From a distance, the hill towns of Khandala and Lonavala, look like mountains shrouded in a misty veil. And you feel as if you are walking through the clouds, each sense soaking in the mist. The winding rail or road journey from Mumbai is almost magical, as you watch the mist cascading down the green mountains, observe the muddy puddles on the ground, and the rain drumming a tune on the roof.
A Walk in the Clouds [Illustration by Anup Singh]
These twin towns, nestling in the Sahyadri hills, in the Western Ghats are on the Mumbai-Pune route. For long they have been synonymous with film shootings or retreats for film stars and industrialists. But, it is also true that these twin towns offer something for pockets of all depths, as any family with a bunch of boisterous kids will soon discover. There are many hotels and resorts around, but it would be wise to get confirmed reservations during the heavy rush season, between June and August.
Once in Khandala, there are plenty of options before you to discover the place: tourist taxis, guided tours by bus or if you are adventurous, a bicycle trip for a couple of hours.
Majestic mysteries of the past
These name might evoke nothing but non-comprehending boredom in the history class, but a trip to the Karla and Bhaja caves will lend wings to your imagination, especially the children. Built during the second century, these caves are among the finest examples of Buddhist rock-cut temple art.
A 20-minute climb from the car parking area brings you to the Karla caves. For those who want to travel in style, there is the option of a pony ride as well. The view from the top is breathtaking: you get a bird’s eye view of Lonavala and Khandala. A further three km away from the Karla caves are the Bhaja caves. They are more lush and green, with a quiet timelessness.
Playing the game of being in a time machine always does the trick, and it becomes an enjoyable adventure just to imagine yourself in that place close to 2000 years ago. Ask the children to recreate a scene from the past, and see how they absorb the experience.
Going green in the Botanical Garden
Another place worth visiting is the Botanical Garden in Khandala, giving a clue to every variety of flora that can be seen in those parts. And what an awesome feeling it is to be told that you are standing before a tree that was witness to Britain’s rule of India! A trip to this Eden can be timed for lunch so that the picnic hamper can be spread out in a way that cleanliness and order is resumed soon after, without any litter in sight!
A splash, family trek or rock climbing
There are natural streams and fountains formed during monsoon. You and your children can splash around and have fun. There are several friendly treks for that can be attempted by all without any great degree of embarrassment. The fresh air running down your respiratory tract will remove a few clogged passage bequeathed by the city air.
Rock climbing is yet another option for children 10 years and older, and information is readily available at any travel agency in the twin towns.
Travel tips
- Wear sturdy shoes.
- Take lightweight woollens during the monsoon.
- Be prepared with medicines for common ailments like cold, fever and allergies.
- On your daytime jaunts keep an extra change of clothes in case you or your children decide to spontaneously sing in the rain.
- Raincoats, windcheaters and umbrellas would be a sensible addition to your luggage for those not wanting to get drenched.
- Carry a bag to keep used diapers and tissues.
- Take baby backpacks to carry your infants around.
- Carry disposable glasses, tissues and sterilised bottles for infants.And, if you want a natural high, go climb a mountain.
Getting there
The nearest metro is Mumbai which is approximately 103 km from Khandala and 106 km from Lonavala. Khandala and Lonavala are perfect for getaways of all kinds. All express trains from Mumbai to Pune stop at Khandala and Lonavala, south-east of Mumbai.
