5 amazing places to go in Khandala.

Khandala

Lays in the lush terrain of Western Ghats in the state of Maharashtra Khandala is the first choice of every mumbaikar for a short but adventurous weekend trip. It is a major stopping point for people looking for a weekend getaway while travelling from Mumbai to Pune or the other way around. Standing a whopping 550 meters above the sea level, Khandala is famous for its serene beauty and quaint spots to relax for a weekend. Khandala holds historical importance in its kitty too; from being ruled by Mughals, Marathas and then the British, Khandala also has an old world charm to it.

Things to do in Khandala.

For many Mumbaikars, Khandala is the ideal spot for vacationing. Not only, for Mumbaikars, but for people from Pune as well, thanks to its convenient spot that is accessible easily by both these places. Another vacay spot, Sopara is also not far from here. But Khandala has its own charm and this intensifies during the monsoons extremely well.

Visit Rajmachi Fort.

Located ideally between Khandala and Lonavala, Rajmachi is a small town the home of the well renowned Rajmachi fort. As you take a hike to this fort, get ready to witness the picture of your life as you take a look at the vast meadows of the Deccan Plateau. Rajmachi fort stands on Shrivardhan and Manaranjan two local mountain peaks in the area. Atop these, you will get an aerial view of sister hill stations like Matheran, Lonavala, Duke’s nose and Karnala.

It has everything, gushing waterfalls, lush greenery, breathtaking trails, beautiful villages, chai and pakora stops and of course mindblowing views.

Visit Lohagad Fort.

Lohagad fort is in existence from the times when Marathas ruled this place and Lohagad fort is the proof of their lavishness. Built by Chhatrapati Shivaji during his reign, Lohagad fort stands tall, true to its literal meaning, ‘the fort made of iron’ and used to house the prisoners. Built on a hill of an elevation of about a 1,000 meters, the fort divides into two basins of Indrayani River and Pavana lake and looks out into the Sahayadri ranges.

Explore Kune Waterfalls.

The beautiful statement waterfall in the region of Khandala, Kune falls are divided into two segments, that make the total height of the waterfall about a 200 meters; making it in one from the 10 largest waterfall in India. Surrounded by thick green forest cover, the Kune falls are ideal for a highlight to your weekend getaway with your family. A few minutes’ walk from the waterfalls is the Kune church that you can also visit.

Trek Duke’s nose.

The Duke’s nose is a popular tourist spot visited by every traveler in Khandala. This popular view point is named due to its uncanny resemblance with the Duke of Wellington’s nose. This mountain peak is popular for adventure activities like trekking, and rock climbing while the travelers can also set out early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by lush greenery.

 Explore The Bhaja and Karla Caves.

Situated a little away from main Khandala city and more towards the city of Kamshet, the Karla and Bhaja caves portray the Buddhist architecture and essentially are temples, built in the 2nd century. Both these places also have their own ‘Chaitya’ and ‘Vihara’ that were used for prayers by the monks. Carvings related to Lord Buddha are depicted all over the walls and the pillars at this weekend destination.