Via NH8 and Panchgani: Through the Shayadri Mountain Range
The most common route from Lonavala Khandala to Mahabaleshwar is via NH8 and Panchgani. Since the route is shorter than its alternative, it is often flanked by tourists and is best avoided during peak season. The beautiful route snakes through the the Shayadri mountain range, unfurling picture perfect views of asphalt rocks so keep your camera ready for your next social media post. In about 3 hours and 53 minutes you will find yourself in Mahabaleshwar; refreshed rather than tired owing to the beautiful Shayadri range.
Via NH8 and NH 66: Touch the Konkan Coastline
If you take the alternate Khandala to Mahabaleshwar route via NH 48 and NH 66 it will take you a little longer. However, you will surely end up avoiding peak traffic which makes this potentially the faster route. The route is worth it if you wish to touch the Konkan Coastline, perhaps take a brief respite from the mountains and feel sand under your toes. This route brings a vibrant coastal charm to your road trip and is definitely worth setting out on if you are a foodie. You may try out the deliciousness of Konkani cuisine from roadside stalls and restaurants. This route takes about 5 hours to reach but your tired body will have no complains regarding this.
The Shayadri Experience
Just in case you want to begin feasting on strawberries before reaching Mahabaleshwar, halt at Mapro Garden when driving through the Shayadri route. Try out chocolates, strawberries and stock up on jam for your journey, as souvenir or perhaps tasty gifts for your loved ones back home. You may witness monkeys hanging from trees jumping from one branch to another as you drive towards Panchgani, your first rest stop. Host to lush green mountains and colonial era architecture this is the perfect stop for a brief refresher. The small town of Panchgani is a haven for nature lovers. Therefore, enjoy the scenery here from the tableland or the infamous Sydney Point.
The Konkan Experience
The coastal route to Mahabaleshwar brings a vibrant coastal charm to your road trip and is definitely worth setting out on if you are a foodie. You may try out the deliciousness of Konkani cuisine from roadside stalls and restaurants when driving to your destination. Start your journey from Zara's Resort in Khandala to set out completely refreshed for the drive across beaches and mountains. Located in a serene location, the resort offers multiple rooms to choose from. You may stay in a cottage with private balcony overlooking the lush green estate or perhaps a vintage room seems to be right up your alley. Fuel up your body from Rani Rasoi, a restaurant offering exquisite dishes to choose from before you set out on your road trip.