Karla & Bhaja Caves Day Trip from Mumbai – Lonavala Sightseeing
Enjoy a full-day trip from Mumbai to the ancient Karla and Bhaja Caves, two of India’s finest Buddhist rock-cut cave complexes near Lonavala. Explore centuries-old chaityas, intricate carvings, serene hillside views, and nearby Lonavala attractions. This trip blends history, architecture, and natural beauty—perfect for culture and nature lovers.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your accommodation in Mumbai
- Hotels, cruises, Apartment or your residence in Mumbai
Lion and Tiger Point
Lion’s Point
Perched on a high cliff, Lion’s Point provides sweeping views of deep valleys, jagged hills, and widespread greenery.
It is especially popular during the monsoon, when dozens of waterfalls form on the surrounding hillsides.
The viewpoint is known for dramatic clouds, cool winds, and spectacular sunsets.
Small food stalls serve hot tea, pakoras, and corn—perfect for the misty weather.
Tiger Point (Tiger’s Leap)
Tiger Point is famous for its rock formation that resembles a leaping tiger, giving it its name.
The spot offers a panoramic drop of about 650–700 meters, making it one of the most dramatic cliff viewpoints in Lonavala.
During monsoon season, a seasonal waterfall appears near the cliff, adding to the beauty.
It’s a great place for sunrise views, cloud-watching, and photography.
Bhaja caves
The Bhaja Caves near Lonavala are among the oldest Buddhist rock-cut caves in India, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Famous for their impressive chaitya hall, ancient stupas, and detailed Buddhist carvings, these 22 caves offer a perfect blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Located close to Bhaja village and easily accessible from Lonavala and Khandala, the site attracts trekkers, history enthusiasts, and weekend travelers alike.
Perched on a scenic hillside, Bhaja Caves provide stunning valley views and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for photography and sightseeing. Visitors can explore the monastery-style viharas, admire the wooden-style vaulted roof of the chaitya, and learn about early Buddhist culture.
Karla Caves
Discover the historic Karla Caves in Lonavala, a spectacular example of ancient Buddhist rock-cut architecture dating back over 2,000 years. Famous for its grand Chaitya hall, intricately carved pillars, and serene hilltop location, Karla Caves are a must-visit for history enthusiasts, trekkers, and travelers exploring Lonavala tourism.
Located just a short drive from Mumbai and Pune, the caves offer panoramic views of the lush Western Ghats and a peaceful retreat from city life. Explore the ancient Buddhist temple, marvel at the wooden ribbed ceilings, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Maharashtra.
Lunch
We will recommend lunch options based on your preferences in Lonavala.
Drive from Lonavala to Mumbai
Distance: Approximately 83–95 km (depending on the route)
Estimated Driving Time: 2–3 hours (depending on traffic)
Ending Point
Mumbai
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55257/e9f22dcd-95d4-4f00-9676-ebd9c829be20.png)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide Services: Experienced local guide at the caves.
Pickup & Drop: From Mumbai at a designated location.
Transportation: AC vehicle for the round trip
(car type is assigned accordingly depending on group size)
Parking & Toll Charges: Covered.
Entry Fees: Included for Karla and Bhaja Caves.
Refreshments: Bottled water during the trip.
Meals: Lunch and snacks
Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, camera fees (if applicable), or additional activities.
Tour Important Information
1]The tour involves a significant amount of walking and some uneven steps, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
2]Photography is allowed, but using flash may be restricted inside the caves.
3]The caves are historically significant; please avoid touching carvings or structures to preserve them.
4]Comfortable clothing is recommended, as temperatures inside the caves can be cooler than outside.
Not available on Mondays
Important message from the supplier
Namaste,
I can travel all over India if you need me please.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Shailesh J.
(Note : we are a team of professional tour guides so attending guide will be selected as per availability from my team.)
Namaste!
My name is Shailesh and I have lived in Mumbai all my life. When I was young I used to play in the open fields and mess around down by my local stream with my friends. I used to cycle down all the local lanes, places that I take you on my tours even now, off the beaten track and a chance to see Bollywood city.
Our tours are very flexible and completely built to suit you, driving to beautiful local places and tourist places and we frequently stop to take photographs and to walk around and also visit amazing market towns to stop for a bit of window shopping or just to admire the architecture. In between, we drive through amazing countryside and at lunchtime how about a traditional Indian meal for a pint and a bite to eat, or maybe a traditional afternoon tea?
These are exclusive tours just for you and your party. Not only do we do one-day tours but as many as you would like, just let us know what interests you have and we can compose a tour for you each day.
Depending on the duration of the tour days (more than one day), we can collect you from airports and Mumbai as well as any hotel you may be in the Mumbai and take you on one of these beautiful tours.
We look forward to our experience together.
$170/ per group
More tours by Shailesh J.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/14711/6d3ae09d-0a82-4de5-81a9-1cbe5130f2b3.jpg)
Mumbai Sightseeing through Local Eye
Experience the Vibrant Heart of Mumbai with Our Mumbai Panorama Tour Dive into the rich culture and dynamic energy of India’s most vibrant city. Our Mumbai Panorama Tour takes you on a journey through the city's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems: Book now and explore Mumbai through a local’s lens — an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and urban charm awaits with local guide.
Mumbai Sightseeing through Local Eye
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20767/b51906d1-a589-4750-98a6-0edae0e21b5f.jpg)
Slumdog Millionaire Local Experience
Explore the iconic Dharavi neighborhood, where Slumdog Millionaire was filmed. Experience the area’s vibrant culture, meet locals from diverse communities, and discover the innovative small-scale industries that power this remarkable place — from recycling and pottery to textile dyeing.
Slumdog Millionaire Local Experience
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20777/b58ae30c-a1e1-4e6f-8a84-7f7ff1abfcd3.jpeg)
Heritage Elephanta Caves Private Day Trip from Mumbai
A private Elephanta Caves tour is a guided cultural and historical excursion from Mumbai to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock-cut cave temples dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva.
Heritage Elephanta Caves Private Day Trip from Mumbai
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21527/514c11c8-36b0-4ad1-bb71-d1a8b1f3e2a5.jpeg)
Mumbai Film City & Bollywood Experience with Local Guide
Experience the ultimate behind-the-scenes tour at Studio, a leading creative production space known for professional photography, videography, sound design, and content creation. Our studio tour gives visitors an inside look at how high-end visual content is produced—from initial concept to final edits.
Mumbai Film City & Bollywood Experience with Local Guide
Other Popular Car Tour (driver & guide) Tours in Mumbai
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/14711/6d3ae09d-0a82-4de5-81a9-1cbe5130f2b3.jpg)
Mumbai Sightseeing through Local Eye
Experience the Vibrant Heart of Mumbai with Our Mumbai Panorama Tour Dive into the rich culture and dynamic energy of India’s most vibrant city. Our Mumbai Panorama Tour takes you on a journey through the city's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems: Book now and explore Mumbai through a local’s lens — an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and urban charm awaits with local guide.
Mumbai Sightseeing through Local Eye
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55257/e9f22dcd-95d4-4f00-9676-ebd9c829be20.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20767/b51906d1-a589-4750-98a6-0edae0e21b5f.jpg)
Slumdog Millionaire Local Experience
Explore the iconic Dharavi neighborhood, where Slumdog Millionaire was filmed. Experience the area’s vibrant culture, meet locals from diverse communities, and discover the innovative small-scale industries that power this remarkable place — from recycling and pottery to textile dyeing.
Slumdog Millionaire Local Experience
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55257/e9f22dcd-95d4-4f00-9676-ebd9c829be20.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21481/cff645b2-2372-4317-b34e-4cca2db64a85.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21481/b05e8fe3-d264-42a4-b335-d0a41f340796.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21481/2b249cea-8bb1-45ed-84b8-ea2303910d41.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21481/5f7dfdd4-32d5-4f0a-917f-a452eaf14e49.jpg)