Lonavala. Review on Lonavala

Lonavala, situated between Mumbai and Pune, astride the western ghats, is a very popular gateway. I had heard a lot about and when I shifted to Pune for some months in 2005, I made a point to visit the place. Accesibility is good, and it takes around 1.5 to 2hours to reach there. But like every other hill station, it feels very commercialised. No problem, while coming from Pune side, when you hit the main market, take a left towards Amby valley and from there on, the real fun starts.

First you are greeted by great waterfalls, then a vast water body (bushy dam?)to your right and then curvy roads towards Amby valley. In the rainy season, fog will be your constant companion, and if you are with your better half, you will enjoy every moment of it.

Half way between lonavala and amby valley is the tiger point. Almost every stops here. you will find every kind of person here, from families to bikers to couples. And the good thing is, everyone is in a good mood. Chai and pakoras are very famous, so is boiled corn. After a good break here, head ahead, and enjoy the ride/drive till the entrance to amby valley, which is only for members ofcourse. turn back and enjoy the ride/drive back.

Lonavala is a great sunday destination for everykind of person. in rains, there are lot of small waterfalls along the road (between lonavala and amby valley). Just park ur bike/car on the side of the road (keep the parking lights on in fog), step into the waterfall and enjoy.

there are couple of big restaurants in the main lonavala market (from where you turn off for the ride to amby valley).