Khandala (Maharashtra) FAQs In 2024

10 FAQS on Khandala

What is Khandala famous for?

Khandala is famous for its natural beauty, scenic views of the Sahyadri mountain range, lush green hills, deep valleys, and waterfalls. It is a popular weekend getaway for tourists, especially those from Mumbai and Pune, due to its cool climate and numerous hiking trails.

Khandala can be reached by road and rail. It is about 3 km from Lonavala and 7 km from Karjat. The nearest major cities are Mumbai (83 km) and Pune (71 km). You can drive down the Mumbai-Pune Expressway or catch a train to Khandala station. Additionally, the area is well connected by buses from neighboring cities.

The best time to visit Khandala is during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, between June and September, when the greenery is at its peak and waterfalls are brimming. However, it's good throughout the year due to its pleasant climate.

Khandala doesn't have many historical sites, but it's close to Lonavala, where you can visit the Karla and Bhaja Caves - ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves. The nearby Lohagad Fort and Visapur Fort are also notable attractions steeped in history.

Popular tourist spots in Khandala include the Rajmachi Point, Duke's Nose, Tiger's Leap, Bhushi Dam, and the reversing station viewpoint. Additionally, the Kune Falls and the beds of the Khandala and Lonavala valleys are also worth visiting.

Yes, Khandala offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and home stays, catering to the needs of various travelers. Plan your stay well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Khandala is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. You can go trekking, hiking, camping, and valley crossing. During the monsoon, the area also offers excellent conditions for waterfall rappelling.

Absolutely! Khandalaâ€™s serene environment and array of attractions make it perfect for a family vacation. There are multiple spots for picnicking, sightseeing, and short day trips to nearby areas.

While in Khandala, you can try local Maharashtrian cuisine. Specialties include vada pav, pav bhaji, misal pav, and bhakri-pithla. Don't miss trying the chikki (a traditional Indian sweet) in nearby Lonavala.

Khandala isn't known for shopping opportunities, but you can purchase local products like chikki, jams, and marmalades from Lonavala, which has many shops selling these items. For more extensive shopping, you might prefer the neighboring city markets in Pune or Mumbai.