One of Khandala’s biggest advantages is how easily it fits into a quick escape from Mumbai or Pune. Close enough for a relaxed weekend drive, yet far enough to feel completely removed from the rush of the city. The old Pune-Mumbai Highway (NH 48) cuts through the hills and valleys of the Sahyadris, turning the journey itself into part of the experience.
What makes Khandala hill station particularly appealing, especially compared to its more famous neighbour, Lonavala, is the relative calm. The bazaars are quieter. The viewpoints are less crowded. The landscape feels more like something you have discovered for yourself.
There is no bad time to visit, only different versions of the same beautiful place:
- Monsoon: Every slope green, waterfalls appearing as if from nowhere
- Winter: Crisp, clear skies and ideal conditions for trekking
- Summer: Evenings are considerably cooler than the plains below
The Khandala hills are part of the Sahyadri range, one of the world’s most biodiverse mountain systems. Deep green valleys fold into rocky ridges, with the occasional silver thread of a waterfall catching the light between the trees. During the monsoon, the clouds settle low, and the whole hill station takes on an otherworldly quality.
The stretch along the old highway is considered one of the most picturesque drives in Maharashtra, with hairpin bends, cliff-edge roads, and valley panoramas that make even seasoned travellers slow down and look.
The teak and mango forests that cover the hillsides are home to a considerable variety of bird life. Playful langurs are a common sight along the roadsides. For a 2-night nature escape, the Khandala hills offer a quality of experience that far exceeds the distance required to get there.
The area around Khandala hill station is generously stocked with landmarks ranging from jaw-dropping viewpoints to ancient cave complexes. Here are the ones worth making time for:
Tiger’s Leap (Waghdari): A cliff-edge viewpoint with a sheer drop into the valley below; the rocky outcrop resembles a leaping tiger and is best visited early morning before the monsoon clouds roll in
Duke’s Nose: Named for the Duke of Wellington, this ridgeline viewpoint offers sweeping views of the expressway and plains below; the trek through dense forest makes it a favourite among hikers from Mumbai and Pune
Kune Waterfalls: One of Maharashtra’s tallest waterfalls, dropping in 3 distinct tiers down the Sahyadri escarpment, at its most dramatic from August through October
Karla and Bhaja Caves: Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back over 2,000 years; Karla houses one of the largest early chaityas in the country, while Bhaja is quieter and equally absorbing
Rajmachi Point: A quieter viewpoint looking out over the ruins of Rajmachi Fort and the forested ridges beyond; particularly beautiful in the late afternoon light
Each season gives Khandala a slightly different personality, from rain-soaked valleys and waterfalls to clear winter skies and cool summer evenings.
Tiger’s Leap: Visit between June and September, aim to arrive by 8 am before monsoon clouds roll in
Duke’s Nose: Most rewarding in October and November, when the forest is still lush, and the skies have cleared
Kune Waterfalls: Best from August through October when all 3 tiers are in full flow
Karla and Bhaja Caves: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds; morning light inside the Karla chaitya is particularly striking
Rajmachi Point: Aim for 4 pm onwards when the western light catches the valley and the fort ruins glow amber
Packing a few essentials in advance can make exploring Khandala’s hills, viewpoints, and changing weather far more comfortable.
Light Warm Layer: A jacket or hoodie for cool mornings and evenings, especially if you are out late at viewpoints or open spaces.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for uneven paths, hill trails, and viewpoints that can get slippery at times.
Sun Protection Kit: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for exposed stretches during daytime sightseeing.
Rain Protection: A compact raincoat or umbrella if you are visiting during wetter months.
Waterproof Storage: A dry bag or waterproof pouch to keep phones, cameras, and essentials safe in mist or rain.
A little planning can make your Khandala getaway far more relaxed, especially during peak travel periods.
Book early for weekends and monsoon stays: Khandala sees high demand during long weekends and the rainy season, particularly for valley-view properties.
Travel on weekdays if possible: The hill station feels quieter, roads are less crowded, and stays are often better priced.
Stay close to major attractions: Choosing accommodation near the old Pune-Mumbai Highway makes it easier to explore Tiger’s Leap, Duke’s Nose, Kune Falls, and the caves without spending too much time on the road.
Try local roadside favourites: Stops for hot vada pav, misal pav, roasted corn, and cutting chai are part of the classic Khandala experience, especially during the rains.
Khandala is well connected to both Mumbai and Pune, and the journey itself is part of the appeal.
- By Road: Khandala is accessible via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway (NH 48). The drive from Mumbai takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes; from Pune, around 1 hour 50 minutes. The old Pune-Mumbai Highway through the ghats is the more scenic route and passes directly through Khandala
- By Train: Khandala has its own railway station on the Mumbai CST-Pune line, making it a direct and scenic option from either city. It is the stop just before Lonavala on the ghat section of the route
- By Air: The nearest airports are Pune International Airport and Navi Mumbai International Airport, both within roughly 2 hours of Khandala by road
Athiva Resort & Spa is a well-placed retreat in the Sahyadri hills, designed for those who want to unplug while remaining close to the region’s best exploration spots. Whether you are a couple seeking a nature-forward escape or a family looking for a convenient weekend base, the resort offers an immersive experience in the heart of the Khandala hill station landscape.
Scenic Stays: Thoughtfully designed rooms and suites with sweeping views of the valleys, cliffs, and surrounding Sahyadri hills
Leisure and Wellness: A full-service spa, fitness centre, temperature-controlled swimming pool, putting greens, pickleball court, kids’ zone, and bonfire experiences on request
Dining Experiences: Multiple dining venues, including an all-day restaurant, The Duke’s Bar, Panorama for Italian specialities, and the Sky Deck for open-air evenings
Experiences and Activities: Guided nature walks, yoga sessions, cultural performances, Maha Aarti experiences, and dedicated spaces for work-from-resort stays and meetings
Convenient Location: Positioned along the Old Pune-Mumbai Highway (NH 48), with easy access to Tiger’s Leap, Duke’s Nose, Kune Falls, and the Karla and Bhaja Caves
