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Khandala is a small, yet picturesque hill-station near
Mumbai. It is situated on the western slopes of the
Sahyadris at an altitude of 625 mts. Being close to
Mumbai, Khandala is always full of tourists and “holidayers”
who want a break from their hectic schedules. But this
hill station became known nationally only after the
song ‘Aati kya Khandala’, from the film
‘Ghulam’, included it in its lyrics.
Khandala, and the area surrounding it, was initially
ruled by Chhatrapati Shivaji. It then came into the
hands of the Peshwas, and was finally taken over by
the British when they defeated the Peshwas.
The Khandala of today is not very different from the
Khandala of yester-years. Industrialization has not
yet spread its roots in this town, which is still a
sightseer’s delight. Khandala offers breathtaking
views of cascading waterfalls during the monsoon, and
the surrounding mountains spread out to the horizon.
Blessed by nature’s bounty, the hill resort has
a plethora of places of tourist attraction.
Rajmachi Park
The Rajmachi Park is a beautiful garden situated before
the beginning of the ghat at Khandala. It offers a spectacular
view of the surroundings. Towards the east of this garden,
two towers of the Rajmachi Fort can be seen and at the
bottom is a huge valley. The Ghat begins from this point
so many people come to enjoy the view. There is also
a children's park here.
Duke's Nose
The Duke's Nose is famous for rock climbing in Khandala
and an important tourist attraction. This place is named
after Duke Wellington whose pointed nose this cliff
is said to resemble. It also looks like a hood of a
snake, which is why it is also called "Nagfani"
(Hood of Snake).
Kune Falls
The Kune Fall is situated between Lonavala and Khandala.
It falls majestically from a height of more than 100
feet, and runs for many days long after the monsoon
is over, thus providings an enjoyable opportunity to
bathe in the water that flows through the valley. This
fall can be seen in Khandala Ghat while coming from
Mumbai.
Tiger's Leap
The Tiger's leap is a special spot in this area and
is named so because when one looks carefully at the
valley from this spot, it appears as if a tiger is leaping
into the valley. This spot gives a fascinating view
of the valley and can be viewed from the safe confines
of a big hole.
Monkey Hill
Every train that comes down from Khandala halt at Monkey
hill for brake testing. Monkey Hill is exactly above
Khopoli town and is a favorite picnic spot.
Reversing Station
The Reversing Station once belonged to the railways
and now remains unused. During the night, this place
is illuminated with hundreds of lights, which offers
an enthralling view.
Others
Khandala has many beautiful lakes - Tugauli Lake, Lonavala
Lake and Bhushi Lake along with a Dam called the Walvan
Dam. It also offers enchanting views of the lush green
hilly surroundings. This lovely hill station can be
enjoyed by taking a walk around, by going for trekking
trails or by just sitting idle and relishing the surroundings
around.
Shopping
Khandala is famous for fast foods. Tourists can buy
Chikkis and Jams from the hill resort. One can also
buy Indian snacks like Chiwda, Wafers and various types
of Sevs. These are very popular with the tourists coming
to Khandala.
Seasons to Visit
Weather in Khandala is pleasant throughout the year.
Summers (April-June) are mild, while winters (November-February)
are cool. But the best season to experience Khandala
in its element is the monsoon (July-September) when
the scenic beauty surpasses all comparisons.
Getting There
Air : The nearest airports from Khandala
are the Bombay Airport (110 kms. approx.) and the Pune
Airport (66 kms.).
Rail : The nearest railway station
from Khandala is Lonavala, which is on the main railway
line between Mumbai and Pune.
Road : Khandala is well connected
with Mumbai (approx. 4 hrs.) and Pune (approx. 21/2
hrs.) by road.
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