- Location
- Pune District, Maharashtra
- Elevation
- 625 meters above sea level
- Coordinates
- 18.77°N, 73.38°E
Overview
Khandala, a charming hill station nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra, is a twin hill town to Lonavala, offering breathtaking natural beauty and misty valleys.
Located on the Mumbai-Pune highway, it serves as a popular weekend getaway and a vital stop for travelers between the two bustling cities.
Known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, trekking trails, and viewpoints, Khandala combines relaxation with adventure amidst nature’s serenity.
Highlights
Mesmerizing Waterfalls
During monsoons, waterfalls like Kune and Bhushi overflow with beauty, offering scenic views and refreshing experiences.
Iconic Railway Views
Famous for its winding rail tracks and tunnels carved through the hills, offering breathtaking vistas for train travelers.
Location & landscape
Khandala lies at the top of the Bhor Ghat, connecting the Deccan Plateau with the Konkan plains. Its strategic location makes it a natural hill pass surrounded by forested slopes and valleys.
Its proximity to Mumbai and Pune, coupled with its scenic valleys and historic forts, makes Khandala a must-visit hill station of Maharashtra.
- Location
- Pune District, Maharashtra
- Elevation
- 625 meters above sea level
- Coordinates
- 18.77°N, 73.38°E
- Connectivity
- Mumbai–Pune Expressway and Railway Line
- Region
- Sahyadri (Western Ghats)
Best Time to Visit
Khandala enjoys a cool, tropical climate with misty monsoons and pleasant winters, making it a year-round destination.
- Monsoon (June–September): Waterfalls and lush green hills at their peak.
- Winter (November–February): Cool, ideal for sightseeing and trekking.
Things to do
Trekking Adventures
Explore scenic trails leading to forts like Duke’s Nose, Rajmachi, and Visapur offering panoramic views.
- Best time: October to February
- Ideal for beginners and experienced trekkers
Waterfall Visits
Witness cascading waterfalls like Kune Falls and Bhushi Dam, especially during the monsoon season.
- Kune Falls height: 200 m
- Best visited between July and September
Photography & Sightseeing
Capture misty hills, railway curves, and scenic valleys from multiple viewpoints.
- Sunset Point
- Tiger’s Leap for panoramic views
Places to explore
Duke’s Nose (Nagphani Point)
A cliff resembling the nose of Duke Wellington, ideal for rock climbing and rappelling.
Kune Falls
A stunning 3-tier waterfall cascading from a height of 200 meters, surrounded by green valleys.
Local ecology
Khandala’s biodiversity enriches the natural environment and adds to the serene beauty of the Ghats.
It’s perfect for eco-tourism and birdwatching enthusiasts.
Flora
Dense forests with teak, banyan, mango trees, and wildflowers flourishing during monsoons.
Fauna
Home to exotic birds, monkeys, butterflies, and small mammals.
Practical Travel Tips
Monsoon brings the best greenery and waterfalls, but be cautious of slippery paths.
For peaceful travel, visit during weekdays or early winter months (October–December).
Book hillside resorts or cottages in advance during long weekends for the best valley views.
Local Transit & Routes
By Train
- Khandala has its own railway station on the Mumbai–Pune route.
- Local trains and express services frequently stop here from both cities.
By Road
- Located along the Mumbai–Pune Expressway (80 km from Mumbai, 70 km from Pune).
- Easily accessible by private car, taxi, or state transport buses.