9 Best Food Stops Near Kune Falls: Ultimate Monsoon Guide to Lonavala Eateries
If you haven’t seen Kune Falls during monsoon, are you even monsooning right? Sandwiched perfectly between Lonavala and Khandala, this majestic waterfall bursts to life with the first rain. And honestly, nothing screams monsoon bliss like a short trek, misty hills, and hot vada pav after a good splash. Just a few hours from Mumbai or Pune, Kune Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Lonavala that doubles up as both a scenic retreat and a snack stopper’s dream.
While summer might have its beach appeal, monsoon is truly when Maharashtra’s ghats come alive – and what better way to experience this transformation than trekking to Kune Falls in Lonavala? The trek itself offers that perfect balance – challenging enough to feel accomplished but manageable enough that you won’t be cursing your life choices halfway through. And let’s be honest, is there anything more satisfying than a piping hot cup of cutting chai and crispy pakoras after getting drenched in both sweat and rain? The Lonavala temperature in June, hovering around a pleasant 24-27°C, makes the entire experience comfortable, not too hot to exhaust you, not too cold to deter you from getting wet. But here’s the real insider tip: plan your food stops strategically, because the right meal after your waterfall adventure elevates the entire experience from great to unforgettable. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself for mapping out where to refuel both before and after your tryst with nature’s shower.
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Kune Falls Trek Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Maharashtra’s Three-Tiered Wonder
Kune Falls is a hidden gem and one of the best waterfalls in Lonavala. Cascading from a height of around 200 meters in a three-tiered flow, it offers both visual delight and a perfect monsoon adventure. Located right off the Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, it is a quick detour from Lonavala or Khandala.
During monsoon, between June and September, Kune Falls reaches its spectacular peak as rainwater amplifies the cascade’s volume and force. The Lonavala weather in June marks the beginning of this transformation, with the waterfall growing increasingly impressive as the monsoon progresses into July and August.
The trek to Kune Falls offers varying difficulty levels based on which approach you take. The easiest route begins near Kune Village and requires about 20-30 minutes of moderate hiking through forested paths. For adventure enthusiasts, the more challenging route starts from the base and involves navigating slippery terrain with some rock scrambling – definitely not for beginners or those visiting with young children. Whichever path you choose, proper footwear with good grip is non-negotiable as the paths become extremely slippery during monsoon.
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Kune Falls is unquestionably during morning hours (8-11 AM) when crowds are thinner and lighting conditions are perfect for photography. Weekdays offer a significantly more peaceful experience compared to weekends when visitors from Mumbai and Pune flood the area. The Kune falls best time to visit also depends on rainfall intensity – after moderate rainfall is ideal, as extremely heavy downpours can sometimes make the trek unsafe due to slippery conditions and reduced visibility.
It’s approximately 2.5 km from Lonavala railway station and just 3 km from Khandala. Easily accessible by car or bike. If you’re mapping it out, just search “Kune Church” – the waterfall is nearby.
Facilities remain basic around Kune Falls. There are no permanent restrooms or changing areas, so plan accordingly. A few small vendors occasionally set up stalls selling water, snacks, and rain ponchos during peak season, but don’t rely on these being available. Instead, pack essentials like water, light snacks, mosquito repellent, a basic first aid kit, a spare set of clothes, and waterproof covers for electronics.Â
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
How To Reach Kune Falls
From Mumbai and Pune, Kune Falls is about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive. Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, exit at Lonavala, and head towards Khandala. Local cabs and autos can also take you close to the starting point. The Kune waterfalls distance from Lonavala station is just around 2.5 km.
Distance From Pune
Hop on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and take the Lonavala exit. With the approximate distance of just 60 kilometers, translating to a comfortable 1-1.5 hour drive. The most direct route follows the old Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH-48) through Khandala and into Lonavala, before turning off toward Kune village. You’ll be at Kune Falls in under 2.5 hours. The Pune to Lonavala route is scenic, especially during monsoons.
Distance From Mumbai
Take the expressway, exit at Khandala or Lonavala. With the total distance of approximately 95 kilometers,s typically covered in 2-2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The most scenic and efficient route follows the Mumbai-Pune Expressway (NH-48), taking the Lonavala exit and then following local signs to Kune village. Weekend travelers should start early (before 7 AM) to avoid the notorious expressway traffic jams that form as Mumbai residents flee to hill stations en masse. For those preferring public transportation, frequent trains connect Mumbai to Lonavala (roughly 2 hours), after which auto-rickshaws or local taxis can be hired for the final stretch to the waterfall.Â
Distance From Lonavala
A quick 5-10 minute ride by auto or a refreshing walk if you’re feeling adventurous. Ask locals for “Kune Church” – the waterfall is nearby. Local auto-rickshaw drivers are familiar with this popular destination, typically charging Rs. 200-300 for a one-way trip. Alternative options include renting scooters from Lonavala (weather permitting) or arranging transportation through your hotel. The Lonavala lake waterfall route is particularly picturesque, passing through lush greenery that reaches peak vibrance during monsoon months.Â
Distance From Khandala
The twin hill station of Khandala sits adjacent to Lonavala, positioning it similarly close to Kune Falls, with an approximate distance of 10 kilometers. You can take a bike or a cab. You’ll be sipping tea at the base in no time. Auto-rickshaws from Khandala charge slightly more than those from Lonavala due to the additional distance. What makes the Khandala route particularly appealing during monsoon is the drive past the famous Khandala Ghat section, where numerous seasonal waterfalls cascade alongside the road.Â
Places to Eat in Lonavala Near Kune Falls
Monsoon treks in Maharashtra are incomplete without piping hot snacks and hearty meals. Fortunately, the area surrounding Kune Falls offers diverse culinary experiences ranging from roadside stalls serving piping hot vada pav to upscale restaurants plating sophisticated meals. Here are the best places to eat in Lonavala near Kune Falls.
Rama Krishna Restaurant
Picture Credits: Rama Krishna Hotel Website
Just 3.5 kilometers from Kune Falls, Rama Krishna has earned its reputation as one of the best restaurants in Lonavala for consistent quality and exceptional vegetarian thalis. Don’t miss their unique corn pakoras – a seasonal monsoon specialty that pairs perfectly with their masala chai.
German Bakery
For those seeking the best breakfast places in Lonavala, either before or after an early Kune Falls trek, German Bakery delivers consistently excellent morning fuel. Located about 5 kilometers from the waterfall, this Lonavala institution serves freshly baked goods that have travelers from Mumbai and Pune making dedicated trips just for their bread. The bakery’s large windows offer gorgeous valley views during monsoon, with misty mountains creating the perfect backdrop for your morning meal. Their sandwiches make excellent packable trek snacks if you’re planning to spend extended time at the falls.
Picture Credits: German Bakery Wunder Bar – Zomato
Sheetal Da Dhaba
This famous dhaba in Lonavala is located conveniently on the old Mumbai-Pune highway. It’s a favourite stop for both locals and travelers looking to dig into hearty Punjabi fare. Great for group lunches with an expansive menu that includes dal makhani, tandoori rotis, butter chicken, and lassi served in steel tumblers. Don’t miss their stuffed parathas and sizzling paneer tikka platters, especially on a rainy day.
Golden Vadapav
Because no monsoon is complete without a roadside vada pav. Crispy, spicy, and perfect for Instagram boomerangs, the vadapav here is more than just a snack — it’s a local obsession. You’ll find vendors across Lonavala dishing out this iconic street food with spicy garlic chutney and fried green chillies. If you’re hunting for the best food to eat in Lonavala during monsoon, a hot vadapav with chai in hand tops the list. It’s budget-friendly, bursting with flavour, and gives you that authentic Maharashtrian food vibe locals swear by.
Joshi Wadewale
An iconic stop for authentic Maharashtrian breakfast like kanda poha, sabudana vada, and misal pav. It’s one of the most reliable options if you want to taste the local Lonavala flavour early in the morning. Their misal pav comes with a perfectly spicy tarri (gravy), while the sabudana vada is crispy on the outside and melt-in-the-mouth on the inside. For those looking for the best breakfast places in Lonavala or craving vegetarian Maharashtrian food, Joshi Wadewale is a must-visit.
Bushi Dam Paratha
This famous dhaba in Lonavala has expanded from a simple roadside stall to a proper restaurant while maintaining its original charm and flavors. Located about 6 kilometers from Kune Falls near the popular Bushi Dam, it’s among the best places to eat in Lonavala for budget-friendly, filling meals. Their specialty – stuffed parathas with homemade white butter – comes in over 20 varieties, including unique options like methi-malai and paneer-pineapple. During monsoon, their covered outdoor seating area offers misty mountain views while their indoor section provides shelter during heavy downpours.
Cooper’s Fudge & Bakery
Picture Credits: Lottie Griffiths via Unsplash
No Lonavala culinary exploration would be complete without indulging in its famous chikki and fudge. Cooper’s, located about 4 kilometers from Kune Falls in Lonavala’s market area, represents the best of these sweet traditions. Their walnut fudge and chocolate chikki have achieved legendary status among regular visitors. During monsoon months, their special monsoon mawa cake appears on the menu – a dense, cardamom-infused treat that pairs perfectly with their masala chai.
Rugved Restaurant
When searching for the best food in Lonavala with a truly local flavor profile, Rugved Restaurant stands out for its exceptional Maharashtrian cuisine. Located approximately 4 kilometers from Kune Falls, this unassuming eatery serves one of the most authentic experiences of the best Maharashtrian food in Lonavala. Their specialty – thalipeeth with freshly made white butter – draws locals and tourists alike. During monsoon, their special menu includes seasonal delicacies like bharli vangi (stuffed eggplant) and gavran chicken curry that pair perfectly with jowar bhakri.
Anglo Indian Café
A charming new entrant in Lonavala’s food scene, Anglo Indian Café combines vintage interiors with nostalgic recipes from colonial-era Anglo-Indian households. Located close to the heart of Lonavala, this café serves up hearty, spice-laden dishes like railway mutton curry, devil’s chutney sandwiches, Anglo-Indian cutlets, and spiced stews that feel like a warm hug on a rainy day. Looking for the best dinner places in Lonavala that also serve heritage-inspired cuisine? Anglo Indian Café is your answer. Want to dine in style post-trek? This is your place. Think plush interiors, great ambience, and multi-cuisine food that’s worth every bite.
Picture Credits: Anglo Indian Cafe
Places to Visit in Lonavala
Lonavala isn’t just about waterfalls. Once you’re done soaking in Kune Falls, check out these gems:
Bhushi Dam
Located just 3 kilometers from Kune Falls, Bhushi Dam transforms during monsoon from a modest structure to a spectacular waterfall when excess water cascades over its steps. Food stalls surrounding the area serve excellent corn pakoras and hot chai – perfect for warming up after getting drenched. The site becomes extremely crowded on weekends, so weekday visits offer a more peaceful experience. The short distance from Kune Falls makes this an easy addition to your waterfall itinerary, requiring minimal additional travel time.
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Tiger’s Point
A viewpoint offering panoramic valley views, Tiger’s Point is a must-visit destination in Lonavala for nature lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike. It’s one of the best spots to experience the moody Lonavala weather in June and July. This viewpoint is also known for its echo phenomenon, shout out, and hear your voice bounce back! Make sure to go early morning or late evening to catch a misty sunrise or a golden sunset. And yes, don’t miss the chai and corn vendors at the top.
Karla Caves
These ancient Buddhist caves, dating back to the 2nd century BC, provide a fascinating historical counterpoint to Lonavala’s natural attractions. Located about 12 kilometers from Kune Falls, the site requires climbing numerous steps, but the architectural details and historical significance reward the effort.
Della Adventure Park
For families seeking additional structured activities, Della Adventure Park offers over 50 different adventures and experiences about 10 kilometers from Kune Falls. Their Flying Fox zipline takes on a magical quality during light rain, with participants soaring through misty air for a uniquely monsoon adventure experience. The park’s restaurants rank among the best places to eat in Lonavala for international cuisine, with their wood-fired pizzas earning particular praise from visitors.
Duke’s Nose
Duke’s Nose, also known as Nagphani, is a popular monsoon destination near Kune Falls and a paradise for adventure lovers visiting Lonavala. Offering thrilling opportunities like rappelling, rock climbing, and trekking, this dramatic cliff formation towers over the valley. If you’re looking for one of the best getaways near Pune or seeking an offbeat trail for a one-day trip from Mumbai, this adventure hotspot near Lonavala checks every box. Add it to your monsoon itinerary for a balance of nature, thrill, and postcard-worthy landscapes.
Picture Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Other Monsoon Destinations in Maharashtra in June
If you’ve enjoyed Kune Falls and want to explore more monsoon destinations in Maharashtra during June, here are some excellent options:
Malshej Ghat – Just a few hours from Mumbai, this place transforms after the first rains, with many seasonal waterfalls appearing alongside the road. Sometimes, pink flamingos visit the temporary lakes formed by rain.
Bhandardara – Known for its beautiful Arthur Lake and impressive Randha Falls. The waterfall reaches its peak power during monsoon, making it a spectacular sight similar to Kune Falls but less crowded.
Amboli Ghat – Located in southern Maharashtra, this area gets some of the heaviest rainfall in the state. It’s a perfect spot to see rare frogs and insects that only appear during the monsoon. There are many waterfalls here – some right by the road and others hidden in the forests.
Jawhar – Close to Mumbai and perfect for a weekend trip. Besides beautiful waterfalls like Dabhosa, you can also visit traditional tribal villages to experience local culture.
Raigad Fort – This historical fort in Maharashtra looks amazing when wrapped in monsoon clouds. During heavy rain, the ancient steps leading to the fort become temporary waterfalls, adding natural beauty to the historical site.
Kaas Plateau – This UNESCO site transforms in late monsoon (August-September) when millions of wildflowers bloom across the plateau. It’s known as Maharashtra’s Valley of Flowers.
Tamhini Ghat – Located between Pune and Konkan, this mountain pass becomes a paradise of waterfalls during monsoon. Many are visible right from the road, making it perfect for those who don’t want to trek.
Matheran – This no-vehicle hill station is particularly charming in monsoon when mist covers the forests and viewpoints offer dramatic vistas when clouds occasionally clear.
Kune Falls is more than just a waterfall near Lonavala – it’s a complete monsoon experience. From beginner-friendly treks and picture-perfect views to the best food in Lonavala and cozy cafes, it checks every box. So pack your raincoat, wear your most dependable shoes, bring an appetite for both adventure and excellent food, and discover why Kune Falls and its surrounding culinary landscape represent monsoon Maharashtra at its finest. Just remember – in these hills, the best adventures often happen when you embrace getting a little wet, a little muddy, and completely immersed in the beautiful chaos that is the Indian monsoon at its spectacular peak.
Banner Image Credits: Trawell
