This tour is particularly popular among families, couples, and professionals who want a relaxed yet refreshing experience without overnight stays.
Why a One Day Car Tour Makes Sense
A private car tour provides a level of convenience that public transport cannot match. With door-to-door pickup and drop-off, travelers avoid the hassle of train schedules, crowded buses, or local transfers. The flexibility to stop for tea, photography, or short walks enhances the overall experience.
Car tours are also ideal for groups with senior citizens or children, as travel pace and breaks can be adjusted easily. With a professional driver handling the route, passengers can enjoy the scenery and focus entirely on leisure.
Distance, Route, and Driving Experience
The distance from Mumbai to Lonavala and Khandala is approximately 80 to 90 kilometers, depending on the pickup location. The journey is primarily via the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, which is widely regarded as one of the best highways in India.
The drive typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours one way, offering scenic views of hills, tunnels, and valleys along the way. An early morning departure is recommended to avoid traffic congestion and make full use of daylight hours.
Sightseeing Highlights of Lonavala
Lonavala is well known for its lush surroundings and relaxed hill-town atmosphere. During a one day tour, travelers usually Mumbai to Lonavala and Khandala One Day Tour by Car explore:
Scenic viewpoints overlooking deep valleys
Water bodies such as lakes and dams, depending on season
Local markets offering the region’s famous chikki and snacks
The town’s cool breeze and green landscapes make it an excellent spot for short walks and photography, especially during monsoon and post-monsoon months.
Exploring the Calm Side of Khandala
Khandala is quieter than Lonavala and is admired for its dramatic cliff views and peaceful surroundings. Viewpoints here offer sweeping vistas of the Sahyadri ranges and winding roads below. The slower pace of Khandala makes it ideal for travelers who prefer calm sightseeing rather than crowded attractions.
Many one day tours allocate the afternoon hours to Khandala, allowing travelers to relax before beginning the return journey to Mumbai.
Suggested One Day Tour Schedule
A well-balanced Mumbai to Lonavala and Khandala tour by car generally follows this pattern:
Early morning pickup from Mumbai
Drive via Mumbai–Pune Expressway
Morning sightseeing in Lonavala
Lunch break at a local restaurant or café
Afternoon visit to Khandala viewpoints
Evening return drive to Mumbai
This structure ensures adequate time at each location without rushing or fatigue.
Best Time to Plan the Trip
Lonavala and Khandala can be visited year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons. Monsoon months bring lush greenery, flowing waterfalls, and misty views, making the region visually stunning. Winter months offer clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for sightseeing. Summer is also manageable due to the relatively cooler hill climate, especially with early departures.
Weekend travel should be planned carefully, as both hill stations attract a high number of visitors from Mumbai and Pune.
Vehicle Options for Different Group Sizes
One day car tours usually offer multiple vehicle choices:
Sedans for couples or small families
SUVs for groups needing more space and comfort
Premium vehicles for travelers seeking enhanced ride quality
Selecting the right vehicle ensures comfort throughout the expressway drive and hill roads.
Things to Confirm Before Booking
Before booking a one day tour by car, travelers should confirm:
Total tour duration and allowed sightseeing time
Inclusion of toll charges and parking fees
Driver allowance and pickup/drop-off points
Waiting time limits at sightseeing locations
Clear communication avoids misunderstandings and ensures a smooth travel experience.
Conclusion
A Mumbai to Lonavala and Khandala one day tour by car is a practical and rewarding Mumbai to Lonavala and Khandala One Day Tour by Car way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Western Ghats without extensive planning. With a comfortable drive, flexible itinerary, and scenic surroundings, this short journey delivers a refreshing escape from urban routine. For travelers seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and convenience, Lonavala and Khandala remain among the best one-day destinations from Mumbai.
