Turn your favourite monsoon getaway into a destination Ganesh Chaturthi celebration
Shreemanth Nehru Mitra Mandal
Swap crowded city pandals for Lonavla, where Ganeshotsav offers a blend of community spirit, age-old traditions, and a unique, laid-back charm. In Lonavla, celebrations are rooted in community service; pandals participate in blood donation drives, and the corporation has eco-friendly initiatives like an artificial pond for visarjan. All you need to do is get on the local train for a one-day pandal-hop during Ganeshotsav.
Shreemanth Nehru Mitra Mandal
Known for its thematic decor, this mandal is over 52 years old and a showcase of creative artistry. Past themes have included replicas of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Amarnath, the birth of Krishna, and even The Burning Train. This pandal is renowned for its ambitious designs and cannot be missed, should you decide to hop around town. It’s also a great example of how Lonavla blends devotion with imaginative storytelling.
Ryewood Ganesh Mandal
Established in 1927, this is where Lonavla’s Ganpati legacy begins. As the oldest and first manache Ganpati in Lonavla, Ryewood Ganesh Mandal holds a special place in the hearts of locals. The pandal is a must-visit for anyone who wants to witness the deep-rooted devotion and traditional rituals that have been passed down through generations. The atmosphere here is one of quiet reverence and historical significance.
Tarun Maratha Mandal
Celebrating its 93rd year, this Gaothan pandal is a hub of cultural tradition. The mandal is supported by the legacy of A1 Chikki, with the family playing a key role from its forefathers to the current generation. The visarjan procession is a spectacle of faith, featuring bal-varkari (young devotees) from Alandi and Dehu, who perform authentic bhajans and rangas supported by Ramesh Vyas, a generational owner of the famous sweet shop.
Shivaji Mitra Mandal
Also over 50 years old, this mandal is famous for its larger-than-life Ganesh idols and grand decor, with past themes replicating the Ayodhya Ram Mandir and Tirupati Balaji Temple. The procession is a high-energy affair with more than one pathak participating, a unique feature among Lonavla’s pandals. Students from the local Bhonde School annually participate in the pathak, making it a community event.
Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal
In Gawliwada, this pandal is where the festival’s energy truly comes alive. The mandal is run by the local community, and right from putting up the pandal to carrying out rituals, everything is done by them. The procession is equally enthralling. It’s an explosion of colour and sound, led by local community members who perform a traditional Gawli dance and playfully fill the air with vibrant gulaal. Their local pathak is a rhythmic mix of dhol sounds and synchronised dancing, making for an unforgettable festive experience.
Heads up, hoppers!
Getting around: Pandals are clustered around the railway station and market areas, making it easy to hop
Watch: Catch live telecasts on the Maval Varta channel, but nothing beats the in-person experience
Pathak energy: Listen out for the powerful beats of local dhol tasha pathaks like Bhairav, Mourya, and Gawliwada. Don’t miss the youngsters of Hanuman Dhol Tasha Pathak
Other pandals to visit
Sant Rohidas Tarun Mandal, Gaothan: Established in 1939, this is another of Lonavla’s historic community celebrations
Ranapratap Netaji Mitra Mandal, Nawa Bazaar: Established in 1980, this mandal adds to the vibrant street-side celebrations in the Nawa Bazaar area
Jai Maharashtra Gajanan Mitra Mandal, Gaothan: Founded in 1979, this pandal is known for its Lal Baugcha Raja-inspired idols
Bhairavnath Ganesh Utsav Mitra Mandal: Established in 1993, this mandal is known for its energetic Bhairav dhol tasha pathak
Maharashtra Mantang Samaj: This mandal provides a glimpse into the specific cultural celebrations of the Mantang community
Get a guided hop
Get an authentic Ganpati experience with Lonavala Local, a platform run by residents who know the hills best. This two-to-three-hour curated walk will guide you through 10 of the top pandals, including the historic Ryewood and the community-driven Sarvajanik. The walk includes an experience of local dhol tasha pathaks like Bhairav and Gawliwada. And, unique stops like Goels’ Mansion — home to rare Ganpati idols — and a walkthrough of Dhanlaxmi Jewellers for festive gold and silver. It ends with a food tour through the main market, with stops for chai, hot chocolate, and local treats.
TO BOOK: WhatsApp
Call Lonavala Local +91 9820068611
PRICE: Rs 1500 per person (inclusive of light refreshments, the guided experience, and a walkthrough of homes and the market)
WHEN: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; August 27 onwards
TIME: 8 am to 10 am and 6 pm to 8 pm (weekday walks available on request)
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