Khandala is located on the top of the Bhor Ghat on the link road between the Deccan Plateau and the Konkan plains. Khandala is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, featuring picturesque landscapes, gushing waterfalls, and lush greenery. The history of Khandala is vague, and it is believed that it was once a part of Chhatrapati Shivaji's empire. However, it was passed under the Peshwas, and Britishers took it over in 1811.
Why visit Khandala?
Khandala is a perfect weekend getaway for the people of Mumbai and Pune. This wonderful hill town is immortalized by the famous Bollywood song 'Aati kya Khandala?' from the Ghulam movie.
Waterfalls, lakes, meadows, and lush green ghats offer heavenly feelings. If you are looking for a peaceful place away from the hustle and bustle, then it is the perfect place to visit with your loved ones.
How to reach Khandala?
Khandala does not have an airport or railway station. However, it is well connected to the nearby major cities by a road network. The route from Mumbai and Pune to Khandala is scenic, and the road trip offers fantastic experiences.
How to get around?
The most convenient way to get around Khandala is by walking or bicycle. Private cars and cabs are also available, along with several local buses that can be used to explore Khandala.
Best time to visit Khandala
Khandala is a year-round destination and experiences comfortable weather throughout the year. However, the monsoon and summer are the best time to visit Khandala. From July to September, the region experiences the monsoon, transforming into mesmeric beauty. However, during the summer season, the Khandala is a perfect getaway from the scorching heat of Mumbai and Pune.
Places to visit in Khandala
This lush green hill town in the Western Ghats is one of Maharashtra's most frequented tourist places. There are many places to visit in Khandala where tourists can spend quality time and enjoy the beauty of this hill town. Some of the best places are:
- Duke’s Nose Point
- Rajmachi Fort:
- Tiger’s Leap
- Bhushi Dam
- Karla Bhaja Caves
Things to do in Khandala
This beautiful hill station is situated along the lush green terrain of the Western Ghats, and there are a plethora of things to do in Khandala that can add more fun to the vacation. Here is the list of the best activities to do in Khandala:
- Trekking
- Camping in Khandala
- Witness the beauty from the viewpoints
How many days are required for Khandala?Khandala is a retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. To enjoy the charm of this magnificent hill town, the ideal duration to visit Khandala is 2-3 days. However, it depends on the type of traveler, as adventurers who wish to trek, camp, and hike in Khandala require more days for the Khandala trip.
Accommodation in Khandala
Where to stay in Khandala is not something to worry about as there are several budget-friendly as well as luxury places to stay in Khandala, including guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Some of the famous places of accommodation in Khandala are:
- Felix Villa
- Sunrich Villas
- SaffronStays Orion
- Duke’s Den Resort
- Hotel Girija
- Sunhill Resort
Where to eat in Khandala?
This idyllic hill town offers the best holiday experience, and when it comes to tantalizing the taste buds, it surprises tourists with luxury eateries and casual dining. However, when it comes to what to eat in Khandala, tourists have myriad options. Here is the list of the best places to eat in Khandala:
- Duchess Restaurant
- El-Taj Restaurant
- Mystica Resort
- Volcano
Shopping in Khandala
When visiting Khandala, save treasures like chikki and the region's famous jams and sweets. Cooper's Fudge and Chikkis, Maganlal and Sons, Aher Bag, and Abbas Khan Garments are the top stores in Khandala for shopping.
Tips for traveling to Khandala
For those wondering what to pack for a Khandala trip and what to remember while in Khandala to have a great trip, consider the following tips:
- Carry light woolens in monsoon and winters as temperature dips in the evening.
- Do not forget to pack an umbrella and raincoat in the rainy season.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes while trekking and sightseeing.
- Go with a registered tour guide while trekking and hiking.
- Book your accommodation in advance as it is a small hill station and the probability of getting accommodation immediately might be less on weekends.
