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Khandala
Brief
The charming twin resorts of Khandala and Lonavala, are a welcome break from the heat and crowd of Mumbai. Perched 600m above sea level on the western slopes of the Sahyadri range, they offer a cool, invigorating climate and are a pleasant weekend getaway. They are at their greenest best during the monsoon, when the waterfalls gush down ravines and mist envelopes the valley.
History
Khandala does not have a separate history of its own. Close to Khandala, is Lonavala, which means a city surrounded by caves. Lonavala is enclosed by the Karla, Bhaja and Bedsa caves. believed to have been built by Buddhist monks in the 2nd century BC. Built in the time of the Hinayana sect, during the Satavahana's rule, the caves were excavated for the buddhist monks, who used to gather here during the monsoons.
CultureClimate & Geogaphical Location
Khandala enjoys a cool and pleasant invigorating climate all round the year. The summers are warm and salubrious, while the winters are cool and sunny. Situated on the western slopes of the Sahyadris, they are on the Mumbai Pune route.
How to Reach
Rail, road and air connect Khandala. By air, the two nearest airports are at Pune (67km) and Mumbai (80km). By rail, the nearest railhead is Lonavala, around 5 kms. away. Most Mumbai-Pune trains stop at Lonavala station. The Deccan Queen with its 2-hour run is the best bet. Local trains are available on the hour from Lonavala to Pune and back. By road, Khandala is connected by good motorable roads to Pune, Bangalore and Mumbai. About 99 km from Mumbai, Khandala is on the Mumbai-Pune road. Taxis are available from Dadar TT Station in Mumbai and the journey takes 3-4 hours. Maharashtra state transport buses plying between Mumbai and Pune halt at Khandala, though Lonavala is a major state transport depot, so reaching there by bus can also be a great option.
Tourist Places
*Bhaja
These 18 caves, are believed to have been built by Buddhist monks, in the 2nd century BC. Cave 12, is the largest and has a fine stilted vault. The last cave to the south, has excellent sculptures, including the famous dancing couple.
*Karla
The chaitya at Karla, is the largest in the country, dating back to 160 BC. The massive gate, is carved out of a rock face. There are three entrances to the hall - one for priests and the other two for pilgrims. A vaulted roof supported by 2,000-year-old woodwork and a big sun-window provides lighting for the entire cave.
*Rajmachi
The Rajmachi fort, is surrounded by valleys and forests. It actually consists of two smaller forts, Shrivardhan and Manoranjan, the latter containing arsenals and guard houses.
.Others
BEDSA - Bedsa too is known for its ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves. The chaitya (prayer or assembly hall) here, has four pillars carved with horses, bulls and elephants. Its ribbed roof is supported by 26 pillars.
DUKES NOSE - This hill earned its name from the fact that it resembled the Duke of Wellingtons nose. It is around 12km, from Lonavala and closer to Khandala.
MOHATTAS ZOO - About 12 km from Khandala, this zoo has a rare collection of birds and monkeys from Africa and South America.
VALVAN DAM - About 3km from Karla, Valvan Dam is situated on the Indrayani river. The water from the dam, is used to generate power. The place makes a great picnic spot and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.