Explore the caves and enjoy the sights.

Karla Caves -

KARLA & BHAJA CAVES

120 kms. from Mumbai. These superb rock-cut caves date from the 2nd century BC. Situated in the hills near Lonavala, these are amongst the oldest and finest examples of Buddhist (Chaitya) temple art in India. A one day trip.

Lonavala -

LONAVALA/KHANDALA

Situated 106 kms. southeast of Mumbai. These twin hill resorts offer scenic walks and relaxation for weekenders and conference groups. Lonavala is the most convenient base from which to visit the Karla & Bhaja caves. Recommended hotels: Fariyas Holiday Resort (Lonavala) Tel: 022-2876525, 02114-73852; Dukes Retreat (Khandala) Tel: 022-2610983; 02114-73817

KARJAT

90 kms. from Mumbai at the foothills of Matheran. Set-up by Dr. Krishna M. Modi, the Karjat Health Farm offers holistic de-stressing programmes for rejuvenating the mind and body. Residents stay in a village of luxury cottages where amenities include swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi, gym and restaurant. Well trained staff take great care of the guests. Travel by car (2½ hour drive on Mumbai-Pune highway) or by train from C.S.T. (V.T.) to Karjat and a 10 minute taxi to the resort. Minimum cost Rs. 900/- per day on a twin sharing basis. Tel: 022-2161520 / 2161082 Karjat: 02148-23410/23432

MATHERAN

With breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, Matheran is the nearest hill station to Mumbai. Motor vehicles are not allowed. High season runs from Nov. to Jan. & from mid April to Mid June. Book your accommodation well in advance. Getting to Matheran is half the fun. Catch any Karjat or Pune bound train from Mumbai C.S.T. (V.T.) Terminus (C.R.). Get down at Nerul junction and take the narrow gauge mini train for the final 21 kms. For trekkers, this is only an 11 km. hike. Alternatively, take a taxi to Dasturi from where you can walk (2km. in 40 min) or hire a horse or rickshaw. Recommended hotels: Byke Tel: 02148-30365/66 Fax: 30316 Mumbai: 022-2068602/6312 Fax: 2068600 Brightland Resorts Tel: 02148-30244, 022-6423856 Regal Tel: 022-2031004, 02148-30243 Rugby Tel: 0213-30219, 022-2821721 Usha Escorts Tel: 02148-30360, 022-2000671

MAHABALESHWAR

Maharashtra's most popular hill station is located at a height of 1,352 mtrs. It offers pleasant walks and panoramic views of the beautiful terraced landscape. It was the summer capital of the Mumbai Presidency during the days of the Raj. The high season is from Nov. to Jan. & Mid April to Mid June. From Mahabaleshwar you can also visit Panchgani (5 hills) as well as the famous Pratapgadh & Raigadh Forts. Recommended hotels: Surya Retreat Tel: 6392828/6392929/6316950 MTDC Holiday Resorts Tel: 02168-60318, 022-2066713/ 2027762/7784 Hotel Dreamland Tel: 02168-60228 Dina Hotel Tel: 02168-60246 Frederick Tel: 02168-60240 Regal Hotel Tel: 02168-60001 Valley View Resort Tel: 02168-60066 Fax: 02168-60070 Mumbai: 022-8881144/ 8884411/ 8822222 Fax: 022-8836363

MANAS RESORT

Mumbai Tel: 6403586/3704; Igatpuri: 02553-84030 / 84747 / 84177

THE MEADOWS-AURANGABAD

Mumbai Tel: 2023599/6849 Fax: 2028278 Aurangabad Reservation Tel: 677412/413/414/415 Fax: (0240) 677416