get there by Air
Lonavala & Khandala do not have airports so one has to fly to Bombay or to Pune. The nearest international airport is Bombay (110 km) and domestic airport is Pune (66km).
How to get there by Rail
The railways bring Khandala and Lonavala to life, connecting trains are available from Mumbai Central Station and Pune Junction. All the trains halt at Khandala before travelling onto to Lonavala.
How to get there by Bus
The Mumbai-Bangalore National Highway connecting southern and western India passes through Khandala -Lonavala. The drive winds its way up tiers of ghats including the arduous Khopoli - Khandala Ghat. Within a short distance of 8 km the road ascends to a height of 369 m but the picturesque countryside
makes it worth it all. State roadways buses, private buses, taxis and tour operators have regular services to the hill resorts of Lonavala & Khandala.
Best time to Visit
You can come here any time of the year, especially in winter, from October to April. Summer temperatures reach a maximum of 36 C and touch minimum temperatures of 12 C in winter.
Where to Stay
Besides the middle budget MTDC resorts at Khandala and Lonavala, there are numerous accommodation options to suit all budgets. The Dukes Retreat, Hotel Vallerina, Velvet Country Resort and Hotel La Revival are some of the premium Hotels in Khandala and Hotels in lonavla
Nearby Places
Kamshet only 11 km from Lonavala is a must visit destinations for those with even the slightest inclination towards adventure. A picturesque hill station it is a popular destination for paragliding.
