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Mumbai and Pune are two of the busiest cities in the country. They bustle with energy, they beam with brightness, they boil over with enthusiasm. But when they need to breathe – there’s one place they go to. Where clouds kiss, caress and blanket the hills. Where the stars that hide… read more
Lonavala comes as a breath of fresh air and a quick escape from the merciless heat of the sun, for the city-dwellers. Think of it as a quick trip to paradise before you head back to the daily hustle and bustle of your life. It is about resting your head in the lap of nature and letting it take the lead. Lonavala can be seen in different shades and colours as each season changes. Which shade to witness Lonavala in is totally your choice. We, at Thomas Cook, will make sure you make the right decision by helping you choose when to head to this quaint retreat. Each season in Lonavala has something different to offer. Here, we have for you all the information that you may require in order to choose the most ideal time to travel. Listed for you are also the precautions that you must take before and while you are on your trip.
Take a look!
Peak Season – October to February
Shoulder Season – June to September
Low Season – March to June
| Travel Season | Min./Max Temperature | Season |
| Summer | 25-33 °C | Comfortably warm days |
| Monsoon | 22-27°C | Slightly cooler with frequent rain showers |
| Winter | 11 to 25°C | Cool Winds |
Temperature - The air temperature during the season of winter fluctuates between 11°C and 25°C.
Weather – Winter in Lonavala is all about the sunshine kissing your face amidst the comfortable chilly air. The lush greenery around is covered with a blanket of dew as the clouds bow down, making you feel like royalty. This time of the year is bustling with activities as city-dwellers and tourists flock in from all over the country for their weekend getaway. You could also head to the artificial water reservoir of Pawna Lake which is a popular picnic and leisure sport for families. Head to the Della Adventure theme park that offers around 100 activities that will satiate the adventure-seeker in you! This is considered to be the best time to visit Lonavala if you wish to head outdoors and acquaint yourself with the surroundings.
Significant events - It isn’t just the sun-kissed days, cosy nights and the misty air of Lonavala that cast a spell of magic upon you. There are also a number of activities and festivals that give you a taste of its culture. The main highlight of this time of the year is Vijayadashami. This festival is celebrated with grandeur in the month of October and welcomes the season of harvest. Locals take to the streets and perform various rituals in the devotion of Goddess Durga. You will witness the entire hill city join in harmony to pray for a fulfilling harvest. Not just this, but Lonavala also hosts a series of music festivals and many such events, since it is a common and frequent weekend getaway for people looking to take a break. The Winter Fire festival in Pawna Lake is one of them. Held in the month of November, this time of the year celebrates music, healing and art. This three-day-festival teaches you Warli Art, Quilling and also conducts music as well as healing workshops.
Why you should visit now – This time of the year is marked with a constant spur of excitement in the air. Since it is the peak season; festivals, celebrations and colours light up the streets of Lonavala and there is never a dull moment during this time of the year. Lonavala is always in a state of flux during this time of the year. If you do not just wish to sit in silence at the many picturesque viewpoints that dot Lonavala, you could always put on your sports shoes and explore the untamed wilderness of the town. Lonavala is dotted with good trekking spots and if you are a beginner, you could trek along the Visapur Fort that comprises rugged terrains, unexplored caves and ancient ruins. If you are looking for some harmless adventure, this is your calling.
Things to know before the visit – Since this is a preferred holiday destination by people from all over the country, the winter season invites a high number of tourists to this region. Hence make sure that you book your tickets and accommodation well in advance. Make sure you carry light woollen clothes.
Tips – Since this is the peak season, be mindful of the fact that discounts may not be available and hence weigh your options carefully before booking your accommodation. Plan your activities and itinerary according to the weather. While you pack, make sure you include warm clothes. Carry sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Also, book accommodation that is centrally located and accessible.
Temperature - The air temperature during the season of monsoon ranges between 22°C and 27°C.
Weather – Lonavala in monsoon is all about the petrichor filling your senses, drenched streets and foggy mornings. It is a breath of fresh air after the ruthless heat of the summer season. This is the best time to visit Lonavala if you wish to revel in the lap of nature with a cup of hot chocolate that warms your soul. The weather makes Lonavala synonymous to a monsoon getaway destination amongst the city-dwellers. The rain incessantly pours down in sheets, making the glorious greens stand out against the rocks. Lonavala also has something for all the adventure junkies out there. This is a good time to head to the Tiger’s Leap Viewpoint, resembling the shape of a leaping tiger where you will witness a majestic waterfall that can only be seen in the monsoon season. You can also engage in some rafting and trekking near this spot.
Significant events – This time of the year enraptures you with hues of glorious greens and smoky greys. Lonavala in monsoon is in a state of mist, as the raindrops linger on your skin and you taste them on your lips. It isn’t just the poetic beauty of the hill town that draws tourists to this monsoon destination; but also a plethora of festivals and events that take place during this time of the year. The main highlight of the monsoon season is the Enchanted Valley Festival that comes as a boon to all the music lovers out there. You won’t be able to decide what is more melodious; the pitter-patter of the raindrops or the toe-tapping music that fills your senses. This three-day-musical festival takes place at Aamby Valley as your surroundings boom with bass, techno, trance and dance music served up by the best DJs in India. Entertainment alternatives include hot air balloon rides, camping, rock climbing and flea markets.
Why you should visit now – This time of the year is all about romantic walks, sudden spells of rain and jumping into puddles without a care in the world. It is also a good time to visit with the family since it isn’t really the peak season and the tourist season is just beginning. This is a suitable time to head to the Bhushi Dam; the lashing waters of which invite you to come and play. Located on the Indrayani River, this sight in the monsoon makes you feel like a five-year-old playing in the rain for the first time.
Things to know before the visit – Do not forget to check the weather reports before booking your tickets and accommodation. Book a hotel that is centrally located and accessible. Carry some cash in case you plan to travel to remote areas. Be mindful of the roads that are usually slippery during this time of the year.
Tips – Do carry a lightweight jacket. Carry sunscreen, sports shoes and mosquito repellents. Carry windcheaters, umbrellas and torches.
Temperature - The air temperature during the season of summer fluctuates between 25°C and 33°C.
Weather – Lonavala in summer is hot, burning and humid that will make you want to sip on iced teas and minty mojitos. However, the weather is still cooler as compared to that of the city. This time of the year also calls for some camping or lazy picnics around the Lonavala Lake. Head to this picnic spot early morning or after the sun sets, to enjoy the serenity of mother nature in all its glory. You could also head to the Ryewood Park to simply sit under the shade of towering trees and walk on the cushiony grasslands that tickle your feet. If you are looking for some relief from the sun, this is the place to head to. Also, do not forget to carry a sunblock and some glasses with you for protection.
Significant events – The sultry summer does not manage to kill the spirit of Lonavala. A plethora of festivals and events prove to be a breath of fresh and cool air during this time of the year. Plenty of heart-warming festivals are in store for you if you are planning to head to Lonavala in the summer season. One of the main highlights of this season is the festival of colours which is Holi, celebrated in a way that’s quite different from what is normally done. Head to the Pawna Lake and celebrate Holi amidst the untamed beauty of the nature. With special water games with your loved ones, you will take back home with you an album of colourful memories. Another festival that is celebrated is Gudi Padwa in the month of March in the devotion of Lord Vishnu and Brahma. Vibrant rangolis made by the locals paint this hill town in all kinds of colours.
Why you should visit now – If you would rather take the road less travelled, this is the best time to visit Lonavala. You will be greeted with low prices, tolerable weather and lesser crowds at this time of the year. This is a good time to enjoy with your family in isolation.
Things to know before the visit – Do check for discounts that may be available at this time of the year since this is the off season. Plan your activities and itinerary keeping the weather in mind. Book a hotel that is centrally located and is accessible. Make sure the hotel you have booked has air conditioners, coolers and the basic amenities to keep you cool.
Tips – Carry light and cotton clothes. Stay hydrated by sipping on water, energy drinks, cold milk or a cold beverage. Do carry sunscreens, glasses and umbrellas to keep yourselves cool during this time of the year. Try to head out early in the morning or after the sunsets.
If you are intrigued and tempted to pack your bags right away, visit our website and go through the Lonavala packages that we offer. If you have any more questions, you will get the answers that you are looking for on our page. Do contact us immediately to book your tickets and accommodation!
Lonavala does not have an airport, however, the Lohegaon Airport of Pune is the nearest. This airport not only has domestic but also international carriers.
Mumbai’s international and domestic airports are also a good option. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is the second busiest airport in the country in terms of traffic after Delhi. Every major domestic and international flight arrives and takes off at this airport. After arrival, there are several options to reach Lonavala in no time.
A seaplane facility is available connecting Lonavala directly to Juhu beach in Mumbai. It lands at the Pawna Dam located about 100 to 110 km from Mumbai. If you are feeling indulgent and want to visit Lonavala for a day’s picnic this is a good option.
Lonavala has its own railway station in Lonavala town. It is the origin of Lonavala-Pune Suburban Trains. Seventeen trains operate on the Pune-Lonavala route. Most of the express trains that cross Mumbai-Pune railway line stop here. There are a plethora of options depending on one's schedule such as Intercity Express, Koyna Express, Deccan Express, Indrayani Express and others. On a daily basis, there are two trains that run between Mumbai and Lonavala. But on a weekly basis, there are close to 63 trains. Out of all the trains that operate between Mumbai and Lonavala, 34 originate from Mumbai while the rest pass through Mumbai.
The Karjat–Pune passenger trains also have a halt at Lonavala. Trains travelling on the Kalyan-Pune route also halt at Lonavala. Alighting at this station leads to access to Lonavala town and nearby areas like Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Lohagad, Visapur Fort, Bushi Dam, Bor Ghat (Khandala Ghat). Khandala hill station is a short distance away.
Bus - There are 199 buses plying between Mumbai and Lonavala daily. Out of these, some are sleeper buses, some are AC buses and some are non-AC buses. The duration and frequency are exceptionally good. There are 17 operators that operate buses between the two cities. Usually, the bus ride to Lonavala is less than 3 hours at a comfortable pace. Some of the popular operators are Neeta Tours and Travels, Purple Tours and Travels, Gujarat Travels and Datta Krupa Travels.
The state-run buses called the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) are regularly used by passengers and are very efficient and comfortable. MSTRC has 18515 buses, which ferry 6.7 million passengers daily. These buses have routes to towns and cities within Maharashtra as well as to its adjoining states. You can also book tickets online for all the buses. These buses have different ranges and the prices alter accordingly.
Car - The drive to Lonavala is very scenic. From Mumbai, you will have to take the Mumbai- Pune Express Highway and exit at Khandala to get into Lonavala. This is India’s first six-lane concrete, high speed, access controlled tolled expressway. The road is very well maintained and allows passengers to glide through seamlessly. There is a nominal toll but it completely worth the money. During the monsoon, due to heavy rains, there have been landslides at the Khandala and Adoshi tunnels on the Expressway.
Two-and three-wheelers are not allowed on the expressway. For two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and for those who wish to avoid the toll, the other option is to use the old Mumbai-Pune Road NH4.
From Pune too, you can also take the NH4 or NH4 and Mumbai Express Highway combination.
Taxi - Private and shared Taxis are available to reach Lonavala from Mumbai and Pune. Prices vary depending on whether you choose, an SUV, sedan or hatchback.
Many cab operators like Ola and Uber can also be booked to get to Lonavala. Ola and Uber can now bring in passengers from different cities to Lonavala, however, they cannot pick the outstation passengers from the city itself. If Ola and Uber were to operate in the market it would mean that local taxi operators would have to compete with those who come from Pune and Mumbai.
From Mumbai or Pune prices range from Rs. 2000 /- for the entire taxi to Rs.500/- per person for a shared taxi. In Mumbai, these taxis can be boarded at Dadar whereas, in Pune, you can find the taxi stand close to the Pune bus depot.
Check out the best time to visit Lonavala wishly.
