The rainy season is here and have you started planning your monsoon getaways? For people in and around Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar are the first places that come to mind to immerse in the pleasant weather. These two hill stations in Maharashtra turn absolute bliss with the onset of rains and no surprise, are the most popular monsoon destinations. But then the choice is where to go – Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar? Both destinations have their positives so how do you choose? Let us help you out.
Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar: Which is Closer?
If you prioritise convenient access for a quick getaway, Lonavala is a more favourable destination. Approximately 80 km from Mumbai and 64 km from Pune, the journey here is under 2 hours. You can easily reach via road or even train.
Mahabaleshwar is 231 km from Mumbai and takes close to 6 hours to reach. But if you want to do an extended weekend getaway from Friday to Sunday, it is an ideal destination to explore and rejuvenate. It is 120 km from Pune, which takes about 3-3.5 hours to reach.
Best Time to Visit Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar
Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar are located on the hills, and the best times to visit both these destinations often clash. If you want to experience pre-monsoon showers and beat the city heat right about now would be the best time to visit either of the places.
July to September is the best time to visit Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar. The areas receive heavy to moderate rainfall. Being enclosed in a valley, the rainwater gushes down to merge into beautiful waterfalls, the mountains turn lush green and the clouds settle on the table tops. The atmosphere is pleasant and you can make the most of your monsoon getaways. If you love strawberries more than the rainy days, then winters are more suited to be in Mahabaleshwar.
Accommodation Options in Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar
There is no dearth of accommodations at any popular tourist destinations. You will find several hotels and private villa stays in Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar. You can choose from boutique hotels or luxuriate in private villas that let you unwind as you please.
Spread your arms out and experience the raindrops on your face… but while being in the pool, an exhilarating feeling altogether. If you book pool villas in Lonavala, you can enjoy this bliss.
Private Villas In Lonavala
For a family villa in Lonavala, you can consider our home Bamboo Breeze, a 4BHK villa with a special kids’ room. A master bedroom with a walk-in closet, a mini theatre for movie nights and a dedicated game room with table tennis, snooker, and a carrom board, you can have a lovely time indoors if the rains get too heavy.
On the other hand, if you prefer the outdoors and want to try nature trails or hiking with friends, Villa Alborz at the foothills of Fort Visapur is a great option. Our team can help to arrange excursions to the popular spots In Lonavala nearby.
Private Villas In Mahabaleshwar
If you plan a monsoon trip to Mahabaleshwar, you should enhance the vacation with a private villa stay.
If you are travelling with your friends, we suggest Villa Vinayalam, a 4BHK home with a capacity of 10 guests. The private villa has an expansive patio and lush gardens around. A walk on dewy grass each morning ensures a therapeutic start to your day. Each bedroom has a private sitout to enjoy your tea/coffee with the best views.
The viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar are riddled with tourists in most seasons. What if we told you, you can enjoy a vantage point with no one else around, but you and your loved ones? Plan a stay at Gold Mist- luxury villa in Mahabaleshwar. This 3-bedroom home has a strategic location at the edge of a mountain offering unobstructed views of the Krishna valley and Dhom Dam. If the rain clouds clear up, you can catch the faint hues of the sunset. There is so much beauty around the villa that you get access to.
Tourist Points in Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar
Since the rainy season is the best time to visit Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar, the scenery you will experience at both is similar. Verdant mountains, flatland viewpoints, gushing streams and waterfalls.
Rajmachi Point, Bhushi Dam, Tiger Point, Pawana Lake, Karla Caves, and Lohagad-Visapur Forts are some of the most frequented tourist spots around Lonavala. If you want to spot fireflies or go camping by the lakeside, such experiences are possible in Lonavala, even during rainy days.
In Mahabaleshwar too, there are many viewpoints to marvel at the natural beauty. However, amidst the rain clouds that come down, getting a clearer view can be difficult. Arthur’s Seat Point, Needle Hole or Elephant’s Point, Wilson Point, Lingamala Falls, and Venna Lake are all picturesque spots you should visit. You can go around Venna Lake, however, boating activities are restricted during incessant rain spells.
So, Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar, where are you planning to go? If you have more time and a flexible schedule, you should visit Mahabaleshwar. You can also enjoy the feel and thrill of a long drive through the verdant landscapes of winding mountains. To spend more time with your family and less in commute, Lonavala is the better option.
What will truly enhance your getaway is choosing an accommodation that brings all the luxuries to you. Choose private villas by Lohono and unwind in maximum comfort. With a highly skilled staff to assist and provide hospitality, you will be well taken care of. Leave your worries at the door, when you enter Lohono Stays.
Whether you choose Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar, we will be happy to serve you.
