Lonavala – jewel of Shayadri
Lonavala, the most popular weekend destination from Mumbai (104 km) and Pune (66 km), is perched at an altitude of 625 m above sea level. Set amidst the Shayadri ranges, Lonavala is situated in the Maharashtra state of India. Once it was the place where the Maratha rulers trained in guerilla warfare to oppose the Mughals and the British. At present Lonavala is the region where many industrialists and celebrities have settled down. The place has a lot to offer every kind of tourist.
Karla and Bhaja Caves:
Tourists must visit these caves which belong to the second century B.C. They are located 11 km away from Lonavala. Visitors can come across numerous rock cut Buddhist temples. These temples belong to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. There is a connection between these caves and the name Lonavala. The word is derived from the Sanskrit word “Lonavli” which means caves.
Lakes:
There are a few artificial lakes in Lonavala such as Bushy, Tungarli and Pawna. Tourists can indulge in fishing and boating in these lakes.
Ryewood Park:
This picturesque landscaped garden in Lonavala, is a perfect place for picnicking. This park is frequented by families and couples.
Duke’s Nose:
This viewpoint, which is named after the Duke of Wellington, offers breathtaking views of the region.
Rajmachi Point:
This viewpoint is just 6.5 km away from Lonavala town. Form here the visitors can have a glimpse of the famous fort of the mighty Maratha ruler Shivaji, called Rajmachi Fort (Royal terrace).
Valvan Dam:
This dam is the main source of electricity produced by a power station at the foot of the Shayadri range. Tourists can relax in the lush green gardens below this dam, which is two km from the town. The dam is fed by Kundali river.
Tiger’s Leap:
This steep cliff point is located at an altitude of 650 m. The place is worth visiting. From here visitors can have scenic vistas of the region.
Lohagad Fort:
This fort was the battle ground of the Maratha ruler, Shivaji. It is also known as the Iron Fort. This fort is set 3400 ft high. Visitors can have a glimpse of Pawana dam from the rear of this fort. Tourists can see from the fort the famous spot called Vinchu Kata, a range of hills in the form of Capricorn.
Visapur Fort:
This fort is set 3500 ft high and is sandwiched between Lohagad and Bedse caves. Tourists will be awed on seeing a ten ft. long cannon with an impression of the royal crown on it. This fort is located near Pune.
Lion’s Point:
This point is located between Bhushi dam and Amby valley. This point offers visitors a panoramic view of the surrounding region.
The airport nearest to Lonavala is located at Pune, 66 km away. Lonavala has its own railhead and well laid motorways.
Karla and Bhaja Caves:
Tourists must visit these caves which belong to the second century B.C. They are located 11 km away from Lonavala. Visitors can come across numerous rock cut Buddhist temples. These temples belong to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. There is a connection between these caves and the name Lonavala. The word is derived from the Sanskrit word “Lonavli” which means caves.
Lakes:
There are a few artificial lakes in Lonavala such as Bushy, Tungarli and Pawna. Tourists can indulge in fishing and boating in these lakes.
Ryewood Park:
This picturesque landscaped garden in Lonavala, is a perfect place for picnicking. This park is frequented by families and couples.
Duke’s Nose:
This viewpoint, which is named after the Duke of Wellington, offers breathtaking views of the region.
Rajmachi Point:
This viewpoint is just 6.5 km away from Lonavala town. Form here the visitors can have a glimpse of the famous fort of the mighty Maratha ruler Shivaji, called Rajmachi Fort (Royal terrace).
Valvan Dam:
This dam is the main source of electricity produced by a power station at the foot of the Shayadri range. Tourists can relax in the lush green gardens below this dam, which is two km from the town. The dam is fed by Kundali river.
Tiger’s Leap:
This steep cliff point is located at an altitude of 650 m. The place is worth visiting. From here visitors can have scenic vistas of the region.
Lohagad Fort:
This fort was the battle ground of the Maratha ruler, Shivaji. It is also known as the Iron Fort. This fort is set 3400 ft high. Visitors can have a glimpse of Pawana dam from the rear of this fort. Tourists can see from the fort the famous spot called Vinchu Kata, a range of hills in the form of Capricorn.
Visapur Fort:
This fort is set 3500 ft high and is sandwiched between Lohagad and Bedse caves. Tourists will be awed on seeing a ten ft. long cannon with an impression of the royal crown on it. This fort is located near Pune.
Lion’s Point:
This point is located between Bhushi dam and Amby valley. This point offers visitors a panoramic view of the surrounding region.
The airport nearest to Lonavala is located at Pune, 66 km away. Lonavala has its own railhead and well laid motorways.
