Maharashtra's industrial heritage town has transformed into a modern adventure and cultural destination. Located strategically between Mumbai and Pune, Khopoli seamlessly blends Maratha-era history, pioneering hydroelectric milestones, scenic waterfalls, and contemporary attractions like Imagicaa. Discover a fast-growing town deeply rooted in tradition yet rising as a dynamic regional hub for tourism and logistics.
Khopoli is a vibrant, fast-growing town in Raigad district, Maharashtra-nestled in the Sahyadri foothills and part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
Just 80 km from both Mumbai and Pune, Khopoli is home to major industries, spiritual landmarks, waterfall tourism, and India's first hydroelectric power station. It's no longer just a factory town-it's a destination.
Under the Maratha Empire, Khopoli was administered by Nana Phadnavis, the Peshwa's trusted minister. He built the Vireshwar Mahadev Temple and a stone reservoir, laying the foundation for spiritual and civic life.
Then known as “Campoolie,” it was connected to the Great Indian Peninsula Railway in 1856, gaining colonial interest for its scenic valleys and riverfronts.
The Tata Group built India's first privately-owned hydroelectric power station here on the Patalganga River-a pioneering moment in India's industrial history
"Khopoli" comes from “Kho” (pit/hollow) + “Poli” (gate/entrance), referring to its valley-like location.
Khopoli retains a strong spiritual identity. Its religious sites continue to attract thousands of pilgrims every year.
| Temple / Ashram | Significance |
|---|---|
| Vireshwar Mahadev Temple | 18th-century Shiva temple, built by Nana Phadnavis; major Shivratri fair |
| Ballaleshwar Temple (Pali) | One of the 8 revered Ashtavinayak Ganesha temples |
| Varad Vinayak Temple | Known for its swayambhu Ganesha idol and uninterrupted oil lamp since 1892 |
| Gagangiri Maharaj Ashram | Peaceful retreat promoting meditation and spiritual discipline |
| Birla Mandir | Hilltop temple offering panoramic views and serene worship space |
Khopoli surprises most first-timers. It's home to both seasonal natural wonders and modern amusement zones.
| Spot | Experience |
|---|---|
| Zenith Waterfall | Lush monsoon trek; ideal for picnics during June-Sept |
| KP Falls | Trek-access waterfall; view of trains passing through tunnels |
| Kune Falls | One of Maharashtra's highest; 660-ft drop amidst Sahyadris |
| Imagicaa Theme Park | India's largest theme park with water, snow, and glow zones |
| Tungarli & Kalote Lakes | Scenic, serene picnic + birdwatching spots nearby |
| Then (Pre-2000s) | Now (Post-2020) |
|---|---|
| Primarily industrial with basic townships | Emerging tourism, villa culture, branded resorts (Novotel, Radisson) |
| Temples & factories | Temples, waterfalls, theme parks, resorts |
| Modest population | Rapid real estate development; over 1 lakh residents |
| Tata's hydro plant as key employer | Mix of tourism, logistics, MSMEs, education, and manufacturing |
Khopoli isn't just a pit stop between Mumbai and Pune anymore - it's a place with a powerful story. From Maratha royalty to modern rides, from river-powered electricity to real estate booms, Khopoli is now a town where every visitor finds something unexpected—be it serenity, thrill, or opportunity.
