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Lonavala is one of the most famous hill stations in Maharashtra because of its misty weather conditions, scenic landscapes, and tranquil water bodies. Kayaking in Lonavala is the chief activity for people who relish the adventure sport. Whatever your preference, be it adventure or relaxed time to spend with nature, it will give you a new experience. Smack amidst the lush green hills of the Western Ghats and the placid waters of the lakes. Kayaking here offers a chance to connect with nature while indulging in this thrilling yet peaceful water sport.
Factors That Affect Kayaking
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There are a few factors that affect kayaking and must be kept in mind while planning for the adventure ahead.
Weather Conditions: The best weather for kayaking in Lonavala is from October to June. During these months, the climate is not at an extreme and the lakes are serene, which would result in a smooth experience of the sport. The monsoon months, starting from July to September should be avoided, as the heavy rains and strong currents make this sport injurious.
Safety Equipment: Wearing proper gear ensures the safety of kayaking. A life jacket and a kayak in good condition should be there. Reputable operators offer your required safety gear in Lonavala, but it is always advisable to check the equipment before hitting the water.
Skill Level And Instructor Guidance: Kayaking in Lonavala caters to both amateur and seasoned paddlers. Many operators offer instructors to beginners, who educate the newbie about how to paddle and other safety measures to be adopted. For experienced ones, depending on one’s comfort, you can take routes that are difficult.
Kayaking Levels
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There are different levels of kayaking, so you can choose which works best for your experience and skill level.
Beginner Level: For amateur-level kayaking, lakes and calm water bodies around Lonavala, mainly Pawna Lake and Shirota Lake, are ideal for beginners. Since the waters are serene and the currents are mild, anybody can get comfortable with the paddles of a kayak and steer through the water. Operators usually provide guided sessions upfront to first-timers.
Intermediate Level: Lakes with currents that are a little stronger or longer routes of paddling, such as those in Aamby Valley and Khandala Lake, would give different experiences without being unsafe. Although this level requires more stamina and more control over your kayak, it remains manageable for most paddlers with basic skills.
Advanced Level: Advanced-level kayaking involves more difficult water and is more suited to experienced paddlers. The class is rather physically demanding because of stronger winds, higher currents, and longer distances. Advanced kayakers enjoy going out onto larger lakes or coastal areas other than Nagaon Beach, where waves and tides add an element of difficulty to the kayaking challenge.
Popular Spots For Kayaking In Lonavala
Here is a well-curated list of popular spots for kayaking in Lonavala for all levels of adventure enthusiasts.
1. Bhushi Dam
Photo: Sobarwiki / Wikimedia Commons
The place is surrounded by the famous Bhushi Lake and offers a very calm and serene experience of kayaking among the beauty of nature. Bhushi Dam is one of the favourite picnic spots for tourists as well as locals over the weekend. It is famous for its cascading water stream with more than 30 feet of average falling height of the water stream. It fills up with water only during the monsoon season and turns the entire place into a scenic venue, which is ideal for the sport of kayaking. Misty surroundings and fresh breeze render it an ideal activity at this place for those who look to relax and rejuvenate with nature.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Level: Easy to Moderate
Price: ₹800 to ₹1,500 per session
2. Shirota Lake
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Shirota Lake is a secluded oasis near Lonavala, famous for its lifetime of kayaking experience among adventure seekers desiring to get away from the busy world. Amidst the ranges of Sahyadri, which are very tranquil, this lake offers crystal-clear water good for every paddling session. The surroundings are undressed by any commercial activities, hence a hidden paradise for nature lovers. Kayaking here forms a stunning view of the rolling hills and surrounding forests. It is easily a must-visit place for adventure seekers who want to enjoy kayaking in water and solitude. This tranquil water and the lonely environment provide a great opportunity for kayakers to have an immersive experience.
Duration: 1 – 3 hr
Level: Moderate
Price: ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 per session
3. Pavana Lake
Photo: Harsh243919 / Wikimedia Commons
Pavana Lake is considered one of the most famous places for adventure sports near Lonavala. It is an ideal place for all those who love kayaking. This artificial lake, brought into existence by the Pavana Dam, reflects serene waters. It is surrounded by scenic beauty, comprising historic forts like Tikona, Tung, and Lohagad. The still waters of Pavana Lake offer some invigorating experience to both novice and experienced kayakers. You can enjoy the serenity of the environment, clear skies, and panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Moreover, Pavana Lake is a popular camping site, so you can add some kayaking to an overnight adventure under the stars.
Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Level: Easy to Moderate
Price: ₹800 – ₹1,800 per session
4. Mulshi Lake
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Located a bit further from Lonavala, it is a multi-sublime piece. Kayaking in Lonavala is one of the best owing to the great expanse of this lake. Surrounded by dense forests and towering hills at the backdrop, with the natural beauty of Mulshi Lake, you get a combination of adventure and relaxation. The tranquil water allows both beginners and experts to engage in the sport, while the serenity of the atmosphere lets you be at one with nature. Kayaking here provides the opportunity to venture into the water at your own pace, observing the lush surroundings and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the environment.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Level: Easy
Price: ₹900 – 2,000 per session
5. Tiger Point
Photo: Sobarwiki / Wikimedia Commons
Tiger Point, or as people call it, “Tiger’s Leap,” is a famous viewpoint providing a panicky yet marvellous view of the valleys and hills around Lonavala. Although most people know it for its panoramic sights, the silent waters nearby are also an excellent destination for kayaking. You can paddle here and enjoy the awesome backdrop of the Sahyadri ranges while gliding above the still waters. Kayaking against such a scenic beauty sends an adrenaline rush through the veins, which is unforgettable. It is the apt spot for all beginners and experienced kayakers and is popularly chosen by families as well as adventure seekers alike.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Level: Easy
Price: ₹700 – ₹1,500 per session
6. Khandala Lake
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Among the undulating hills surrounding this quaint hill station of Khandala lies a coolant lake offering a tranquil environment for kayaking. Quite far from the maddening crowd of city life, Khandala Lake provides peace among the deep forest surroundings and hilly zones. Its water is quite silent and is thus suitable for both amateur and experienced kayakers. It’s an immaculate destination for spending a leisurely day on tranquil waters for kayaking in Lonavala. It offers an opportunity to paddle through the lake with breathtaking views of the surroundings along with seeing some local wildlife along its banks. Khandala Lake has a mix of thrill and serenity.
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Level: Easy
Price: ₹800 – ₹1,500 per session
Best Time To Go Kayaking In Lonavala
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Starting from October to May serves as the best time to go kayaking in Lonavala when the weather is pleasant and the water is right for the sport. During the monsoon season, it is advisable to avoid it, as heavy rains and strong currents can make the waters very dangerous. Also, in summer the water level is too low for kayaking. So the perfect time is post-monsoon.
Cost Of Kayaking In Lonavala
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Kayaking in Lonavala has variable prices depending on the place and operators. On average, the cost of a session in kayaking is from ₹300 to ₹1,200. Guided tours might also be offered by some operators at higher costs, which include all instructions regarding safety and equipment. You will be accompanied by the guide while they paddle, and you can enjoy the surrounding landscape, but at a different cost. You can also buy a package which includes kayaking with other adventure sports activities. They are usually a day pass starting from ₹1,500.
Kayaking in Lonavala has the right mix of adventure and serenity, making it one of the most important activities for locals and tourists. Whether it’s exploring the popular Pawna Lake or finding hidden beauty at Shirota Lake, kayaking is an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature. These picturesque surroundings, combined with calm waters and easy accessibility, make Lonavala stand to be the prime destination for planning your trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Roman Pohorecki / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
