Khandala Hill Station: Mumbai’s/Pune’s most Scenic Weekend Getaway
Located in the Sahyadhri mountain ranges in the western part of Maharashtra, Khandala hill station is often deemed to be Mumbai and Pune’s favourite weekend getaway and most scenic weekend suburb. This is partly due to the Khandala hill station being very well connected with both cities Mumbai and Pune. Khandala getaway is located 101 kms southeast of Mumbai and 69 kms from Pune, Khandala hill station; 5 kms away is Lonavala hill station. Khandala and Lonavala have a pleasant weather all year around.
The origins of the Khandala hill station are obscure. It is however known that the Maratha warrior and the founder of the First Maratha Empire, Shivaji, ruled the area around Khandala. After Shivaji, the region was under the rule of the Peshwas, the founders of the Second Maratha Empire. Later, of course, Britannia ruled the hills till 1947.
PLACES to VISIT in Khandala Getaway- DESTINATIONS
Khandala hill station has many places that are worth visiting. Almost any part of the region can be deemed to be a good picnic spot.
- There are a number of lakes around Khandala hill station. Among the more notable lakes in the region are Lonavala Lake, Tugauli Lake, and Bhushi Lake.
- The small dams/bunds in the region too are worth visiting. The more popular dams are the Walvan Dam and Bushy Dam.
- Also found in the region are caves dating back thousands of years. Prominent among these are Karla and Bhaja Caves that are located in hill ranges surrounding the Khandala hill station. Merely 16 kms away from the Khandala hill station, these caves feature rock-cut cave temples made back in 2nd century BC. Belonging to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism, these caves are one of the oldest and finest Buddhist rock-cut temples in India.
- For those seeking adventure, rock climbing at the Duke’s Nose peak and some other formations in the Karla hills would prove to be a decent appetizer.
Khandala Hill Station- Top TRAVEL TIPS
Though slightly more urban than many other Indian hill stations, the Khandala hill station abounds in greenery.
- Trek: Trekking and going for long walks are a good way to enjoy the pristine surrounding of the region.
- Market: The central market of the region is quiet developed and food catering to many different tastes is abundant here.
- Shop: Khandala- Lonavala hill stations are famous for chikki’s. Try out the mango or chocolate fudge chikki here.
- Languages: The local populace is well versed in Hindi, English, and Marathi so communication shouldn’t be a problem at all.
BEST TIME to visit Khandala hill station
The best time to visit Khandala hill station is between the months of October and December. Monsoon season is a good time to visit these hill stations as you not only get to see green hills but also get to see waterfalls and lakes. Find Travel Agents to Mumbai-Pune’s favourite hill station on Tripraja
BEST WAY to reach Khandala hill station
- By Air: Pune (96 kms) is the nearest airport; Mumbai-Pune connectivity is excellent, and hence, air travel is quite feasible.
- By Rail: The nearest railhead is Lonavala, barely an hour or so away. Lonavala lies on the Mumbai-Pune mainline, and most express/mail trains on the route have a halt at Lonavala.
- By Road: The Khandala hill station has a bypass linking it to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway; in other words, road connectivity is superb.
ACCOMMODATION
Hotels, inspection bungalows, private cottages, resorts, etc., are available to suit all budgets.