Situated at a height of 625 meters in the Sahyadri hills, this hill resort of immense beauty is a popular weekend getway from the hectic life of Mumbai. Located in the western part of the state of Maharashtra, Khandala is nestled in the Sahayadri hills. Situated 101 k.m. south east of Mumbai and 69 k.m. from Pune, the hill resort is 5 k.m. from Lonavala.
The original of Khandala is shrouded in obscurity. The hill resort formed part of the territory of the great Maratha Leader Chattrapati Shivaji, who is credited with organizing the Marathas into a formidable military power. Later, it came under rule of the Peshwa, during whose reign; Maratha Power reached its zenith. Khandala was taken by the British from the hands of Peshwas.
A small hill resort, Khandala offers breathtaking views of the green surroundings. The place attracts visitors in large numbers throughout the year. The best way to appreciate amazing scenic beauty of Khandala is by talking a walk around the hill station. There are various breath-taking views. Amruntanjan point at Khandala offers a mesmerizing view of surroundings. Another place to admire the fascinating hills is the Duke’s Nose.
Apart from being a place of major tourist attraction, Khandala is also a stating point for visiting a number of superb nearby places that are well worth a visit. Whether you are looking for anther hill resort, beautiful lakes or the historical places, you can be sure that you won’t have far to travel. Just 5 k.m. apart is the hill resort of Lonavala, which makes a spectacular tourist destination. Some of the beautiful lakes near Khandala are the Lonavala Lake, Tugauli Lake and Bhushi Lake. The Walvan Dam near Khandala is also worth visiting.
About 16 k.m. from Khandala are the famous tourist attraction of Karla and Bhaja caves. Situated on the hills, these rock-cut caves belonged to 2nd century BC and are the oldest and finest examples of Buddhist rock-cut temple art in India. Although as exquisite as the famous Ajanta & Ellora caves, these caves are less crowded and made for an extremely pleasant outing. While at Karla, the Bhaja and Bedsa caves are worth a detour. The beautiful carved Chaityas and Viharas take you on a journey back in time, narrating stories of the past.
The Karla caves are centuries’ old and probably have the largest collection of Chaityas. The caves with Viharas were excavated for the Buddhist monks, who used to gather here during the monsoons. Built in the of the Hinayana sect, during the Satavahanas rule, these caves do no actually show the Buddha. A steep 350 step climb leads to the caves. At the entrance there is a Temple, accompanied by a pillar from the Buddhist period. Carved temple screens, sculpted ornaments and human couples from the façade of the cave. The panels of the wooden doors and windows are finely decorated with intricate sculptures of couples embracing. You will also come across a 45 meter long Chaitya, possibly the finest of its kind of the country.
By the 7th century AD, the Mahayana sect took over and representations of the Buddha became more common. By the central doorway, you will find sculptures of the Buddha preaching while seated on a lion-supported thorn, along with magnificent carving of three elephants. On each side, 15 pillars separate the narrow aisles from the central arch. The pillars are adorned with motifs of elephants, men and women riding etc.
A few k.m. away, are two ruined forts of Lohagarh and Visapur. Both forts are 18th century structure and offers splendid views of the surrounding landscape.
For the adventure tourists, there are several trekking and hiking opportunities available in and around Khandala. The Karla hills, including the popular Duke’s nose peak, offer rock-climbing opportunities for the adventurous tourists.
Khandala does not have an airport of its own. The nearest airport to the hill resort is at Pune, at 65 k.m. away. While nearest railway station is at Lonavala. All trains plying between Mumbai and Pune stops at Lonavala. Khandala is well connected with Mumbai and Pune by road.
Khandala has pleasing climate throughout the year. The hill resort experiences mild temperatures during summers while winters are pretty cool. The best time to visit the hill resort of Khandala is between July to December.