Nestled in the Sahyadri Mountains at an elevation of 622 meters in Maharashtra, Lonavala is a picturesque hill station that divides the Deccan Plateau from the Konkan Coast. It is recognized as one of the most popular hill stations in Maharashtra and ranks among the top tourist places near Mumbai. This delightful hill station is wellknown for its stunning natural landscapes, breathtaking mountain vistas, tranquil lakes, historic forts, and fascinating caves. Our travel guide offers a detailed Lonavala 3-Day Trip itinerary, highlighting all the major attractions. Explore the must-visit tourist spots in Lonavala to ensure your 3-day journey is filled with unforgettable experiences.
Karla Caves
The Karla Caves complex is an ancient Buddhist rock-cut cave complex in Lonavala, one of the premier hill stations in Maharashtra. These caves are hewn into a prominent ridge on the northern side of the Indrayani valley, approximately 100 meters above the valley floor. The complex comprises 16 rock-cut caves, with cave 8 serving as the chaityagriha. The construction of these caves occurred in two distinct phases: the first from the 2nd century BC to the 2nd century AD, and the second from the 5th to the 10th century AD. Although the rock-cut designs at Karla may not exhibit the same level of intricacy as those found at Ajanta and Ellora, the chaityagriha at Karla stands out as the most impressive and largest in India. Visitors to the Karla Caves as part of their Lonavala tour packages will be captivated by the intricate motifs, sculptures, inscriptions, stupas, pillars, and the remarkable 37-pillar aisle.
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Lion’s Point
Positioned between Bhushi Dam and Amby Valley, Lion’s Point stands out as one of the most sought-after vantage points in Lonavala as it offers some breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It is even more captivating during the monsoon season with numerous small waterfalls, verdant hills, and lakes in the vicinity. The Shiv-ling peak is a conical peak that can be seen towards the left side of Lion’s Point, one of the prominent places to visit in Lonavala. If you wish to catch the best sunset view or crave more excitement during your Lonavala tour from Mumbai, consider embarking on an evening trekking and camping adventure to this place. Spending time amidst the tranquility of nature, breathing in the fresh air, and gazing up at the starry sky will undoubtedly create lasting memories.
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Tiger’s Leap / Tiger’s Point
Tiger’s Leap, also known as Waghdari, is another stunning viewpoint that one must visit while in Lonavala as part of Maharashtra tour packages. Perched on a cliff with a dramatic 650 m drop, it provides a sweeping view of the surrounding hills and the low-lying valley. This location, found at Kurvande on the route to Amby Valley from Lonavala, derives its name from its resemblance to a tiger in mid-leap. The lush environment, enchanting valley vistas, misty mornings, and invigorating breeze make it an essential destination in Lonavala packages from Pune. The views at sunrise and sunset are particularly breathtaking. Additionally, during the monsoon season, a small waterfall near the viewpoint enhances its allure.
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Bhushi Dam
Built across the Indrayani River, Bhushi Dam is one of the scenic tourist places to visit in Lonavala as part of a Lonavala 2-day trip as well as a 3-day trip. This masonry dam was constructed in the late 1860s to supply water for the steam engines of the Great Indian Peninsular Railway. Water from Bhushi Dam was transported to the twin hill stations of Lonavala & Khandala and the railways’ reversing station through cast-iron pipes. The sight of water flowing over the dam walls during the monsoon is truly breathtaking. Although swimming is not allowed in the dam due to the unpredictable water flow, visitors can still enjoy the water on the steps. Additionally, a waterfall emerges near the dam as a result of overflow during the monsoon months. Visitors can relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape while basking in the sun as part of the Lonavala Leisure tour.
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Karnala Bird Sanctuary
Karnala, renowned for its enchanting symphony of chirping birds, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning natural surroundings, ranks as among the premier places to visit near Pune and Mumbai. It is home to the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, one of the largest bird sanctuaries in Maharashtra, which hosts over 150 species of resident birds and 37 species of migratory birds. During the monsoon season, visitors can observe a vibrant array of bird species, including the racket-tailed drongo, golden-backed woodpecker, and heart-spotted woodpecker. Observing these beautiful migratory birds during the monsoons is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding experiences included in Mumbai tour packages. Additionally, Karnala Fort, also referred to as Funnel Hill, is situated within the protected area of the Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
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Celebrity Wax Museum
The Celebrity Wax Museum in Lonavala is a highly popular place to visit as part of Lonavala luxury tour packages. Founded by the esteemed wax sculptor Mr. Sunil Kandalloor, the museum seeks to replicate the experience of visiting the renowned Madame Tussauds Museum in London for those who may not have the opportunity to do so. It features around 100 wax figures of notable personalities from various domains, including religion, social service, history, art, literature, and popular music. Visitors can observe the wax representations of figures such as Swami Vivekananda, Mahatma Gandhi, B R Ambedkar, M S Subbulakshmi, Kapil Dev, Charlie Chaplin, Narendra Modi, Saddam Hussein, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and many others while exploring Lonavala, one of the premier hill stations near Mumbai. Furthermore, the museum also presents likenesses of Shirdi Sai Baba, and Jawaharlal Nehru, along with wax models of distinguished musicians, politicians, and social activists.
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Lohagad Fort
Perched at an altitude of 3,400 feet in the Sahyadri Mountains, Lohagad Fort is a historic hill fort located near Lonavala, one of the renowned hill stations near Pune. Constructed in 1564 CE by Guru Govind Singh as a prison, the fort was later seized by Shivaji Maharaj in 1648 CE. However, following the Treaty of Purandar in 1665 CE, it was surrendered to the Mughal Empire. Shivaji Maharaj successfully recaptured the fort in 1670 CE, after which it served the Peshwas. The fort is uniquely shaped like a scorpion’s tail and features four main entrances: Maha Darwaja, Ganesh Darwaja, Hanuman Darwaja, and Narayan Darwaja. Among the most popular heritage sites near Mumbai, Lohagad Fort attracts numerous trekkers from Pune and Mumbai, thanks to its accessible trails and stunning green landscapes. Visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the Karla and Bhaja caves, as well as Pawna Lake, from the fort’s vantage point.
Must Visit : Heritage Sites in Maharashtra
Bhaja Caves
The Bhaja Caves Complex is a renowned Buddhist cave site located in Maharashtra. Recognized as one of the most significant heritage sites near Pune, this group of 22 rock-cut caves, associated with the Hinayana Sect, dates back to the 2nd century BC and is positioned 400 feet above the village of Bhaja along the ancient trade route that connects the eastern Arabian Sea to the Deccan region. The architectural design of the Bhaja Caves bears resemblance to that of the Karla Caves, with the most notable feature being the chaityagriha (Cave 12), which is thought to be the earliest example of its type. Additionally, the caves encompass a cluster of 14 stupas, which are the relics of monks who resided and passed away at Bhaja, as well as a seasonal waterfall that cascades into a small pool below.
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