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 Lonavala
has been blessed with valleys, hills, waterfalls, Greenery and pleasant
cool winds. Beautiful mountain ranges trying to reach the sky are sites
that please the human mind and give an experience of heavenly pleasure.
The morning sun rising over here appears as if it is sprinkling rose
water all over. Chirping birds gently awaken oneself and all of this
makes it a really Good Morning. The whole place is covered with a thick
blanket of fog early in the morning; this is how the day begins here.
Khandala neighbors Lonavala. Although is comparatively small, it is
equally blessed with natural beauty and bounty. Deep valley on one side
and high hills on the other side divide Khandala and Lonavala. While
traveling on Mumbai Bangalore National Highway, one has to cross the
arduous Khopoli - Khandala Ghat. This is the famous Borghat. In a short
distance of 8 Kms one has to climb a height of 369 meters. This is a
difficult Ghat to climb. But once you reach here, you feel that this
climb has been worth the trouble. Lonavala and Khandala are full of
tourist practically for the whole year. Main reasons for this is the
fact that it is very close to Mumbai. Being at a considerable height
from sea level, these two places enjoy a cool climate. That is why many
people stay here for a month or more during summer and winter. Many
people make it a point to visit during the weekends to forget the Big
City Blues.
Getting
There
 There
are a number of trains that go to stop at Lonavala and Khandala from
either Mumbai or Pune, Alternatively there are Asia buses and other
private buses you can get from the sister cities to the hill stations.
If you have a vehicle be careful driving it as the road through the
ghats (Mountains) is pretty steep.
Dining
Chikki
is the specialty of Lonavala, Maghanlal is the most famous, most of the
famous chikki stores are located near the railway station. Good food is
available all around, try the Mehfil Restaurant or the Hotel Gurukripa,
also all the above mentioned lodges serve good food too.
Site
Seeing
There
are many scenic trails, during the rainy season you will witness many
water falls, MTDC also organizes Rock climbing at Bhaja (Tel 82230).
Karla and Bhaja caves are pretty good when not crowded.
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