Best Tourist Spots In Lonavala
Lonavala is one of the most sought after hill stations in India.It is in close proximity
to Pune and Mumbai, two major metros of the country.Pune lies at a distance of 64 kilometers from here while Mumbai is 96 kilometers away.The first thing that comes to mind upon hearing the town's name is the famous Lonavala Chikki, which is a sweet candy made from jaggery and sesame seeds or peanuts.Both Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Mumbai-Pune Highway pass through Lonavala.It is a trekker's paradise and is most favored during the monsoons.
Known as the Jewel of the Sahyadris, Lonavala is located at an altitude of 625 meters above the sea level.This beautiful hill station provides an array of scenic surroundings which includes dense woods and valleys, free falling silvery waterfalls, historic caves and an abundance of natural beauty.
The hills surrounding the town were the stronghold of the great Marathas and had played a key role during the guerrilla war between the Marathas and the Mughals.
Today Lonavala has gained commercial recognition too.It is a summer resort for many leading industrialists as well as for the film fraternity.Many films and songs have also been shot ion the beautiful locales of Lonavala.Khandala is a close cousin of this town; located only five kilometers from here.
Both these places together are spread over an area of 38 square kilometers and were discovered by Sir Elphinstone, the Governer of Bombay Presidency in the year 1871 who chose to make it his summer retreat.Lonavala derives its meaning from the Sanskrit word lonavali which means the presence of caves close by. There are a number of ancient caves in the area surrounding Lonavala like the Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves and the Bedsa Caves.
Apart from this, the major tourist attractions in and around Lonavala include:
Rajmachi Fort: This fort was one of the proud possessions of Shivaji Maharaj.One can easily see a number of historical forts in the Sahyadri ranges.It is located at a distance of 20 kilometers from Lonavala.There are two fortresses which comprise the
Rajmachi - The taller one in the east is called Shrivardhan and the smaller one on the west is named as Manaranjan.There is a wide plateau on all sides of the two fortresses.There are numerous water tanks and reservoirs, temples and residential quarters on the fortresses.It is a must see place in the monsoons when the clouds rise above the mountains and engulf it in their folds.
Rajmachi Point: This place is located about 6.5 kilometers from Lonavala and is located directly opposite the Rajmachi Fort and the surrounding beautiful valley.
Lohgad Fort: This fort was once a formidable battle station of Shivaji.It commands an awe inspiring view of the surrounding hills and hamlets along with the refreshing waterfalls and the ancient caves atop a steep flight of steps.
Duke's Nose: This popular destination is 12 kilometers from Lonavala and is clearly visible from the highway while driving for Mumbai.The cliff owes its name to the Duke of Wellington whose nose it resembles.
Ryewood Park & Shivaji Udyaan: These are two beautiful gardens which are quite popular amongst the picnicking families.The garden features majestic tall trees with perfectly cut green grass, beautiful flowers and lot of place to sit around and relax.One can also visit the ancient Shiva temple that is located in the premises here.
Thus, Lonavala is a treasure trove for people who like to have a quiet moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city and for those also who are huge fans of trekking and hiking.No place better than LONAVALA!
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