Alibaug Or Lonavala: Which is Better | A Luxury Travellers’ Guide

Thinking of a quick getaway near Mumbai and Pune but unsure which direction to go in? Both cities strategically give a choice between mountains and beaches, with Lonavala or Alibaug being easily accessible. These popular weekend destinations from Mumbai have a unique vibe with different experiences. So we compare Alibaug vs Lonavala, which is better? Let us find out. 

How to Reach: Alibaug vs Lonavala

The accessibility of a place is one of the most considerable factors when planning a getaway. Be it with your family or friends, the idea is to reach the location and then unwind together for maximum time. 

How to Reach Alibaug:

Reaching Alibaug is a breeze if you take a ferry ride from the Gateway of India or Bhaucha Dhakka. For people in Mumbai, the ferry ride is comfortable, especially with M2M ferries that also transport cars. 

For those traveling from Pune to Alibaug, you can cover the distance of 145 km in an approximate 3-hour drive. 

How to Reach Lonavala:

Lonavala is also very convenient to reach via road or train. You can take a 2-hour drive in non-peak hours and reach the lush mountain valleys. Public transport like buses and trains are also frequent. For people in Pune, Lonavala is hardly an hour away via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. 

Best Time to Visit Alibaug and Lonavala

Alibaug is a coastal paradise, making it ideal to visit during summers and winters. While you can also visit during the rainy season, you may not be able to enjoy the beach shores. The commute may also get a little tedious with ferries coming to a halt during extreme weather. The best time to visit Alibaug is November to March. 

Lonavala is an all-season destination. But it is best known for its transformation in monsoons. Cascading waterfalls over lush mountain valleys, rain clouds residing on mountain tops, and lakes and dams overflowing, make it one of the best times to enjoy nature. If you’re a rain lover, the best time to visit Lonavala is June to March. The winter season also sees comparatively cooler temperatures, making it ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway. 

Alibaug or Lonavala: Things to Do

Let us look at how you can spend your time worthwhile in either of these tourist places near Mumbai. 

Things to Do in Alibaug

• Beach hopping: Explore the entire Konkan coastline with a beach hopping day. Awas Beach, Kihim Beach, Nagaon Beach, and Akshi Beach are some of the shorelines you can head to other than Alibaug.

• Water sports: Alibaug and Kihim Beach are very popular for water sports. If you love water, you can book a package of boat rides, jet skiing or parasailing among other adventure activities by the beach in Alibaug.

• Historical fort visits: Alibaug has a rich history with fortitude structures. Revdanda Fort, Murud Fort or Kolaba Jetty Fort are some of the forts you can visit and learn about their history.
  
• Costal food exploration: Get a taste of Konkani culture with a seafood platter. Indulge in coastal-style meals, fresh fish and solkadhi for a fulfilling culinary experience.

Things to Do in Lonavala

Lonavala is a hill station, with numerous peaks and mountain valleys, giving more scope for adventure activities in Lonavala. 

• Trekking: If you love trekking, you can climb to the highest points or trek to the forts of Lohagad and Visapur.

• Paragliding: Soar in the sky and land by the lakeside at Kamshet, just 20 mins away from Lonavala.

• Boating: The famous Pawna Lake provides kayaking, speed and paddle boating activities. You can take a boat ride at sunset and soak in the beautiful canvas of hues.

• Nature trails: Surrounded by lush peaks and forest patches, you can take simple trails around Lonavala and experience nature up close.

Alibaug or Lonavala: Which Has Better Villas?

Alibaug or Lonavala, both tourist places has a range of accommodations. From fancy hotels or budget-friendly rooms to luxury private villas, you can choose a stay per your preference. 

But if you are looking for a getaway that feels completely relaxing, you should rent a private villa. In Alibaug, you will find villas with beach access, homes with private pool and those with the best beach views. Lohono Stays also has some of the best pet-friendly villas in Alibaug along with architectural gems like The Ray, that give you a feel of staying in Bali! 

In Lonavala, you can book villas with Pawna lake view. There are private villas that lie at the base of mountain peaks, assuring the best views as you wake up. You can check out our family villas like Trisara or Bamboo Breeze, perfect for large groups. 

Both locations have the best private stays that will embrace you in luxury. 

Final Verdict: Should You Pick Alibaug or Lonavala?

Alibaug or Lonavala, which is better? It completely depends on your preference for a getaway. If you’re looking for beachside fun, Alibaug is a great option for a breezy summer escape. On the other hand, if you prefer more adventurous activities like trekking and nature trails, Lonavala has several points to explore. 

If you ask us seasonally, you can head to Lonavala in monsoons, when Alibaug beaches remain off-limits and activities are closed. Lush green landscapes, misty hills, waterfalls, and more, Lonavala is unbeatable during this time when the entire region comes alive.

Whichever destination you choose, don’t forget to book with Lohono Stays! Our luxury villas in Lonavala and Alibaug will ensure you have a great time, indoors and outdoors.