Located in the Sylvan hills of Western Ghats at a distance of 106 km from Mumbai, Lonavala is a popular weekend getaway. Lonavala lies at an altitude of 625 m above sea level. It serves as a starting point for tourists interested in visiting the famous, ancient Buddhist rock cut caves of Bhaja and Karla, which are located near this hill station.
Lonavala provides a panoramic view of the lush green surroundings of the Sahyadri ranges. The peaceful environs of the town provide a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai and attract tourists to this place. The mountainous terrain of Lonavala is ideal for trekking and hiking.
There are numerous lakes around Lonavala that one can visit such as Tugauli, Lonavala and Bhushi lakes. The hill station of Khandala is just 5 km away. Karla and Bhaja Caves, located in the hills at a distance of 11 km from Lonavala, are important places to visit. These rock-cut cave temples dating back to 2nd century B.C. and are amongst the oldest and finest examples of Buddhist rock cut temple art in India, belonging to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. Adventure seekers can try their hand at rock climbing at the Duke's Nose peak and other locations in the Karla hills, near Lonavala.
Kaivalya Dham Yoga Center
This institute imparting yoga education was founded by the Late Swami Kuvalayanand. This place is situated on a picturesque hill near Valvan lake. Yoga is very essential for men's physical, spiritual, scientific and mental growth.
Bhairavnath Deva Sthan at Dhak
This is a temple close to Lonavala situated on a mountain, which is difficult to climb. Nature has showered this place with its bounty. But this place only for walking on foot. Vehicles cannot be brought here. Thick forests, deep valleys, strange noises made by Peacocks and Monkeys, smooth stones run over by speedy streams.... This place offers a fascinating variety. The approach to the road is by small zigzag path that is only a hand wide. From here there is a 50 feet cliff upto the temple. There are slippery steps carved out of a rock and a creeper to reach the temple.
Antar Bharatiya Balgram
This institute was founded in 1966. It was founded with the purpose of giving equal opportunity for education to intelligent but economically backward children.
Manashakti Kendra
Man is always in search of happiness but many times it eludes him, if he can get it he cannot keep it. The reason for this is he is mentally weak. A publication by the name Manashakti Mansik Path came into existence a few years ago. It is published by Manashakti Kendra, which is located at Varsoli near Lonavala on Mumbai Pune Highway.
