If you’re planning a weekend escape, Duke’s Nose Lonavala — also called Nagphani Point — is a must-visit spot known for its dramatic landscapes and good trekking experience. This is a well-known place in Lonavala, and a lot of people visit this place due to its Name and connection to history. If you like this content list, then you will like the 57 best places guide of Lonavala even more. But first, go through the content of Duke Nose (Nagphani Point).

What is Duke’s Nose / Nagphani in Lonavala?

Rising 3,200 ft above the Konkan plains, Duke’s Nose (Nagphani Point) is one of Lonavala’s most iconic natural landmarks. Named after the Duke of Wellington for its resemblance to his Nose, locals also call it Nagphani (“Cobra’s Hood”) due to its unique cliff shape.

Unlike the more casual viewpoints of Lion’s Point or Tiger Point, Duke’s Nose is known for its thrilling trekking in Maharashtra, sheer cliff drops, adventure sports, and overnight camping under starlit skies.

Where is Duke’s Nose Located?

Location: Kurvande, near Khandala, Maharashtra 410402
Distance from Pune: ~74–75 km (2 hrs by car)
Distance from Mumbai: ~91–97 km (2.5–3 hrs by car)
Nearby Spots: Khandala, Lonavala Lake, Bhushi Dam

Google Map to Reach The Location

How to Reach Duke’s Nose, Lonavala

By Car: Drive via the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. Exit at Khandala, then follow the signs to Kurvande village.
By Train: Take a train to Lonavala Station, then a 15–20 min cab ride.
Trekking Route & Difficult:

The Duke’s Nose trek is generally rated easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners with some endurance. The Kurvande route is the easiest and shortest (about 1.5 hours). In comparison, the Khandala ridge route is longer (3–4 hours) and more challenging, with steep ridge walks.

Start: Khandala or Kurvande village
Duration: 3.5–4 hrs trek
Difficulty: Moderate (steep sections, best avoided in heavy rain)
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft

Trekking Tip: During the monsoon, trails can get slippery. Carry trekking poles if possible, but absolutely wear grippy shoes. And you know, going to Duke Nose is one of the things to do in Lonavala. So visit and enjoy there!

Best Time to Visit Duke’s Nose

Monsoon (June–Sept): Lush greenery, waterfalls, misty clouds. (Most scenic but slippery — ideal for nature lovers.)
Winter (Oct–Feb): Cool, clear skies, most comfortable for trekking & camping. (Best time for most visitors.
Summer (Mar–May): Hot and dry, less recommended.

What to Expect at Duke’s Nose

Scenic Highlights

Sunset from Duke’s Nose is especially breathtaking — many trekkers time their hike to reach the top by evening for panoramic orange skies.

Crystal-clear panoramic views (esp. Oct–Feb)
Drone-worthy cliff shots
Sunset and sunrise over the Sahyadris

Adventure Activities

Rappelling from sheer cliff edges
Rock climbing & ziplining (seasonal)
Overnight camping with bonfire, barbecue & stargazing

Camping Costs: ₹1,200 – ₹3,500 (includes stay, dinner, activities).

Photography & Drone Guide

Best Season: Winter (clear skies, long horizons)
Lenses: Wide-angle (16–35mm) for cliffscapes
Drone Shots: Perfect for aerial cliff edges, video shots, sharp edges shots for videos, short films and so on. Try to avoid it during windy days.

Eco-Friendly Travel Tips

Help preserve Duke’s Nose’s raw beauty:

Stick to marked trekking trails
Carry reusable bottles & avoid plastic
Don’t litter — take back everything you bring
Respect wildlife & avoid loud noise during camping

What to Pack for Duke’s Nose

Trekking/hiking shoes with a strong grip
Rain jacket (if monsoon) or warm layer (winter nights)
Snacks, water, first-aid kit
Camping essentials (or book with a vendor)
Drone/camera, power bank, headlamp

Food & Stay Near Duke’s Nose

Local Snacks: You can easily get Maggi, chai, and bhutta sold by villagers at Kurvande.
Stay Options:
Budget: Homestays & hostels in Lonavala town
Mid-range: Boutique resorts near Khandala
Adventure: Cliffside camping with vendors at Duke’s Nose

Nearby Attractions (within 10–15 km)

Lion’s Point & Tiger Point – Scenic viewpoints
Karla & Bhaja Caves – Ancient Buddhist sites
Rajmachi Fort – Popular trekking destination
Bhushi Dam – Monsoon hotspot

Sample Itineraries (Confirm & Decide as Per your Plan)

1-Day Adventure Plan

7 AM: Arrive at Kurvande village
8–11 AM: Trek to Duke’s Nose
Noon: (Photo Shot) Drone shots + packed brunch at the top
2 PM: Descend & visit Bhushi Dam
Evening: Return to Pune/Mumbai

Overnight Camping Plan

4 PM: Start trek
6 PM: Reach summit & enjoy sunset
7 PM: Bonfire, dinner & games
Night: Stargazing & camping
6 AM: Sunrise + tea, descend back

Final Thoughts on Visiting Duke’s Nose

Duke’s Nose is more than just a trek — it’s an adventure destination blending thrill, natural beauty, and starry-night camping. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline with rappelling or serenity with drone-worthy landscapes, this Lonavala gem deserves a top spot on your travel list.

Pack your bag, lace up your boots, and experience the cobra’s hood rising above the clouds.