Lonavala: A Perfect Weekend Getaway Near Mumbai & Pune

Lonavala is a perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune as it is almost equidistant from both major cities. You can reach Lonavala from Mumbai or Pune (barring city traffic) in an hour or so. You will immediately feel the fresh, crisp mountain air, remarkable natural wonders, and exciting tourist attractions when you come to Lonavala.

It is said that Lonavala never fails to impress visitors. So, why not plan a weekend away from the chaotic city to spend some peaceful quality time with your loved ones??

Things to do in Lonavala over a weekend

Lonavala has numerous types of attractions to offer, and you can choose to visit the ones that interest you the most. Let’s dive into some of the must-visit sites in Lonavala over a weekend trip:

Pawna Lake

Pawna Lake is set amidst a spectacular landscape, and it is a trendy spot for picnics during the day and camping overnight. Pawna is an artificial lake formed by damming the water of the Pawna Dam, and it is a brilliant spot to get lost in nature’s embrace.?

The natural beauty combined with a breathtaking view of the Lohagad Fort, Tunga Fort, and Tikona Fort makes it a popular spot for clicking pictures. Besides being a natural picnic spot, you can also enjoy row-boating and motor-boating on the lake.?

Although monsoon is the best time to visit Pawna Lake, a short weekend trip in summer also helps to cool down after a hectic week in the city.?

Lohagad Fort

Lohagad Fort is an excellent example of Maratha’s unmatched architectural skills. The “Iron Fort” sits high atop a mountain and provides a commanding view of Lonavala. At 1,500 meters above sea level, the fort sits high and got its name from being seemingly impregnable. This popular tourist site has been a critical location for many old empires, including the Mughals, Nizams, and Maratha.?

Besides offering an impressive view, the Lohagad Fort and its surrounding area are excellent for adventure sports. Every year, thousands of tourists enjoy trekking the vast verdant hills surrounding the fort. The Vinchu Kata, a string of hills resembling a Scorpion, is a popular attraction of Lohagad Fort.?

Ryewood Park

Ryewood Park is an extensive and intricately landscaped garden and children’s park. It is one of the most admired picnic spots for tourists in Lonavala, and it is located close to the Lonavala market. Initially, it was designed to be a botanical garden, but renovations were made, and it was soon converted into a public park.?

The Ryewood Park is huge, extending over 25 lush, green land acres. It is a treasure-trove of botanical wonders, such as various species of exotic trees, a vast collection of ornamental plants, and beautifully maintained flower beds. The Shiva Temple within the premises also offers a perfect spot for some meditation in nature. There are slides and swings for children to enjoy, making this an ideal picnic spot for families in Lonavala.?

Valvan Dam

The Valvan Dam is yet another popular tourist spot in Lonavala. It is around 26 meters tall and stretches for more than 1,350 meters along the foothills of the Sahyadri mountain range. Besides being the power source for the Khopoli Power Station, the dam is also an excellent place to chill with family or friends.?

This scenic spot is surrounded by lush greenery and vast artificial Valvan Lake. It has a beautiful garden in close vicinity. Thus, it has become a top picnic spot near Lonavala.

Conclusion

Lonavala is rightly called the “Jewel of Sahyadri” due to its lush green surroundings and cool hill-resort vibes. You won’t run out of things to do in Lonavala, making it a perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune.