Things To Do
in Khandāla
Khandala, perched in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, is a misty hill town known for its lush valleys and cool air. It's closely connected to Lonavala, Pune, and Mumbai, offering scenic viewpoints, forest walks, and easy day trips. The town exudes a quiet, welcoming charm with chai stalls, homestays, and pocket-sized viewpoints that invite relaxed exploration.
In the monsoon, emerald landscapes and waterfalls make it a favorite escape for locals and travelers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike to the scenic viewpoint of Duke's Nose, where the misty mountains will greet you. As you ascend, take in the lush greenery and the melodious sounds of nature. Capture stunning photographs of the panoramic views that unfold before you as the sun rises higher in the sky.
After a hearty breakfast, visit the serene Bhushi Dam, where you can relax by the water and enjoy a picnic lunch. The sound of cascading water and the cool breeze make for a perfect afternoon retreat. You might even find local vendors selling delicious snacks to enhance your experience.
As the sun sets, head to the picturesque Khandala Lake for a peaceful stroll along the shore. The reflection of the fading sunlight on the water creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Wrap up your evening with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, tasting traditional Maharashtrian cuisine.
Kick off your day with an energizing breakfast before heading to Lohagad Fort, a historic hill fortress that promises both adventure and panoramic views. The trek to the fort is invigorating, with trails winding through dense forests and rocky terrains. As you reach the top, the sight of the surrounding Sahyadri mountains will take your breath away.
Once you've explored the fort and taken in the stunning vistas, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the ancient ruins. The history of the fort, combined with the serene ambiance, provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk around the fort, exploring its various structures and learning about its rich heritage.
Return to Khandala and spend your evening at a local café, sipping on hot chai and indulging in some local snacks. Engage in conversations with fellow travelers and locals who share stories about the region. As night falls, consider visiting a nearby lookout point for stargazing and soaking in the tranquility of the hill station.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-35 |
| 🚗Local taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $0.5-2 |
| 🛌Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful hill scenery and quick access from Pune and Mumbai
- Peaceful atmosphere with many viewpoints and heritage sites
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure compared to bigger towns
- Monsoon travel can be challenging due to rain and possible landslides
- "Namaskar" - Hello
- "Krupaya" - Please
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Ho" - Yes
- "Nahi" - No
- "Kuthe jaat aahes?" - Where are you going?
- "Mala samajhla nahi" - I did not understand
- "Sagle theek aahe?" - Is everything okay?
Places to Visit in Khandāla
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lookout above the valley offering sweeping views of the lush slopes and rolling plains.
Clifftop overlook with a dramatic drop and misty mornings—great for sunrise photography.
A popular dam area with stone steps and water features; best in the monsoon and around golden hour.
Ancient rock-cut caves near Lonavala that provide historical and architectural subject matter.
Rocky promontory offering dramatic valley panoramas; a favorite for hikers and photographers.
Food in Khandāla
Khandāla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A gram flour curry served with bhakri bread; a rustic staple found in many hill-town eateries.
Must-Try!
Spicy sprouted bean curry with pav bread, a popular Marathi street dish.
A comforting tapioca dish often eaten for breakfast or a light meal.
Fritters with a soft bread bun; classic Mumbai-style street food.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market with fresh produce, snacks, and small eateries; great for trying street chai and quick bites.
Pop-up stalls offering light snacks, fruit chaat, samosas, and tea with valley views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples; remove shoes if required and follow local customs.
Speak softly in public spaces, especially in hill towns and temples; avoid boisterous conduct.
Request consent for street portraits or children; a friendly smile goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Khandāla
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and hotel services, rounding up or tipping 5-10% for good service is common; for small stalls, small coins are appreciated rather than percentages.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with pleasant evenings; carry water, sunscreen, and hats; expect crowds on weekends and holidays.
Lush, green landscapes and gushing waterfalls; trails can be slippery; carry rain gear and watch for landslides after heavy rain.
Cool to chilly mornings and evenings; layers recommended; misty mornings add a magical touch to viewpoints.
Khandāla at Night
Hiking in Khandāla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular two-to-four hour hike through forest and past waterfalls; moderate difficulty.
Short but scenic climb with dramatic cliffs and views.
Easier, family-friendly trek with fort remains and sweeping valleys.
A moderate climb with panoramic hill views near Pawna Lake.
Airports
How to reach Khandāla by plane.
Lohegaon Airport, about 60-70 km from Khandala; connections to major Indian cities and limited international flights.
Mumbai’s international gateway; about 100-120 km from Khandala; onward road transfer via NH 48.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditional communities who maintain hill-town culture and markets.
Families and couples from Pune, Mumbai, and other parts of India.
Seasonal workers supporting hotels, markets and transport around peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport in the region; local grounds host casual matches and tournaments.
Common in community centers and hotels; an easy activity after day trips.
Played in schools and parks; popular among families in the area.
Environmental trekking and seasonal adventure activities in the Western Ghats.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khandāla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Marathi and Maharashtrian cuisine is very vegetarian-friendly; look for dishes with bhakri, methi, and chana; ensure no cross-contact if cooking with ghee.