A perfect Lonavala Holiday.

I don't know how many times I have visited Lonavala for a holiday and for business (I am the author of Lonavala Holiday). I don't think I can even keep a count. Most of my week-ends I really look forward to either driving to lonavala with or without friends or just simply taking a couple of days of to be alone sometimes.

Most Mumbaikers and Puneites will know of this small and quaint little hill-station called Lonavala. Situated around 2000 feet above sea level, it is one of the very few options city dwellers have when they are desperately in need for some clean air. As it is only 64 kms from Pune and 96 kms from Mumbai it is mostly frequented by week-end tourist from these 2 places. But, if you are really looking to see and understand the beauty of this paradise get there during the weekdays and you will see the true spirit of the mountains.

Now, I could go on and on talking about this wonderful place but I do not want to bore you to death so I am just listing a few of my favourite lonavala resorts or rather should I say lonavala places to stay, lonaval resturnats to eat, lonavala spots to see.

Let's start by getting there first. The easiest way to get there is to drive from either Pune or Mumbai. The expressway has now shortened the time taken reach lonavala to withing 1 hour from either of the cities, of course if you can get out of the city any sooner. I however love to take the bus available from Pune station or Mumbai Bombay-Pune bus stand at Dadar. I like to focus on enjoying the beauty outside rather than worry about driving. You can also take most of the trains that travel between Mumbai and Pune as most of them will stop at Lonavala's pretty little railway station. The only thing is that you are bound as far as time is concerned. Buses usually leave every 15-30 mins so it gives you a lot more flexibility.

Now, once your there I really suggest Biji's hotel if you are willing to shell out some cash or Sahani's guest house if you are on a budget. Both these places are extremely popular so getting there should not be a problem. Both Biji's and Sahani's have good comfortable rooms and excellent buffet meals on the days when you just want to eat your heart out.
Do remember that rates differ for staying and meals during the week-ends and weekdays. (Always go on weekdays, its much more value for money)

Bushi Dam is another reason why city folks come to lonavala in the truckloads (Literally) but I suggest you keep moving ahead and visit tiger point and lions point further up. The view from top can be quite breadth-taking specially in the monsoon. Note: sometimes you can't see much if you are within a cloud. Early evenings would be the best times to visit this place.

Now, if after all that sightseeing you are having a craving for an awesome meal then visit Chandralok for their absolutely scrumptious Gujrati Thali. It is an unlimited thali so you can go all out (I really suggest you starve for a few hours before to really relish in this authentic Gujrati feast). It will cost you anywhere between 135-180 depending on the season and day of the week that you are there but whatever the case I highly recommend it.

Top it up by having some super awesome Cooper's fudge. It is to die for (Mind you they are mostly over by 13:00 HRS so you need to get there early and get yourself one of the tastiest treats there is). Note you can get Coopers fudge only in their outlet in the main Lonavala city market as they don't have any branches at all.

So, what are you doing this weekend?
In the mood for a lonavala holiday!
Ok, I think I have already written a bit too much for now...I will of course give me expert lonavala opinions on all other topics in details in my coming lenses. Cheers for now, talk to you later.

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