10 Things to Do in Khandala

The Ultimate Guide to Khandala: A Hill Station for Every Soul

Khandala, a name synonymous with romance, misty mountains, and the famous Bollywood song “Aati Kya Khandala,” is a timeless retreat nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra. This picturesque hill station, situated just a short drive from the metropolises of Mumbai and Pune, is a popular destination for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you are a family seeking a peaceful getaway, a group of friends looking for adventure, a couple on a romantic holiday, or a corporate team in need of a refreshing break, Khandala offers an experience tailored just for you.

This extensive guide will take you through the ten most captivating things to do in Khandala, complete with insights on what makes each spot special for different types of travelers. We will also delve into the delicious local cuisine that the region is famous for. Throughout this journey, you’ll discover how Sudarshan Cars, a leading provider of chauffeur-driven car rental services, is your perfect partner for navigating the stunning landscape of Khandala and its surroundings.

 

Your Journey with Sudarshan Cars: The Ultimate Travel Partner

Before we dive into the list, it’s crucial to highlight the importance of seamless transportation. Khandala’s winding roads, dramatic viewpoints, and sometimes unpredictable weather conditions make self-driving a potential source of stress. This is where Sudarshan Cars comes in. With a fleet of well-maintained vehicles and a team of expert, local chauffeurs, we ensure that your travel is as serene as the destination itself. Whether you need an outstation transfer from Mumbai or Pune, or local transport to hop between attractions, our services are designed to offer maximum comfort, safety, and convenience. Our chauffeurs are not just drivers; they are knowledgeable guides who know the best routes, the hidden gems, and can provide a level of service that makes your trip truly unforgettable.

10 Things to Do in Khandala for Every Traveler

1. Rajmachi Point: The Vantage Point of Vistas

What it is: A magnificent viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the historic Rajmachi Fort and the lush, sprawling valley below. The view is particularly spectacular during the monsoon, when the hills are a vibrant green and small waterfalls cascade down the cliffs.

  • For Families: Rajmachi Point is an easy-to-access spot with a spacious viewing area, making it ideal for families with children and elderly members. The fresh air and stunning views are a perfect backdrop for family photos.

  • For Couples: The romantic vistas and peaceful atmosphere make it a great spot for couples to enjoy a quiet moment together, especially at sunrise or sunset.

  • For Adventure Seekers: While the viewpoint itself is accessible, the true adventure lies in the trek to the Rajmachi Fort. It’s a challenging but rewarding hike that offers an immersive experience in nature.

  • For Corporates: This is an excellent spot for a group photo and a brief stop to appreciate the natural beauty before heading to a team-building activity.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: Our chauffeurs will drive you directly to the Rajmachi Point viewpoint, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride up the winding roads, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery.

 

2. Tiger’s Leap: Awe-Inspiring Grandeur

What it is: A famous cliff-top viewpoint that, from a certain angle, resembles a tiger leaping into the valley. It’s an iconic landmark and one of the most popular attractions in the Khandala-Lonavala region. The echo point here is a fun add-on.

  • For Teenagers & Adults: The dramatic views and the thrill of standing on the edge of a cliff make this a great spot for selfies and adventure. The echo point is a fun way to interact with the landscape.

  • For Families: A safe and well-maintained viewing platform allows families to enjoy the spectacular views without any worry.

  • For Adventure Seekers: The area around Tiger’s Leap offers opportunities for a short, invigorating trek.

  • For Everyone: The aural experience of the echo point adds a unique dimension to the visit.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: Our drivers know the best parking spots and can guide you to the safest and most scenic viewing areas, ensuring you get the perfect shot without any hassle.

 

3. Amrutanjan Point: Serenity and Solace

What it is: A serene and less-crowded viewpoint that offers a tranquil escape. It provides stunning views of the Khopoli town and the surrounding mountains and valleys. Its name comes from the fact that it is located just after the Amrutanjan bridge.

  • For Families: This is a perfect picnic spot. The quiet ambiance allows families to spend quality time together away from the crowds.

  • For Couples: A secluded spot for a romantic moment, away from the typical tourist rush. The views here are just as beautiful, if not more, due to the peaceful environment.

  • For Corporates: Ideal for a quick, calming break during a team outing. The serene views can help clear the mind before a day of activities.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: We can provide a spacious vehicle like the Toyota Innova Crysta, giving your group plenty of space for a picnic and other essentials.

 

4. Duke’s Nose: The Trekkers’ Paradise

What it is: A popular trekking and rock-climbing spot named after the Duke of Wellington, whose nose it is said to resemble. Locally known as Nagphani, this is the ultimate destination for adventure enthusiasts.

  • For Teenagers & Adults: This is a thrilling adventure. The trek is challenging but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth the effort. It’s a great spot for rock climbing and rappelling.

  • For Corporates: A fantastic spot for a team-building activity. The challenging trek promotes collaboration and resilience, and the sense of accomplishment at the top is a great morale booster.

  • For Everyone: Even if you’re not an avid trekker, the base of Duke’s Nose offers a great view and a peaceful environment for a short walk.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: Our outstation services can drop you off at the base of the trek and wait for you, so you don’t have to worry about finding transportation after a long and tiring trek. Our drivers are well-versed with the timings and can arrange a timely pickup.

 

5. Karla and Bhaja Caves: A Journey into History

What it is: A series of ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to the 2nd century BC. They are renowned for their intricate carvings, pillars, and a serene chaitya (prayer hall).

  • For Families: The caves are a great educational excursion. They offer a unique opportunity for children to learn about ancient history and architecture in a fun and engaging way.

  • For Adults & History Buffs: The intricate carvings and the rich history of the caves are a fascinating subject for exploration. You can spend hours marveling at the artistry and engineering of a bygone era.

  • For Everyone: The spiritual and peaceful ambiance of the caves is a welcome change from the more adventurous spots. It’s a great place to reflect and relax.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: These caves are slightly away from the main town. Our local chauffeur-driven cars can take you there and back without any hassle, allowing you to focus on the historical experience.

 

6. Kune Waterfalls: The Monsoon Marvel

What it is: One of the highest waterfalls in Maharashtra, Kune Waterfalls cascades down from a height of over 200 meters. The sight is particularly mesmerizing during the monsoon when the falls are at their full glory.

  • For Families & Teenagers: The sheer beauty of the waterfall is captivating. It’s a perfect spot for a family picnic, playing in the mist, and taking stunning photos.

  • For Everyone: The lush greenery and the sound of cascading water provide a refreshing and tranquil environment. It’s an ideal spot to sit back and simply enjoy the majesty of nature.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: The area around waterfalls can get very busy during the peak season. Our drivers, with their extensive knowledge of the local routes, will help you navigate the traffic and find the best parking spot, saving you from a lot of stress.

 

7. Ryewood Park: A Green Oasis

What it is: A beautifully maintained garden with a variety of trees, plants, and flowers. It is located in the heart of the town and is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll.

  • For Families: A perfect place for children to run around and play. The open spaces and well-maintained lawns are ideal for a family picnic or a quiet evening.

  • For Corporates: This can be a great location for a relaxed team-building activity or simply a peaceful break from a busy schedule.

  • For Everyone: The tranquility of the park is a welcome respite from the bustling markets and adventure spots.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: Our cars can drop you off right at the entrance of the park and be ready for your pickup whenever you wish, offering complete flexibility.

 

8. Shooting Point: The Photographer’s Delight

What it is: A scenic spot known for its panoramic views of the valleys and surrounding hills. It’s a favorite among photographers for its spectacular landscapes and unique vantage points.

  • For Photographers: The name says it all. This is the place to capture the natural beauty of Khandala in all its glory.

  • For Couples & Teenagers: A great place for selfies and group photos with a stunning natural backdrop.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: A chauffeur-driven car gives you the flexibility to stop and explore various viewpoints along the way to capture the perfect shot, without the worry of driving.

 

9. Bhushi Lake: The Monsoon Hotspot

What it is: A serene lake that becomes a lively hotspot during the monsoon. The water overflows onto a series of steps, creating a makeshift natural waterfall and a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy.

  • For Families & Kids: The stepped waterfall is a major attraction. Kids love to splash and play in the overflowing water. It’s a fun and unique experience for the entire family.

  • For Teenagers & Adults: A great spot to hang out with friends, enjoy some street food, and simply have a good time in the refreshing water.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: The road to Bhushi Lake can get extremely congested, especially on weekends during the monsoon. Our experienced drivers know how to navigate the traffic and find a safe spot, saving you hours of frustration.

 

10. Reversing Station: A Unique Railway Experience

What it is: A unique and historic site where trains reverse direction on the winding railway line. It offers a fascinating view of the railway tracks and the surrounding landscape.

  • For Everyone: This is a rare and interesting sight. It’s a great place to see the engineering marvel of the railway and enjoy the beautiful views of the valley.

How Sudarshan Cars helps: Our drivers, with their in-depth local knowledge, can take you on a scenic drive to the reversing station, giving you a chance to witness this unique piece of railway history.

 

Must-Try Food in Khandala

Khandala is a paradise for foodies, and no trip is complete without trying its local delicacies.

  • Chikki at Maganlal Chikki Center: The famous Khandala Chikki is a must-buy souvenir. This traditional sweet made from jaggery and nuts is a delight for all ages.

  • Vada Pav at Khandala Market: The iconic Vada Pav is a spicy and savory snack that you can find at almost every stall. It’s a cheap and delicious treat.

  • Bhajiyas at Golden Vada Pav: Enjoy crispy Bhajiyas, a perfect snack to have with a hot cup of tea, especially on a misty monsoon day.

  • Misal Pav at Hotel Annapurna: For a spicy and flavorful meal, try Misal Pav, a local favorite.

  • Corn Patties at Cooper’s Fudge and Chikkis: These delicious and crispy patties are a unique snack that you won’t want to miss.

How to Get to Khandala

  • By Air: The nearest airports are Pune International Airport (PNQ) and Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM). From there, the most comfortable way to get to Khandala is by a chauffeur-driven car.

  • By Rail: Lonavala Railway Station is the nearest railway station. From there, you can take a local taxi or, even better, a pre-booked car from Sudarshan Cars for a quick and easy transfer to your destination in Khandala.

  • By Road: The Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the Old Mumbai-Pune Highway make Khandala easily accessible by road. The journey is scenic and enjoyable, especially with a professional driver at the wheel.

Your Ultimate Khandala Getaway with Sudarshan Cars

Khandala is a destination that offers a rich and diverse experience for every type of traveler. From the serene landscapes to the thrilling adventures, from the historical sites to the delicious street food, this hill station has it all. To ensure your trip is truly unforgettable, choose the comfort and reliability of Sudarshan Cars. We take care of the driving, the navigation, and the logistics, so you can focus on making memories. Book your next outstation trip or local ride with us and discover the magic of Khandala without a single worry. Your perfect holiday is just a booking away.