When most people think of a quick getaway from Mumbai or Pune, Lonavala instantly comes to mind. With its green valleys, misty hills and cool breeze, it has long been a favourite weekend escape. Tourists usually rush to popular spots like Tiger Point and Bhushi Dam, often finding heavy traffic and crowded viewpoints.
But beyond these busy attractions lies a quiet place that many travellers still don’t know about.
Around 30 kilometres from Lonavala and roughly a two-hour drive from Pune, near Mulshi in Begampura, stands a peaceful shrine hidden away from the usual tourist trail. There are no flashy signboards or large parking areas. Instead, the place quietly waits for those willing to explore further.
This serene spot is called Gurudwara Chhota Hemkund Sahib. Built inside a large natural cave beneath a towering rock face, the Gurudwara stands behind Tikona Fort, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Sahyadri hills. From a distance, it almost looks like the mountain itself is sheltering the shrine.
Its name reminds visitors of Hemkund Sahib, one of the most sacred Sikh pilgrimage sites in India. Located high in the Himalayas at over 15,000 feet, Hemkund Sahib is known for its challenging trek, snow-covered peaks and glacial lake. The journey there tests both physical endurance and faith.
Chhota Hemkund Sahib, however, offers a simpler and more accessible experience. There is no difficult mountain climb. Visitors can reach it comfortably by road, making it suitable for families, elderly devotees and even travellers passing through Lonavala or Mulshi. The final stretch requires only a short, easy walk.
Despite its natural beauty, the shrine remains relatively unknown and is not part of mainstream tourist circuits. Some travellers who have discovered it describe it as a hidden gem. During the monsoon, the Gurudwara looks especially beautiful, framed by lush greenery, with water trickling down nearby rocks and clouds drifting low across the hills.
Inside the cave, the atmosphere feels calm and peaceful. Soft prayers echo against the stone walls, creating a deeply grounding experience. Surrounded by nature, the shrine reflects the Sikh belief that Waheguru’s presence can be felt everywhere, especially in the natural world.
Managed by dedicated sewadars and volunteers, the Gurudwara is usually open till 10 pm. There are no commercial stalls, loud music or overwhelming crowds, just the quiet strength of the mountains and a sense of stillness.
For those wanting to see a different side of Lonavala, this hidden sanctuary offers something truly rare, a gentle meeting of faith and nature, far away from the noise of everyday life.
