Discovering Malavali and Nearby Attractions: A Perfect
Getaway Near Pune
Tucked away
in the Sahyadri Hills, Malavali is a small yet charming town
near Lonavala, Maharashtra. Known for its lush greenery,
ancient caves, and thrilling trekking trails, it is an ideal weekend
retreat for those seeking peace, adventure, or a bit of history. Whether you're
traveling from Pune or Mumbai, Malavali offers a refreshing escape from city
life.
This guide
highlights the top spots to explore in and around Malavali for
an unforgettable trip!
I visited
these places with my friends, and I can say they are the most awaited spots for
anyone living near Pune.
1. Bhaja
Caves – A Fascinating Glimpse into Ancient India
The Bhaja
Caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, are a spectacular
example of Buddhist rock-cut architecture. These 22 caves feature
intricately carved stupas, viharas (monasteries), and a grand chaityagriha
(prayer hall). The monsoon adds to their charm, with waterfalls forming around
the caves.
Why
Visit?
✅ Impressive rock-cut Buddhist
structures
✅ Ancient inscriptions and stupas
✅ A nearby waterfall, especially stunning in the rainy season
📍 Trek Difficulty: Easy
(15-20 min walk uphill)
💰 Entry Fee: ₹15 per person
2.
Lohagad Fort – A Trekker’s Paradise
The Lohagad
Fort trek is a must-do for adventure lovers. Standing tall at 3,389
feet, this fort was historically significant during Chhatrapati
Shivaji Maharaj's rule. Offering stunning panoramic views of
Pawna Lake and the surrounding valleys, it is one of the most accessible and
rewarding treks in Maharashtra.
Highlights:
✅ Easy trek, perfect for beginners
✅ Scenic monsoon landscapes covered in mist
✅ Historical structures and old water reservoirs
📍 Trek Duration: 1.5
- 2 hours
💰 Entry Fee: Free
Lohagad Fort
3.
Visapur Fort – The Hidden Gem
If you're up
for a slightly more challenging trek, Visapur Fort, located near
Lohagad, is an excellent option. Known for its massive walls, Hanuman
carvings, and hidden caves, this fort offers a thrilling climb and breathtaking
mist-covered views in the monsoon season.
Why
Visit?
✅ More challenging than Lohagad, ideal
for experienced trekkers
✅ Stunning cloud-covered landscapes in the monsoon
✅ Unique carvings and fort structures
📍 Trek Difficulty: Moderate
⏳ Best Time to Visit: June to February
4. Pawna
Lake – A Relaxing Lakeside Escape
For those
who prefer a more laid-back experience, Pawna Lake is
the perfect destination. The calm waters and surrounding greenery make it an
excellent spot for camping, boating, and photography. Many camping
sites offer bonfire nights, live music, and stargazing, making it
an unforgettable experience.
Activities
to Enjoy at Pawna Lake:
✅ Kayaking and boating
✅ Lakeside camping with BBQ & bonfire
✅ Stunning sunset and night sky views
📍 Entry Fee: Varies
by camping package (₹1,000 - ₹2,500 per night)
5. Karla
Caves – A Journey Back in Time
Located near
Malavali, the Karla Caves are among the most significant rock-cut
Buddhist caves in India, dating back over 2,000 years. The main
chaityagriha (prayer hall) is one of the largest in the country and
features intricate carvings, wooden-style ceilings, and inscriptions.
What to
Expect?
✅ A grand ancient prayer hall with
intricate detailing
✅ Historical Buddhist inscriptions
✅ The Ekvira Devi Temple, popular among devotees
📍 Entry Fee: ₹15 per
person
6.
Tiger’s Point – A Stunning Viewpoint
One of the
best scenic spots near Malavali, Tiger’s Point offers breathtaking
views of deep valleys, rolling hills, and seasonal waterfalls. It’s
especially popular at sunrise and sunset when the landscape looks surreal.
Monsoon season enhances the beauty with lush greenery and mist-covered cliffs.
Why
Visit?
✅ Unmatched sunrise and sunset views
✅ A peaceful break from crowded city life
✅ Monsoon waterfalls
📍 Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening
7. Kune
Waterfall – A Hidden Natural Wonder
Located
close to Lonavala, Kune Waterfall is among
the tallest waterfalls in Maharashtra, cascading down from a height
of 200 meters. Surrounded by thick forests, this three-tiered
waterfall is an ideal spot for a short hike, nature photography, or a
peaceful retreat.
Why
Visit?
✅ A less crowded, serene waterfall
experience
✅ Ideal for nature lovers and photographers
✅ Short hikes with beautiful views
📍 Best Time to Visit: June
- September
How to
Reach Malavali?
🚆 By Train:
Malavali has its own railway station, well-connected to Pune and
Lonavala. Trains are frequent, making it a convenient travel option.
🚗 By Road:
Malavali is 60 km from Pune (1.5-hour drive) and 100
km from Mumbai (2.5-hour drive). The Mumbai-Pune Expressway makes for a
smooth and scenic drive.
🛵 By Bike:
Bikers love this route for its twisting roads and breathtaking views,
especially during monsoons.
Best Time
to Visit Malavali & Nearby Attractions
✔ Monsoon (June - September): Ideal
for trekking, lush greenery, and waterfalls.
✔ Winter (November - February): Pleasant
weather for sightseeing and camping.
❌ Summer (March-May): Can be hot, though early morning hikes are still
enjoyable.
Final
Thoughts
Malavali
isn’t just another stop on the way to Lonavala—it’s a treasure trove of
history, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re an avid
trekker, a history enthusiast, or someone seeking peace, this region has
something special for everyone.
So, if
you’re looking for a weekend getaway near Pune or Mumbai, pack your
bags and head to Malavali for an unforgettable experience! 🚀
"Please
share your thoughts in the comment section 💬. Have fun! 🎉😊"
Let me know
if you need more tweaks! 😃
