Are you searching for the perfect place to visit and relax for the weekend or a longer holiday? Look no further than Lonavala! This scenic location, nestled in the Sahyadri Hills of the Western Ghats, is one of Maharashtra’s most popular hill stations. Lonavala has everything from temple visits and adventure activities to natural beauty and delicious street food. Here are the reasons to book resorts in Lonavala.
Incredible Natural Beauty
Lonavala’s incredible landscape and views are what make this an unforgettable destination. Its natural beauty and the region’s unique climate make it a truly remarkable place to visit. The district has some stunning places, like the Korigad, Lohagad, Visapur fort, Duke’s Nose, and Karla and Bhaja caves. Take a walk through magnificent waterfalls like the Rajmachi, Tahini and Valvan waterfalls, and take a boat ride on the Shirota Lake.
Luxurious Hotels and Resorts
When visiting Lonavala, there is no shortage of places to stay. From luxurious hotels and resorts to budget-friendly accommodations, plenty of amenities cater to every traveller’s needs. Popular locations include The Dukes Retreat, Le Meridien Lonavala, High Land Park Resort, Piccadilly Holiday Resort, and Sterling Lonavala.
Enjoyable Adventure Activities
Lonavala offers some of the best experiences for adventure enthusiasts. For example, why not participate in thrilling activities such as trekking, rappelling, cycling, rock climbing, and zip-lining? The Pavana Lake is equipped for those interested in sailing and kayaking, and rafting can be done in the Ulhas River. Plus, numerous pre-planned packages are available for those looking for a more structured adventure.
Delicious Street Food
One of the best reasons to visit Lonavala is its delicious street food. It’s no secret that the local food here is some of the best in the region. From classic Maharashtra dishes like vada pav and bhelpuri to exotic sweets like Rasgulla and Shrikhand, Lonavala has everything the hungry traveller could ever want. Not to mention the variety of delicious local food stalls that line the famous shopping streets.
Famous Shopping Streets
Lonavala is popular among shoppers looking for souvenirs, local products and apparel items. The Misar Wadi shopping street is the go-to place for budget-friendly items, while the Bhuta Complex is known for its high-end products. There are also many other shops to explore, including the Tibetan market and Bor Ghat, for handicrafts and unique artefacts.
Temple Visits
Lonavala is a heavily religious area home to many iconic temples and shrines. Those looking for a spiritual and cultural experience should visit temples such as the Karla Caves, Narayani Dham and the Bhairavnath Temple. You could also take a trip to the Gunjavne Mahadev Temple, a popular pilgrimage site located at the top of a hill.
Special Events and Celebrations
Lonavala is well-known for its vibrant festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular include the Lonavala festival, which celebrates the town’s culture and heritage, and the Marathi film festival, which takes place annually in Lonavala. There are also various religious festivals, such as the Kartik Purnima and Diwali, as well as music and dance festivals.
Activities for Kids
If you are travelling with children, Lonavala has several great attractions for them to explore. The Tungarli Lake is a great spot for a boat ride or fishing, while the Rajmachi Garden has a special kids’ zone with a merry-go-round, swings, and other play items. Young adventurers can also visit a petting zoo and butterfly park, while the Phulrani Dam offers horse riding sessions.
Water Sports
Lonavala is another great location for water sports enthusiasts. The Pavana Lake and Valvan Dam are known for their exciting water activities, such as wakeboarding and paddle sports. Teachers and experts can guide you through the activity, or you can try it on your own. Plus, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of the Sahyadri Hills while having fun.
Rich Cultural Heritage
The rich cultural heritage of Lonavala is something no traveller should ignore. The simple and hospitable locals, passionate about their culture, are always eager to share stories about the place’s unique history. Visit local cultural attractions, such as the Della Adventure park, which hosts traditional festivals throughout the year, or take a guided tour of historical palaces and forts.
How to book a great hotel in Lonavala?
Staying in a centrally located hotel is imperative if you want to enjoy the place truly. A stay in a luxurious hotel is an added advantage. Even if you haven’t experienced a luxurious hotel stay before, read on to see how to use these tips to get the most out of the vacation.
Understand Your Hotel Level
If you’re looking to book a luxurious hotel stay, understanding the various levels of the hotel is important. Does the hotel have five stars, four, or three? A five-star property typically offers luxurious amenities, like spa services, private suites, and an expansive fitness centre. On the other hand, a four or three-star hotel may offer a basic stay with fewer amenities. Make sure you know how many stars the hotel has, so you know what services you can expect.
Check Ratings and Reviews
The best way to get an accurate picture of the quality of a hotel is to read reviews and ratings. Look at the ratings of any potential hotel on reviews websites and read comments to get an idea of what past guests have to say. Reviewing reviews can help you better understand the hotel’s services, amenities, and staff.
Take Advantage of Luxury Travel Websites
Another way to get an idea of how luxurious a hotel stay can be is to visit luxury travel websites. These websites specialize in providing access to luxurious accommodations and services. This can be a great way to narrow down your options and find the perfect hotel for your needs. Plus, many of these websites offer discounts and promotions to help you save money and get more bang for your buck.
Research the Benefits
Before you book your luxurious hotel, research and find out what benefits you can get. Many hotels offer exclusive amenities and services that aren’t available at other properties. These can range from access to private beach areas to spa treatments and more. Researching the benefits before you book can help you make the most of your stay.
Book Directly Through the Hotel
One of the best ways to guarantee a luxurious hotel stay is to book directly through the hotel. This can help you get the best rates and also help you take advantage of any discounts or promotions the hotel may be offering. Booking directly through the hotel can also give you access to exclusive packages and amenities that may not be available through third-party websites.
Know the Cancellation Policy
Before you book your luxurious hotel, make sure you know the cancellation policy. This can help you avoid unwanted fees if you cancel your stay. Some hotels offer free cancellations or refunds up to a certain date, while others may have stricter policies. Just make sure you are aware of any cancellation policies before you book.
Take Advantage of All-Inclusive Packages
If you’re looking for an all-in-one luxurious hotel experience, consider taking advantage of an all-inclusive package. These packages often include meals, drinks, access to certain amenities, and more. Plus, they can offer an economical way to get the most out of your stay. Check if the hotel you are considering offers any all-inclusive packages and take advantage of them if possible.
Upgrade Your Room
One way to guarantee a luxurious hotel stay is to upgrade your room. Some hotels offer upgrades to suites or private villas, offering extra square footage, luxury amenities, and more. Ask about room upgrades when reserving your stay and see if any options are available. You can take your hotel experience to the next level with a room upgrade.
Inquire About Services and Amenities
When reserving your stay, inquire about any services and amenities the hotel may offer. Luxurious hotels often provide premium benefits like concierge services, fitness centres, and spa treatments. Ask the hotel what types of services and amenities they have to offer, so you can maximize your experience.
Utilize Loyalty Programs
If you’re a frequent traveller, consider taking advantage of hotel loyalty programs. Many hotels offer special discounts to loyal customers, so make sure to sign up for any loyalty programs the hotel may offer. With a loyalty program, you can save money and get additional perks on your luxurious hotel stay.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to spend a long holiday or a weekend getaway, Lonavala should be your destination of choice. This hill station has it all, with mesmerizing views, temples to explore, delicious street food, and plenty of adventure activities to try! Don’t wait any longer to book your resort in Lonavala – it’s the perfect place to relax and have the experience of a lifetime!
