Lavasa: A Venice in the making

Situated in the picturesque Western Ghats, around  56 kms from Pune, Lavasa is a perfect weekend getaway as Lonavla, Khandala and other tourist spots around Mumbai-Pune have become overcrowded.
The drive itself is  challenging owing to the twists and turns in the Ghats, but the road is surprisingly good and more than once, you would want to stop and click some pics for that facebook album.

The descent to the town begins with  a beautiful heli-pad which is accentuated by flower beds on the edges and could easily accommodate two choppers if need be. 

Observation decks and platforms dot the descent and provide for a breathtaking view. 

Lavasa is built along the waterfront on the both sides of the dam. 

European waterfront architecture, reminds one of Venice.

The eateries here include The All American Diner, The Old English Pub, Pizza wala and  Subway and many others. There are water sports for the adventurous and a club house as well. It offers lots of activities to keep you engaged with gym, tennis courts and spa. 

Travel tip: Do the bookings for the hotels beforehand as it can get difficult during weekends. 

RATING: 4/5

Tasty Tongues: Bavdhan, Pune

This place was a Samosa shop before it turned into a full fledged eatery, as some locals say. Excellent food in the North Indian/ Punjabi genre. Some real fresh sandwiches would make you crave for a second helping.
It is surprisingly light on the pocket too!

RATING: 4/5

The All American Diner: Lavasa, Pune

If you want to taste some really old school Yankee food, this is the place to be dining in while in the lovely Lavasa.Try the Samplers (Veg and N.Veg)   to go with your Buds. For the healthy eater, the salads are something which wash down well with the beer. Worth visiting again.

RATING: 4/5

Delhi Swad: Infosys IBPO

The popularity of this eatery in the food court of Infosys BPO (Phase 2), Hinjwadi, Pune can be gauged from the fact that there will a proverbial long and winding queue if you are someone who likes to have lunch at the regular time. The parathas are excellent at INR 35.00 a piece (dinner plate sized!) and served with a bowl of curd and some chutney. While there, do try the G-Jamuns and lassi and you can sleep away to oblivion in the important post lunch meeting.

RATING:  4.5/5