Lonavla is southeast of Mumbai, caters to weekenders and conference groups coming from the big city and is promoted by the local tourist board as a 'hill resort'. This is a bit of a misnomer – there are certainly no soaring peaks in the background or precipitous drops to peer fearfully over, but the surrounding countryside is relatively pretty, if a little overdeveloped, and the air cooler and less humid than Mumbai. Lonavla is a long way off being an attractive town – its main drag consists almost exclusively of garishly lit shops flogging chikki, the rock-hard nut brittle sweet that is made in the area. But Lonavla does have one very worthwhile calling card – the nearby Karla and Bhaja Cave Temples, which after those of Ellora and Ajanta, are the best in Maharashtra.

Lonavla is about 90km away from the city of Mumbai and 65 km away from Pune City. Lonavla is easily accessible by road and by train from both Mumbai and Pune which are one of the nearest locations.

Lonavla is just another hill station in Maharashtra, and one cannot miss the hot masala chai or the Vadapav (the indian burger). One should try the hot bhajiyas along with masala chai. This is available at any of the major tourist spots. You also get hot corn at almost all of the tourist locations. It is to be noted that while you can get these at most of the hotels as well, nothing can beat the taste of these piping hot snacks served at the roadside.

Drinking is permitted in Lonavla, and there are plenty of wine shops and hotels that serve alcohol. There is a Johnie Walker store `Regal Wines' right in the heart of the marketplace in Lonavla. During Summer, Coconut water can be really refreshing as weather can get too dry and hot.

Lonavla is fast becoming the next hub for five star hotels and Big Bang Boarding Schools.