Lonavala, one of the most visited hill stations in Western India, stands beautifully at an altitude of 622 m above sea level in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats. It is indeed bestowed with a mesmerising scenic beauty. It was developed into a holiday destination in 1871 by Lord Elphinstone, the then Governor of the Bombay Presidency.
Rightly called as the Jewel of Sahyadri, this hill station enthrals everyone with its verdant greenery, magnificent forts and caves and pleasant weather. Part of the twin hill stations-a visit to Lonavala is often combined with Khandala, another popular hill town of the state.
From monuments to lakes and viewpoints, Lonavala has many interesting places to visit. Not only sightseeing, the hill station has an equally interesting range of adventure activities to offer like trekking, camping, rappelling, zorbing, dirt biking, etc. Located near Mumbai and Pune, the hill town enjoys good connectivity as well.
With the number of tourist attractions that can be explored during a long stay, it is worth visiting for a 2 days tour as well. Make sure to include the below places to visit in Lonavala in 2 days during your 2 day tour of the hill station.
Lonavala Places to Visit in 2 days
Day 1 Lonavala Places to Visit
- Duke’s Nose
- Lion’s Point
- Celebrity Wax Museum
- Ryewood Park Botanical garden
- Lonavala Lake
- Rajmachi Fort
- Tiger’s Leap
- Bhushi Dam
Day 2 Lonavala Places to Visit
- Bhaja Caves
- Karla Caves
- Lohagad Fort
- Tikona Fort
- Visapur Fort
- Bhairavnath Temple
- Pawna Lake
1. Duke’s Nose
When in Lonavala, you cannot miss visiting Duke’s Nose, also known by the name of Nagphani. Just 6 km from the city centre, it can be reached via Main Bazar Road. An excellent place to admire the scenic view of Sahyadri Ranges, Duke’s Nose is also popular for various activities like trekking, hiding, rock climbing and rappelling. Once at the top of the hill, there is also a temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
2. Lion’s Point
If you wish to catch the best sunset view then make sure to visit Lion’s Point. The view from here is outstandingly captivating. Once here, you will find yourself immersed in the beauty of surrounding hills, dotted with several waterfalls and infinite greenery. If you are looking for some more adventure, then try evening or night trekking and camping. To lie amid the silence of nature and fresh air with a starlit sky above will make your 2 days in Lonavala memorable.
3. Celebrity Wax Museum
Founded by Sunil Kandaloor, a talented wax artist from Kerala, Celebrity Wax museum showcase a range of look look-alike wax statues of famous personalities like Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, Mahatma Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Salman Khan, AR Rahman, Michael Jackson and many more. Located only a few minutes away from Lonavala station, this museum is an interesting addition to sightseeing choices. Visit this place for a photo with a life-like wax statue of your favourite leader, sportsperson or actors.
4. Ryewood Park Botanical garden
Ryewood Park Botanical garden is a scenic garden, dotted with old trees, flower beds, varied plants and green lawns. A popular spot for picnics, it also has a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Open from 8 AM to 7 PM, you can visit this botanical garden for a few minutes of rest in between the sightseeing. It is located in Siddharth Nagar on an area of around 25 acres.
5. Lonavala Lake
Lonavala Lake is an ideal location to visit to spend some time with the best of nature, from walking, picnicking to sitting or meditating. With rich avian fauna around, it is a good spot for bird photography too. Also referred to as the monsoon lake, it is exceptionally scenic during the rainy season. Although Lonavala Lake is situated in the outskirts of the hill station, it is worth visiting by every tourist.
6. Rajmachi Fort
A unique combination of thrill and history, Rajmachi Fort is visited by both the lovers of adventure and architecture. This magnificent fort is located in the Rajmachi village, also known as Udhewadi. Built by Satavahanas, this fort has seen many reigns, ranging from the rule of Shivaji Maharaj, Emperor Aurangzeb to the Britishers. The top of the fort, which can be reached via an engaging trek, also offers a mesmerising view of the Sahyadri mountain range.
7. Tiger’s Leap
Visit Tiger’s Leap for a glorious sunset or sunrise. This viewpoint, at an altitude of 650 m above sea level, welcomes tourists with a memorable sight of verdant Sahyadri mountain ranges and the Western Ghats. Often frequented by trekkers, it is also an ideal sport for rock climbing and rappelling. At a distance of 12 km from Lonavala Station, one can reach Tiger’s on the way to Aamby Valley.
8. Bhushi Dam
If you are in Lonavala for two days then plan a visit to Bhushi Dam. Built over the Indrayani River, this dam offers a unique experience unlike the usual visits to the dam. There are steps built at the dam, where forceful water flows down. Visitors can sit here and feel the cool of clear water over them. The view surrounding the lake adds further to the experience. It is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
9. Bhaja Caves
A group of 22 Buddhist caves, Bhaja Caves dates back to 2nd century BC. These rock-cut caves are a must visit in Lonavala. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, these caves have detailed carvings and sculptures. Cave no 6, 9, 12 and 13 stand out the most. Located in Bhaja village, they are open from 8 AM to 6 PM.
10. Karla Caves
One of the oldest Buddhist shrines, these rock-cut caves were developed from 2nd Century BCE to the 5th Century CE. Ekvira Temple, located within the caves complex is one of its most popular structures. At Karla Caves, you will see many pillars with motifs, inscriptions, sculptures and stupas. Located in Karla, these caves can be reached within 20 mins from Lonavala station. Open from 9 AM to 6 PM, they are located near to Bhaja Caves.
11. Lohagad Fort
Another historical place that you must visit in Lonavala is the Lohagad Fort, standing majestically at a height of 1,033 m above sea level. A rare combination of architectural brilliance and awe-inspiring nature, this fort promises an exceptional experience. The majestic entrances, with intricate carvings and paintings on the wall gives a glimpse into various reigns that this fort came under. The trek to the fort, and the panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and forests, makes it a popular tourist attraction among nature lovers too.
12. Tikona Fort
Another heritage site to visit on your two days tour in Lonavala is the Tikona Fort, also known as Vitandgad. Dating back to the 17th century, this fort was constructed during the Adil Shahi dynasty. Later it came under the rule of Shivaji Maharaj, Sambhaji and was captured by the British. This majestic fortress is also a popular site for trekkers too. The view from the top of the fort is absolutely memorable. Located in Maval, it is around 1 hour away from Lonavala. It remains open from 8 AM to 8 PM.
13. Visapur Fort
The bigger twin of Lohgad Fort is the Visapur Fort which was built during the Maratha reign. It is worth taking some time to explore this fort, which houses many water reservoirs, caves, houses, and Lord Hanuman temple. At an altitude of 1084 m above sea, Visapur Fort also promises an enchanting view of the surrounding mountain ranges which boast of lush greenery and many waterfalls. Located in Malavli, it can be reached within 30 mins from the city centre.
14. Bhairavnath Temple
A revered religious site, Bhairavnath Temple, attracts architectural enthusiasts as well. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is located in Kusgaon. Displaying Konkan architectural style, this temple is a must visit on a Lonavala tour. It stands amid thick greenery of forests which makes the pious surroundings all the more heavenly.
15. Pawna Lake
An hour drive from Lonavala, Pawna Lake is an artificial lake, created by the Pavana Dam over the Pavana River. Located quite close to famous tourist attractions like Lohagad fort, Tikona Fort and Tung Fort, this lake is a perfect choice for a small break by the side of serene waters.
Also known as Pavana Lake or Pavana Dam Reservoir, it is popular for camping and picnics. Spend some peaceful time with your loved ones on this vast landscape covered in bright greenery and surrounded by majestic mountains. And admire the view of the lake as you breathe its refreshing air.
With the work schedules and prior commitments, it is not always easier to plan a long holiday. Yet a short relaxation trip can add much needed excitement. We at Lonavala Khandala Tourism offer many interesting 2 days Lonavala tour packages. Contact us to know more and select the most suitable one. We ensure to make the best of your two days in Lonavala.