Lonaval and Khandala are two attractive hill stations of Maharashtra, lies 104 Kms away from Mumbai and 66 Kms from Pune. The hill stations 5 Kms a part from each other, are situated on the western slopes of the Sahyadris, at a height of 625 metres. Both the hill stations are known for their scenic beauty, green hills, deep valleys, historic forts, lakes and waterfalls. Lonavala and Khandala are famous as health resorts as the hill towns are dotted with several sanatoria. Around 1811 the British developed Lonavala and Khandala as hill resorts. Lonavala is situated in the western part of Maharashtra. Set amidst the slopes of the Sahyadri mountain range, Lonavala is also known as the 'Jewel of the Sahyadri'. Lonavala is located at an altitude of 625 metres, while Khandala is a bit lower. Khandala is smaller than Lonavala, but is equally blessed with natural beauty. Both Lonavala and Khandala offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls. The luch green hill stations,especially during the monsoons attract a large number of tourists. The silver waterfalls situated amidst the lush greenery, offer an unforgettable experience for visitors.
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Attractions :
Karla - Located around 12 Kms. from Lonavala, it is the site of the largest Chaitya caves (prayer halls) of India built in 80B.C. The caves have the best-preserved Buddhist temples in India. The temples represent the purity in design and excellent temple architecture.The interiors of the caves have lion pillars, huge elephant forms, carved images of Buddha and dancing couples. The entrance gate is in the shape of a"Peepul" leaf, which is the main entry to the huge Chaitya grihaor hall. This hall has many smooth stone pillars, carved with elephant andhuman forms. The high roof is semicircular in shape.
Bhaja - The caves similar to Karla caves, houses several caves and monasteries. The rays of the setting sun gilds the dark interiors of these caves, where one can see carved images of deities. One can also see the impressive fort of Lohagarh here.
Bedsa - Situated very close to Lonavala, it lies north of the Pawan Dam. From Bedsa there is a hike up hill around 3 Kms for the caves. These caves have huge pillars, lions and humans figures and ahuge Chaitya hall with resting rooms. The special feature of Bedsa is anarched roof supported by 2,000-year-old woodwork, which provides lighting to the entire cave.
Lonavala Lake - The lake also called as Bushi Lake is located just half Km from the town. The Tunguli Lake, Pavna Lake, Valvan Lake are other famous lakes.
Rajmachi fort - The fort used by the Maratha warrior Shivaji is a must visit place. It can be reached only on foot as it is surrounded by deep valleys on three sides and a thick forest on the fourth. Other must visit forts are the Manoranjan Fort, Shrivardhan fort, Visapur Fort, Lohagad Fort and the Tunga Fort.
Accessibility :
Lonavala and Khandala is not directly connected by Air but it is well connected by Rail and Road links.
» By Air - Lonavala and Khandala do not have their own airports. The nearest international airport is Mumbai (110 Kms) and domestic airport is Pune (66 Kms).
» By Train - The Lonaval and Khandala railway stations have the trains from Mumbai (110 Kms) and Pune (66 Kms). The train shalt at Khandala railway station before Lonavala.
» By Road - The Mumbai-Bangalore National Highway connecting southern and western India passes through Khandala -Lonavala.From Mumbai (110 Kms) and Pune (66 Kms) the State roadways buses, private buses, taxis and tour operators buses are available.
Accommodation :
There are several hotels to suit the pockets of tourists. The MTDC runs are sort at Karla and another at Rye Woods, Lonavala. The hotels at Lonavalaand Khandala offer beautiful views of the hill station.
Best Time to Visit :
These hill stations have a pleasant climate as the summer temperatures reach a high of 36° C and drop a minimum of 12° C in winter. So it can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the Monsoon. One must bring the special cloths for different seasons like cool cottons for summer, while woollens are necessary for winter.
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Basic Inclusions of the package :
- Assisted transfers from airport to hotel and back
- Accommodation in Hotels (as per the category selected)
- Daily Breakfast Buffet
- City tour + Drives by private car
- An English / Language speaking well mannered guide during sightseeing trips
- All currently applicable taxes
Exclusions :
- Any meal unless mentioned above, personal expenses like telephone /laundry bills etc.
- Entrance fees and still camera or video camera charges at various monuments and museums.
- Tips and gratuities to drivers, guides, and bellboys at hotels
- Departure taxes or Visa handling fees (A Visa is required to visit India)
- Any International Air fare, Airports tax and travel insurance etc. and other services not specified above.
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.
Remarks
» All prices quoted per person in INR. on twin sharing basis. Rates subject to change without notice Rates are applicable for a minimum of two (2) persons travelling at one time.
» Rates are applicable for Indian market only.
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