Places to Visit in Khandala

A 2-hour drive from Mumbai, Khandala is one of the best places for a relaxing holiday. The pleasant weather, lush green surroundings, and scenic landscapes of Khandala instantly put a traveler in a good mood. Despite being a small hill station, there are many beautiful places to visit in Khandala that you can explore.

With the Sahyadri mountain range on the Northern side, Khandala tourist places look stunning and truly describe this place as nature’s heaven. From perennial lakes to thick green forests and waterfalls, we’ve prepared a Khandala tourist places list. They will not only offer you a soothing experience but also teach you a lot about the history and culture of Maharashtra. Take a look:

• Lohagad Fort

A world heritage site, Lohagad Fort is located at a height of 3400 feet. Just 42 km from Pune, this attraction in Khandala is ideal to visit for history and nature lovers alike. Perched atop a hill, the fort offers panoramic views of the hill station. Once controlled by the Maratha Empire, there’s quite a history behind the fort. Monsoon is the best time to trek to the fort, which is quite easy, from the base village of Lohagadwadi, and enjoy views of the misty skies.

• Pawna Lake

Pawna Lake is a must-visit for camping. Morning treks are also quite famous. The sheer size of the lake along with the gorgeous backdrop is a sight to behold. With pleasant weather all around, Pawna Lake is surely the top place in Khandala. This is an artificial lake, but it is a work of art. Travel here to enjoy mesmerizing sunrise, sunsets, pure air, green pastures, and lofty hill views. Families and couples can plan a picnic at Pawna Lake and enjoy their time in nature.

• Bhaja Caves

If you have something historical in mind, visit Bhaja Caves in Khandala. They date back to 160 BC and are divided into 22 groups. The rock-cut structure of these caves attracts architecture buffs from nearby cities of Mumbai, Pune, and Lonavala. In fact, they are the biggest Himalayan Buddhist temple in India adorned with classic architecture, which narrates the culture and tradition of the ancient Indian period. Besides, the lush greenery around is pleasing to the eyes and a waterfall nearby offers a chance to dip into it.

• Tiger’s Leap
  

Witness the gorgeous views from the Tiger’s leap, the most visited location in Khandala. It resembles a tiger leaping into a valley, hence the name. This vantage point is a delight for anyone who wants to spend time in nature and soak in the beauty of nature. The Western Ghats from 650 meters above the ground look spectacular and leave an imprint on your mind. Tiger’s Leap features an Echo Point from where you can call out the names of your loved ones and hear them back.

• Kune Waterfalls

Located 2 km from Khandala, Kune Waterfalls is an ideal place to visit if you are looking for rejuvenation of the soul. You’ll be blessed with fresh, pure air and your eyes will be mesmerized by the 622 m plunge with a stunning backdrop. The waterfall is divided into two and the highest drop is about 100 m long. The cool water, refreshing surroundings with fewer people around will take your mind off the hectic work schedule back home.

• Nagphani (Duke’s Nose)

Among the scenic hill stations in the Pune district, this place is the ideal getaway. You will be spellbound by the scenic views of the valley from here, which makes it one of the top Khandala tourist attractions. Locally, people also called it Nagphani or Cobra’s hood as it resembles its shape. Hike to reach this place and catch the sight of Sahyadri mountain range. If you are feeling adventurous, rock climbing is also a famed activity at Duke’s Nose.

• Rajmachi Garden

The artistic sculptures, paintings, carved pillars, and water compounds, makes Rajmachi Garden one of the must-visit places to explore in Khandala. It is spread across two peaks named Manoranjan and Shrivardham and is mainly located on a plateau that joins these peaks. Trek to reach the garden and enjoy views of Western Ghats on the way. Once reached, relax and take a nature walk. Also, the views from this place are breathtaking and offer a view of the entire town of Khandala.

• Shooting Point

Shooting Point is an attraction you cannot afford to miss. Famed after the shooting of the Bollywood blockbuster movie ‘Sholay’, it is one of the top places people visit when in Khandala. Drive or hike to this location and enjoy incredible views of the Rajmachi Fort and wooded valley below. Plus, the weather here is always pleasant, which gives relief during the scorching summer. A Sunrise with golden rays penetrating through the cloudy sky is a sight to behold.

• Reversing Station

Get away from the city bustle and spend a peaceful time at Reversing Station. Take your loved one and sit under the blue skies to enjoy the picturesque views. It is among the best Khandala places to visit to enjoy the scenery and look at the railway track below changing lines. This place is quite famous for its orange hues during sunset and is most visited during the monsoon. From here, you can catch the sight of Duke’s Nose and Khopoli, an industrial town too.

• Bhairavnath Temple

When in Khandala, make a trip to Bhairavnath Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Supreme Being who is known by many names is also called Bhairavnath. The temple is visited by many architecture lovers too as it displays beautiful designs similar to that of the other Shiva temples in the Konkan region. Maharashivratri might be the best time to visit Bhairavnath Temple to partake in the festivity with hundreds of devotees and also enjoy the view of dense forest in the backdrop.

• Bhushi Lake

Established on the famed Bhushi Dam, this lake is snuggled far away from the city. If you are visiting Khandala with your better half or family members, do visit Bhushi Lake to delight in amazing views. Witness the lake situated amidst majestic peaks and clear blue skies, enhancing your visit. Enjoy a cup of hot coffee with snacks at the shacks located right next to the lake. It is open from 9 am to 5 pm at zero charges.

• Valvan Dam

The views of lush greenery will soothe your mind and the calm surroundings will allow you to have a romantic time with your partner. The Valvan Dam is one of the unexplored places to visit in Khandala. Serving as the water source for electricity generation, it is loathed at Khopoli Power Station, owned by Tata Power at the foothills of the Sahyadri Mountains. Enjoy the beautiful scenery on all sides of the dam and click pictures for memories. Visit during monsoon season when the water level is full.

• Manoranjan Fort

Elevated at a height of 2700 feet above sea level amidst the Sahyadri mountain range, Manoranjan Fort is among the two hill forts that constitute the Rajmachi Fort. It is also called Manranjan Balekilla and offers breathtaking views of the valley below. You can visit the fort with your friends and have a memorable weekend. Trekking is the best way to reach the fort, which entices many adventure lovers all around the year.

• Amrutanjan Point

This viewpoint in Khandala is located at the start of Khandala Ghats. You can enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Khopoli town as well as the famous Duke’s Nose. When visiting Khandala for a weekend, you can travel to this point and enjoy a picnic with your loved ones. The weather here always remains pleasant, which makes it a tourist favorite place to visit in Khandala.