Bhushi Dam
A popular
weekend getaway spot from the city of Pune is the Bhushi Dam in Lonavla. Cool
waters and the warm sunshine is what one gets at this famous tourist spot that
is best visited during the monsoon season. However, the authorities do not
allow swimming in this dam due to the inconsistent water flow. The climate here
is moderate throughout the year and one can c pay a visit to this place at any
time. However, locals suggest that one should visit the place from October to
March while for Lonavla, June to September is ideal. One is sure to have a
great time when one visits either Lonavla or the Bhushi Dam. The Bhushi Dam
stands on the Indrayani River in Lonavala developed and maintained by the
Indian Railways and private sector. This Dam is located in the Pune-Mumbai
Expressway, which is the one of the best 6 lane highway in India. This dam was
built in 1860s as a source of water for the steam engines of the Great Indian
Peninsular Railway. The consumption of liquor is prohibited in this area due to
the security reasons. This is a very famous holiday destination in Maharashtra.
The place is filled with cold water, warm sunshine, and vibes of nature. The
force of water here is inconsistent, so swimming is prohibited in this area,
but one can enjoy stepping on the rocky land with cold water flowing below.
This area has a moderate climate throughout the year. The best time to pay a
visit in the Bhushi Dam is during Monsoon.
Lions Point
At a distance
of 12 km from Lonavala Railway Station, Lion’s Point is a vantage point located
midway between Bhushi Dam and Aamby Valley in Lonavala. It is one of the
popular viewpoints in Lonavala and also among the must-visit places in
Lonavala.
The view from
the Lions Point is majestic and panoramic. One would see dozens of small
waterfalls, lush green hills and lakes around during monsoon season. The
sunrise and sunset views from here are mesmerizing. The wind is extremely
strong at this place and it was quite thrilling to see many adventurous people
get close to the edge to get ‘that’ living-on-the-edge photograph. The drive to
the point is also equally scenic
The Shiv-ling
peak is a conical peak can be seen towards the left side of Lion’s Point
Pavna Dam
Located in
Maval, Maharashtra, Pavana Lake lies around 29 km south of Lonavala, amidst the Sahyadri hills that
snake through Maharashtra and demarcate the Konkan coast from the Deccan
inland. Surrounded by tall hills, the lake is actually a water reservoir that
was formed after a dam was built across the Pavana River, which originates from
the Western Ghats and flows until it meets the Mula River near Sangvi. The
construction of the Pavana dam in 1972 resulted in the formation of the lake
near Lonavala. Over the years, it became a valley escape for the people of both
Mumbai and Pune. The lake is now a camping and getaway spot for backpackers,
nature lovers and campers. The place is also known for its paragliding
facilities, though it remains closed in the monsoon. You do have other things
to do here as well, including boating along the lake, windsurfing and kayaking.
Lohagad Fort
Lohagad fort,
also known as the iron fort, is the main attraction in Lohagad. From Satavahnas
to Mughals to Marathas, the hill fort was occupied by several dynasties at
different time periods. The fort was used by Shivaji Maharaj for keeping his
treasury. Later Nana Phadnavis from the Peshwa era built several structures
like a step well and a tank in the fort and used it for living. The government
has declared the fort a protected monument recently.
Rajmachi Fort
Rajmachi Fort
is considered to be one of the best monsoon destinations in Maharashtra.
As the foothills of the fort lies the quaint Udhewadi village which serves as
the base for the trek to Rajmachi. The fort is nestled in the Sahyadri
mountain ranges of Maharashtra. Surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking
views, Rajmachi Fort is located at a convenient distance from cities like Mumbai
and Pune. It is only 13.7 km from Lonavala and makes for an
excellent beginner level trek. This is what makes it a popular tourist
attraction for trekkers and nature lovers alike. During the monsoon season,
Rajmachi becomes a green paradise and the route to Rajmachi takes you through
splendid views of waterfalls and rolling green hills. Once you reach the base
village of Udhewadi, it is an easy 3-4 hour trek to the top of the Rajmachi
fort. From the Pune side, the trek is much shorter (close to 30 minutes).
