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Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Routes to explore from Mumbai to Lonavala for a weekend getaway
Plan your weekend gateway from Mumbai to Lonavala with Club Mahindra. Lonavala is a popular hill station in Maharashtra, often considered by those seeking a break from city life. Located a short drive from Mumbai, this spot is known for its hills, green valleys, ancient caves, and waterfalls. For those looking for peace, adventure, or change of scenery, Lonavala can be a suitable destination. This guide offers information for planning a weekend trip to Lonavala. How to Reach Lonavala Traveling from Mumbai to Lonavala is generally straightforward.. Its location and connectivity make Lonavala an accessible weekend option near Mumbai. By Road: Mumbai to Lonavala Driving is a common way to travel from Mumbai to Lonavala.. It's a relatively short and scenic drive from the city to the Sahyadri hills. The journey can be particularly appealing during the monsoon, when the Western Ghats are green and waterfalls are visible. Distance: 83 km 83 km Travel Time : Around 2 hours via Mumbai-Pune Expressway : Around 2 hours via Mumbai-Pune Expressway Route: Mumbai → Navi Mumbai → Khalapur Toll → Lonavala Many travelers choose to drive or book a cab for the flexibility to stop at scenic viewpoints, roadside dhabas, and nature spots. Scenic Routes to Lonavala For those who enjoy road trips, Mumbai to Lonavala offers a notable weekend drive in Maharashtra. Here are two routes to consider: Mumbai to Lonavala via Mumbai-Pune Expressway The expressway is generally considered the fastest route. It offers views of green valleys, tunnels, and mountains. A stop at the food plaza near Khalapur for a quick bite can be an option. Old Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH48) If time is not a constraint, the old highway provides a slower route. This road passes through towns and may offer photo opportunities, particularly near Khandala. Scenic Stops Along the Way Consider these stops en route to Lonavala: Khandala Located a short distance before Lonavala, Khandala is known for its misty hills and panoramic views. Tiger's Leap or Duke's Nose can offer vistas. Bhushi Dam Popular during monsoons, this spot is suitable for walk. Expect crowds, especially on weekends. Karla & Bhaja Caves These ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves near Lonavala date back to the 2nd century BC. They may be of interest for history enthusiasts or those seeking a trek. Where to Stay: Accommodation in Lonavala Lonavala offers various accommodation offers For a weekend stay, options for resorts in Lonavala, may include the Club Mahindra Tungi Lonavala Resort, situated in the hills. It is considered suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to relax in nature without compromising on comfort. Tips for a Weekend Trip Start Early : Leaving Mumbai by 6 or 7 AM may help avoid traffic. : Leaving Mumbai by 6 or 7 AM may help avoid traffic. Pack Right : Consider light clothes, a light jacket (especially from October to February), and walking shoes for exploring. : Consider light clothes, a light jacket (especially from October to February), and walking shoes for exploring. Best Time to Visit : June to February is generally considered ideal. Monsoons (June–September) may highlight Lonavala's greenery, while winters (October–February) are cool and suitable for sightseeing. : June to February is generally considered ideal. Monsoons (June–September) may highlight Lonavala's greenery, while winters (October–February) are cool and suitable for sightseeing. Avoid Peak Rush: Planning a Friday-to-Saturday trip or midweek visit may help to avoid weekend crowd. Why Lonavala is a Must-Visit With its climate, scenic beauty, and natural attractions, Lonavala remains a prominent weekend getaway option near Mumbai. Whether one is interested in trekking, waterfalls, or relaxing at a resort, this hill town offers various experiences. Maharashtra Tourism has aimed to preserve the region's natural appeal while facilitating travel. Consider planning a route from Mumbai to Lonavala for a refreshing escape. Note to the reader: This article is part of HT Auto's paid consumer connect initiative and is independently created by the brand. HT Auto assumes no editorial responsibility for the content, including its accuracy, completeness, or any errors or omissions. Readers are advised to verify all information independently. First Published Date: 30 May 2025, 18:17 PM IST
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Goa in the Summer Season: Your Summer Travel Guide
While it gets warm, fewer crowds, off-season advantages, and various deals on stays and experiences, contribute to a relaxed and authentic side of the state. This guide on summer in Goa aims to help visitors make the most of a summer visit. When envisioning Goa in summer, think quiet mornings by the sea, relaxed afternoons by the beach, and evenings at comfortable resorts. Many travellers opt for Club Mahindra resorts in Goa, which are recognised for their hospitality, scenic settings, and access to the Goan culture. If you plan to book any of the Club Mahindra properties, a Club Mahindra membership is an option. You can contact their holiday expert for information on Club Mahindra membership fees and other details. Goa in summer offers opportunities beyond sunbathing. It can be a suitable time for water sports due to calmer seas and clear skies. For a more relaxed experience, consider an early morning swim or a sunset beach walk along the shores of South Goa, known for its peaceful atmosphere. For a break from the beach, venture inland to Goa's spice plantations. These green and shaded locations offer insights into the state's agricultural heritage. These eco-tours offer a refreshing alternative to beach activities, and can provide a deeper appreciation of Goan traditions. Goa tourism encompasses history and culture in addition to its beaches. In the summer, with fewer crowds, you can explore at a more leisurely pace and learn about the monuments. Places to Visit Tip: Mornings and evenings are cooler, so plan your sightseeing accordingly. Remember to carry a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated. Summer is mango season in Goa, and the fruit is featured in various dishes and drinks. Goan food, known for its flavors and coastal influences, is also a highlight. Dishes to try: Some resorts offer Goan cooking classes, where local chefs teach you how to prepare classic dishes. An evening cruise on the Mandovi River during summer can be a pleasant experience. As the sun sets, you can enjoy live music, Goan dance shows, or the sounds of the water. While some of Goa's night markets may operate on a reduced scale in summer, local shopping opportunities are still available. Bring back a slice of Goa—literally and figuratively. Visiting Goa in summer can be a favorable choice, offering more space, potentially better deals, and a chance to experience a calmer side of the destination. Whether you seek relaxation, cultural exploration, or a break from city life, Goa tourism can provide these aspects. If you enjoy travel and seek to maximise your travel plans at various accommodations, considering a Club Mahindra membership is an option. With access to properties and resorts in Goa and other locations, it offers a way to access vacation opportunities.
Indian Express
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
In Conversation with Chef Pankaj Bhadouria: From Classroom to Kitchen, and Holidays That Heal the Soul
In a heartfelt episode of Magical Memories, presented by Club Mahindra in association with The Indian Express, celebrated chef and MasterChef India winner Chef Pankaj Bhadouria joins host Khyati Rajanshi to share her inspiring journey of transformation, resilience, and the simple joy of family holidays. Before MasterChef, Pankaj spent 16 years as a teacher. But a TV promo featuring Akshay Kumar sparked a new dream. 'My kids said, 'Mom, you have to go audition—you cook so well!'' she recalls. It wasn't a planned switch, but a heart-led leap, which took her from a 3,000-strong queue in Lucknow to winning MasterChef India – at the cost of a stable job and peer scepticism. 'You're not going for cooking; you're chasing glamour,' she was told. From TV shows and books to her academy and digital content, Pankaj wears many hats. Through it all, her family is her anchor. 'Everything works out when you have love and support surrounding you,' she says. Growing up in Delhi, food and family went hand in hand. Despite losing her father at a young age, Pankaj's memories are rich with warmth. She recalls winter afternoons spent sitting on the kitchen slab with her brother, tearing rotis straight from the pan. 'There was no screen time – just stories, smells, and shared meals,' she says. Both her parents were excellent cooks, and the kitchen was always alive with aromas and activity. Her mother, who learned cooking from her father and grandmother, passed on more than just recipes – she passed on the spirit of togetherness. For Pankaj, early vacations meant trips to Gazipur or Himachal. With success, holidays became meaningful pauses to connect. A favourite was the Deccan Odyssey luxury train ride with her family across Mumbai, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. 'It was our way of being tourists and royalty at the same time,' she laughs. Another highlight is Disneyland in the U.S. after a work trip. 'I always wanted to go, and so did my daughter. It was pure magic at every age.' From camping in Kanatal to European tours and Indian adventures, her travels are about people, not just places. 'Even today, dinner is a non-negotiable family event. We debrief, share laughs, and bond,' she says. In true chef fashion, Pankaj's holiday memories often involve food. From the men in her family cooking a feast on a trip to sharing sandwiches in European convenience stores, meals have always been memory markers. And traditions run deep. 'Christmas is big in our home – Secret Santa, a decorated tree, and baking together as a family,' she shares. 'We may travel the world, but these rituals ground us.' Make Your Family Holidays Magical From sun-kissed beaches to lush jungles, serene backwaters to majestic hills, vast deserts to captivating international locations – Club Mahindra has it all! Create unforgettable memories by embarking on a magical journey with our 140+ resorts across different terrains and amazingly unique experiences. Disclaimer: This content is sponsored and does not reflect the views or opinions of IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd. No journalist is involved in creating sponsored material and it does not imply any endorsement whatsoever by the editorial team. IE Online Media Services takes no responsibility for the content that appears in sponsored articles and the consequences thereof, directly, indirectly or in any manner. Viewer discretion is advised.
Indian Express
15-05-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
In Conversation with Upasana Taku: Fintech, Family Holidays & Finding Balance
In a candid conversation with Khyati Rajvanshi on Magical Memories, presented by Club Mahindra in association with The Indian Express, Mobikwik co-founder Upasana Taku shares the milestones and memories that shaped her journey. From Kerala holidays to California road trips, her story is one of resilience, purpose, and joy beyond entrepreneurship. Before boardrooms and balance sheets, Upasana grew up in the quiet towns of Gandhidham and Surat. Her childhood was joyful and rooted in education, music, and middle-class values. 'We were not well-to-do, but we were always happy,' she recalls. With a physicist father and a music teacher mother, her early life was anything but ordinary. 'I was very tomboyish,' she laughs, recalling cricket games and aunties noting her bowling. While studies, debates, and books were key, rare holidays left lasting memories. 'I still remember our big vacation to Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Kovalam. That's when I first tasted beer at 16, on a beach with grilled fish and my whole family around. It's a core memory.' Upasana started her career in U.S. financial services, but trips to India revealed a huge gap in digital finance. 'In 2007-8, online payments in India were barely a thing,' she recalls. 'And I kept thinking – there's a billion people here, and so much could change.' Determined to make a difference, she co-founded Mobikwik with her partner (now husband), describing the journey as an 'expedition like Everest.' 'There were days we didn't know if we'd survive it,' she admits. 'But it was worth every step.' For Upasana, holidays are intentional, not extravagant. 'We recently sat down and counted our trips post-parenthood and realised we needed more,' she laughs. Some trips, like their Pacific Coast Highway road trip, are about adventure. 'Everyone at Pismo Beach definitely knew the Punjabis had arrived,' she quips. Slovenia is a favourite: 'From hiking to kayaking in Lake Bled, to cycling through the countryside, it was just the three of us, and it was magical.' Upasana offers her advice for those balancing business and life, especially women entrepreneurs: 'If possible, don't start a company with your partner', she says candidly. 'But if you do, set boundaries early. Respect work hours. Make sure you enjoy life.' Her mantra is clear: focused work, intentional breaks, and never missing out on life in the name of hustle. 'We all burn out if we don't get enough rest, relax or unwind. But when we come back, we come back stronger.' Make Your Family Holidays Magical From sun-kissed beaches to lush jungles, serene backwaters to majestic hills, vast deserts to captivating international locations – Club Mahindra has it all! Create unforgettable memories by embarking on a magical journey with our 140+ resorts across different terrains and amazingly unique experiences. Disclaimer: This content is sponsored and does not reflect the views or opinions of IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd. No journalist is involved in creating sponsored material and it does not imply any endorsement whatsoever by the editorial team. IE Online Media Services takes no responsibility for the content that appears in sponsored articles and the consequences thereof, directly, indirectly or in any manner. Viewer discretion is advised.
Indian Express
08-05-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
In Conversation with Viraj Bahl: Sauces, Startups & Family Stories
In a candid chat with Khyati Rajvanshi, on Magical Memories presented by Club Mahindra in association with The Indian Express, Viraj Bahl, Founder and MD, VRB Consumer Products Pvt Ltd. (Veeba and WokTok) reflects on his journey from modest roots to becoming a Shark on Shark Tank India, sharing how both boardrooms and birthdays have shaped his life as an entrepreneur, father, and husband. Roots, Resilience, and the Rise of Veeba Born and raised in Delhi, Viraj grew up in a middle-class home where joy outweighed material wealth. He fondly recalls trips to Shimla and a humble blue toaster as symbols of a happy, simple childhood. 'We never travelled abroad, but we had everything that made a childhood beautiful,' he says. Watching his parents build their food business taught him how hard work could change both fortunes and mindsets. Viraj's entrepreneurial spirit wasn't born out of a grand epiphany, but from witnessing his mother's diligence at work. 'She used to make lists every morning; I learned planning, persistence, and discipline just by watching her,' he reflects. In many ways, Veeba – named in honour of his mother – became his tribute to those formative years. Despite wearing many hats – CEO, investor, public figure – Viraj Bahl stays grounded through family. He's home by 7:30, shares dinner and playtime with his kids, and unwinds with his wife, Ridhima. 'She doesn't work at Veeba, but without her, it wouldn't be what it is,' he says. Holidays, once rare, are now treasured – whether cheering his son at Yale or reliving magic at the Harry Potter Studios. His ideal vacations are slow and family-focused – UNO games, garden strolls, and quiet dinners. Even store visits turn memorable, with his kids now 'more sauce-savvy than some professionals.' A proud moment came in the U.S. when he thought, 'Veeba felt more innovative' than what he saw on the shelves. As the conversation winds down, Viraj offers advice to budding entrepreneurs: 'Don't take too much stress. It all works out. Make time for your loved ones. Attend your kid's school events. Unwind. Take that holiday.' It's a sentiment he lives by – 90% hustle, 10% heart, and it's the quiet moments in between that fuel the next big breakthrough. Whether he's creating a new sauce or guiding a startup dream on Shark Tank, Viraj Bahl's journey is seasoned with sincerity, family roots, and a deep sense of gratitude. Because for him, every flavour, every memory, and every mile matters. Make Your Family Holidays Magical From sun-kissed beaches to lush jungles, serene backwaters to majestic hills, vast deserts to captivating international locations – Club Mahindra has it all! Create unforgettable memories by embarking on a magical journey with our 140+ resorts across different terrains and amazingly unique experiences Disclaimer: This content is sponsored and does not reflect the views or opinions of IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd. No journalist is involved in creating sponsored material and it does not imply any endorsement whatsoever by the editorial team. IE Online Media Services takes no responsibility for the content that appears in sponsored articles and the consequences thereof, directly, indirectly or in any manner. Viewer discretion is advised.
