Lonavala wasn’t on our original itinerary, as we had originally planned to drive to Goa which changed when we had vehicle issues, which you can read about here: How to Travel Around India: Taxis, Car Hire & What We Learned the Hard Way
Instead, we ended up here and it became one of those travel moments that reminds you why unplanned experiences often end up being the most meaningful.
We arrived during the Shiva festival, and from the moment we stepped out into the streets, it felt like we’d landed somewhere special.
Why We Ended Up in Lonavala
Lonavala sits in the Western Ghats, not far from Mumbai and Pune, and is often known as a hill station escape greener, calmer, and cooler than the surrounding cities.
For us, it was simply a change in the journey as we realised we were going to make it all the way to Goa by car!
Instead of rushing around ticking off attractions, we slowed right down. And that’s when Lonavala really opened up.
Experiencing the Shiva Festival as a Family
We didn’t plan to be in Lonavala during the Shiva festival, it was pure coincidence but it completely shaped our experience.
The streets were alive:
- Processions and music
- People dressed beautifully
- A sense of devotion mixed with celebration
- Locals welcoming us into the atmosphere without expectation
There was something grounding about it. Not overwhelming. Not touristy. Just… real. We were literally the only white people there and treated a little like celebrities and we were just so grateful to be welcomed into their festivities.
For the kids, it was especially powerful. They weren’t learning about Indian culture from a book they were inside it. If you have ever questioned how worldschooling actually works, this was a prime example! For more worldschooling experiences: Worldschooling: How Travel Becomes the Ultimate Classroom for Your Kids
Slow Wanders, Street Life & Henna Hands
One of our favourite things to do anywhere in the world is simply walk with no agenda, and Lonavala rewarded that beautifully.
We spent our days:
- Strolling through local streets
- Watching everyday life unfold
- Sitting and observing rather than rushing
- Getting henna designs done by local artists
- Chatting through smiles, gestures, and curiosity
It felt safe, gentle, and surprisingly calm especially compared to having just come from Mumbai.
If you are debating on where to stay in Mumbai, let us help you out there! Where to Stay in Mumbai with Kids: Our Honest Review of Hotel Sahil
Monkeys, Mountains & That Hill-Station Magic
Of course, no visit to this part of India is complete without monkeys and Lonavala did not disappoint.
The boys were fascinated:
- Watching them dart across walls
- Learning quickly to hold onto snacks
- Laughing at their confidence and mischief
Combined with the surrounding greenery and mountain air, it felt like a soft landing spot somewhere you could genuinely breathe.
Why Lonavala Worked So Well for Us
Lonavala isn’t about big landmarks or must-see attractions.
It’s about:
- Atmosphere
- Daily life
- Cultural moments you don’t schedule
- Letting travel unfold naturally
For families, especially those worldschooling or travelling long-term, it’s a reminder that not every destination needs a checklist.
Some just need your presence.
Would We Recommend Lonavala?
Absolutely, especially if:
- You want a slower pace
- You enjoy cultural immersion over sightseeing
- You’re travelling with kids and want a gentler Indian experience
- You’re open to unplanned magic
Lonavala taught us (again) that the best travel moments often happen when you stop trying to control the journey.
And we’d go back in a heartbeat. In fact, it frequently comes up in potential future travel plans!
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