Lonavala is a favourite getaway in the Sahyadri mountains, especially for the city folk of Mumbai and Pune.
Although it is well known for its mountainous beauty and pleasant climate, there are also plenty of things to do in Lonavala for people of all ages and tastes.
With activities that range from adventure sports to mountain treks, city tours to shopping, theme parks to historical sites; Lonavala presents its tourists with a wide range of options for them to choose from. One the most popular activities in Lonavala, is trekking due to the vast number of marked trails that are present in and around Lonavala that cater to trekkers of different levels of stamina and physical fitness. They also reward hiking enthusiasts with great views and panoramas that form the memories of a lifetime. There are a number of interesting treks that can be undertaken in and around Lonavala.TREK TO DUKE’S NOSE POINT
One of the most popular one is the trek to the Duke’s Nose point, also known as Nagphani. This rocky outcrop, supposedly named for its resemblance to the Duke of Wellingtons distinctive beak, is a favourite look out point and also offers the facilities for adventure sports like rappelling and rock climbing.
TREK TO TIGER POINT
Another popular trek is the trek to Tiger Point. Tiger point comes by its name from its resemblance to a leaping tiger. The view from this point is a panoramic view of the Sahyadri mountains and their valleys. The tiger point is also close to a waterfall that flows fast over the cliff face during the monsoon season. Another fascinating feature of this locale is the echo point which is a popular spot especially for kids.
TREK TO RAJMACHI
The Rajmachi village and fort is a popular tourist spot just outside Lonavala. Trekkers and hikers enjoy travelling here on foot, since there are two ways in which to reach here, each with a different difficulty level. The easy way is to drive to the Rajmachi village and then undertake a half hour hike to the peaks which have the fortifications.
The more difficult trek starts near Karjat and take three to four hours, with a climb of 2000 feet. Expert and experienced hikers and trekkers enjoy this longer route because the trail is well marked and there are camping facilities available once travellers reach Rajmachi.
WATERFALL RAPPELLING AND TREKKING
One of the latest adventure activities is the waterfall trek and rappelling. Lonavala has a number of waterfalls in the hills that surround the township. A trek up to the top of the waterfall can be followed by a fun time rappelling down the cliff face whilst enjoy the cool water that flows down it. These activities would be recommended for the more experienced trekker or for those who enjoy adventure sports.
KORIGAD FORT TREK
The Korigad fort is located about 20km from Lonavala. This fort is a remnant of the Maratha Empire, and was part of the arsenal of forts that belonged to Shivaji Maharaj. The trek to this fort takes place over hilly terrain. Once you reach the fort, the climb to the peak is reward by glorious panoramic views as well as a peek into the annals of time, due to the historic importance of this site.
LOHAGAD FORT TREK
Another popular destination is the Lohagad fort which was another stronghold of the Maratha warriors. This fort is located near Lonavala and is place of immense historical value and importance. The Lohagad fort and its twin the Visapur fort are surrounded by lush greenery and mountainous scenery that provide the opportunity to take some great photographs and make a wonderful spot for a picnic.
These are just a few of the immense trekking opportunities that Lonavala has to offer those who enjoy hiking and trekking activities. With increased demand for adventure sports and physical activities, the hilly terrain of Lonavala presents the ideal location for hiking and trekking.