Lonavala’s Tourism Makeover: Rs 850-Crore Plan to Boost Tiger & Lion Points with Glass Skywalk, Adventure Activities, and More
Lonavala’s Tourism Makeover: Rs 850-Crore Plan to Boost Tiger & Lion Points with Glass Skywalk, Adventure Activities, and More
Lonavala, one of Maharashtra’s top tourist destinations, is set for a major transformation with an ambitious Rs 850-crore redevelopment project. The plan includes linking the famous Tiger and Lion Points with a bridge, introducing a glass skywalk, and adding a host of adventure activities to enhance the visitor experience.
A Vision for an Enhanced Tourist Experience
The Maharashtra government is pushing forward with this extensive development plan under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. News18 has exclusively accessed the project blueprint, which aims to revamp approximately 8.7 hectares of the scenic hill station. With an annual weekend footfall of around 14 lakh tourists, the initiative is expected to position Lonavala as a world-class travel destination.
Key Highlights of the Development Plan
The proposed project encompasses modern infrastructure and enhanced amenities to provide a seamless tourist experience. Some of the key developments include:
- Entry Gates & Ticketing Cabins – Streamlining visitor management with designated entry and exit points.
- Food Parks & Rooftop Cafes – Offering a range of dining options with picturesque views.
- Viewing Galleries & Gazebos – Providing strategic viewpoints for tourists to soak in the breathtaking Sahyadri landscapes.
- Restrooms & Seating Areas – Enhancing comfort and accessibility.
- Glass Skywalk – A thrilling addition, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
- Amphitheatre – Designed for cultural events, music performances, and tourist engagement activities.
- Adventure Activities – Zip-lining, scary drop rides, Ferris wheel, and a light-and-sound show for an adrenaline-filled experience.
- Improved Connectivity – Expansion of approach roads from the old Mumbai-Pune highway and the addition of a missing link to the Mumbai-Pune expressway.
- Parking Facilities – Dedicated space for approximately 1,800 four-wheelers and 2,250 two-wheelers to accommodate the growing number of tourists.
Why Lonavala? A Strategic Tourist Hub
Nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range, Lonavala is a popular weekend getaway for visitors from Mumbai, Pune, and neighboring regions. Its central location, equidistant from Mumbai and Pune, makes it an easily accessible retreat.
The Tiger and Lion Points are among the most visited viewpoints, attracting an average of 10,000 tourists on regular weekends, with numbers soaring up to 30,000 during long holiday weekends. Despite this high footfall, these tourist spots have remained underdeveloped. Recognizing the potential to enhance the visitor experience, the government aims to elevate the region to match global standards.
Government Initiative and Project Execution
To oversee the development, a dedicated committee chaired by the Pune district collector was formed in 2024. This committee has outlined a comprehensive project concept and a detailed development plan for the integrated improvement of both points. The involvement of private players through the PPP model is expected to accelerate execution and ensure top-tier facilities for tourists.
Conclusion
Lonavala’s Rs 850-crore tourism revamp is a game-changer, set to redefine its status as a premier travel destination. With world-class amenities, adventure activities, and enhanced infrastructure, the project aims to boost tourism and provide an unforgettable experience for visitors. As the plan takes shape, Lonavala is poised to become one of Maharashtra’s most sought-after tourist attractions.
