2 Days Khandala (Top Places to visit in Khandala in Two Days)

The name of Khandala is not unknown to many. This hill station, made popular by movies and Bollywood songs, lives up to its popularity. This alluring destination in Maharashtra is located at a height of 1,800 ft above sea level in the Sahyadri ranges of Western Ghats.

Having seen many reigns, Khandala has many magnificent forts, which are worth exploring. It has seen rule of Yadavas, Peshwas, Mughals, Marathas and British. In addition to historical monuments, the hill station is blessed with several ancient rock-cut caves. Along with this, it offers breath-taking scenery, viewpoints, lakes, parks and dams. So if you are looking for ways to refresh yourself for the daily grind at work, then plan a two day tour to Khandala. When in Khandala, don’t forget to stop for shopping the famous chikki and various handcrafted items. Below are some of the places to visit in Khandala for 2 days during your trip to this beautiful hill station.

1. Kune Falls

The fourteenth highest waterfall in India, Kune Falls can be found in the Lonavala-Khandala valley. Surrounded by Sahyadri mountains, this waterfall promises a heavenly experience to every visitor. Falling from a height of 200 metres, the water forms a pool at the bottom. Visit this place to sit at the pool, with lush greenery around and to enjoy the roaring sound of water flowing down.

2. Amrutanjan Point

Situated at the end point of the first slopes of Khandala Ghat, Amrutanjan Point is a must visit. This exceptional viewpoint, blessed with absolute greenery, greets tourists with a refreshing air and peaceful surroundings. From here, one can also spot other tourist attractions of Khandala such as Duke’s Nose. Sunset and sunrise from Amrutanjan Point is especially enticing.

3. Rajmachi Fort

Located in Rajmachi village, Rajmachi Fort is a magnificent fortress with an impressive architecture. Its strong walls, majestic entrances, secret gateways, water reservoir represent the excellent craftsmanship of ancient India. Constructed by Satavahanas, this fort was also an important part of the reigns that came after them. Shivaji Maharaj, Mughal King Aurangzeb, Shahu Maharaj and the British also used this Rajmachi Fort. The verdant greenery surrounding the fort, makes it an ideal place for trekking too. You can visit this fort between 9 AM to 6 PM.

4. Visapur Fort

Visapur Fort, standing at an impressive height of 1084 metres in Malavli, is an ideal location for both architecture lovers and adventure enthusiasts. This fort was constructed in the 18th century by Balaji Vishwanath who was the first Peshwa of the Maratha Kingdom. Its robust structure comprises water reservoirs, caves, temples, houses and majestic gates. This fort also offers an enchanting view of the Sahyadri mountains, while the scenic pathways leading to it make up for a memorable trekking experience.

5. Shrivardhan Fort

Standing at an altitude of 900 m above sea level, Shrivardhan Fort is another historical structure that must be explored when in Khandala. This fort is one of two forts that constitute the majestic Rajmachi fort. This fort which was once used as a watchtower offers picturesque views of Sahyadri region. It also has scenic trails leading up to the top. If interested, one can trek from Karjat for 2 hours to reach this fort.

6. Reversing Station

Once an active railway station, Reversing Station is now a popular tourist spot of Khandala. It has been used by railways for many decades now. Situated in Khopoli Town, this place promises an exciting setting for photography. The scenic view of the surrounding valleys at the backdrop of unused tracks, creates a unique setting for photos. The station looks especially beautiful at night when it is illuminated with several lights.

7. Shingroba Temple

Located on Old Khandala Ghat in Khopoli, Shingroba Temple is a popular religious site, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was built in the 19th century, featuring striking architecture with carved walls and pillars. It opens from 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM in morning and then 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at night.

8. Shiva Linga Rock

Shiva Linga rock is a natural rock formation in Sahyadri range, which is also called as Swayambhu. As the name suggests, this rock formation resembles the structure of Shiva Linga. Preferable time to visit this rock formation is from 6 AM to 6 PM. It can be reached on the way to Tiger’s Leap. Visit this place to experience nature's beauty in its utmost serenity.

9. Karla and Bhaja Caves

Two of the renowned tourist attractions of Khandala are the Karla and Bhaja Caves. Located close by, both caves share similar architectural design too. Other caves located nearby are Bedse Caves, Patan Buddhist Cave, and the Nasik Caves. Karla Caves complex consists of 22 rock-cut caves, dating back to 2nd Century BCE.

Karla caves, which are also rock-cut structures, were constructed from 2nd century BCE to 5th century CE. Detailed Inscriptions, stupas, sculptures and motifs are a few of the things to notice when exploring these ancient rock creations. Karla and Bhaja Caves are open from 9 AM to 6 PM.

10. Duke’s Nose

A popular viewpoint, Duke’s Nose is at a distance of 9 km from Khandala. This hill got this name from its resemblance with the nose of the Duke of Wellington. Offering stunning views of the Sahyadri mountains, it can be reached via trekking for close to four hours from Khandala. This place is also an ideal location of activities like rappelling, zip lining, and camping.

11. Bhushi Lake And Bhushi Dam

Built in the late 1800s on the Indrayani River in Lonavala, Bhushi Dam is a popular place to visit in Khandala tour as well. It can be reached within 18 minutes of driving from Khandala. Open from 9 AM to 5 PM, this dam promises a unique experience, especially in the monsoon season. During rainy months, the waters overflow forcefully over its steps. Tourists can sit on the steps and enjoy the cool touch of water.

Another place to visit here is the Bhushi Lake, which is formed as a result of Bhushi Dam’s construction. This artificial lake is a serene and scenic location for tourists to spend a few moments of complete relaxation in the midst of nature.

12. Bedse Caves

Dating back to 1st century BCE, Bedse Caves, although lesser known, are an important part of Khandala region. Although open from 8 AM to 5 PM, the best time to visit these caves is during full sunlight when the inscriptions can be seen more clearly. Inscriptions inside the caves and varied forms of carvings give a glimpse of the Satavahana period.

These rock-cut Buddhist caves are located in Maval taluka, and quite close to other prominent sightseeing places such as Bhaja Caves, Karla Caves, Viapur, Tikona fort, Lohagad Fort and Pawana Dam.

13. Tiger’s Leap

If you are visiting Khandala for two days, then ensure to visit Tiger’s Leap. At a height of 650 m, this viewpoint promises a bewitching sight of mountains, waterfalls and a thick layer of greenery around. Also a spot for picnics, this place has many food stalls. It is also popular for trekking, rappelling and rock climbing.

14. Ryewood Park Botanical garden

Located in Siddharth Nagar, between the two hill stations of Khandala and Lonavala, Ryewood Park Botanical garden is another place to visit if you want some tranquil moments in nature. Open from 8 AM to 7 PM, this garden is built over an area of 25 acres. Innumerable trees, flower beds, plants and well maintained lawns comprise this massive park. You will also find a Mahadev temple here.

15. Tikona Fort

Built in the 17th century, Tikona Fort is a heritage site that also boasts of exquisite natural sceneries. Also known by the name of Vitandgad, this fort is located in Maval. It takes around 1 hour to reach here from Khandala. Resting on a triangular hill, it is an ideal place for trekking too. The view of Sahyadri mountains from the top of the fort makes every minute of trekking worthwhile.

16. Tung Fort

Located in Kamshet, Tung Fort stands majestically at 1075 metres of altitude. Surrounded by waters on three sides, Tung Fort is located on a steep hill, which is a slightly strenuous climb. Owing to this, it is also called Kathingad, which means difficult to climb. However, the mesmerising mountains and landscapes around it makes the trekking a memorable experience. Built during the Adil Shahi Dynasty, it later came under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It was once used as a watch tower. It takes around 50 minutes to reach here from Khandala.

17. Shooting Point

Located in Kurvande, Shooting Point is also an enchanting viewpoint of Khandala. This scenic location can be often seen in many movies and television programs. Visit this spot for cinematic photographs and a rejuvenating experience.

Whether you want to spend some quality time with your partner or looking for an adventure trip with friends, a 2 days Khandala tour is enough to rejuvenate you and your loved ones. As located near Mumbai and Pune, this hill station enjoys good connectivity to the rest of India. So, book a Khandala tour package of 2 days from Lonavala Khandala Tourism and treat yourself with a delightful travel experience amid the serenity of nature.