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Our staycation series continues in Khandala, at a beautiful five-star property that's honestly one of the most peaceful near Pune and Mumbai: Atiiva Resorts & Spa (formerly Duke's Retreat). It was our second time here.
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Getting there
- From Pune: about 1.5 hours. Cross Lonavala into Khandala.
- From Mumbai: about 2 hours. Take the Khandala exit and a U-turn.
Book the upper block
There are two blocks. The first, by the entrance and valet, is a newer block with very spacious rooms, but it only has a garden. Everything is in the upper block on the hill: the pool, restaurants, games room and, above all, the views, which are the resort's USP.
From the lower block you take a buggy or car up; they're usually waiting downstairs, so no calls needed, and it's walkable too. Ask for the upper block when you reserve, especially with kids.
Last time we stayed in the upper block but got no balcony. This time, in the lower block, we had a balcony with a forest and mountain view.
Live Agoda prices. Book on Agoda at the same price, and we earn a small commission.
Open Agoda →Rooms
Very spacious, like Fariyas or Della. There's a private deck for evening coffee, complimentary snacks, unlimited water bottles on request, and a tea/coffee machine.
Amenities
- Two viewing decks in the upper block with scenic views.
- A pool that's for chilling rather than laps. It's great with a group of friends.
- A spa (we didn't have time).
- Games: free cards, Ludo, chess and carrom; a lovely gaming arcade for electronic games, at ₹400 per coin; and a kids' area.
- High tea at 5 pm: tea and coffee are free, while snacks (bhajiya, vada pav, corn, Maggi) are paid.
As adults there wasn't much to do. It's a place to rest.
Food
- Breakfast has a great spread, like Fariyas (a little smaller). Jain food on request.
- Maharashtrian buffet on Fridays and Saturdays, 12:30–3 pm.
- Lunch at the busy multi-cuisine restaurant: we went Chinese for speed, with burnt garlic fried rice and crispy lotus stem, about ₹1,500.
- Dinner at the lovely Italian restaurant: a wood-fired pizza for about ₹1,200. Very good.
Verdict
If you just want to chill, a real staycation vibe, come here. Staying two or three days? Cover Lonavala's attractions by day and relax here in the evening.
More: Della Resorts · Aamby Valley.
FAQs
How far is Atiiva Khandala from Pune and Mumbai?
About 1.5 hours from Pune (cross Lonavala into Khandala) and about 2 hours from Mumbai (take the Khandala exit and a U-turn).
Which block should I book at Atiiva?
The upper block on the hill. It has the restaurants, pool, games room and the best views. Ask for it when you reserve.
When is the Maharashtrian buffet?
Fridays and Saturdays, 12:30 to 3 pm.
TAGS: ATIIVA · KHANDALA · LONAVALA · STAYCATION · PUNE · MUMBAI · RESORT REVIEW
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Prashant & Sunaina
A travel couple from Pune with Kashmiri Pandit × Maharashtrian roots, 8+ countries and counting. Every rupee shared.
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