Lonavala New Year 2026: Tiger Point and Lion’s Point Closed; Check Latest Traffic Advisory Before You Leave
Planning a New Year trip to Lonavala to ring in 2026? You might want to pivot your itinerary as the local administration has officially shut down the hill station’s most iconic sunset spots to prevent a “traffic tsunami.”
LONAVALA: If your New Year trip to Lonavala included watching the final sunset of 2025 from the wind-swept cliffs of Tiger Point, it is time for a reality check. The Pune District Administration and the Forest Department have officially ordered the closure of Tiger Point and Lion’s Point for December 31, 2025, and January 1, 2026.
The decision comes as Lonavala and Khandala witness an unprecedented surge of tourists from Mumbai and Pune, leading to “housefull” signs across almost all major resorts and private villas.
Why are Tiger Point and Lion’s Point Closed?
The Forest Department (Wadgaon Maval Range) issued the closure notice primarily to manage extreme overcrowding and ensure public safety. Historically, these two points become massive bottlenecks on New Year’s Eve, with vehicles stranded for hours on narrow ridge roads.
By enforcing the Tiger Point and Lion’s Point closure, authorities aim to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Sahyadris and prevent unruly behavior often associated with late-night celebrations in secluded forest areas.
Lonavala Traffic Advisory: Key Changes for New Year 2026
Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi has issued a stringent Lonavala traffic advisory effective from midnight on December 30 until the end of New Year’s Day. If you are driving down, keep these diversions in mind:
- Heavy Vehicle Ban: To prioritize passenger cars, heavy vehicles are strictly prohibited from entering Lonavala city limits and certain sections of the Mumbai-Pune highway during peak hours.
- One-Way Zones: Traffic around Bhushi Dam and the approach to Rajmachi Garden has been converted to one-way to keep vehicles moving.
- Pavana Lake Restrictions: Entry to Pavana Nagar market is restricted. Travelers heading to camping sites must use the alternative routes via Yelse Phata, Shivli, and Kothurne.
- Police Bandobast: Over 300 additional police personnel, including Home Guards and strike forces, have been deployed to monitor checkpoints and conduct breathalyzer tests.
How to Avoid the Mumbai-Pune Expressway Traffic
While the Mumbai-Pune Expressway traffic update currently shows heavy congestion at the Borghat section, relief is on the horizon. The MSRDC “missing link” project—a 13.3 km bypass that will cut travel time by 30 minutes—is in its final stages but is not expected to open until March 2026.
For now, commuters are advised to start their journeys before 6:00 AM or after 10:00 PM to avoid the mid-day gridlock at the Lonavala exit.
Places to Visit in Lonavala Instead of Tiger Point
With the main viewpoints off-limits, where should you head for your Lonavala New Year 2026 celebration?
1. Pawna Lake Camping
While the market area is restricted, the camping zones around Pawna Lake remain open for those with valid bookings. Ensure you follow the diverted route via Kamshet to avoid the main Lonavala city traffic.
2. Wet’nJoy Water Park and Theme Park
Located right on the highway, this is a popular alternative for families. They are hosting a “Neon Theme” New Year party which avoids the need to enter the congested inner city roads.
3. Wax Museums and Local Forts
Sunil’s Celebrity Wax Museum and the trek to Lohagad Fort remain accessible, though travelers should expect heavy crowds.
Safety Guidelines for Tourists
The Lonavala City Police have warned of strict legal action against public nuisance.
- Drinking in Public: Prohibited at all tourist spots including Bhushi Dam.
- Drunken Driving: Strict “Nakabandi” is in place at all entry and exit points.
- Emergency Contacts: In case of emergencies, contact Lonavala City Police at 02114-273033 or the Shivdurga Mitra Helpline at 9822500884.
For more live updates on Pune, visit our Pune News Today page.
