Albeit an industrial city, Khopoli counts as one of the most popular weekend getaways from Mumbai and Pune owing to its unexplored natural beauty. Thousands of vacationers come to this town in the Raigad district of Maharashtra to spend some quiet time in the arms of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of cities. There is a lot to explore here – from lakes to waterfalls, temples to theme parks, and more – so it is certainly worth a visit the next time you’re planning a day out with loved ones.
Wondering what all could you explore here? Here’s your guide to the top places to visit in Khopoli:
Places to Visit in Khopoli
1. Imagica, Khopoli
Unarguably the pride of Khopoli, Imagica is the first-of-its-kind themed family holiday destination in the country. Within its 130-acre premises are a Theme Park, Water Park, Snow Park, Bollywood Park (House of Stars), 3D+AR Park (Eyelusion), Wonders of the World Illuminated Park (Glowmagica), and a 287-room hotel – the Novotel Imagica.
The Theme Park has some thrilling rides and roller coasters for different age groups along with many thematic shows and a grand parade that is sure to leave you stunned. Head to the Mykonos-themed Water Park to enjoy unique slides or chill at -5⁰C in 100% real snow at the 15,000 sq. ft. Snow Park. A glimpse of B-town’s magical moments is what you’ll get at House of Stars while Eyelusion will let you explore some amazing, visual illusions.
The latest addition to the park, Glowmagica, brings to you the most iconic monuments from all over the world in a new light. With so many attractions to explore and so much to do, Imagica is definitely a one-stop hangout destination for all.
- Location: Sangdewadi, Khopoli-Pali Road, Khopoli
- Timings:
- Theme Park – 10.30 am to 8.00 pm (11.00 am to 7.00 pm for rides)
- Water Park – 10.30 am to 7.00 pm (11.00 am to 5.30 pm for rides)
- Snow Park – 9.45 am to 7.45 pm (10.00 am to 7.00 pm for rides)
- Entry Fee:
- Theme Park – From ₹1499/adult & ₹1099/child (From ₹999 on Tuesday-Wednesday)
- Water Park – From ₹899/adult & ₹799/child (From ₹599 on Wednesday)
- Snow Park – ₹499/person (₹399 as add-on to Theme Park & Water Park)
- House of Stars – ₹299/person (₹199 as add-on to Theme Park & Water Park)
- Eyelusion – ₹199/person (₹149 as add-on to Theme Park & Water Park)
- Glowmagica – ₹199/person (₹149 as add-on to Theme Park & Water Park)
- Multi-park Combo – From ₹1299/person (Includes 4 parks + meal vouchers)
2. Shri Vireshwar Mahadev Temple, Khopoli
Shri Vireshwar Mahadev Temple in Khopoli was built by Nana Phadnavis, an influential statesman of the Maratha Empire. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 18th-century shrine is visited by a large number of Hindu devotees, especially at the time of Shivratri.
The beautiful lake located in front of the temple makes for a perfect place to retire amidst calmness and serenity. Once you have said your prayers at the temple, you can laze on the lakeside or indulge in exploring the intriguing history of the temple.
- Location: Varchi, Khopoli
3. Shri Varadvinayak Temple, Khopoli
Shri Varadvinayak Temple is frequented by a large number of devotees round the year since it is one of the much-revered Ashtavinayak temples in Maharashtra. Each of the eight Ganesha shrines in the Ashtavinayak circuit houses a distinct murti of the deity, the one installed here being east-facing with his trunk turned to the left. It is a swayambhu, found in 1690 AD immersed in an adjoining lake.
Built in 1725 AD by Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar – a Peshwa General, Shri Varadvinayak Temple has idols of Mushika, the Navagraha Devtas and also a Shivalinga. There are four elephant figures on the sides of the temple and an oil lamp inside it that is believed to have been burning continuously since 1892. You can pay homage to the God at the Garbagriha and later head to the pond on the premises.
- Location: Village Mahad, Taluka Khalapur
4. Zenith Waterfall, Khopoli
If you’re visiting Khopoli during the rainy season, you must include Zenith Waterfall in your itinerary. Active from the month of July to September, this seasonal fall attracts tourists owing to its beautiful surroundings. It is around 80-90 ft. high and falls down in a curve due to the strong wind flow.
You can take a private vehicle from the concrete bridge near Khopoli railway station up to this fall or set on a 40 to 50-minute-long trek. The lush greenery, natural vistas, paddy fields and water streams you cross on the trekking trail will make this adventurous experience all the more memorable.
- Location: Khopoli
5. Kune Waterfall, Khopoli
Kune Waterfall near Khopoli is one of the highest cascades in the state of Maharashtra, plummeting from a height of 660 ft. amidst the rocky terrains of the Western Ghats. A breathtaking sight for the onlookers, this fall is sure to soothe your soul with its serenity and unspoiled beauty.
The lush green surroundings complemented by the cool and pleasant atmosphere makes this one of the best places to visit near Pune. So the next time you’re visiting Khopoli, don’t forget to take some time out to witness this amazing waterfall located less than a half an hour drive away.
- Location: Khandala, Lonavala
- Distance from Khopoli: 11 km
6. Tungarli Lake, Khopoli
Merely a 30-minute drive away from Khopoli is Tungarli Lake – a beautiful place for spending quality time with friends or family over a picnic lunch. Owing to its location amidst dense green forest cover, the site has a rich avian population and hence attracts many avid birdwatchers, especially during the monsoon season. Photographers often come here as well to capture the lake’s enchanting beauty in their camera lens. So if you’re looking for picnic spots near Mumbai, this could be a great option.
- Location: Gold Valley, Lonavala
- Distance from Khopoli: 15 km
When in Khopoli, you can also explore attractions such as Gagangiri Ashram for spiritual cleanse and the historical Shingroba Temple. Adventure seekers can find Duke’s Nose (16 km) and Rajmachi Fort (24 km) as the perfect spots near Khopoli for a thrilling trek. The presence of Lonavala, Khandala and other hill stations near Mumbai close to Khopoli further makes it a great place to spend a weekend.
This post was last modified on 23-Aug-2023