Khandala is a popular hill station in Maharashtra, perched on the foothills of the Sahyadri in the Western Ghats. Khandala is one of the twin hill stations - Lonavala and Khandala. It is located in the western part of Maharashtra between the Sahyadri hills. The Khandala Pin Code is 412802. The hill station is about 101 kilometers from Mumbai and 69 kilometers from Pune.
The history of Khandala is rich and dates back to the time of Chhatrapati Shivaji’s empire. Shivaji, the great Maratha ruler, is said to have organized the Marathas, and Khandala was part of his empire. After the Marathas, the territory of Khandala passed under the Peshwas. The decline of the Peshwas led to the emergence of British power in Khandala. The town has existed in some form for centuries but was brought to popularity with the arrival of the railways in 1849. Over the years, it has transformed from a tranquil retreat into a thriving tourist destination.
The demographic profile of Khandala Mumbai is diverse. It attracts tourists from various parts of India and abroad. Additionally, the town is home to a mix of permanent residents, including local Maharashtrians and individuals seeking a peaceful, hillside lifestyle. The lifestyle in Khandala is marked by a slower pace, emphasizing nature, relaxation, and outdoor activities like trekking and bird watching. The culture of Khandala reflects the rich Maharashtrian heritage, with festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Physical Infrastructure
Khandala is well-connected to Mumbai via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Mumbai-Satara Highway. This expressway is India’s first 6-lane vast concrete, access-controlled tolled expressway. It spans a distance of 94.5 km, connecting Mumbai with Pune. The expressway passes through Khandala, making it easily accessible and a popular hiking spot.
Banking and financial services are also expanding their presence in Khandala, establishing new branches and ATM facilities, and offering residents and visitors easy access to banking services. On the security front, the town is bolstering its safety by adding new police and fire stations, ensuring a swift response in emergencies. Use the Khandala map to navigate through its streets.
Social and Retail Infrastructure
Khandala is a popular hill station with a range of social and retail infrastructure. For education, it houses DC High School and Kohinoor American School. It also houses colleges like Kohinoor IMI School of Hotel & Hospitality Management, Northpoint Centre of Learning, and Sushila Shankarao Gadhave Mahavidyalaya.
The area has hospitals, including the Yash Hospital, Saraswati Hospital, and Kalpataru Hospital, which lies in Lonavala, available in terms of healthcare. Several local shops also exist here for shopping and leisure. However, it’s worth noting that this area is more known for its natural beauty and serene environment rather than its Khandala infrastructure. Residents often travel to nearby cities like Lonavala or Mumbai for more urban amenities.
Real Estate Market Trends and the Rental Demand in Khandala
The real estate market in Khandala Mumbai has been witnessing a positive trend. The Khandala property rates have fallen by 22.07% in the last year, with the average price per square foot now at ₹10,528. Also, the Khandala property price ranges from ₹5,555 - ₹16,666. Several factors have influenced property rates, such as active infrastructure development. This has opened new commercial and residential development avenues, thereby increasing property rates.
The rental demand in Khandala is also on the rise. With the availability of several rental properties, including bungalows and cottages, tenants have a variety of options to choose from. The average rental price per square foot is now at ₹28,000. Also, the rental rates range from ₹28,000 - ₹28,000. This demand is driven by the locality’s serene environment and proximity to Mumbai, making it an attractive destination for potential tenants.
Top Employment Hub in or Nearby Khandala
Khandala, located on the outskirts of Mumbai, is primarily a residential area and a popular weekend getaway. However, it’s well-connected to several key employment hubs in Mumbai, making it a convenient location for working professionals. Here are some of the top employment hub near Khandala:
- Lonavala Industrial Estate (Lonavla - 6.7 Km)
- Monisha Corp Pvt. Ltd (7.5 Km)
What are Some Popular Sub-Localities in Khandala?
Khandala, located near Mumbai, is surrounded by several popular sub-localities within a 10-12 km radius. These areas are well-known for their scenic beauty and tourist attractions. Here are some of them:
- Lonavala
- Khopoli
- Karjat
- Duke’s Nose
- Karla Hills
Top Things to do in Khandala
Khandala, a charming hill station, offers many activities catering to diverse interests. Here are the top things to do in Khandala:
1. Shopping
Explore Khandala's local street markets and quaint shops to pick up souvenirs and handicrafts. For a more extensive shopping experience, head to the nearby city of Mumbai, known for its bustling street markets and modern malls.
2. Explore Nearby Attractions
Discover nearby attractions like the Kune Falls, Shooting Point and Khandala Ghat View Point, offering breathtaking natural beauty and historical significance.
3. Restaurants
From street vendors, savour local delicacies in Khandala, such as vada pav and bhel puri. In Mumbai, relish a diverse culinary scene with numerous restaurants serving Indian and international cuisines. Some of the good restaurants include The Cantonese Chinese and Della Villa Bistro.
4. Museums
Explore Mumbai's rich cultural heritage by visiting the Imperial wax museum.
5. Places of Worship
Mumbai boasts various places of worship, including the St. Joseph’s RC Church, Shiv temple and Naminath Jain Mandir, allowing you to experience the city's spiritual diversity.
These are some of the popular landmarks in Khandala.
Conclusion
Khandala is not just a destination; it's an experience, a breath of fresh air for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of Mumbai's urban jungle. Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, this picturesque hill station has enchanted travellers for generations with its natural beauty, pleasant climate, and many attractions. As the sun sets over the Sahyadri mountains, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, you can't help but feel a profound sense of peace and contentment. But Khandala isn't just about the scenic vistas; it's also about the warmth of its people and the delicious local cuisine that tantalises your taste buds. Moreover, Khandala's proximity to Mumbai makes it an ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers. Within a few hours' drive, you can escape the urban chaos and find tranquillity.
What is Good About Khandala?
Khandala offers a unique blend of tranquillity and accessibility. Here's what's great about this locality:
- Scenic Beauty: Khandala's lush green landscapes and serene ambience provide an ideal escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
- Proximity to Mumbai: Its closeness to Mumbai ensures easy access to job opportunities, world-class healthcare, and education.
- Tourist Attractions: The Duke's Nose viewpoint and Karla Caves provide captivating experiences for tourists and history enthusiasts.
- Cuisine: The local street food and nearby Mumbai's culinary diversity cater to food lovers.
- Balanced Lifestyle: Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle near nature and urban amenities.
What’s not Great About Khandala?
However, some areas could be improved:
- Food Options: More variety in local cuisine and food joints can enhance the culinary experience.
- Shopping Facilities: More shopping centres or local markets can improve the shopping experience.
- Nightlife: Introducing more nightlife options can cater to those looking for evening entertainment.
- Public Transport: Improved public transportation within Khandala can make commuting easier for tourists.
- Tourist Information: More detailed information about the historical sites can enrich the visitor's experience.
Malad West 
Living here is like a mini-vacation every day. Cool breeze and green hills surround the house, but during monsoon the roads get slippery, and local transport becomes almost impossible.