Pune to Lonavala Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Pune to Lonavala? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 65km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Pune to Lonavala
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 1h 30m | ₹621 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹97 – ₹255 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹150 – ₹718 |
How to Travel: Pune to Lonavala
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 65km journey, driving is your best option. The 1h 30m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
Before You Leave Pune
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Vada Pav - A popular street food snack consisting of a potato patty in a bun (try it at Garden Vada Pav Centre).
- local_dining Misal Pav - A spicy lentil curry served with bread (try it at Bedekar Misal).
- local_dining Puran Poli - A sweet flatbread stuffed with lentils and jaggery (try it at a local sweet shop during festivals).
Vaishali • Shivaji Nagar
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Pune to Lonavala route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Pimpri-Chinchwad
Matheran
Matheran is a small hill station in Maharashtra, India, known for being vehicle-free and offering panoramic views. Its red soil paths wind through dense forests and lead to numerous viewpoints. The absence of cars makes it a peaceful escape from city life.
attractions Top Attractions
Louisa Point
Louisa Point offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the Prabalgad Fort. It's one of the most popular viewpoints in Matheran.
Charlotte Lake
Charlotte Lake is a serene water body surrounded by lush greenery. It's the main source of drinking water for Matheran.
Panorama Point
Panorama Point offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. You can see the Neral town, the Western Ghats, and several other prominent landmarks.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Vada Pav - a popular Maharashtrian street food snack (try at Matheran Market)
Thane
Top Attractions in Lonavala: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Lonavala, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Bhaja Caves
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailyThe Bhaja Caves are a group of 22 rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BC. These ancient Buddhist caves feature intricate carvings and a large chaityagriha (prayer hall).
Best Time to Visit: Morning - to avoid crowds and the heat
💡 Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
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Karla Caves
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailyThe Karla Caves are one of the largest and best-preserved Buddhist cave complexes in India. The main cave features a massive chaitya hall with intricate carvings and a vaulted ceiling.
Best Time to Visit: Morning - before it gets too crowded
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a guide at the entrance to learn about the history and significance of the caves.
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Bhushi Dam
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursBhushi Dam is a popular attraction where visitors can enjoy the overflowing water during the monsoon season. The dam creates a cascading waterfall effect, making it a fun and refreshing experience.
Best Time to Visit: During the monsoon season - when the dam overflows
💡 Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds.
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Tiger Point
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursTiger Point is a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. It's a popular spot for enjoying the sunset and capturing stunning photographs.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon - for clear views
💡 Insider Tip: Try the hot corn and tea available at the stalls.
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Lohagad Fort
⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursLohagad Fort is a historical fort located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The fort has a rich history and played an important role in the Maratha empire.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon - for comfortable weather
💡 Insider Tip: Start the trek early in the morning to avoid the heat.
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Rajmachi Fort
⏱ 5-6 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursRajmachi Fort is a historic fort consisting of two twin fortresses, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan. It offers stunning views and a challenging trek.
Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon season
💡 Insider Tip: Stay overnight for the best experience.
Where to Eat in Lonavala: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Lonavala
Don't leave Lonavala without tasting these local specialties:
- Chikki - a traditional sweet made of nuts and jaggery (try at Maganlal Chikki Mart)
- Vada Pav - a popular street food snack consisting of a potato fritter in a bun (try at local stalls)
- Misal Pav - a spicy curry made of sprouts and served with bread (try at local restaurants)
- Fudge - a creamy sweet treat (try at Cooper's Fudge)
- Corn Bhaji - fried corn snack, especially good in monsoon
Recommended Restaurants in Lonavala
Mapro Garden
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹ (₹600-800 for two)
Specialty: Strawberry Cream, Pizzas
A popular spot for enjoying delicious food and fresh strawberry treats. The atmosphere is lively and family-friendly. It's known for its strawberry products.
📍 Near Lonavala
Rama Krishna
South Indian, North Indian, Chinese • ₹₹ (₹500-700 for two)
Specialty: Dosas, Idlis
A popular vegetarian restaurant serving a variety of dishes. The quality is consistent and the prices are reasonable. Good for families.
📍 Lonavala Market
Kinara Village Dhaba
North Indian • ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Butter Chicken, Tandoori Dishes
A rustic dhaba-style restaurant offering delicious North Indian cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and the food is flavorful. Good for groups.
📍 Near Lonavala
German Bakery Wunderbar
Bakery, Cafe • ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two)
Specialty: Cakes, Pastries, Coffee
A cozy bakery and cafe offering a variety of cakes, pastries, and coffee. The atmosphere is relaxed and the desserts are delicious. Great for a quick bite.
📍 Lonavala Market
Where to Stay in Lonavala: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Chandralok
Price: ₹800-1200/night
Location: Near Lonavala Station
A basic but clean hotel with a convenient location. Good for a short stay.
Lonavala Guest House
Price: ₹700-1000/night
Location: Near the market
Simple and affordable accommodation. Offers basic amenities.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Kumar Plaza
Price: ₹2500-4000/night
Location: Near Bhushi Dam
A comfortable hotel with good amenities and a restaurant. Offers a pleasant stay.
The Lagoona Resort
Price: ₹3000-5000/night
Location: Near Valvan Dam
A well-maintained resort with a swimming pool and spa. A good option for families.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Fariyas Resort Lonavala
Price: ₹8000+/night
Location: Frichley Hill
A luxurious resort with excellent facilities and scenic views. Offers a premium experience.
Della Resorts
Price: ₹10000+/night
Location: Kunegaon
A sprawling resort with a wide range of activities and amenities. Ideal for a luxurious getaway.
Best Time to Travel from Pune to Lonavala
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Lonavala:
Best Time: July to September
Temperature: 22-28 degrees C
Weather: The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, transforming the landscape into a lush green paradise. Waterfalls are at their fullest, and the air is fresh and clean.
Why Visit: This is the ideal time to witness Lonavala's natural beauty at its peak. The waterfalls are spectacular, and the cool, misty weather is perfect for long drives and hikes. It's also a great time to enjoy hot chai and snacks.
Important Note: Expect heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans. Book accommodations and transportation in advance due to high demand.
Shoulder Season: October to February
Temperature: 18-25 degrees C
Weather: The weather is pleasant and dry, with clear skies and cool breezes. This is a good time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Why Visit: The post-monsoon months offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. The landscape is still green, and the weather is ideal for hiking and exploring. Hotel rates are generally lower than during the peak season.
Important Note: Some waterfalls may have reduced flow compared to the monsoon season.
Avoid: March to June
Temperature: 28-35 degrees C
Weather: The summer months are hot and humid, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. The landscape is dry and parched.
Why Visit: The heat makes it unpleasant to explore the outdoors. Waterfalls are often dry, and the scenery is less appealing. It's best to avoid Lonavala during this time.
Important Note: If you must visit, opt for air-conditioned accommodations and plan indoor activities.
Practical Travel Tips for Lonavala
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are available in Lonavala, but it's best to carry sufficient cash.
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for small transactions and street food. Cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaws.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid drinking tap water.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.
Common Health Issues: Carry insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes. Pack any necessary medications.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. A SIM card costs around ₹200-300.
WiFi Availability: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and cafes.
👕 What to Wear
Wear comfortable and breathable clothing. Carry an umbrella or raincoat during the monsoon season. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions: Pune to Lonavala
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