Road Trip To Lonavala: 15 Things You Must Know

Lonavala is one of the best tourist places in Maharashtra. It is a paradise for residents of Mumbai and Pune as it makes for the perfect weekend getaway to relax amidst verdant beauty and capture the pure spirit of nature. In Lonavala, there is no dearth of interesting things to do or amusing locations to see. Check out the best places to visit on your next road trip to Lonavala, and stay in one of the best Lonavala villas offered by SaffronStays.

Kamshet Paragliding

Witness a surge in exhilaration as you take off into the air. The paragliding paradise in Maharashtra is Kamshet Paragliding. Kamshet, located in the western ghat and only a 2.5-hour drive from Mumbai, offers a variety of adventurous sports. To fly over the stunning Pawna Lake, revel in the cool wind, and chase the blue skies, you must book a paragliding slot. If you want accommodation for a stopover, then you could stay at SaffronStays Moira, Kamshet.


Day at Imagica

Imagica is a great place to spend the day with friends and family. There are many exciting adventure rides and water sports in the water and amusement park. One of the largest theme parks in the nation, Adlabs Imagica offers a variety of thrilling and exciting activities and rides. The 130-acre Khopoli park is home to first-class attractions. They guarantee to provide visitors a range of experiences, including one-of-a-kind attractions, indoor and outdoor rides, eateries, shopping spots, and lounges. You can enjoy a blissful staycation at SaffronStays Le Reve, Lonavala. This 5-bedroom pool villa is located in Lonavala, Maharashtra, which serves as one of the most sought-after weekend getaways near Mumbai.

Lonavala Hot Air Balloon Safari

The beautiful Sahyadri mountains and the foggy Western Ghats surround Lonavala. On Lonavala’s hot air balloon safari, you will take off and soar high in the air to take in the serene surroundings of Lonavala. This one-of-a-kind, hour-long experience takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you are here, make it a point to stay at SaffronStays Casa Delizia, Lonavala.


Adventure at Duke’s Nose

A thrilling activity in Lonavala is participating in a variety of adventure sports at Duke’s Nose. 7 km from Lonavala, Duke’s Nose is renowned for its wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, ziplining, rappelling, and foot traversing. One of the best places to stay when you are here is at SaffronStays Falcon Hill, Lonavala.


Rajmachi Trek

In the Sahyadri highlands, Rajmachi Fort is already well-known for its spectacular vistas and picturesque paths. Because it is surrounded by verdant mountains, breathtaking flora and fauna, waterfalls, and picturesque valleys, this fort is perfect for hiking. The amazing firefly spectacle that spontaneously takes place here is largely unknown.


Canon Valley Trek

One of the fun things to do in Lonavala is a trip to Canyon Valley. After a leisurely two and a half hour stroll, you will arrive at the valley’s picturesque location. This trek is perfect for a group outing because of its flat terrain, variety of flora and wildlife, and easy hiking conditions. Stay at one of the best villas amidst the mountains at SaffronStays Inverlochy, Lonavala.


Dinosaur Park

In the centre of Lonavala, there is a miniature Jurassic Park that you can visit with your family. If you reside in Mumbai or Pune, you may easily go to the park from Aundoli by bus, rail, or even by private automobile. On six and a half acres, Dinosaur Park is home to 36 life-size animatronic dinosaur figures. While visiting this awesome park, large groups can enjoy a vacation in one of the best private villas at SaffronStays Juniper, Lonavala.


Waterfall Rappelling

One of Mumbai’s most popular tourist sites, Lonavala is home to magnificent waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and pure streams. It has a lot to offer any travel enthusiast. Amidst the tranquil nature, Lonavala, which is tucked away in the scenic Western Ghats Mountain ranges, provides a spectacular collection of adventure. Your spirit will be revived by clear skies and a light breeze. Stay at one of the best luxury villas offered by SaffronStays Odeon, Khandala.


Shopping at the Local Market

Shopping is one of the numerous activities to do in Lonavala, which is a favourite among tourists. Among other things, Lonavala is also known for its sweets, including chikki and fudge. There are several confectionery shops where tourists may buy genuine regional treats. Stay near the local market at SaffronStays Aster, Lonavala or SaffronStays Anugraha, Lonavala.


Celebrity Wax Museum Visit

A prominent wax artist from Kerala named Sunil Kandaloor built the Celebrity Wax Museum, which is home to dozens of wax figures made to look like famous people. The strange wax sculptures that reflect various parts of celebrities’ life may be found in the largest wax museum in India. Need a place to stay near the Wax Museum? Choose the luxury of SaffronStays Windermere, Lonavala.


Stay in a Lavish Lonavala Villa

One of the pleasant things to do in Lonavala is to stay in an opulent mansion. The town of Lonavala is made more beautiful by its villas. These villas are renowned for their luxurious lodgings, first-rate service, and fantastic experiences in general. Take your pick from stunning pool villas like SaffronStays Boulevard LogHouse, Malavli, SaffronStays Roselle, Malavli and SaffronStays Boulevard StoneHouse, Malavli.


Bhushi Dam

One of the amusing locations in Lonavala is Bhushi Dam, which looks stunning in the monsoon because of the water flowing down the dam. Even though it is forbidden to jump into the dam, people gather there when it’s pouring rain because of the lush greenery, challenging terrain, and chilly water. One of the closest luxury villas for homestay near the Bhushi Dam is SaffronStays Evelyn Greens, Lonavala.


Bhaja Caves

One of the oldest caves in India are Bhaja Caves. Given that they date from the first and second centuries BCE, they are also categorised as an Indian national monument. The caverns date back to more than 2200 years. The monsoon season is the ideal time to visit the Bhaja Caves since you can enjoy the abundant flora and greenery around.


Tikona Fort

Due to its triangular form and elevation of 1066 metres above sea level, Tikona Fort, a favourite Maratha historical landmark, earned its name. After being taken by the Mughals, Shivaji Maharaj reclaimed possession in the 1670s and it remained a crucial Maratha fort until the 18th century. Stay at SaffronStays Foresta By The Lake, Kamshet and enjoy a lakeside picnic or SaffronStays Raanwaara & Aranya Vilaas, Kamshet, for milestone celebrations with your furry pals.


Pawna Lake

The gorgeous Pawna dam and lake, which are surrounded by the forests of Lohagad, Visapur, and Tikona fort, are must-see locations when the town is submerged in rain. It is a romantic location for couples to enjoy lakeside strolls, hiking, and boating together. If you are here, then make it a point to stay at SaffronStays Waters By Kosha Villas, Pawna: a set of three Signature villas overlooking Pawna lake, that can be booked together or separately for celebrations with families or corporate offsites.


We hope you enjoyed this list of Lonavala destinations. So, don’t wait anymore and explore the evergreen hill station with your folks and friends today and make your trip truly unforgettable with getaways, celebrations and offsites at SaffronStays: Where Families Bond.

10 ‘Vegetarian-Only’ Villas To Bookmark For Your Next Stay

On the hunt for a veg-only villa for that upcoming family getaway or ‘cousins-only’ weekend? Look no further. At SaffronStays, choose from beautifully-appointed villas in easy-to-reach locales that serve only vegetarian dishes — and lip-smacking ones, at that. These villas provide a comfortable space for vegetarians looking for a lovely holiday, without worrying about the availability of veg food. So, instead of checking into a villa that also serves non-vegetarian options, consider any of these 10 veg-only villas, for a deliciously fuss-free experience. 

1. SaffronStays Foresta By The Lake, Kamshet

This place is a sensory overload. Should you take a barefoot walk on the lawn? Should you head straight to the lake? How about going to the study room for some quiet reading time? Or a noisy banter in the games room? A game of tennis? Shall we work from the glasshouse living room? But the pool beckons….
Any photo you upload on your social media from this home will fill your inboxes with queries. All you have to do is work up an appetite at this spacious resort-like villa, enjoy the exceptional cooking skills of Manisha didi and keep the queries for later. Her haath ka khaana will ensure you try out every item from the buffet. From the rocket leaves salad with crunchy candied walnuts to the deconstructed tacos, garlic bread which is a delicacy by itself, minestrone soup, vada pav, makai ka halwa, fruit custard to everyday food items like aloo methi, lachcha paratha, kurkuri bhindi and aloo, dal tadka, rajma among several other dishes – you can’t choose one item over the other. In this battle of tastebuds, there’s no competition; and yet, everyone wins!

To make your bookings, click here.

2. Saffronstays Masaya, Alibaug

Set on a scenic hill, this split-level, veg-only home features 3 bedrooms with pretty private balconies. Here, you will find a cheery Marwari chef Mahendra, who cooks delectable vegetarian Rajasthani meals and North Indian food, as well as Jain selections, on request. All preparations come seasoned with herbs from the villa’s own organic garden. Oh, did we mention that this spot comes with 2 private waterfalls, too?

To make your bookings, click here.

3. SaffronStays RedFields By Venna River, Mahabaleshwar

Oh, the charm of living in a home where you can enjoy fresh, homely meals prepared using local produce! At SaffronStays RedFields By Venna River, enjoy a farm-to-table experience as our on-site staff – Ganesh and Jaya – cater to your cravings with delectable meals made using freshly grown vegetables from the farm. Start your chilly mornings with hot sabudana khichdi and chai or soak some pav in the spicy misal to tantalise your senses. Enjoy a range of authentic main course items like bharleli vangi, pitala with bhakri, lemon rice, dal tadka with steam rice, sevaiyaan and melt in your mouth gulab jamuns… our heart is filled with wholesomeness already!

This veg-only 3-bedroom elderly-friendly private villa in Mahabaleshwar overlooks verdant mountains and strawberry farms and is only 5 minutes from the famous Lingmala waterfall. Experience the comforts of your own home courtesy of the interiors, which are carefully designed with natural wood for a warm, welcoming and comforting stay. Take in the views of the gorgeous Venna river from the two rooms on the entrance level and the 3 private verandahs and have a game sesh in the games room. 

To make your bookings, click here.

4. SaffronStays Falcon Hill, Lonavala

Ideal for large family gatherings, this veg-only villa sits on 16 sprawling acres of private forested land and offers 6 bedrooms. Its infinity pool opens up to stunning valley views. Simply put, all you have to do once you arrive is indulge in some wonderfully prepared vegetarian food, take leisurely dips in the pool and spend some quality time with your family, over your favorite meals.

To make your bookings, click here.

5. SaffronStays Falcon Tents, Lonavala

Fancy going glamping? Book a stay at this excellent estate. Think 5 veg-only, fully-furnished glamping tents, complete with ensuite bathrooms, near Lonavala’s misty Tiger Point. At Falcon Tents, wake up to the sound of twittering birds, soak in the breath-taking views of Lonavala Valley and spend the nights under star-studded skies, around a crackling bonfire. Add to that the availability of scrumptious vegetarian meals and you have a winning combination.

To make your bookings, click here.

6. SaffronStays SanvinaFarm, Karjat

Come, disconnect with the outside world and re-connect with your family. This tastefully done-up veg-only villa offers 3 bedrooms, a pool and an authentic Farm-To-Table culinary experience. The freshly prepared vegetarian offerings here are guaranteed to lull you into a state of bliss. Eat to your heart’s content, spend time milking the resident cows or visit the nearby dam for some memorable photo-ops.

To make your bookings, click here.

7. SaffronStays Vedika, Palghar

If you’re planning to celebrate a family milestone, do it at this luxurious getaway. With room for 10 guests plus wheelchair access for the elderly, this 4-bedroom villa is veg-only and comes with a private pool. As you feast on delicious vegetarian home-cooked meals, let your eyes wander to the great outdoors. Vedika is surrounded by picturesque farms, orchards and a mango grove, making it the perfect spot for when you want to unwind in a place that offers the best of both worlds.

To make your bookings, click here.

8. SaffronStays Le Soil, Nashik

This dreamy, veg-only villa sits snug in the lap of nature. A one-bedroom villa, it’s ideal for an intimate family getaway or a staycation with close pals. With pure vegetarian meals put together by whiz chefs, 360° views of lush green valleys, open balconies and the added benefit of eco-friendly interiors, this villa ticks all the right boxes for the perfect holiday.

To make your bookings, click here.

9. Heritage Waada, Nashik

Designed in the traditional Maharashtrian Waada-style with an open-to-the-sky central courtyard, this veg-only villa boasts as many as 13 bedrooms, making it a great choice to host an intimate wedding or a large family get-together. From piping hot veg meals including authentic Maharashtrian dishes to rambling lawns made for family cricket or outdoor picnics, this spacious villa truly has it all.

To make your bookings, click here.

10. SaffronStays Casa Tranquil, Panchgani

Surrounded by pleasant lush valleys of Panchgani, SaffronStays Casa Tranquil is a veg-only, 4-bedroom pool villa overlooking the hills. At this pet-friendly villa, you could head to the pool, enjoy the surrounding views from the balcony on level one or simply lounge around for some uninterrupted ‘me’ time. As your furry pals run around the open garden, kids in the group can remain busy in the play area that has a swing, slide and see-saw. Meanwhile, the adults can unwind on the terrace bar or indulge in indoor games like table tennis, carrom and other board games.
While family bonding is at the heart of this villa, what’s better than bonding over food? Enjoy scrumptious home-fresh meals prepared by the onsite cook, Sunita. Dunk warm idlis in hot sambhar, or watch the butter melting on your hot aloo parathas with a hot cup of chai or coffee. For the main course, enjoy Chhole Masala, Paneer Tikka/Butter Masala with paratha. Love rice? How about some comforting dal khichdi with raita or pulav and pav bhaji if you want to keep it simple. You can also opt for live barbeque if that’s your thing and eat to your heart’s content.
Have a bonfire and antakshari night with your folks as Panchgani’s chilly evenings keep you company.

To make your bookings, click here.

With cuisine choices to meet the hunger needs of your family, SaffronStays homes have something for everyone. Don’t forget to browse our other private villas to find exactly what you and your family are looking for.

VEG OK PLEASE: A Definitive Guide for Veg Only Villas Near Mumbai and Pune

If one were to define the relationship between Indians and vegetarianism, it would be safe to say, “it’s complicated”. Don’t believe us? Well, we’ll let the meme below do the talking:

With so many sub-categories, it becomes important for anyone even remotely associated with the F&B industry to cater to these diverse palates. This is because while we are experimental, we also want to play it safe. Therefore, carrying thepla and instant noodles on international trips, or seeking recommendations for restaurants that serve vegetarian fare in Japan is not uncommon. Being a vegetarian myself, this is what I’m always looking at while travelling. When it comes to food, comfort is the keyword. Keeping the needs of several vegetarians like me (No. 4 from the list above) in mind, SaffronStays has several fully staffed and serviced veg only villas. Let’s take a look at some veg only villas near Mumbai and Pune.

SaffronStays Sanvina Farm, Karjat

Experience a humble living amidst the greens of nature at SaffronStays Sanvina Farm in Karjat. Located within an organic farm of 10-acres, this veg-only villa in Karjat serves an authentic taste of the farm-to-table experience. There are plantations of over 2000+ trees including sal, teakwood, fruit plantations like mango, pineapple, lychee, phalsa, mulberry to masalas like tamarind and many other vegetables. Our inhouse cook Ganesh will ensure you gorge on authentic Maharashtrian cuisine
like Pitla Bhakari, Bharli Vangi and Bharli Mirch.

SaffronStays Foresta By The Lake, Kamshet

Spread across sprawling 70-acres, this veg-only villa near Mumbai is located on the banks of Andre Dam. There is just so much to do here, be it peacefully reading in the library, a picnic around the lake, play tennis or volleyball in the multipurpose court or sit out sessions in the gazebo. Despite being a veg-only villa, there’s a provision of savouring some delectable Indian and international meals cooked by our trained chefs on site. They can prepare simple local food to Punjabi and Gujarati cuisine too.
To know more about the villa, click here.
(In The News: Out In The Open: How A Pandemic Intensified Our Connection To The Outdoors)

SaffronStays Falcon Hill, Lonavala

It’s a dream to have wholesome, home-style meals as you enjoy breathtaking views. At this 6-bedroom veg only villa in Lonavala, do just that. Madan, our in-home cook is known for his fluffy dosas, spicy Misal Pav and delicious Chinese preparations. With an infinity pool, TT, snooker and poker table, this villa is ideal for groups to bond over games. Guests can also opt for glamping here.
To know more about the villa, click here.
(Read More: A New Villa in Lonavala)

SaffronStays Masaya, Alibaug

Imagine having piping hot bhajiyas with chai as you surrender yourself to them greens. Or having authentic Rajasthani cuisine by the in-home chef, Mahendra, in an outdoor dining area. Or picking fresh herbs, including peppermint and basil from the garden here. If these ideas excite you, then head to SaffronStays Masaya. This veg only villa in Alibaug with 3 bedrooms is where comfort resides. How about planning your next college reunion at this pet-friendly home with decks and open-air bathrooms?
To know more about the villa, click here.

SaffronStays Asanji Wadi, Alibaug

SaffronStays Asanji Wadi in Alibaug, is a heritage property in Alibaug, where every corner is steeped in history. This veg only villa near Mandwa Jetty stands as a testimony of how the home-owners have resurrected it from remains of the Bhuj earthquake. This elderly-friendly villa will definitely take one back to their childhood memories of spending time in ancestral homes. It offers veg Maharashtrian meals, soups, daals, Pav Bhaji and Chhole. Our cook can also prepare Kutchi-style meals and some delicious egg-based breakfast dishes.
To know more about the villa, click here.

SaffronStays Avabodha, Panchgani

If you want to experience a stark contrast to the madding city crowd, this is where you should be. Forget your worries at this eco-friendly nature’s retreat where you’re surrounded by herbal treasures like Ashok Sita, Sonchafa and Beheda among others; if you’re lucky, you’ll also spot a deer, peacock, giant squirrel and mongoose. Try out the Zunka-Bhakar, Sabudana Khichdi, Appams and Basundi by Kalpana, the in-home cook. At this 3-bedroom veg only villa, food is prepared using locally sourced ingredients.
To know more about the villa, click here.

SaffronStays Mega Farms, Igatpuri

Known for its Tarris (spicy gravy) and Tarri Poha, Misal Pav and authentic Maharashtrian cuisines, Nashik-style food is quite a thing. And besides trying out street-side food on a road trip, you could try out these bursting flavours at SaffronStays Mega Farms. Balaji, the in-home cook here, prepares delicious Nashik-style meals and Shev Bhaji. Experience quietude at this 4-bedroom waterfront veg only villa near Bhandardara.
To know more about the villa, click here.

SaffronStays By The Beach, Alibaug

If you have any kind of celebration coming up, and have a specific veg-only preference, SaffronStays By The Beach in Alibaug is the perfect venue. This beach villa in Mandwa requires you to take a ride on the beach to arrive here. The well-manicured lawns, a beach-facing large pool, and garden of a variety of tree plantations is ideal to host wedding functions, sundowners, family get-togethers and so on. This veg only villa in Alibaug will definitely give you a taste of luxurious living too. The culinary experience here is about fine dining, so you can enjoy gourmet, breakfast, lunch and dinner spreads.
To know more about the villa, click here.

SaffronStays Fragrant Sun, Mulshi

Who said homestay food items were limited to Indian menu only? In the 2,000 sq ft open kitchen at SaffronStays Fragrant Sun, it’s all about Dhondi’s special Cheesecake, Tacos and Pani Puri. To better soak in the vibe here, ask for the meals in the outdoor dining area. This eco-friendly veg only villa near Pune is located right on the banks of Mulshi Lake. Plan a storytelling night in the bonfire sit-out area that is surrounded by lawns, fruit trees, herbs and vegetable patches. Experience nature, uninterrupted.
Pssst! Kavita and Sanjiv Berry, the Home Owners, are both alumni of Institute of Hotel Management (IHM). Interestingly, until a few years ago, they used to run a popular eatery in Udaipur called Berry’s. That should speak volumes about the food served here!
To know more about the villa, click here.

SaffronStays Kamal Farms, Karjat

While you create memories with your loved ones here, the in-home cook, Jyoti, will ensure you never forget the food as well. With the hills, River Tez and lots of greens for company, enjoy her specialities Kanda Poha, Pav Bhaji and Kheer. With spacious lawns and stunning views, this 4-bedroom villa in Karjat is perfect for large group outings. Most of our guests are known to head towards the gaming room here for TT, carom, chess, monopoly, Jenga and UNO among others.
To know more about the villa, click here.

SaffronStays Serene Gardens, Lonavala

Just like the name suggests, this private pool villa in Lonavala will ensure you have a serene stay surrounded by hills and paddy fields. This cozy veg only home offers simple home-cooked meals. Guests can also order vegetarian meals from nearby restaurants. Some of the famous dhabas in Lonavala like Kinara Village Dhaba, Sunny Da Dhaba, Sooraj Dhaba, Amber Dhaba and Mumbai Masala are in the vicinity.
To know more about the villa, click here.

SaffronStays Riverside Hideaway, Karjat

There’s another veg-only villa in Karjat, ideal for family getaways called SaffronStays Riverside Hideaway. This elderly-friendly home is situated right beside the Pej river. Its beautiful verandah overlooking the flowy river is where you can have some great conversations and family bonding time. We would definitely recommend you to try dishes like pav-bhaji, parathas, bhindi and veg-biryani by our local cook.
To know more about the villa, click here.

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