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Brief -
  
 
The charming twin resorts of Lonavala and Khandala, are a welcome break from the heat and crowd of Mumbai. Perched 600m above sea level on the western slopes of the Sahyadri range, they offer a cool, invigorating climate and are a pleasant weekend getaway. They are at their greenest best, during the monsoon, when the waterfalls gush down ravines and mists envelopes the valley.
  
     
 
History -
 
 

The name Lonavala is derived from the Sanskrit lanavli, which means a city surrounded by caves. Lonavala is enclosed by the Karla, Bhaja and Bedsa caves. These caves are believed to have been built by Buddhist monks, in the 2nd century BC. Built in the time of the Hinayana sect, during the rule of the Satavahanas, the caves were excavated for the buddhist monks, who used to gather here during the monsoons.

  
     
 
Culture - Climate & Geographical Location -
 
 
Lonavala enjoys a cool and pleasant invigorating climate all round the year. The summers are warm and salubrious, while the winters are cool and sunny. Situated on the western slopes of the Sahyadri range, they offer a cool, invigorating climate.
  
     
 
How to Reach -
  
 
Rail, road and air connect Lonavala. By air, the two nearest airports are at Pune (67km) and Mumbai (80km). By rail, the nearest railhead is Lonavala. Most Mumbai-Pune trains stop at Lonavala station. The Deccan Queen with its 2-hour run is the best bet. Local trains are available on the hour from Lonavala to Pune and back. By road, Lonavala is connected by good motorable roads to Pune, Bangalore and Mumbai. About 104km from Mumbai, Lonavala is on the Mumbai-Pune road. Taxis are available from Dadar TT Station in Mumbai and the journey takes 3-4 hours. Maharashtra state transport buses plying between Mumbai and Pune halt at Lonavala, so reaching there by bus can also be a great option.
  
     
  : T O U R I S T   P L A C E S :  
     
  Bhaja -  
 
These 18 caves, are believed to have been built by Buddhist monks in the 2nd century BC. Cave 12, is the largest and has a fine stilted vault. The last cave to the south, has excellent sculptures, including the famous dancing couple.
  
 
 
 
Karla -
  
 
The Chaitya at Karla, is the largest in the country, dating back to 160 BC. The massive gate is carved out of a rock face. There are three entrances to the hall - one for priests and the other two for pilgrims. A vaulted roof supported by 2,000-year-old woodwork and a big sun-window provides lighting for the entire cave.
  
     
  Rajmachi -  
  The Rajmachi fort, is surrounded by valleys and forests. It actually consists of two smaller forts, Shrivardhan and Manoranjan, the latter containing arsenals and guard houses.  
 
 
 
Others -
  
 
 
 
BEDSA - Bedsa too is known for its ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves. The chaitya (prayer or assembly hall) here has four pillars carved with horses, bulls and elephants. Its ribbed roof is supported by 26 pillars.
  
 
 
 
DUKES NOSE - About 12km from Lonavala at Khandala, this hill earned its name from the fact that it resembled the Duke of Wellington's nose.
  
 
 
 
MOHATTAS ZOO - About 7km from Lonavala, this zoo has a rare collection of birds and monkeys from Africa and South America.
  
 
 
 
VALVAN DAM - About 3km from Karla, Valvan Dam is situated on the Indrayani river. The water from the dam is used to generate power. The place makes a great picnic spot and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.