Beyond Mumbai
Lonavala and Khandala: the back story
The back story
About Lonavala and Khandala: the back story
Lonavala and Khandala are hill stations about 84 and 85 km from Mumbai by road (Maharashtra Tourism). Near Lonavala are the rock-cut Buddhist caves of Karla and Bhaja, both dating to around the 2nd century BCE.
The hills
The Western Ghats turn green in the monsoon, when the waterfalls run.
The caves
Karla is known for its great rock-cut chaitya hall; Bhaja is about 2 km from Malavli station.
About two hours by road from Mumbai.
When to go
Monsoon for the waterfalls; winter for clear walking weather.
Our advice: go on a weekday, when the roads are quieter.
Why it's on our list
- The hills
- The caves
- When to go
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Lonavala and Khandala: the back story before you go.
What’s nearby
Distances from Lonavala and Khandala: the back story are approximate, measured in a straight line (as the crow flies). Times are approximate too: walking at about 80 metres a minute, cycling at about 15 km/h and driving at typical city-traffic speeds. Traffic and routes vary.
Nearest stations
- PendharN148 km
- RBI ColonyN148 km
- CBD BelapurN149 km