LONAVLA- ENTRANCE OF DECCAN PLATEAU

Lonavla is a town and a hill station in Pune district in the Indian state of Maharashtra and is a very popular holiday destination for weekends, especially during the monsoons. It is close to both Mumbai and Pune therefore an ideal weekend getaway for relaxation. A trip to Lonavla and Khandala can be combined with sight-seeing visits of Karla, Bhaja, and Bedsa caves and also the two fortresses, Lohagad and Visapur. Another place of interest is the Tungi fort. Lonavla is famous throughout India for the hard candy sweet known as chikki. Lonavla comes to life during the monsoon season as the countryside turns lush green with waterfalls and ponds

Getting There:

• Nearest Airports: Pune is the nearest airport 64km from Lonavla.
• Main Railway Station: Lonavla is the main railway station.
• Main BusStation or Road: Mumbai- Lonavla, Pune- Lonavla Direct bus facility.
• Distance of a few Major Towns from Lonavla: Pune – 64 km, Mumbai- 89 km.

PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST:

Tiger Point:

At a height of over 650 m Tiger point resembles the shape of a leaping tiger. Near the site, there is a small waterfall, which flows during the monsoon only. The site is frequented by various tourists for indulging in adventure activities like rafting when the streamflow is medium. Perfect for trekking, this site encloses safe spots for viewing the valley and its nearby surroundings.

Lohagad Fort (Iron Fort):

Fort is located 10 km away from Lonavla, along the Sahyadri region, which divides the Pavna basin and Indrayani basin. The three gates of the fort are connected to the main entrance gate, known as the 'Delhi Gate'. At the third gate, there is a small cave, which was initially used for the storage of food material. All the four gates of the fort are still intact.

Lonavla Lake:

This lake is located in the outskirts, 1.6 km away from the town. Constructed in the year 1876, the river Indrayani is the source of water for this lake. It is popularly known as the monsoon lake, as this lake is filled with water during the monsoon months and dries up during the winter season. Different species of birds and fauna can be spotted along the banks of the lake. Additionally, visitors come here for enjoying holidays & excursions, swimming, angling, and nature viewing.

When it comes to traveling, friends, and good weather it is impossible to stay away from exotic, yummy, and some fusion food. Lonavla has a few smart cafes and restaurants having youth theme and fusion food

1. German Bakery – Wunderbar

It is a favorite mainly among the young crowd. German Bakery never disappoints all the foodies that come to stay the weekend at Lonavla. Famous for its ‘Frozen Hot Chocolate’ drink and iced teas, this café will aid you in having the best time. Not just that, if you’re looking to have some fun, it serves alcohol as well!

2. Cafe 24 – Della Resorts

Whoever said amby Valley is the only classy bit of Lonavla that hasn’t been to Cafe 24. Bringing in a fresh new vibe of classy and elegant, Cafe 24 certainly makes it appeals to the tourists of the city. Serving Chinese, Asian and Indian cuisines, you will be delighted to know that this establishment is open for 24 hours. It is also ranked as one of the favorites in the city.

3. The Treehouse Cafe

Famous for its desserts and delicacies, there’s always an awakening of your sweet tooth after seeing all the cupcakes and tarts. Not just that, The Treehouse Cafe serves oh-so-yummy plates of biryani and gives plenty of options on the buffet menu. It gives you a brilliant value for money and it has experienced families returning again and again for more.

4. Picadore – The Coffee Shop

A café located within the premises of the Picaddle resort, but that doesn’t mean the main clientele comes from the people staying in the resort. There have been good views on the non-vegetarian food serves by the Picadore but it’s mainly known for its Italian dishes. The hotel’s staff is very hospitable and they sure know how to take care of their customers.

5. Duchess Restaurant

The Duchess restaurant is in the Duke's retreat Pune Mumbai Road. They serve delicious Indian varieties like Mughlai, Marwari, North Indian, and Gujarati food along with International and Chinese cuisines. It just gives you a marvelous feeling with their tranquil décor and luscious culinary.

6. Kailash Parbat

Kailash Parbat is located on the main highway, Near Tata Dam, Lonavla. It is a nice place to take some quick evening bites. The place is very popular among tourists and serves food that is delicious, hygienic, and scrumptious. You can enjoy their chole Bhature, chaats, and Gulfi.

So, apart from being an attractive hill station and a perfect destination for tourists, Lonavla has emerged as youth engaging tourist spot with great coffee and mouth-watering food.