Pune to Lonavala: The Right Way to Explore

What was once a quaint hill town in the middle of the Western Ghats’ Sahyadri Mountains is now a busy tourist destination. With its green landscape, pristine lakes, and adventure opportunities, Lonavala, perched at 2000 feet, provides a welcome reprieve from the neighbouring city’s commotion. However, the main allure of this Sahyadri Jewel is in its approach rather than the location itself, which is why it frequently appears on lists of “best weekend getaways” for visitors from Mumbai and Pune. If you live in or around Pune and want to visit Lonavala, keep reading for a comprehensive guide to a memorable vacation.

First and Foremost, Choose Your Ride

While there are several public transportation choices between Pune and Lonavala, including buses and trains, a car journey may provide an entirely different travel experience. It’s fantastic if you want to drive. However, if you want to relax, pull down the windows, and take in the scenery, a rental is the way to go. You may hire a car in Pune with an expert driver so you don’t have to worry about anything on the road, such as refuelling, paying tolls, or missing exits. Simply advise your driver of your trip plans ahead of time and let him speed down the highway.

Pick Your Travel Time

Because the last thing you want to do when you’re on vacation is sit in traffic. While the Mumbai-Pune Expressway has reduced travel time and traffic congestion, there remains a considerable risk of traffic on weekend mornings, public holidays, or late nights owing to long-distance trucks passing through. Always begin around sunrise to be on the safe side. You can always stop at fascinating locations along the road if you start early.

Make The Most of Your Journey

Why not make the most of your vehicle if you have one? By all accounts, the cab fee from Pune to Lonavala is reasonable, and even if you make a number of stops along the way, you will not be breaking the bank. Despite the fact that your trip time will rise by a few hours (the average is three), you will have seen new areas and experienced a different type of adventure. Here are some suggestions for places to visit between Pune and Lonavala.

Kamshet

If you’re from Pune, you’re probably familiar with Kamshet. But how often have you considered stopping by this large plateau region to observe professional paragliders in action? Or, for that matter, try your hand at the sport? For those unfamiliar with Pune or the vicinity, Kamshet has one of India’s premier paragliding fields. The mountains’ flat meadows provide easy take-off and landing. Paragliding training centres and rides for tourists are run by qualified mentors. Apart from the challenge, Kamshet is an excellent location for a panoramic view of the Western Ghats.

Pawna Lake

If you’re driving to Lonavala in the evening, don’t go straight to the hill station. Take a diversion to Pawna Lake and stay at one of their campgrounds. We guarantee it will be well worth your time and effort. The scarlet sunset is followed by a dark blue sky with millions of dazzling stars spanning the horizon, especially in the winter months. Many stargazers and travellers may be seen reclining on the ground, watching this ethereal beauty—a sight you will never see from your city apartments!

If you can’t make it at night, you may still stop here for a little rest during the day. The Pawna Dam’s catchment region is surrounded by rich flora and, due to its elevation, is always cool and pleasant throughout the year. You may take a boat tour of the lake, go bird-watching, or simply take in the scenery.

Rajmachi Fort

If you enjoy trekking or have a strong interest in artefacts, you must visit this fort region. The historic fortification is located between Lonavala and Khandala, atop a cliff near the Rajmachi settlement. Exit the highway at the east to get to the village. Several hike routes begin at the bottom of the hill. You have the option of walking up to the fort or driving to the nearest viewpoint. If you can get to the summit, you’ll be rewarded, with an aerial view of the Duke’s Nose Peak, which overlooks the Bhimashanker and Ulhas rivers.

Aamby Valley

This planned township of 10.600 acres is well worth a visit. This opulent hideaway is a visual feast with massive man-made lakes, lavish villas, a beautiful golf course, and exciting excursions. And when you eventually arrive in Lonavala after such fascinating breaks, you will have had a memorable journey!

Spread the love

 

 

 

 Tweet