Khandala is a hill station in the Western Ghats, in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is located three kilometers from Lonavala and seven kilometers from Karjat. Khandala is situated at one end of the Bhor Ghat, a major ghat on the road link between the Deccan plateau and the Konkan plain. Heavy ghats and rail traffic pass through this ghat. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway, the main link between Mumbai and Pune, passes through Khandala. Khandala is particularly popular among hiking tourists, due to easy access from nearby cities. Beautiful views of Khandala and Bhor Ghat can be enjoyed from the hilltop called Duke's Nose. Khandala is mentioned in the famous song "Aati Kya Khandala" from the film Ghulam. In the 1975 classic film "Chhoti si Baat" , the character played by Ashok Kumar, a colonel retired from the army, lives in Khandala.
History
There is no reliable historical evidence about the origin of this place. However, it is a well-known fact that before the British authority, the great Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji and the Peshwas ruled Khandala. Khandala, like all other hill stations, is a testimony to the colonial era. The rich cultural heritage of India is clearly seen in the historical sites and monuments here. Apart from the abundant natural splendor, this hill station is also famous for its cave temples, which date back to the second century.
These cave temples represent Buddhist architecture and are evidence of the presence of the Hinayana sect in the past. For nature lovers and enthusiasts, walking in the picturesque valleys is a mysterious attraction that characterizes this place. Khandala has received abundant natural beauty and the monsoon is the best time to witness this natural miracle when it is at its peak. Everything looks dense, green and fresh around you, which creates a heady feeling in you.
Culture
The time from October to May is suitable for visiting Khandala. This beautiful hilly terrain is best taken advantage of through trekking. Whether you are an avid traveler or an experienced traveler, choose a trail to reach the top of mountains and cliffs and see the valley below. The Dukes Nose Point and Carla Hills are two popular places of rock climbing. Pramod comes and it is one of those interesting areas of the country which has gorgeous natural beauty. Lohgarh fort means iron fort and was built to house prisoners. Another tourist spot near Khandala is the Kune Falls which falls from a height of 100 meters. It is surrounded by greenery all around. You cannot forget to see the Rajmachi Fort which is an iconic tourist destination and is surrounded by evergreen valleys and gardens from all around. Tourist places in Khandala filled with abundant natural beauty are truly amazing.
Main Attractions:
1. Amrutanjan Point
The Amrutanjan Point is another point in the Khandala Ghat that lies at the end of the first slope. It offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding places. This point exhibits the appropriate grandeur of the valley as well as the Dukes Nose.
The city of Khopoli can also be seen from this point.
2. Raywood
Raywood is a large and beautiful garden full of tall and stately trees. It is difficult to know the etymology of this name situated between Khandala and Lonavala. Some people say that Wood is named after an English official, Mr. Ray, while others say that the name Raywood derives from the Marathi word 'Ray' which means dense forest.
There are many types of trees in this garden which are several decades old. Earlier it was a botanical garden which was later converted into a garden. There is an old temple of Shiva.
The garden is spread over a large area and children can play here.
3. Cave Of Karla And Bhaja
The Caves of Karla and Bhaja are one of the major tourist destinations of Khandala, which is located just 16 kilometers from the hill station. This huge ancient beauty dates back to the second century.
They belong to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism and are the oldest and outstanding example of rock-cut Buddhist temple art in India.
4. Bhushi Lake
If you are a nature lover then Bhushi Lake can be a destination for you. Lazy afternoon can be spent on the banks of this place located in Khandala. Its serene and tranquil environment and crystal clear water provides an opportunity for tourists to relax in boundless peace.
Many other lakes are also scattered in Khandala. For a pleasant and memorable experience, visit Tuguli Lake, Lonavala Lake and Valvan Dam.
