Explore the Best of Lonavala, Khandala, and Matheran in 3 Days

Wednesday, August 16: Lonavala

Start your trip by heading to the beautiful hill station of Lonavala. In the morning, visit the iconic Karla Caves, a complex of ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves. Explore the intricate carvings and marvel at the historical significance of these caves. In the afternoon, make your way to the scenic Rajmachi Point, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills. As the evening approaches, visit the popular Lonavala Lake and enjoy a serene boat ride amidst the picturesque landscape.

• Karla Caves: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Rajmachi Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Lonavala Lake: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person for boat ride, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Lonavala is Cafe Paras. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast dishes such as omelettes, sandwiches, and Indian breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to Rama Krishna Restaurant, known for its authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. They serve traditional thali meals with a selection of vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• If you're looking for dinner options, Kinara Village Dhaba is a must-visit. This restaurant offers a rustic dining experience with live folk music and lip-smacking Punjabi cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Thursday, August 17: Khandala

On the second day, make your way to the neighboring hill station of Khandala. In the morning, embark on a scenic trek to the beautiful Duke's Nose viewpoint. Admire the panoramic views of the lush green valleys and surrounding hills from the top. After a thrilling trek, head to the Bhushi Dam in the afternoon for some relaxation. Take a dip in the cool water and enjoy the cascading waterfalls. As the evening sets in, visit the mesmerizing Amrutanjan Point and witness a breathtaking sunset.

• Duke's Nose: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Bhushi Dam: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Amrutanjan Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Khandala is The Kinara Village Dhaba, known for its authentic Indian breakfast dishes. Enjoy a hearty breakfast of parathas, poha, and chai. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Cafe 24 in Khandala, a cozy cafe offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Indulge in their delicious burgers, pasta, and wraps. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a delightful dinner, visit The Saltarino's Indian Restaurant in Khandala. This restaurant serves mouth-watering Indian dishes such as butter chicken, biryani, and paneer tikka. The average cost for a meal here is about 600 INR per person.

Friday, August 18: Matheran

On your final day, explore the scenic hill station of Matheran. Start your morning with a refreshing horse ride to the Charlotte Lake. Enjoy the tranquility of this serene lake surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the famous Louisa Point and be captivated by the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. As the sun sets, visit the lively bazaar of Matheran and indulge in some local shopping and delicious street food.

• Charlotte Lake: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person for horse ride, Time spent - 2 hours
• Louisa Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Matheran Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• Café Matheran: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Café Matheran, known for its cozy ambiance and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Maharaja Restaurant: Indulge in a flavorful lunch at Maharaja Restaurant, serving authentic North Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• Panorama Restaurant: Experience a delightful dinner at Panorama Restaurant, offering a wide variety of multi-cuisine dishes with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring these beautiful hill stations, don't miss the hidden gem of Tiger's Leap in Lonavala. Enjoy the breathtaking view of a valley resembling a leaping tiger. Locals also love visiting the scenic Bhaja Caves near Khandala, known for their ancient Buddhist rock-cut architecture and peaceful ambience.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.