Lonavala and Khandala are two of Maharashtra’s most beloved hill stations—twin jewels nestled in the Western Ghats. Popular for mist-covered valleys, cascading waterfalls, trekking trails, and ancient forts, these destinations are ideal for a quick escape from Mumbai or Pune. While their natural beauty attracts visitors throughout the year, reaching them is relatively hassle-free thanks to excellent connectivity.
This complete travel guide provides detailed information on how to reach Lonavala and Khandala, including all major transport modes—road, rail, air—and practical travel tips to help you plan your trip efficiently.
Where are Lonavala and Khandala?
Lonavala and Khandala are situated in the Pune district of Maharashtra, just a few kilometers apart from each other.
- Lonavala Altitude: ~622 meters (2,041 feet)
- Khandala Altitude: ~550 meters (1,800 feet)
- Distance between Lonavala and Khandala: Approximately 3 km
- Famous for: Bhushi Dam, Rajmachi Fort, Karla Caves, Tiger’s Leap, scenic monsoons, and chikki (a local sweet snack)
Approximate Distance from Major Cities:
| City | Distance to Lonavala | Travel Time |
| Mumbai | ~83 km | 2–2.5 hrs |
| Pune | ~66 km | 1.5–2 hrs |
| Nashik | ~250 km | 5–6 hrs |
| Ahmedabad | ~540 km | 10–12 hrs |
| Bangalore | ~880 km | 14–16 hrs |
Reaching by Road – The Most Popular Option
2.1 From Mumbai to Lonavala/Khandala by Car
- Route: Mumbai → Navi Mumbai → Khalapur Toll → Lonavala
- Highway Used: Mumbai-Pune Expressway (NH 48)
- Approx. Distance: 83 km
- Time Required: 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic
Highlights:
- Well-maintained expressway with scenic surroundings.
- Multiple food plazas, restrooms, and fuel stations en route.
- You can make pit stops at Duke’s Nose, Lion’s Point, or Pawna Lake.
2.2 From Pune to Lonavala/Khandala by Car
- Route: Pune → Wakad → Expressway → Lonavala
- Distance: 66 km
- Time Required: 1.5 to 2 hours
The drive is quicker compared to Mumbai and ideal for weekend road trips or quick getaways.
2.3 Road Travel Tips
- Best time to drive: Early mornings (for views and less traffic)
- Monsoon drives are especially scenic but drive cautiously
- Toll plazas: Khalapur Toll and Khandala Ghat Toll apply
Maharashtra Travel Packages:
- 3 Days Lonavala Khandala Itinerary
- 2 Nights 3 Days Panchgani Tour
- 4 Days Mahabaleshwar & Panchgani Trip
- 5 Days Mahabaleshwar Itinerary from Mumbai
- Maharashtra Package for 6 Days
- 2 Night 3 Days Matheran Itinerary
Bus Services – Easy and Budget-Friendly
Several public and private bus services operate between Mumbai, Pune, and Lonavala.
3.1 From Mumbai to Lonavala by Bus
- MSRTC (Government buses) from Mumbai Central, Dadar
- Private operators like Neeta, VRL, and Konduskar
- Type: Non-AC, AC, Sleeper
- Fares: ₹150–₹500
- Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours depending on stops and traffic
3.2 From Pune to Lonavala by Bus
- MSRTC buses from Shivajinagar Bus Stand
- Private services also run from Swargate and Pune Station
- Buses are more frequent from Pune
Pro Tip: Always check the latest schedule online or via apps like RedBus. Book in advance for weekends or holidays.
By Train – Scenic and Convenient
Lonavala has its own railway station with frequent connections from Mumbai and Pune.
4.1 Mumbai to Lonavala/Khandala by Train
- Major Departure Stations: CSMT, Dadar, Thane
- Travel Time: 2–2.5 hours
- Popular Trains:
- Deccan Express
- Indrayani Express
- Intercity Express
- Sinhagad Express
Khandala station is the stop before Lonavala, but most visitors prefer to alight at Lonavala due to more transport and hotel options.
4.2 Pune to Lonavala/Khandala by Train
- Train Type: Pune-Lonavala local trains & Intercity Express
- Frequency: Trains every 30–60 minutes
- Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Fare: Starts at ₹30 for second-class local
4.3 Rail Travel Tips
- Book early on IRCTC if traveling on weekends
- Carry water and snacks, especially during local train rides
- Opt for a window seat during monsoon—views are incredible!
Reaching by Air – Closest Airports
Though Lonavala doesn’t have its own airport, you can fly into Mumbai or Pune and continue your journey by road/train.
5.1 Nearest Airports
| Airport | Distance to Lonavala | Travel Time by Car |
| Pune International Airport (PNQ) | ~70 km | 1.5 hours |
| Mumbai International Airport (BOM) | ~90 km | 2.5 hours |
5.2 Airport Transfers
- From Mumbai: Taxi to Dadar or CST → Train/Bus to Lonavala
- From Pune: Direct taxi or Uber/Ola to Lonavala
Travel Suggestion:
Choose Pune Airport if your itinerary starts or ends in southern India (Chennai, Bengaluru, Kochi). Mumbai Airport is better for international and western India flights.
Local Transport in Lonavala & Khandala
Getting around once you reach is easy with multiple options:
6.1 Auto-Rickshaws
- Readily available near the railway station and bus stand
- Ideal for short distances
- Negotiate fares beforehand
6.2 Taxis and Cabs
- Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available (Uber, Ola)
- Full-day taxi bookings for sightseeing cost ₹1500–₹2500
6.3 Bike Rentals
- Rent from local shops or online (starting ₹300/day)
- Great for exploring hill roads and hidden waterfalls
Routes from Other Major Cities
From Nashik
- Distance: ~250 km
- Best Route: Nashik → Igatpuri → Bhiwandi → Lonavala via NH 160
- Mode: Car or train to Mumbai → Change to Lonavala
From Goa
- Option 1: Flight to Pune → Drive to Lonavala
- Option 2: Train to Pune or Mumbai → Switch to Lonavala train
From Hyderabad
- Option 1: Flight to Pune
- Option 2: Overnight train to Pune → Local train to Lonavala
Best Time to Visit and Travel Seasons
| Season | Highlights | Travel Tip |
| Monsoon (Jul–Sep) | Waterfalls, greenery, foggy views | Drive with caution in rains |
| Winter (Oct–Feb) | Cool air, great for trekking and camping | Best time for sightseeing |
| Summer (Mar–June) | Dry climate, fewer crowds | Early mornings best for outdoor activities |
Avoid long weekends if you’re looking for peace, as both towns get crowded.
Suggested Travel Itinerary
2-Day Itinerary from Mumbai/Pune
Day 1:
- Drive/Train to Lonavala
- Visit Karla Caves, Bhushi Dam
- Sunset at Tiger’s Leap
Day 2:
- Trek to Lohagad Fort or explore Rajmachi Garden
- Return by evening
3-Day Itinerary (Adventure + Leisure)
Day 1: Arrive → Waterfalls & Caves
Day 2: Trekking + Adventure Park (Della)
Day 3: Relax at resort or Pawna Lake camping
Conclusion
From smooth expressways to beautiful train rides, there are many ways to reach Lonavala and Khandala—each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, family, or on a romantic escape, your journey to these twin hill stations is guaranteed to be memorable.
Choose the route that best fits your budget, time, and preferences—and prepare to soak in the magic of Maharashtra’s monsoon paradise.
Check More:
- Best Time to Visit Lonavala & Khandala
- Wonders of Karla Caves Located in Lonavala
- Tourist Places to Visit in Khandala
- How to Reach Mahabaleshwar
- Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations Lonavala
- Summer Vacation Places in Maharashtra
- Places to See Near Mumbai in March 2026
- Honeymoon Places in Maharashtra
- Maharashtra Popular Hill Stations
- Places to See in Winter in Maharashtra
- Ratnagiri Tourist Places to See
- Maharashtra Places to Visit in September 2025
FAQs
- Can I reach Lonavala without a car?
Yes, trains and buses from Mumbai and Pune are reliable and affordable. - Are there direct buses to Khandala?
No, but it’s just 3 km from Lonavala. Use auto or taxi. - Is public transport available late at night?
Limited. Avoid reaching after 10 PM unless pre-arranged with a hotel. - Can I use Ola/Uber in Lonavala?
Yes, but availability is better during the day and near main areas. - Is Lonavala safe for solo women travelers?
Yes, during the day. Avoid isolated areas at night. Stick to main spots.
