Lonavala - The Best Hill Retreat In Western India

By Author: Nagma Biswas
Total Articles: 26
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Think of a short and refreshing break from Mumbai, and it is Lonavala and Khandala that comes to most. These hill retreats are a short drive from here and offer a good respite from the usual noise of the metro. The beauty and charm has always attracted tourists as it has enchanted film makers and honeymooners. Though they are said to be at their best during the monsoons, Lonavala is a great getaway anytime during the year. While during the summers, they offer a cool relief from the heat of the plains, they make for a good place to visit during winters too. The misty trails, shimmering falls and sprawling greens make the area ever inviting.

Lonavala is full of places that are a major attraction for tourists. Ryewood Park here is one such attraction which makes for a good place to enjoy natural charm. A lovely garden with expansive greens, tall trees and good spaces, it is an ideal place for leisurely strolls and picnics. A Cemetery is present opposite the park which is noted for the ancient graves with heavily adorned tombstones. The Bushy Dam in Lonavala is another noted tourist attraction. It is visited by crowds who ...
... come here to see waters surging. The Duke's Nose is also a great attraction for tourists to Lonavala. It offers good views of the region and is also a starting point to many hiking trails.

The landscape of Lonavala is especially made beautiful by the many lakes that dot the entire area. Lake Lonavala and Tungarli Lake are some of the best known ones here. The presence of numerous big and small lakes makes Lonavala an angler's paradise. Even if you aren't able to get a good catch, the pleasure of being a part of the game is immense. It is advised to check out with locals before going for a game. In some areas, fishing is illegal.

Some good forts and caves are present in Lonavala and they make for an interesting tourist spot here. The Lohgadh Fort is the best known fort here. It was considered unconquerable and one can still feel the indomitable spirit it possesses. There are a number of Buddhist caves and Muslim dargahs around the fort. Another fort located across this fort is the Visapur fort. It is larger in size and has a number of tanks, ponds and other ruins inside the complex. The Tikona Fort located close by completes the circuit of three forts in the region.

Food is yet another thing tourists can look forward to in Lonavala. From roadside stalls to classy restaurants Lonavala has all. While the street eateries specialize in almost all kind of cuisines their classier counterparts in star hotels offer delicacies from various cuisines. The best places to get refreshed and munch on some good stuff are the many small coffee shops Lonavala has. They are known for good coffees and tempting savories.

Expect a good range of hotels in Lonavala too. From splurge to decent economic options, Lonavala has it all. However, it is always good to book in advance to avoid last minute hassles and confusions.

Nagma Biswas is an author writing about travel and tourism in India and abroad. To book Hotels in Lonavala visit Sarovar hotels.