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Khandala - The Ethos Of Khandala

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A perfect getaway to de-stress after a hectic week, Khandala is one of the key hill stations in Mahrashtra. Located on the western parts of the Sahayadri range, it is set at an elevation of 625 m above sea level and is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in India.

Located on the end of Bhor Ghat, it is merely 3 km away from Lonavala, another beauty of a hill station and 7 km away from Karjat, any trekker’s dream.

Origins …

There is no reliable historical evidence to suggest the origin of this place. However, it is a well known fact that Khandala was ruled by Chattrapathi Shivaji, the great Maratha Warrior and the Peshwas, before the Britishers took over.

Like all other hill stations, Khandala too serves as a striking testimonial to the colonial era. The rich cultural heritage of India is clearly reflected in the historical sites and monuments this place has to offer.

Tourist Places In Khandala

Comfortably nestled among hills and valleys in the Sahayadi Mountain Range, this vacation hotspot offers a pleasant climate all throughout the year. Adorned with a brilliant natural panorama, Khandala dazzles its tourists with its breathtaking scenery of grass hills, lustrous valets, pretty lakes and heavenly cascades.

A few places of tourist interest include the Amrutanjan Point, Duke’s Nose, the Ryewood Par and the Bushy Dam. Apart from its enormous innate magnificence, the hill station is also famous for a host of cave temples, some of which date back to the 2nd Century BC. These cave temples are representative of Buddhist architecture, and is evidence to the presence of the Hinayana sect in the past.

Go Natural …

For nature lovers and enthusiasts, a quiet walk through the picturesque valleys reveals a mystical charm that this place is. Khandala is gifted with abundant natural beauty and the monsoon season is the best time to enjoy watching this scenic marvel bloom into its zenith. Everything around seems lush, green and fresh, leaving you with a heady feeling.

The period from October to May is an apt time to experience Khandala in all its glory. This gorgeous hilly terrain is best taken advantage of by means of trekking. Whether you’re an amateur or an expert trekker, take up one of the trails to reach atop the cliffs and hills and witness the surreal valley below.

The Duke's Nose peak and Karla hills are the two popular spots in rock climbing. Excursions from Khandala involve a lot of fun and mirth and it is one of those interesting regions of the country, which abounds in natural splendour. The Lohagad Fort interestingly means the Iron Fort and was built in order to keep prisoners.

Kune Falls is another tourist spot located around the city of Khandala and falls from a height of 100 m. It is surrounded by lush green environs. One can’t forget the Rajamachi Fort, an iconic tourist attraction which is encircled by evergreen valleys and gardens. Replete with a profusion of natural beauties, the tourist attractions in Khandala are simply amazing.

Khandala Weather

The weather in Khandala is ideal for an outing throughout the year. The climate is warm and hospitable for the most part. The winter, however, is the best possible season to visit here. The cool, enviable weather simply adds to the joy of vacationing at this hill station. Be rest assured, your experience of trekking here will be etched in your memory for a lifetime.

Irrespective of whether you are on a tight budget or a spendthrift, Khandala manages to spellbind all its visitors with its stunning scenery and environment. Famous for its varied cuisine it provides, the fast food varieties of Khandala sell like hot cakes.

How To Reach Khandala

Khandala is easily reachable by air, road and rail. The main link between Mumbai and Pune, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, passes through Khandala. Its accessibility from nearby cities makes it an attractive spot for hiking and relaxing. Khandala is well connected by air, road and railway to all the major cities in Maharashtra. Pune Airport is the nearest airport while there are several inter-city trains that connect Maharashtra’s major cities to Khandala.

This tiny and lovely hill station is the perfect place to absorb a few moments of peace. Just take your car or board a bus and a mere 100 km is all that you have to cover to come to this little piece of heaven on earth!

Khandala Weather

Best Season / Best Time to Visit Khandala

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How to Reach Khandala

  • By Road
    There is no route available in Khandala
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  • By Train
    Lonaval Railways Station is the closest railway station to Khandala. It is connected to Pune and Mumbai by regular local trains. The stretch from Lonavala to Khandala costs about Rs.200 fare in a taxi, the distance being 10km.Khandala is well connected to Mumbai and Pune by road and the bus services are fairly good. The approximate time to reach Khandala would be around 4 and 2.5 hours respectively. A short journey between Khandala and Lonavala can be covered by buses as well, the distance cover
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  • By Air
    The nearest airport to Khandala is the Pune Domestic Airport, 66 km away. The Chattrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai is the closest major International Airport, at a distance of 110 km from Khandala. Taxi services to your destination are available from both airports, the fare coming up to an estimate Rs.1500 and Rs. 2500 respectively. Other nearby airports are the Gandhinagar Airport (Nasik) at a distance of 143 km, and the Diu Airport, which is 196 km away.
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