Visiting Aamby Valley City felt like stepping into a quieter, greener world. As I drove through the winding roads of the Sahyadri hills, the views opened up to rolling valleys, still lakes, and layers of mist hanging low in the morning light. I spent time walking by the water, watching clouds drift across the hills, and simply enjoying the calm that comes from being surrounded by nature. The scale of the landscape stood out most—wide open spaces, fresh air, and uninterrupted views. It was peaceful, scenic, and a refreshing contrast to the pace of city life.
Getting to Aamby Valley
Getting to Aamby Valley is easy from both Mumbai and Pune. From Mumbai, driving takes about 2.5 to 3 hours via the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, exiting at Lonavala before continuing on the hill road to the valley. Trains from Mumbai to Lonavala run frequently and take around 2 hours, with taxis available for the final leg. Another convenient option is flying into Pune Airport, which is roughly 90 minutes by car from Aamby Valley, making it a practical choice for domestic connections.
Enjoying the region
At Aamby Valley, I make my way to the bridge just before sunrise. As the first light breaks over the surrounding hills, the lake slowly comes alive beneath me. Soft gold and pastel tones spread across the water, replacing the night’s stillness with gentle warmth. I pause, watching the reflections change minute by minute, feeling the quiet of the early morning all around. From the bridge, the sunrise feels intimate and unhurried, a peaceful moment where the valley awakens and the day begins in complete calm.
At Aamby Valley, the lake feels like the natural centre of everything around me. Walking along its edge, it’s easy to sense how much there is to do here. Kayaking and boating glide quietly across the water, while cycling paths trace the shoreline and invite unhurried exploration. Even simple lakeside walks seem designed for slowing down and taking in the views. Although time doesn’t allow me to try these activities on this visit, just being beside the lake makes their presence felt. It leaves a strong impression and a clear reason to return.
The giant swings offer one of the most peaceful ways to absorb the landscape. Suspended above the valley, they gently face the mountains and the lake below, framing the scenery in a way that feels both intimate and expansive. I experience them at sunrise, when the air is still and the light slowly warms the hills, turning the water into soft shades of gold. The moment feels calm and quietly romantic, with nothing rushed or loud. At sunset, the same swings promise an equally magical atmosphere, as fading light deepens the colours and the valley settles into evening.
