info@theindiatourism.com
+91-9799050299
Khandala, a famous hill resort and one of the much sought after weekend destinations of the state of Maharashtra is located at an elevation of 625 meters in the Sahyadri hill ranges. Dotted with plethora of natural vistas in the form of mesmeric hills, deep valleys, shimmering lakes and splendid cascades, Khandala has so much to offer to daze the tourists with its magical charm.
Located at the top of the magnificent Bhor Valley, Khandala serves as a popular hill station and a hiking destination for the residents of Mumbai and Maharashtra. Khandala experiences a pleasant climate all round the year; hence the place is also a much preferred destination to enjoy various outdoor activities and picnicking. It is a beautiful travel destination for the vacationers as apart from adventurous sports, there is a wide array of tourist attractions and sightseeing places that offer a rejuvenating and refreshing escape to the Mumbaikars from the hurdles and curdles of the city life.
With the beginning of rainy season, the scenic charm of Khandala comes to its zenith when everything around gets enveloped into greenery. This lovely hill resort of Khandala offers incredible natural vistas with verdant landscapes, lush green surroundings, meandering waterfalls, shimmering lakes, mysterious caves and towering mountains, all together attribute to the picturesque ambience of this charming hill town. The enthralling atmosphere and plethora of attractions inspire flock of discerning tourists every year to experience the matchless beauty of the town from India and abroad. Moreover, the excellent accommodation facilities to suit every pocket and variety of lip smacking cuisine have made Khandala one of the hottest and happening holiday destinations in the state. With its handful of geographical features, salubrious climate and plenty of attractions, Khandala is indeed an ideal place to enjoy a fantastic holiday in a fantastic atmosphere.
History of Khandala
Khandala's origin secures an incredible place in the golden pages of history due to the rulers who ruled this place. The founder of the first Maratha Empire, Chattrapati Shivaji ruled the surrounding area of Khandala. Afterward, the reign went to the hands of Peshwa rulers who were founders of the second empire of Marathas. Finally, the Britishers defeated the Peshwas and took over Khandala.
The famous route present close to the sunset point of Khandala and Khopoli had been existing there for ages. It used to connect a plethora of coastal cities including Sopara and Pune. In the year 1840, hand-pulled and horse-drawn carts were used to transit on this route during British times. Since then, Khandala has been a popular spot for a lot of visitors and travelers.
Places To Visit In Khandala
Khandala is one of the popular tourist places in Maharashtra. Here's the list of the best places to visit in Khandala.
1. Rajmachi Fort
Located in the Konkan range’s Sahyadri Mountains, Rajmachi is a small village in Maharashtra. It is known for Manaranjan and Shivardhan forts present in the vicinity of Khandala and Lonavala hills. It can be the best travel treat for trekking enthusiasts who seek the chance to experience an adventure every moment.
2. Bhedsa Caves
Known for exquisite carvings, Bhedsa caves are made with 25 ft. high pillars and are considered the most essential part of Khandala tourism. Typically, these caves are a compilation of rock-cut Buddhist monuments back from 60 BC. There is a main cave ‘Chaitya’ pays homage to a prayer hall and another cave is a monastery. Being one of the oldest caves of Maharashtra, these are some of the most famous places to visit near Khandala.
3. Kune Waterfalls
Another major picnic spot among Khandala tourist places is the scenic beauty of Kune Waterfalls as it is the 14th highest waterfall in India. The incredible division of the waterfall into two sections makes it an enchanting visual scene to experience. Surrounded by lush greenery, Kune waterfalls serve as a breathtaking place for those who want to enjoy bathing and swimming in water.
4. Duke’s Nose
Among the famous places to visit in Khandala, sightseeing of the Duke’s nose is one of the best things to do in Khandala. The erstwhile Duke of Wellington's nose is identical to the cliff and thus, the whole cliff got the name Duke's nose. Its sprawling greenery and magnificent beauty deserve the footfall of thousands of people.
Maharashtra Tourism Often called the 'Gateway to the Heart of India', Maharashtra is the third largest state and second most populous state than in the country. Owing to its proximity to the Western Ghats, it is blessed with a picturesque backdrop of the mountains on one side and has the beautiful Konkan coastal belt on the other.
Maharashtra, the land of everything unlimited invites you into its widespread plethora of attractions. It is adorned by the beautiful Sahyadri ranges of the Western Ghats with high mountains that disappear into the morning mist, while the sprawling belt of the Konkan Coast mesmerises the eyes by its white beaches. The ruins of the ancient forts and palaces in Pune and Ratnagiri among others proudly narrates the story of the then mighty rulers of Maharashtra. Centuries-old temples situated in places like Pandharpur, Ozar are still rooted in their traditions, offering sanctuary to pilgrims. As do the small hill stations of Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Matheran, nestled cosily in nature, provide respite to travellers from the hustle and bustle of the cities.
People of diverse culture and religion live amicably in this state, which is why there is much ado about the culture of Maharashtra which while retaining its original Marathi culture has beautifully embraced other cultures that have come to call this state their home. Apart from being rich in history, traditional arts and lifestyle, it is also famous for its economy primarily because Mumbai -the financial capital of India is situated here. The entertainment hub - the Bollywood film industry also finds its origin in this state. The amalgamation of these varieties of things that this state offers will make your visit here absolutely worthwhile.
