5-Day Itinerary for Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar in July 2023

1. Day 1: Bhaja Caves and Karla Caves
   1 hour 20 minutes (39 miles) from Pune Airport

   In the morning, explore the ancient rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BC. Bhaja Caves are a group of 22 rock-cut caves displaying some of the best examples of Hinayana Buddhist architecture. Afternoon, head to Karla Caves, the largest Buddhist Chaitya (temple) in India. In the evening, enjoy a serene walk around the Karla Lake.

2. Day 2: Panchgani
   1 hour 54 minutes (52 miles) from Lonavala

   Drive to Panchgani for a day trip. Visit Table Land, the second-largest plateau in Asia, known for its scenic views. Then, visit Parsi Point, Sydney Point, and Kate's Point. Enjoy a horse ride or paragliding at the scenic location. Return to Lonavala in the evening.

3. Day 3: Rajmachi Fort
   1 hour 20 minutes (16 miles) from Lonavala

   Start your day by trekking to Rajmachi Fort, which offers stunning views of the Sahyadri Mountains. Enjoy the scenic nature and fresh air along the way. In the evening, head to Lonavala Lake for a peaceful boat ride and enjoy the sunset views.

4. Day 4: Elephant's Head Point and Lingmala Waterfall
   1 hour 30 minutes (42 miles) from Lonavala

   Visit Elephant's Head Point, a natural rock formation that looks like an elephant's head. Enjoy breathtaking views of the hills and valleys from this vantage point. Then, head to Lingmala Waterfall, a picturesque waterfall nestled in the lush green Sahyadri Mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the waterfall before heading back to Lonavala in the evening.

5. Day 5: Mahabaleshwar
   2 hours 30 minutes (56 miles) from Lonavala

   Drive to Mahabaleshwar, a beautiful hill station famous for its strawberries. Visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple, Pratapgarh Fort, and Venna Lake. Enjoy a horse ride, boat ride, or strawberry picking. Return to Lonavala in the evening.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on visiting the Kune Falls, which is nestled in the Sahyadri Mountains and is about an hour's drive from Lonavala. If you have more time, consider visiting the Della Adventure Park in Lonavala, which offers a variety of exciting activities like ziplining, bungee jumping, and ATV rides.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Bhaja Caves (2 hours, Rs. 30 per person)
• Karla Caves (2 hours, Rs. 35 per person)
• Table Land (2 hours, Rs. 100 per person)
• Parsi Point (1 hour, free)
• Sydney Point (1 hour, free)
• Kate's Point (1 hour, free)
• Rajmachi Fort Trek (4 hours, free)
• Lonavala Lake Boat Ride (1 hour, Rs. 200 per person)
• Elephant's Head Point (1 hour, free)
• Lingmala Waterfall (2 hours, Rs. 15 per person)
• Mahabaleshwar Temple (1 hour, free)
• Pratapgarh Fort (2 hours, free)
• Venna Lake (2 hours, Rs. 150 per person for boating)
• Total Estimated Costs: Rs. 570 per person

Check hotel and flight prices here.