Complete travel guide from Panvel to Lonavala covering distance, routes, transport options, attractions, and insider tips.
| Mode | Time | Cost | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Self Drive | 1h 15m - 1h 45m | ₹400-600 (fuel + toll) | Best option. Exit expressway at Lonavala. Parking available at major points. |
| 🚂 Train | 1h 30m - 2h | ₹30-100 | Take local to Karjat, then Deccan/Indrayani Express. Or get off at Khandala for shorter trek. |
| 🚌 Bus | 2h - 2h 30m | ₹100-200 | Shivneri buses stop at Lonavala. Or take any Pune bus and get off at Lonavala exit. |
| 🚕 Taxi | 1h 15m | ₹1500-2000 | Book Ola Outstation. Good for groups. Driver can take you to viewpoints. |
8 km from market
Cliff with valley view resembling leaping tiger. Best during monsoon.
Entry: ₹10
3 km from market
Popular waterfall spot during monsoon. Crowded on weekends.
Entry: Free
12 km
Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves (2nd century BC). Ekvira Devi temple.
Entry: ₹25
1.5 km from market
Scenic lake, best during monsoon when overflowing.
Entry: Free
12 km
Trek point near Khandala. Named after Duke of Wellington.
Entry: Free
20 km (Khopoli)
Theme park with rides, water park, snow park.
Entry: ₹1500+
Best time! Waterfalls active, lush greenery, cool weather. Carry rain gear.
Pleasant weather, clear views, good for trekking. Less crowded than monsoon.
Hot and dry. Waterfalls dry. Visit only for Imagicaa or quick trip.
Lonavala is EXTREMELY crowded on weekends, especially Saturday. Weekday trips are far better.
Water current at Bhushi Dam can be dangerous during heavy monsoon. Don't go deep. Accidents happen every year.
Buy chikki from shops in Lonavala market, not from highway stalls. Maganlal and Cooper's are authentic.
Leave Mumbai/Panvel before 7 AM on weekends. Return traffic after 5 PM is terrible.
Khandala is 5 km from Lonavala, less commercialized, better for nature lovers. Consider staying there.
The distance from Panvel to Lonavala is approximately 65 km via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. Via the old highway through Khopoli, it's about 70 km.
Via expressway, it takes 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes. Via old highway, expect 2-2.5 hours. On weekends, add 30-60 minutes for traffic.
Toll charges are approximately ₹145 for cars via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway (Khalapur toll plaza). The old highway via Khopoli has no toll.
No direct train. Take a local train from Panvel to Karjat (35 mins), then catch Deccan Express, Indrayani, or Pragati Express to Lonavala (45 mins). Total time: 1.5-2 hours.
Monsoon (June-September) is the best time when waterfalls are active and the hills are lush green. Winter (October-February) is also good for pleasant weather and clear views.
Top attractions include Tiger's Leap (Tiger Point), Bhushi Dam, Karla & Bhaja Caves, Lonavala Lake, Duke's Nose, and Rajmachi Fort for trekking.
Yes, extremely crowded on weekends, especially during monsoon. Traffic jams are common. Visit on weekdays if possible, or leave very early (before 7 AM).
Yes, Lonavala is perfect for a day trip from Panvel. Leave early morning, visit 2-3 viewpoints, have lunch, shop for chikki, and return by evening.
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