trip plan in maharashtra

Tourist places in Maharashtra

Here are the top 123 places to visit in maharashtra in 2024:, 1. ajanta and ellora caves.

1 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 12 Tourist attractions

Ajanta and Ellora caves, considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient rock-cut caves, are located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. Ajanta and Ellora caves complex is adorned with beautiful sculptures, paintings, and frescoes and include Buddhist monasteries, Hindu and Jain temples. T...

Best Time: June to March

2. Mahabaleshwar

2 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 31 Tourist attractions

Mahabaleshwar is a hill station located in the Western Ghats, in Satara district of Maharashtra. Apart from its strawberries, Mahabaleshwar is also well known for its numerous rivers, magnificent cascades and majestic peaks. It is among the most sought after weekend getaways from Pune & Mum...

Best Time: October to June

3. Panchgani

3 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 13 Tourist attractions

Deriving its name from the five hills surrounding it, Panchgani is a popular hill station near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra, famous for its various sunset and sunrise points and scenic valley view.

Best Time: September to May

4 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 5 Tourist attractions

Known as India's newest hill station, the Lavasa Corporation is constructing this private city. The city is a beautiful project, stylistically based on the Italian town Portofino. Spreading across 7 hills, covering an area of 25000 acres, Lavasa is a perfect blend of beauty and infrastructure.

Best Time: Throughout the year

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Best of Maharashtra Package: Mumbai, Lonavala, Khandala & More

Mumbai & lonavala dream city package, matheran lonavala & alibaug tour package, shirdi, shani shignapur & jyotirlinga tour package, konkan dream tour package for 6 nights 7 days, tadoba tiger safari tour package.

5 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 24 Tourist attractions

Located at a distance of 122 Km from Nasik in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, Shirdi is the home of Sai Baba. It is believed that Sai Baba arrived at Shirdi in 1858 and spent 60 years of his life here until he attained salvation in 1918. Sai Baba is popularly known as the 'child of God', as ...

Best Time: July to March

6 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 11 Tourist attractions

Famous for white water rafting, Kolad is a thriving tiny village in the Raigad district in Maharashtra. Known for its cascading waterfalls, green meadows and picturesque backdrop of Sahyadris, Kolad is gaining traction as an adventure sports destination with provisions for rafting, rappelling, and k...

7. Bhandardara

7 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 7 Tourist attractions

Bhandardara, a hill station nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra, has all the nature's blessings a place can get. The lush greenery, the humble waterfalls and surrounded by high mountains makes for the perfect holiday spot for city dwellers.

8 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 114 Tourist attractions

Mumbai, the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra, is a spectacular paradox of chaos and hope, glamour and squalor, modernity and tradition. Famously known as the City of Dreams, Mumbai – formerly known as Bombay - Mumbai is a beautifully blended melting pot of cultures and lifestyles.

Best Time: October to February

9. Rajmachi

9 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra

Rajmachi is a small village situated in the Sahyadri mountain range of the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Rajmachi is famous for the historical fortress which has two fortified peaks - Shrivardhan and Manaranjan forts, located near two famous hills of Lonavala and Khandala.

Best Time: June to September

10. Lonavala

10 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 41 Tourist attractions

Situated in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats close to Pune and Mumbai, Lonavala is the most visited hill station in Maharashtra and the place to be during monsoons. With lots of waterfalls, lakes and hills around, it is a popular destination for camping, trekking and other...

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Must Visit Picnic Spot in Maharashtra

11. Alibaug

11 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 29 Tourist attractions

Alibaug (also spelled as Alibag) is a small coastal town in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, known for its beaches, villas, and beautiful scenery. Alibag is very popular as a weekend getaway from the cities of Mumbai and Pune. 

Best Time: November to March

12. Khandala

12 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 22 Tourist attractions

Khandala is a popular hill station in Maharashtra, perched on the foothills of Sahyadri in the Western Ghats. Khandala provides for a perfect weekend respite for the Mumbai population, with its scenic valleys, grassy hills, serene lakes and misty waterfalls.

13. Tarkarli

13 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 20 Tourist attractions

Tarkarli is famous for its long and narrow stretch of beach, with its pristine water, white sand, and of course Singhudurg, Maharashtra's popular sea fort.

Best Time: October to March

14 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 7 Tourist attractions

A Beach town, popular for its white sand and blue seas situated in Konkan region of Maharashtra, Kashid is the perfect destination for a quiet weekend getaway from Mumbai.

15 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 39 Tourist attractions

Nasik is a religious Hindu city, host to the Kumbh Mela every 12 years. It also makes for a perfect wine tasting destination.

16. Aurangabad

16 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 37 Tourist attractions

Aurangabad, which was declared by the Government as the Tourism Capital of Maharashtra back in 2010, is a famous tourist hub which greets its visitors with a richly woven tapestry of sights and sounds. The city got its name for being the erstwhile capital of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th cent...

17 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 83 Tourist attractions

Pune is a bustling metropolis of Maharashtra, ranked number one in India in the ease of living. Often referred to as the Oxford of the East, it is a hub of diverse people and activities and is in rapidly growing into one of the top metropolitan cities in the country. Pune is a city that pe...

18. Ganpatipule

18 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 9 Tourist attractions

Beach town on the Konkan coastline, Ganpatipule has temples of Lord Ganesha as major attractions apart from the beautiful virgin beaches.

Best Time: November to February

19. Matheran

19 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 29 Tourist attractions

Nestled amidst the Sahyadri range on the Western Ghats, Matheran is a cosy little hill station that stands at an elevation of 2600 feet above sea level, and is just 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, making it the perfect weekend getaway. With its name literally translating to “overhead forest”, Mathe...

20 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 5 Tourist attractions

Raigad, is a historically rich district is situated in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Located at 2,851mts, it is surrounded by Mumbai Harbour, Thane, Pune, Ratnagiri and the Arabian Sea.

Best Tourist Attractions in Maharashtra

Marine Drive, Mumbai

Gateway of India

Ajanta Caves

Colaba Causeway

Tiger's Leap

21 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 6 Tourist attractions

Amboli lies in the Sahyadri hills in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. It is the last hill station of Maharashtra before the plains of Goa begin and is a relatively unexplored one.

22. Tadoba National Park

22 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 6 Tourist attractions

Famous for its natural heritage, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is definitely one of India's most exciting and best protected Tiger Reserve, with most visible tiger sightings in the state of Maharashtra

23. Kamshet

23 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 7 Tourist attractions

Kamshet is a picturesque hill station in Western Ghats, renowned for paragliding and flying schools. Surrounded by Western Ghats, this place is regularly featured in the top 10 must visit destinations of India for an adventurous junkie.

24. Durshet

24 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 7 Tourist attractions

Durshet is a little village found on the banks of the river Amba, nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra. Due to its proximity to Mumbai and Pune it serves as a weekend getaway for people to move away from the crowded cities.

Best Time: September to February

25. Bhimashankar

25 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 5 Tourist attractions

Bhimashankar, located about 100 km from Pune and 223 km from Mumbai, is a popular temple town. It is among one of the twelve traditional 'Jyotilingam' shrines of Lord Shiva in India.

26 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 37 Tourist attractions

Commonly associated with its delectable juicy varieties of oranges, Nagpur is also the winter capital of Maharashtra. With temples, lush green gardens, lakes and connectivity with main cities along with the rich cultural heritage enchant its visitors.

27 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 23 Tourist attractions

Malvan is a culturally and historically important town in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. It is well known historically for the Sindhudurg Fort of Chatrapati Shivajiraje. Culturally, it is famous for it's mouth-watering Malvani sea-food and sweets.Malvan is also known for its beaches that ar...

28. Kolhapur

28 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 30 Tourist attractions

Kolhapur is situated on the banks of the river Panchaganga in the south-west region of Maharashtra.  Situated 230 kilometres away from Pune, Kolhapur is one of the princely states and boasts of a rich legacy dating back to the times of the Marathas. Presently, Kolhapur is known for Kolhapu...

Best Time: July to February

29 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 11 Tourist attractions

Karjat, a quaint little village is the last station of Thane district in Maharashtra. The river Ulhas finds its origin in Karjat and trekking and historical spots make it a popular destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts.

30. Igatpuri

30 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 14 Tourist attractions

Igatpuri is a hill station and a city in the Western Ghats located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, 130kms from Mumbai. Located on the Mumbai-Agra National Highway, Igatpuri is a heaven for nature lovers. It also has some of the highest peaks of the Sahyadri range. 

Best Time: July to September

31. Diveagar

31 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 20 Tourist attractions

Gleaming white sand, pristine blue water, swaying coconut palms and betel nut trees and gentle breeze producing a serene and calming effect, this is not a dream but the enchanting place called Diveagar.

32. Suryamal

32 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 2 Tourist attractions

Suryamal is the highest peak of the region, located in Thane district of Maharashtra. The small but beautiful hill is a popular place among people for the sheer breathtaking views that it can be seen from the hilltop.

33. Harihareshwar

33 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 8 Tourist attractions

Surrounded by four hills and with river Savitri flowing through the town, Harihareshwar is famous for its temple of Lord Harihareshwar and is a popular weekend beach destination especially for people in Mumbai and Pune.

34. Ratanwadi

34 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 3 Tourist attractions

Ratanwadi is a village near Bhandardara of the Kalsubai peak in Maharashtra. It houses the famous Ratangad fort and the popular Shiva temple called Amruteshwar. It is a famous trekking spot as it is far from the main town and has a rustic charm to it.

35 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 9 Tourist attractions

Manori beach, along with Gorai beach is a growing favourite among back packers and people who just want to cross over to the peace and quiet of the country side for a while.

36. Chiplun

36 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 11 Tourist attractions

In the quiet, far away from the city port district of Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, lies Chiplun, the city that offers you time among mango groves next to the beautiful lake, Vashishti. This town is most known for its white sand beaches and beautiful mango and cashew groves by the Vashishti river.

37. Chikhaldara

37 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 12 Tourist attractions

The scent of coffee enchants you as you enter the hill station city of Chikhaldara in the state of Maharashtra. Being the only coffee growing area in the region, Chikhaldara also boasts of beautiful lakes, breathtaking panoramic viewpoints and exotic wildlife.

38. Ratnagiri

38 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 29 Tourist attractions

Situated in pretty surroundings, Ratnagiri is blessed with hills, sea shores, creeks, beautiful rivers, hot water springs, forests and water falls and offers a rejuvenating experience to travelers.

39 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 8 Tourist attractions

Best known as the gateway of Konkan coast, Panvel is the most crowded locality of Raigad District of Maharashtra. Located at a distance of 40kms from Mumbai metropolitan region, Panvel is highly populated. It is known for the forts in Raigad and Khopoli; and also the Karnala fort which is a popular ...

40. Murud Janjira

40 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 7 Tourist attractions

Murud is known for it widespread sandy beaches adorned with majestic forts and outlined by palms and coconut trees, creating a perfect holiday scenery.

41 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 14 Tourist attractions

Dapoli, situated 215km away from Mumbai is popular tourist destination that serves the needs of all kinds of travelers. It is known as mini-Mahabaleshwar of Maharashtra owing to its cool climate throughout the year. It is located in the Ratnagiri district and is a famous Konkan hill station.

42. Malshej Ghat

42 out of 123 Places to visit in Maharashtra 4 Tourist attractions

Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass and a popular hill station, nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. With its numerous lakes, waterfalls, mountains, and verdant flora and fauna, Malshej Ghat is popular among hikers, trekkers and nature lovers.

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The Revolving Compass

To share our love for travel….countless soul enriching experiences

A perfect Maharashtra Road Trip Plan

Maharashtra is one of the largest states of India. And just like most of the other states of India, Maharashtra is very diverse and beautiful when it comes to both landscape and experiences. In fact, there are multiple small road trips from Mumbai and weekend getaways from Mumbai (The capital of Maharashtra) that one can explore. Also, there are many beautiful weekend getaways from Pune . However, in this post, I will take you to a complete Maharashtra road trip , that we embarked upon. It was a road trip from Bangalore to Maharashtra. If you don’t live in Maharashtra, and want to explore almost the whole state in one go, you can treat this as your ultimate guide to explore Maharashtra .

Table of Contents

Map of our Maharashtra Road Trip

Route taken:

Bangalore -> Kolhapur (NH48 via Hubli) -> Ratnagiri (NH 166) -> Mahabaleshwar (NH 66) -> Lonavala (NH 66, NH 548A) -> Nashik(MH 79, NH 160) -> Shirdi -> Aurangabad (NH 160, Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway ) -> Hospet (NH 52, NH 50) -> Bangalore (NH 48)

Maharashtra Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: kolhapur.

Halt in Kolhapur and visit some of the major attractions of Kolhapur like – the Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhpaur – a “ shaktipeeth ” and a very important Hindu Pilgrimage Place. You should visit here in the morning hours to avoid too much rush, scenic Rankala Lake and the ancient Panhala Fort that you can visit in the evening. And finally spend some time shopping in Kolhapur for the world famous Kolhapuri Footwear and other local items.

Day 2: Ratnagiri

Drive from Kolhapur to Ratnagiri.  The drive is just 2.5 hrs. So if you start early from Kolhapur, you will reach Ratnagiri before noon. You can visit some of the major attractions in Ratnagiri like the Jaigad Fort & lighthouse , Swayambhu Ganpati Temple and Pandre Samudra Beach . There are a couple of more forts and a lot of beautiful beaches. But you need to add one more day to your itinerary in Ratnagiri to be able to cover them all.

Day 3: Mahabaleshwar

Via Ganpatipule, do a roadtrip from Ratnagiri to Mahabaleshwar. This is considered one of the most scenic road trips to take in Maharashtra . You can first start from Ratnagiri and visit the beautiful Ganpatipule beach and Ganpatipule temple . And then continue from there to Mahabaleshwar. Arrive in Mahabaleshwar by late afternoon or evening. The day we arrived in Mahabaleshwar, we just took rest for the evening. Relaxing to the views of the mountains and valleys from the lawn of our resort and enjoying the cool evening breeze.

Day 4: Mahabaleshwar

Today, indulge in visiting places to see in Maharashtra like Arthur’s seat, Veena Lake, the old Mahabaleshwar Temple – the main attraction of the town, Sri Krishna Temple – an old temple with beautiful carvings and amazing views of the Krishna Valley , Maple Strawberry Park – for indulging in all things strawberries, Strawberry Farm – for plucking your own fresh strawberries, Cheese Factory to witness cheese making process like you do on a cheese factory visit in Switzerland or France on a trip to Europe . And a lot more. Here’s a complete list of things to do in Mahabaleshwar .

Day 5: Mahabaleshwar to Lonavala drive

On the way visit the Raigad Fort , Lohagarh Fort , Karla & Bhaja Caves –  some of the most ancient buddhist caves of India which still stand beautifully, in spite of being more than 3000 years old. You will have to climb almost 500 stairs together for both the caves. So, do bear that in mind. It was a wonderful aerobic exercise. And the views of the city of Lonavala and the valley from up above, even half way through the stairs are something to look forward to. You can also enjoy a beautiful sunset at the Lohagarh Fort or the Bhaja Caves.

Day 6: Lonavala to Nashik

Take a road trip from Lonavala to Nashik. The initial ghat section from Lonavala is very beautiful. With mesmerising views of the Sahyadri Mountain Ranges. And there are a lot of designated view points along the way where you will be compelled to stop. Afterwards, its more of less driving through a straight highway across the plains. But the views of the brown – sandy hills on either sides brought to me memories of the landscape you encounter on a road trip in Spain !! In fact we tried to time our lunch break such that we could stop at a restaurant with a beautiful view of these hills.

Day 7: Sightseeing in Nashik

Indulge in one day sightseeing in Nashik which can include a visit to the Trimbakeshwar Temple – one of the 12 Jyotirlinga Temples of India and one of the most important Hindu Pilgrimage destinations where Mahakumbh takes place every 12 years. The more than 2000 years old Pandavleni Caves – one of the finest examples of rock-cut temple architectures of India. A visit to the MTDC Club on the banks of the Gangapur Dam on Godavari river and even enjoying a boating. And a visit to one of the largest and finest vineyards of India. Or, even enjoy a vineyard stay in Nashik  like you would in Tuscany when on a trip to Italy .

Day 8: Nashik to Shirdi

Today visit another very important pilgrimage place in Maharashtra – Shirdi. The drive from Nashik to Shirdi is just 2.5 hrs. And the expressway is in excellent condition. It is part of the newly built Nagpur – Mumbai Expressway , also called Hindu Hrudaysamrat  Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg or the Samruddhi Mahamarg. Chances are, Shirdi temple will be crowded. So, you should keep the whole day for visiting here. And afterwards you can stay overnight either in Shirdi or in Aurangabad.

To travel to Aurangabad, you can take the same expressway. And reach in 1 hr from Shirdi.

Day 9: Aurangabad

Today, visit Ellora Caves – one of the finest examples of monolith rock cut temples in the world – and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And the Grishneshwar Temple , right besides the the caves. Which is yet another of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India. Visiting the Ellora Caves will take up at least 4 hours of your time. Try starting as early in the morning as possible. And first visit the Grishneshwar Temple. The earlier you reach the temple, the lesser will be the queue for entry.

After visiting the Grishneshwar temple you can proceed to Ellora Caves. And spend rest of the day there.

PS: there are some basic accommodation available near Ellora Caves. You can stay in one of these the previous nights which will help you save time. Also, there are not many food options near Ellora Caves, only snacks. But you can pack your own lunch or picnic and carry it with you. You can have it inside the campus. Although the whole premises is very clean, well maintained, with drinking water and restroom facilities. And there are vendors selling bottled drinking water as well.

After your visit to Ellora Caves , stay overnight in Aurangabad. Again, either near Ellora Caves or in the city.

Day 10: Visit Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad

Visit another of the world famous rock cut cave temples – Ajanta Caves – on the 10th day of your trip. It’s like saving the best for the last 🙂

Ajanta caves are also as huge as Ellora Caves. While the Ellora Caves are a mix of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist caves, the Ajanta Caves are primarily Buddhist caves. They consist of prayer halls, meditation rooms, rooms inside the caves where the disciples must have resided. All of these have beautiful, unparalleled carvings and amazing painting work on the walls and roofs. It’s simply unbelievable how such structures were carved out in single pieces of monolith rocks with such carving and painting details and that also more than 2500 years ago !

To be honest the Ajanta and Ellora Caves left me completely spellbound. When I visited Badami Cave Temples on my trip to Badami Pattadakal and Aihole last year, I couldn’t imagine any cave carvings being more grand than that. But, Ajanta and Ellora Caves proved me wrong. They are like our own version of the Petra structures that rank amongst the wonders of the world. And although world famous and a UNESCO World Heritage, I strongly feel the Ajanta and Ellora Caves ought to draw more attention and publicity.

Ajanta caves visit will definitely take up 3-4 hrs of your time. And if you are staying in the city of Aurangabad, it will take you around 2 hours to reach from Ajanta Caves to Aurangabad. You can self drive or take a cab. There is ample parking facility near the Ajanta Caves.

If time permits, after visiting Ajanta Caves, you can also visit Bibi ka Maqbara – another beautiful medieval structure – which resembles the Taj Mahal and looks like it’s mini version.

Day 11: Back to your home

Finally comes the time to wrap up and with unlimited memories, head back home. We did our Maharashtra Road Trip from Bangalore. So, on the way back home, we followed this route :

Aurangabad -> Hospete -> Bangalore

Drive from Aurangabad to Hospet is very smooth, all through on NH 52 till Vijayapura and after that on NH 50. And both the NH are in excellent condition. Although when we started on our road trip from Aurangabad to Hospet, the expected driving time was 10.5 hrs. But, in spite of a long breakfast and a lunch break, and few other loo breaks, we were able to reach Hospet in around 10 hours!!

We stayed overnight in Hospet. And drove from Hospet to Bangalore the next day. Reaching home by afternoon. Since, we had already visited the Ruins of Hampi near Hospet a month back, we just halted in Hospet for the night. But, if you are interested and you can add few extra days to your trip, I suggest exploring Hampi as well.  Read my complete guide to explore Hampi .

Unique travel experiences to gain on a Maharashtra Road Trip

There were some very unique experiences that we had on our Maharashtra Road Trip. And I highly recommend making place for them in your own itinerary. As they are very unique to Maharashtra –

• Visiting a Strawberry Farm in Mahabaleshwar. During the strawberry season, when you can yourself choose and pluck ripe strawberries from the farm, weigh them, buy them and then enjoy them fresh out of the plant. Of course, for this experience, you need to visit during the strawberry season. Mahabaleshwar and the surrounding regions are the largest producers of strawberries in India. And you will find the best strawberries here.

• Do a trip to a cheese factory in Mahabaleshwar. Learn the cheese making process and enjoy tasting different varieties of cheese. Something that reminded me of my cheese factory visit in Switzerland on my trip to Europe years back.
• Do you wish to stay in a villa in Tuscany overlooking vast expanses of vineyards with greenery all around you? You can experience that in Nashik in Maharashtra. Out of all the vineyards of India, more than 70% are in and around Nashik. Many of the Nashik Vineyards have top notch accommodation overlooking the Vinery. And they also provide vineyard tour and wine tasting as a part of the package! We missed visiting a vineyard on our trip to Florence ,  but made up for it on our Maharashtra Trip

• Out of 1200 cave temples that exist in India, 900+ are in Maharashtra. Do ensure to visit some of these like Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Pandavleni, Ajanta and Ellora Caves on your trip to Maharashtra. (btw, “leni” in Marathi means “Caves”)

• Buy the world famous “Kolhapuri Chappals” (footwear made in Kolhapur) when you halt in Kolhapur
• Last but not the least, try some of the cuisines of Maharashtra that are world famous. Including Misal Pav, Pav Bhaji, Vada Pav, Bhel Puri and many others.

What we did not cover in our Maharashtra Road Trip

While we covered many places to see in Maharashtra on our road trip across Maharastra . If we had more time, I would have loved to cover some of the beaches of Maharashtra like Alibaug beach, Juhu beach, Tarkale Beach, Murud Beach and Marina Drive which are very famous and beautiful. And I would love to explore the coastline of Maharashtra. But due to lack of time, I couldn’t accommodate all of these in this road trip.

If you want to, from Ratnagiri, you can continue along the coast all the way till Mumbai. And then return to Mahabaleshwar from there. In 3-4 extra days, you can cover most of the beaches and also tick off your list of things to do in Mumbai .

Since I live in a metropolitan city, I was not keen on staying in any other city on this trip. But, if you will like to do that, you can spend a few days in Mumbai. And a few more in Pune. Both these are large thriving cosmopolitan cities in Maharashtra. And each one has a lot of things to see and places to visit.

General information on doing a road trip to Maharashtra

When is the best time to visit maharashtra.

Summers are harsh in the central and eastern Maharashtra. The best time to visit Maharashtra is post summers and heavy monsoons season from September to February. The monsoons time is also good time to visit isolated places like Nashik and Aurangabad where it doesn’t rain too much but the days are pleasant when its cloudy. However, heavy rainfall can cause landslides on the ghat roads. So, I will suggest, if you are exploring the whole of Maharashtra, visit anytime from November end till February for a mild summer experience.

When we visited Maharastra in the last week of December, it was hot in the day for most part (27-30 degrees C) and cool in the evening and at night (14-18 degrees C). Overall it was not uncomfortably hot.

What to pack for a trip to Maharashtra

• For the temple visits, carry traditional attire like sarees and salwar kameez for women and dhoti or pyjamas with kurtas for men. Although there is not dress code anywhere, it is good to show respect to the culture whose place of worship you are visiting.
• To visit rest of the places, you can carry light breezy cotton cloths.
• For evenings, when visiting in summer months, carry a light jacket. Kids might require heavier jackets and woollen caps for the evenings.
• Carry with you mosquito repellant, hand sanitiser, face masks and wipes for general hygiene and safety.
• Don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses. You will need them a lot 🙂
• It is good to cover your sleeves like how you would do on a beach vacation , unless you want to get heavily tanned 🙂 Particularly when exploring the caves.
• There are ample food outlets even on the highways in Maharashtra so you really don’t need to pack any food with you.
• Every other necessity including medicines etc. will be widely available in the major towns like Kolhapur, Nashik, Aurangabad etc.
• Drinking water is available at most of the places to see in Maharashtra . And bottled water is also widely sold.

Here’s my packing tips and tricks and how I pack on most of my trips, that might be of help to you.

How is the road condition in Maharashtra

• Bangalore to Hubali is excellent NH 48, 4 lanes till Tumkur and 6 lanes till Hubli
• After Hubli, there are lots of diversions till Kolhapur at the time of this writing as the NH widening work is going on
• The road from Kolhapur all the way till Mahabaleshwar is good. Since some of this is ghat section, it is narrow but very good.
• The NH that we took from Mahabaleshwar to Lonavala is very scenic and passes through some very beautiful landscapes, also passes through the outskirts of Pune
• From Lonavala to Nashik, we had few hiccups on NH 160, wherein road widening work is again going on. And there was lots of traffic.
• The drive from Nashik to Aurangabad was the most excellent in our whole trip. As, the Samruddhi Mahamarg is a newly built 8 lanes expressway which is in an excellent condition. And there was hardly any traffic on this route.
• From Aurangabad to Bangalore via Hospet, the highways are mostly 6 lane and in excellent condition.

There are lots of resting options and food outlets on all highways in Maharashtra, more than what I have seen on my multiple road trips in Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Overall we paid ~ INR 3000 in toll fee across this road trip across Maharashtra.

What kind of food do I get while travelling in Maharashtra

Maharashtra has a very rich and diverse cuisine of it’s own. While fish based dishes are famous in the coastal areas, you will get mainstream Indian staples in most of the places across Maharashtra. Some of the maharashtrian cuisines like a “thali” (platter) and many street food like misal pav, pav bhaji, vada pav, strawberry with cream, bhel puri etc. are famous across the country. Apart from this, most of the resorts and hotels will have South Indian delicacies like idlis and dosas with sambar that tasted slightly different from the one found in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, continental and Indo-Chinese options abound as well. The “chikkis” of Lonavala are also very popular. And you get 10+ flavours of “chana” roasted with different spices and even caramelised versions to snack on. Something to definitely try out.

There is no shortage of food outlets even on the highways. And the towns and cities abound in food options from street side carts to fine dine options. In short, you need not worry about food at all when in Maharashtra.

Which of the above places can I visit on a weekend getaway from Mumbai

If you live in Mumbai or Pune or want to base yourself there and visit some of the above destinations as a weekend getaway from Mumbai or a weekend getaway from Pune, you can easily do the same.

Following would make for perfect weekend getaways from Mumbai or Pune –

• Lonavala and Khandala
• Nashik – Vineyard stay
• Nashik – exploring caves and temples in Nashik
• Aurangabad, including the Ajanta and Ellora Caves
• Ganpatipule

With the Mumbai – Nagpur expressway, it is possible to even visit Nagpur on a weekend getaway from Mumbai.

And once the Pune – Bangalore expressway completes, Bangalore and Pune can serve as a weekend getaway for each other. I am definitely waiting for that day to arrive.

After doing a beautiful road trip across Madhya Pradesh and a road trip across Kerala , this Maharashtra road trip was our 3rd major road trip exploring a state of India. In which we drove almost 3000 km. In the previous road trips, we have covered several beautiful historical places like Sanchi Stupas , Khajuraho Temples , Padmanabhapura Palace ; hill stations like Pachmarhi and Munnar , backwaters of Alleppey and riverside stay in Orchha , and even tiger safari in Bandhavgar , and majestic waterfalls like the Athirapally Waterfall in Kerala and Bhedaghat Waterfalls near Jabalpur.

Overall, Road trips have become our absolute favourite. There’s definitely a lot of advantage and flexibility in doing road trips with children. Hope you have enjoyed the armchair journey of these road trips with us as much as we have enjoyed them. And we hope to soon take you on another road trip in India, exploring yet another state of India. If you also aspire to do similar road trips, particularly with kids, here are some of our resources that will help you out –

Travel friendly snacks for kids

tips to travel safely with kids in UK

Our tried and tested Travel friendly products for kids and toddlers

Travel Medicine Kit that we always carry with us

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Check Out These 13 Beautiful Places to Visit in Maharashtra in Your 2021 Trip

by middha on December 31, 2020

Maharashtra, the second-most populous state in India, is replete with amazing destinations. From hill stations, beaches to lush green valleys, there are innumerable places to visit in Maharashtra for a short getaway or an extended holiday. On the one hand, Maharashtra boasts of the dense and picturesque Western Ghats and on the other, it is connected to the mighty Arabian Sea. Home to India’s financial capital (Mumbai) and other incredible cities, Maharashtra is a haven for tourist destinations, adventure and blissful vacations.

Although the best time to visit Maharashtra is The state attracts all year long If you are planning to travel here and are looking for the top tourist places in Maharashtra, just sit back and scroll through our top picks below!

13 Amazing Places to Visit in Maharashtra

Mumbai, the city that never sleeps or the city of dreams, is one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra. It is the capital of Maharashtra and is home to charming destinations, amazing eating outlets, awe-inspiring architecture and beautiful beaches. Whether for vacation or business, Mumbai caters to millions of travellers on a day-to-day basis. Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Chowpatty, Juhu beach, Colaba are some of the best places to visit in Mumbai among many others.

Book hotels in Mumbai for a safe and comfortable stay.

2 Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai or New Bombay is the largest planned Indian city and one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra. It is located on the eastern coast of Mumbai and well connected to it as well. The city is home to innumerable educational institutions, MNCs, and many recreational spots like Central Park, Pandavkada Waterfalls, Belapur Mago Garden, CIDCO Golf Course and more that top the list of great places to visit in Navi Mumbai .

Pune is another important and amazing city, located around 150km from Mumbai. It is famously called the Oxford of the East owing to the numerous educational institutions and is also home tourist destinations. Among the many places to visit in Pune , Agha Khan Palace, Pataleshwar Caves, Shaniwar Wada, Parvati Hill, David Synagogue are quite popular among tourists. It is one of the major cities in India and top places to visit in Maharashtra. Pune is built on the convergence of two rivers – Mula and Mutha and has a pleasant climate throughout the year.

Book budget-friendly and safe hotels in Pune with Treebo for the best stay experience.

Famous for its delicious, juicy oranges and numerous tiger reserves, Nagpur is one of the best tourist places in Maharashtra and also its winter capital. The city is famous for its lush greenery, top-notch cleanliness, great transport facilities and other amenities. There are several famous places to visit in Nagpur such as Deekshabhoomi, Sitabuldi Fort, Futala Lake, Maharaj Bagh Zoo, Gorewada Lake, Shri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir etc, and the city witnesses good tourist footprint throughout the year.

5 Mahabaleshwar

Snuggled amidst the Sahyadri Hills of the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is a picturesque hill station and one of the best places to visit near Mumbai . It was the summer capital during the British Era and is well known for its large production of berries like strawberries, mulberries, gooseberries, raspberries, and amazing food and drinks. There are numerous points in Mahabaleshwar like Wilson Point, Albert’s Seat, Kate’s Point, Lodwick Point, Mapro Garden etc that are excellent tourist attractions and always witness good tourist footprint.

Mahabaleshwar undeniably tops the list of best places to visit in Maharashtra, and the charm and allure of this incredible hill station will enthral anyone visiting this destination.

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Nashik, the “Wine Capital of India” is situated on the banks of the river Godavari. One of the most amazing places to visit in Maharashtra, Nashik is a blissful blend of Hindu pilgrimage sites, beautiful vineyards, historical sites, waterfalls, and more. Nashik is also famous for hosting the Kumbh Mela that takes place once every 12 months. Among the many places to visit in Nashik , Harihar Fort, Dugarwadi Waterfalls, Ramsej Fort, Pandavleni Caves, Sita Gufaa, Dharmachakra Jain Temple are some of the famous destinations.

Book hotels in Nashik with Treebo for a comfortable and relaxed stay.

Satara, one of the top places to Maharashtra, is a serene city situated on the confluence of River Krishna and River Venna. Satara is named after the 7 forts that dot this city and is home to several amazing destinations such as Thoseghar Falls, Lingamala Falls, Ajinkyatara Fort, Natraj Mandir, Mayani Bird Sanctuary, Kaas Plateau, Pratapgarh Fort, Shivsagar Lake, Kaas Lake, Koynanagar Dam and more. Blessed with unmatchable beauty and pleasant climate, Satara is a great option in the list of places to visit near Pune or Mumbai.

Book premium hotels in Satara with Treebo at budget-friendly prices and enjoy an incredible stay.

8 Panchgani

There are several hill stations near Mumbai , and Panchgani is one of them. The beautiful destination is named after 5 hills surrounding it and was once a summer retreat for the Britishers. Tourists who love to spend a vacation in serene, lush green and quiet places throng Panchgani, which is why it is also one of the most sough-after places to visit in Maharashtra. Tourists can go for a boating ride in the Venna Lake, explore Kamalgad Fort, or visit other sites like Table Land, Dhom Dam, Rajpuri Caves, Sydney Point and others.  

Book hotels in Panchgani for blissful and premium stay experience.

Kolhapur is an excellent city that is known for its rich heritage and culture. Kolhapur is also famous for spices, enthnic jewellery, sarees, and Kolhapuri footwear. The city is known for temples, lakes, forts, wildlife sanctuary, and museums. Some of the best places to visit in Kolhapur include Mahalakshmi Temple, Shri Chatrapati Shahu Museum, Jyotiba Temple, Rankala Lake, Siddhagiri Gramjivan Museum and others. One of the top tourist places in Maharastra, Kolhapur is a haven for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts.

Book hotels in Kolhapur for a safe and comfortable stay.

10 Aurangabad

Aurangabad is one of the most mesmerising tourist places in Maharashtra that is replete with architecture from Mughal era, caves, gardens, lakes, and palaces. Famously known as the City of Gates, the city got its name from the Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb. Among the various places to visit in Aurangabad, Bibi ka Maqbara, Himayat Bagh, Soneri Mahal, Shivaji Maharaj Museum and other interesting sites.

Book safe and perfect stays with hotels in Aurangabad , protected by Treebo Hygiene Shield safety measures.

Latur is another one of the famous places to visit in Maharashtra. It has a rich history and several interesting destinations that include a historical temple, centur-old forts, beautiful parks and gardens and several other sites that attracts tourists from different parts of the country. Latur is great option for a quick escape from the chaotic city life. Book budget-friendly hotels in Latur with Treebo for a safe and stress-free stay.

Read More: 10 Famous Places to Visit in Latur

Malvan is a one of the most serene and beautiful places to visit in Maharashtra and is famous of a vast array of sweets, alsphonso mangoes, sea-food and amazing destinations. Malvan has beautiful beaches that enjoy the best sunrise and sunset, and tourists can also try out several water sports here. One of the less crowded places, Malvan attracts tourists who are on the lookout for calm and tranquil destiantions.

Book budget hotels in Malvan with Treebo for a peaceful and relaxed vacation.

13 Lonavala

OAnother hill station located on the Sahyadri Hills, Lonavala is an incredible destination and one of the most-loved places to visit in Maharashtra. From gorgeous lakes, sprawling lush green gardens, spectacular landscapes, Lonavala offers everything a tourist loves to enjoy in a vacation. Along with these, there are several other places to visit in Lonavala that include Lohagarh Fort, Pawna Lake, Bhaja Caves, Tiger Point, Kune Falls and others.

Book premium and safe stays with hotels in Lonavala for a best stay experience.

Here’s the list of 13 best places to visit in Maharashtra for your upcoming trip in 2021. How many of them have you already visited and which are the destinations that you plan to travel to? Let us know in the comments below.

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Tourist Places to Visit in Maharashtra

Maharashtra Tourism And Travel Guide

Maharashtra, one of the most major states of India and its capital city of Mumbai which is the leading cosmopolitan city of the country, made quite popular through its entertainment industry, is an important tourist destination.

The mighty Western Ghats or Sahyadri mountain ranges, coastal regions of the Konkan, ancient forts built on the hills by the Deccan Sultanate and the Marathas, UNESCO Heritage monuments like Ajantha and Ellora Caves, amazing hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Matheran , Nature Parks and renowned pilgrimage centres like Shirdi and Pandharpur draw tourists to Maharashtra through the year.

With an efficient transport system and a number of airports and rail heads within the state that make it simple for travellers, a pilgrimage or sightseeing tour of Maharashtra should be a memorable one.  If you are planning a trip to Maharashtra, our travel and tourism guide should help you plan an ideal trip.

How to Reach

Maharashtra is easily accessible by air, rail or road and by ship as well. The easiest way to reach the state would be by train.

Mumbai ’s Chhatrapathi Shivaji Airport and Pune ’s International Airport serve domestic and international flights. There are a number of smaller domestic airports scattered around the state like in Nashik , Aurangabad , Shirdi , Solapur and Kolhapur .

Maharashtra has a broad railway system with trains chugging in to major railway stations in the cities and to the smaller towns as well. There are several rail stations, so travel across the state on rails becomes trouble-free. Added to it, travelling by train to Mumbai lets you get a chance to be in awe of the Chhatrapathi Shivaji Terminus (CST), one of the heritage structures of the capital city. Formerly known as the Victoria Terminus, CST was built in 1888 by British architect F. W. Stevens in the Victorian Gothic style of architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are government as well as private buses that run from the neighbouring states to Maharashtra. You could also drive to the region from Goa , Karnataka , Andhra Pradesh , Gujarat or Madhya Pradesh .

You could treat yourself to a romantic holiday getaway, sailing to the port city of Mumbai on a cruise liner from Singapore or Dubai .

Getting Around:

There are plenty of local buses, suburban trains as well as auto rickshaws and cabs for getting around the towns and for intracity travel.

• How To Reach Maharashtra

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The seasons are by and large tropical. But the landscape is vast and varied, interspaced with mountainous regions with a cool climate and plains that bear the brunt of the seasons. The perfect time to visit Maharashtra would be from October to February.

Summer (March – May):

Summers are very hot in the plains, but cool and real pleasant up in the hill stations of Mahabaleshwar , Lonavala and Matheran . If you are planning a trip to Maharashtra in summer, chill up in the hills.

Monsoon (June – September):

Monsoons are very rainy in the state, with heavy downpours that is technically going to make travel a bother. Monsoon is an off season for tourism in Maharashtra.

Winter (October – February):

Winters are dry, cool and pleasant. You can visit the sights, go on pilgrimages or photo shoots or on wild adventure tours on the hills.

• Maharashtra Weather And Best Time To Visit Maharashtra

Things to Do

Vipassana Meditation:

A marvel of modern architectural skills, the Golden Vipassana Pagoda which contains the bone relics of Gautama Buddha, is a must visit. Check out the central dome of the Pagoda which is the world’s biggest stone dome built without supporting columns.

Kaas Pathar:

The Kaas Plateau is a landcape of flowers, fringed by a thick forest. What seems a marvel is the interchanging pattern of colours as the flowering cycle of the plants change.

Lonar Temples and a Lake:

Away from Aurangabad is the little town of Lonar which has a number of small ancient temples and a ruined one too, along with an enchanting lake that was created after a meteor’s collision.

Water sports:

What more to throw off the heat of summer than a great day spent on the lakes and streams of Maharashtra? There are several boating clubs in cities like Mumbai and Pune that offer offbeat boating and watersport adventures. There are some most enchanting waterfalls in Maharashtra, that are just lovely for a soak!

Bird Spotting:

Treat yourself to a great day at the wild life sanctuaries and parks, photographing wild birds of different kinds. Go on a trip along the Gugamal National Park in Amaravathi district to watch Jungle Babblers, White checked Barbets, Crested Bunting and Green Bee Eaters.

Jungle Trips:

Go off on a tiger and lion Safari at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, jeep safari at the wild Chandoli National Park in the west of Maharashtra. Used as an open jail for the prisoners of war during the rule of Chhatrapathi Shivaji, Chandoli National park has the ruins of old forts, temples and beautiful waterfalls.

Hike up the hills:

A favourite trail of trekking enthusiasts is the night trek up the Everest of Maharashtra, Mt. Kalsubai to watch the glimmering stars up on the night sky. Mt. Kalsubai sits inside the Kalsubai Harischandragad Sanctuary.

Cruise on the Arabian Sea:

Get off on a luxurious cruise with family and friends, across the Arabian Sea on a yacht. Experience the offbeat adventure on the wild seas. 

• Things To Do In Maharashtra
• Tourist Places To Visit In Maharashtra

Festivals and Fairs

Every state of India has its own particular festivity and Maharashtra which is the fusion of different cultures and ethnicities celebrates a number of festivals that are particular to the state. Some of Maharashtra’s classic festivities include the Nag Panchami, Narali Pournami that marks the onset of fishing season, Banganga Festival at Malabar Hills, Vat Pournima that women celebrate for the longevity of their spouses, Kojagiri Pournima that celebrates the beginning of the harvest season, Shivaji Jayanthi that glorifies Chhatrapathi Shivaji, the greatest ruler of Maharashtra, Dahi Handi Mahotsav during Krishna Janmastami, the harvest festival of Pola and the Ellora – Ajanta International Festival (October) which is an amalgam of dance and music festivals along with a celebration of performing arts, food and crafts!

Don’t miss the International Kite Festival (January), the Ganeshotsav festival in August-September and the annual Flamingo Festival in March.

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My 2200+ km trip across Maharashtra

• Post author: Shraddha
• Post published: April 3, 2021
• Post category: India / Journeys / Maharashtra / shraaa
• Post comments: 1 Comment

This post has all the information about my Maharashtra tour route, costs, kilometres and places I visited while travelling within my state Maharashtra in India. After staying at home and exploring my city of Pune for the whole year of 2020, I decided to step out and explore my state of Maharashtra in 2021.

Itinerary of my 21 days trip across western Maharashtra

• Day 1:  Wai
• Day 2 and 3:  Satara
• Day 4 and 5:  Koynanagar
• Day 6: Karad
• Day 7 and 8: Kolhapur
• Day 9 and 10:  Malvan
• Day 11 and 12:  Devgad
• Day 13 and 14:  Ratnagiri
• Day 15: Guhagar
• Day 16: Dapoli
• Day 17:  Pune
• Day 18:  Mumbai
• Day 19 and 20:  Bhandardara region
• Day 21: Kalsubai peak sunrise trek

What did I see and experience

• Villages and cities: 41
• Beaches: 22
• Temples: 18
• Types of transport vehicles: 08
• Plastic water bottles used: 01

Kilometres travelled and how?

• By Public Transport: 1367 km
• By Collabs and friends: 468 km
• By hitchhiking: 292 km
• By rented bike: 58 km
• By foot: 15 km

That is a total of around  2200 km of travel in just 21 days .

That comes to  an average of 105 km per day .

To be honest, even I am amazed by these statistics! And these are estimated figures I have calculated using google maps. In reality, public transport always takes painfully longer routes and stops everywhere. These increase my travel distance and travel time too.

What about safety?

They told me the world out there is very bad for a young beautiful girl. I say the world out there is extremely good and helpful for a young beautiful girl. I found a father, brother or family in everyone I met. Some people stepped out of their way for me and helped me just because I was a girl and they wanted me to be safe.

Almost everyone I met asked me the question, “Are you travelling alone?” When I said yes, they would ask it again with disbelief. In Radhanagari, I met some police officers at dinner, who after hearing my story and further travel plans asked me, “Do you know karate, taekwondo or are you carrying a gun?” I just laughed, tapped my head and said, “This is my only strength.”

The world outside is just as you believe it is. If you start with a positive mindset that all good things are going to happen, then nothing bad will happen to you. But you also have to use a fair bit of common sense and judgment to protect yourself and have a great journey as a solo female traveller.

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This post has one comment.

Hey Shraddha,

I just discovered your website and your journey is just amazing! Thank you for bringing inspiration and light by sharing your stories.

All the best from Germany,

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15 Places to Visit in Maharashtra for a Week-Long Trip

Vacations can be pretty and relaxing, especially if you plan a trip to one of the best places in India, Maharashtra…a place where the coast is always sultry, the hills are always scenic and the cities always tourist friendly. This stupendous destination is always welcoming and you may get a creasy forehead deciding where to go, considering Maharashtra to be the third largest state in India. However, in order to let you have the best vacation, we have shortlisted the top places to see in Maharashtra especially one week long trip.

Recommended Tours

If you are one of those city life lovers wanting to constantly be surrounded by cafes, malls, restaurants, street markets, spend your week-long trip in places like…

Photo: https://bit.ly/2qqjWxk

Vacationing in Maharashtra means Mumbai being your first stop… why? Because it has an International Airport (Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport) and a chance to have a luxury vacation. Receiving a mishmash of travellers every year, this flavourful destination has various places of interest that will bring an effulgent smile on every traveller’s face. While in Mumbai, apart from the popular tourist places, you can also go exploring the local attractions like Global Vipassana Pagoda which is perfect place for meditation; Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount for its splendor classic architecture; and a ferry ride to Elephanta Island to see the 600 AD caves and simply admire the artistic excellence.

How I Spent 24 Hours in Mumbai

Photo: https://bit.ly/2yiUUHM

Though this city of Pune is a little laid back as compared to the capital of Maharashtra, Mumbai, it receives zesty crowd for its high-spirited nightlife and vivifying attractions. The ‘do what you want’ feel will take over you while here, don’t believe us? Go shake a leg at the swanky bars in Pune like Area 51(its specialty, check out the revolving dance floor). You have to visit places like Sinhagad Fort , occupying a small part of Bhuleshwar Range of Sahyadris and also Mulshi Dam , this romantic escape might just fill your hearts with awe. Pune also has a series of interesting historical sites that you simply can’t afford to miss.

My Budget Trip to Bhigwan from Pune on my TVS Jupiter

Photo: https://bit.ly/2yiUX6o

With Ajanta and Ellora Caves on top of the must visit places in India, this fabulous Maharashtra destination of Aurangabad must be on your go-to list. While these above-mentioned caves give recognition to this place, Bibi Ka Maqbara , a replica of the Taj Mahal, gives a chance to the visitors to hum romantic songs as you explore. The picturesque landscape of Aurangabad possesses some amazing places to spend solitary time with nature, and of course, its religious sites and historical monuments that date back to 3rd century BC are worth paying a visit.

For those who appreciate the sounds of nature along with exuberating hill activities, spend your week-long trip in places like…

Photo: https://bit.ly/2hCT6Qh

A visit up a secluded and charming hill destination of Matheran can be an interesting experience, so much that you can almost forget all your worries. Entrenched in the Western Ghats range, Matheran is an environment-friendly place that does not allow any vehicle, and thus, walking or taking a pony ride are the options you can choose from. This popular getaway in Maharashtra is ideal to offer you respite from the hectic urban life. Enjoy basking in the warm sun, panoramic views of the rolling hills and pleasant weather that can compel you to extend your holiday. The major tourist attractions in Matheran that you can go for a sightseeing tour are Echo Point , Louisa Point , and Alexander Point as well as Charlotte Lake and Vikatgad Peb Fort.

Top 15 Hill Stations Near Mumbai for Weekend Breaks

Mahabaleshwar

Photo: https://bit.ly/2wPMTGK

Such exhilarating vibes this hill destination of Mahabaleshwar offers, you can hardly think of any other destination while here, obviously! Its quiet surroundings and cool breeze make it a famous summer destination for the people, especially the city dwellers of Mumbai. Mahabaleshwar enchants every visitor by its best-kept tourist sites like the Wilson Point, which is the best place to see the sunrise and the Venna Lake where you can make the day out of it by boat around the lake. Mahabaleshwar is also famous for having trekking spots and beautiful waterfalls like Chinaman and Dhobi Waterfalls. You cannot leave Mahabaleshwar without visiting other important places like Pratapgarh Fort , Afzal Khan Tomb, and Pratap Garden.

15 Places to Explore While You are Low on Budget

Photo: https://bit.ly/2xB20nc

Perhaps Lavasa can be called an ideal place to visit for honeymoon holidays because it’s soothing vibe, pleasant weather, colourful buildings and pebble streets offer certain charm. So to say, you may feel like being in a quaint little Italian town like Portofino. If you seek a quick getaway to see the nearby beauty of Lavasa, go for a trek to the surrounding wet forest and Mulshi Dam, for a more romantic and scenic sight, visit this dam during the monsoon season and the thin layered mist will certainly add an oomph to the place.

If you are one of those who enjoys the coastal scenes and are always in a mood to hit the beach to see the sunsets, spend your week-long trip in places like…

Photo: https://bit.ly/2zgbG8N

Malvan is a quite a fishing holiday destination where you meet sun, sand, and sea. Here you can explore the beaches that are picturesque and comely. If you are seeking for a more secluded and romantic beach in Malvan, take a trip to the Kolamb Beach, you can expect to have an uninterrupted sight of the setting sun from this beach. Malvan Beach, on the other hand, is rather opposite to calm, it has various beachside shops and cafes, keeping it quite crowded, most of the time. For sightseeing, there are various islands that are accessible from Malvancho Dhakko, where you get a ferry to nearby rocky islands like the Lighthouse island, Burnt Island, and Nivati rocks. Malvan also has finest local places to visit like Rajkot, Rock Garden Sunset Point , Sarjekot Fort, Padma Gad and various other religious places. Besides, you have to try the delicious Malvani dishes, all thanks to their generous use of coconuts and natural herbs offering amazing flavours.

Popular Ideas to Have an Ideal Holiday with Kids under 10 in India

Photo: https://bit.ly/2z15e4F

Just a few kilometers from Malvan, Tarkarli is another fabulous place to be in to have a perfect beach holiday; charming and green by its appearance, it offers a lot of joy to the vacationers. This destination is perfect for a family holiday with kids and for honeymooners too. Just pass an array of coconut trees and you will be greeted with an outstretched beach which is the main attraction of the place. There is a wide range of resorts in Tarkarli that offer luxe treatment and all you have to do during your much-needed vacation is to sit back relax and enjoy every single moment offered by Tarkarli. This destination is also a popular hotspot for water sports activities, here you can enjoy scuba diving and motorboat rides along with other enthralling beach sports.

12 Less Explored Destinations in Maharashtra

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Amongst the best holiday places, Alibaug is perhaps the most attractive treasure to visit that is adorned with the dense forest of Kanakeshwar, which is enriched with a variety of animal and plant species. However, being a beach destination in Maharashtra , Alibaug’s effulgent pride is the Nagaon Beach . It has a peaceful environment, beautifully surrounded by tall coconut and palm trees. This beach looks stunning during the sunrise. The other must visit in Alibaug is the Janjira Fort , which is a perfect spot to gaze at the Arabian Sea, this fort endowed in an ancient Mughal architectural style is one of the best places to visit in Alibaug . On the other hand, the Kolaba Fort is also a best-kept tourist place you have to visit while in Alibaug, of course, a ferry ride to get here is necessary.

For devotional and spiritual kind who seek soulful and religious places to devout their time with the holy, spend your week-long trip in places like…

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One of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra , Shirdi, where the home of the Saint Sai Baba is located is a definite place to visit. You can find one of the richest temples in India- Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan Temple . Also, one rare place to visit is Shani Shingnapur Temple , this Mandir in the village, so devoted to Lord Shani that none of the houses or shops here have doors. A stopover in this unique place may offer a different feel in your journeys. During your visit to Shirdi , you may feel the presence of a supernatural power, a spiritual one… perhaps due to the positive vibe of the devotees or the place itself, the only way you can figure it out is by visiting.

16 Most Revered and Rich Temples of India

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Nashik is a famous destination to go to if you seek a religious sojourn and a countryside ambience. A visit to some of the historical attractions and holy places like Trimbakeshwar and Muktidham Temples is the must thing to do here. Also, not to miss out is a visit to Pandavleni Caves which is adorned in vihara style of architecture. Nasik is also associated with the Hindu Mythology of Ramayana as it is believed the three saintly figures – Ram, Lakshman, and Sita dwelled in this land. Nonetheless, to offer a rather relaxing and new experience, 30 minutes away from the heart of the city is Sula Vineyards . Sample some wine brewed in the Sula winery and oh my! you will feel like being in heaven with Gods.

20 Top Winter Tourist Places in Western India

P.S. There’s a hidden attraction just two to three hours from Nasik, Purushwadi. The beauty here are the glowing fireflies that illuminate the entire area and the best time to go there is during the first two weeks of June.

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This pilgrimage destination is ideally visited for the temple of Khandoba , a Hindu deity who battled the demons – Malla and Mani. ‘A revered shrine of Maharashtra,’ a visit to this holy grounds may make you feel saintly exploring and being a part of the on-going rituals. Apart from it, the place has wondrous architectural design and if you plan a visit here, you must pay attention the grandeur of the craftsmanship.

If you prefer spending time a little away from the regular destinations, in an offbeat place or perhaps in some wildlife resorts, close to the wild, spend your week-long trip in places like…

Tadoba National Park

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Go for a trip off the tourist places to a land surrounded by the wild. It is certainly a drastic change yet something adventurous, and one such thrill-seeking place you have to visit is Tadoba National Park . This famed national park is the best place to see the protected Tigers in their natural surroundings. Tadoba National Park is an ideal place for a short family trip. It is located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra and while here, you can take up jeep safari and explore its dense forest, sight birds as well as other animals. Inside Tadoba National Park, apart from exploring Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, you can also go on an excursion and visit places like Tadoba lake and Erai dam. These are nice places to have an enchanting wildlife experience in Maharashtra .

10 Best Hotels & Resorts to Stay in Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve

Chandoli National Park

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Another best place to visit in Maharashtra for a rendezvous with the wild is in Chandoli National Park, Sangli. A popular national park in India, Chandoli is located near a coastal city of Ratnagiri and receives a mishmash of wildlife enthusiasts. You can visit here to see various species of flora and fauna like the mammals, birds, and reptiles. If you want to also see the entire forest bloom in varied flora, the spring season is the best time to visit here. Chandoli is home to species such as tigers, deer, gaurs, leopard, sloth bears, panthers, barking deer, mouse deer etc. Also, enhance your wildlife experience by staying in some of the best wildlife lodges and jungle resorts at Chandoli National Park.

Maharashtra Eco Tourism- National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary

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Adjacent to the Chandoli National Park, another wildlife place in Maharashtra is Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary perfect for a family vacation. Amongst other wildlife tourism places, this sanctuary is a bliss due to its open space and hills that together create a spell-binding and a picture-perfect place for nature lovers. Koyna is a protected sanctuary for tigers, much bigger compared to Chandoli, this beautiful place encompasses three rivers, Solashi, Kandati, and Koyna. Also, here the Koyna Dam and Vasota Fort are two must-visits. Shivaji sagar Reservoir is also a charming place in Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. While here, the best thing to do is to go for wildlife exploration and see many animals and birds.

So, here we round up the 15 best places you can visit in Maharashtra for a week-long holiday and we are pretty sure you had your favourite pick. Well, how can you not, this wonderful state has all sorts of places to travel for miscellany travellers and we hope our list has impressed you by its selection of destinations for city travellers, hill voyagers, devout pilgrims and wildlife enthusiasts. And if you plan for a holiday in any of the places of Maharashtra but also seek for a tour package, you can always call us at +91-9212553107 or email us at [email protected] and choose from our luxury and budget tour packages . Also, to know more about Tour My India or a particular destination you can go through our detailed travel guide.

About Abhishek Gurung

Abhishek Gurung is a writer whose passion for food and travel is an unending affair. He likes going on treks and camping in the woods, loves exploring forts and architecture, he is a cycle enthusiast who likes to contribute something to the environment, travel photography and videography is another interest as he sees life in a cinematic point of view. He likes the idea of living in offbeat destination where the mode of communication is to interact with each other. Coming from Nagaland, he has visited some beautiful valleys and remote villages and appreciates nature as it is and as it should be.

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Places to Visit in Maharashtra

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Tourist Places in Maharashtra

If you are hunting for the most sought-after places to visit in Maharashtra, be ready to be spoiled for choices as this cultural state is blessed with diverse topography. Whether you want to spend a peaceful evening by the Marine Drive or climb up the Sahyadri ranges and soak in the mesmerizing views from the top, Maharashtra has got something for everyone. While traditional attractions like Nasik, Pune, and Shirdi provide you a closer look into the unique Maharashtrian culture, its adventure sites such as Malvan and Tadoba stimulate your adrenaline in no time. Want to enjoy a romantic getaway with your better half without going too heavy on your pocket? Look for some hilly places to see in Maharashtra and enjoy a hassle-free stay amidst the verdant hills and beautiful landscapes of Western Ghats. From small hill stations like Lonavala, Panchgani and Mahabaleshwar to beachside places to go in Maharashtra such as Alibaug, every nook and corner of this beautiful state exude magnificence. If you wish to delve deeper into its rich history, feel free to hike your way towards its historical forts which say a ton about the valorous Maratha rulers. With a perfect blend of traditions, culture, adventure, and beauty, Maharashtra is no lesser than a tourist magnet. For all those vacationers who are planning a quick weekend getaway to Maharashtra, here is everything that they need to know ahead of their trip.

Here is a list of best places to visit in Maharashtra:

Mumbai, the city of dreams. Mumbai, the city that never sleeps. Mumbai, the old world charm and fast pace of the modern life. There is so much that one can say in the praise of the one city in India that everyone wants to visit at least once in their life. That maybe because of the grandeur of this city or because of the history it has seen. Nonetheless, this city has a lot in store for everyone who visits. The USP of places to visit in Mumbai is that they are all iconic and all you need is a picture to recognize them, that is the charm of this city. Some places here are pieces of history, some are spiritual hotspots, and others are mesmerizing places to relax, chill or munch on the famous streets of Mumbai, like the ever famous Chowpatty Beach.

You can see the Gateway of India, Marine drive or the film city of Goregaon, or visit the Siddhivinayak temple and Haji Ali Mosque for your fill of the spiritual. You can even get to see the new addition to the roster of mesmerizing and intimidating places in Mumbai, the Bandra Worli Sealink. And be it a group hangout, a solo search of solace or just a couple's getaway, Chowpatty, Juhu, and Aksa Beach are names that almost everyone in the city knows and crowds on various occasions. They are equally coveted by the many who come to Mumbai from outside for the frolicking and snacking experiences that are available at these locations. One more thing that Mumbai is famous for is the shopping district at Colaba, where you can get everything from high brand store clothes to cheap knock-offs to add to your wardrobe as part of your fashion statement.

 Always bustling with energy, a trip to Mumbai should be on your travel list to understand the best way of how India portrays unity in diversity. Visit the hidden temples or pay a visit to famous monuments to explore the most cosmopolitan city in India. Enjoy the perfect blend of festivities, religions, music, food, music and theatres with a trip to Mumbai. Some of the best places to visit in Mumbai are the Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Girgaum Cave, Siddhivinayak Temple, Essel world, Elephanta Island etc. 

While you are in this amazing city you can also visit the Kanheri Caves, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mount Mary Church, Banganga Tank etc. Make a stop at the Marina Beach in the evening and have lip-smacking street food while you witness the best sunset being greeted by splashing waves of the sea. Find out all you need to know about the best places to visit in Mumbai on your vacation here.

And that is not just it. If you are looking for things to do and places outside the city, there is a lot of scope to plan weekend getaways near Mumbai . At just a small drive away from the city is the favourite picnic and night stay spots of Lonavala and Khandala. You can even visit the famous Sai Baba temple in Shirdi. With so much to offer, there is no wonder why Mumbai has been a favourite of everyone in the country for so many decades.

If Mumbai is the most happening place in Maharashtra, then it’s neighbour Pune is the cultural hub and the biggest city in the state. An upcoming IT centre and a fascinating city, Pune has no shortage of things to intrigue the interest of almost anyone who has ever been here or has heard of the city. With being in the proximity of many major cities and acting as a centre seat for when getting to major attractions of the state is concerned, the places to visit in Pune and around will never cease to amaze you with their unique roster of features. 

From treks to Lohagarh and Rajmachi Forts, to the canoeing and white water rafting adventures in Kolad River, from a fascinating Scuba Diving experience to the unique experience of trekking in Andharban, the city is in a proximity of some of the most fascinating things to do in Pune and near.

Adventure never stops in Pune as you can embark on an exhilarating underwater experiences in the Sangam safari and maybe, if you are a daredevil, pay a visit to the Crocodile Island. And even if you are not well acquainted with the adventures around, don’t be disheartened as there are many places near Pune where you can take on things at a beginner level, like the Kundalika river that serves as the perfect place for beginners in rafting or the famous Rajmachi fort which is most suited for people who wish to start on an easy trek

And for places to stay in Pune and around, there are innumerable options to choose from. You can choose to stay in a luxurious resort in Pune or go for a hillside resort in the embrace of Maharashtra’s favourite hill stations like Khandala, Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar for the true weekend getaway from Pune , not so far away from the city. And for the ones who like mix adventure with their stays and take it all to a whole new level, Pune is not going to disappoint you. With options ranging from a camp stay on the banks of Pawna Lake to a village stay experience in Junnar, there is just no stopping the fun that one can have in Pune. Pune is the whole deal, everything around it is just a pleasant add-on, and who doesn’t like freebies, right?

Lonavala city is one of the most beautiful retreats, that takes you away from the maddening rush of the metropolises. It is located in the western part of India in the Pune district of Maharashtra. This hill station lies 96 kilometres east of the metropolitan city of Mumbai and 64 kilometres west of modern-day Pune city. Therefore, a profound location on the Mumbai-Pune expressway makes Lonavala cater to both cities with the smoothest connectivity through roads. Lonavala City is popularly called the “city of caves' and the “Jewel of Sahyadri”. That is because the hill station boasts some of the most spectacular settings, including luxuriant green valleys, remarkable caves, serene lakes and stunning waterfalls. The spectacular rock-cut Bhaja and Karla caves in Lonavala have been notable tourists with their old beams, motifs and inscriptions. The surrounding regions of Lonavala are blessed with an unbeatable collection of waterfalls that include the Kune waterfall , Bhivpuri, Bhagirath and Jummapatti waterfalls. The refreshing ambience of the postcard-perfect landscape of Aamby Valley, Pawna Lake and Lonavala Lake is bound to impress you. Lonavala is famous for its natural wonders, religious attractions, and historical sites. These include the Tikona Fort , Duke’s Nose, Lohagad and Rajmachi fort. Lonavala hosts an array of fun activities for tourists and these include rappelling, camping at the Pawna Lake, hiking to the Tikona Fort, trekking to the Rajmachi fort and riding at Wet and joy water slides. Lonavala has a tropical climate but the weather is an all-time maritime one. However, all the stunning places and sites of Lonavala come alive during the winter and monsoon seasons. Thus, pack your bags and come here because Lonavala has something for everyone, from quiet time to adventure.

Located just below the border of Mumbai, Alibag is a little coastal town in the state of Maharashtra. The name of the town literally means “The Gardens of Ali” and refers to the fruit orchards that were planted by Ali, an Israelite who used to live in the town during its earliest days. Owing to its convenient location by the sea, the town was regarded as an important strategic port during the British reign in India.  Being a coastal town, the beauty of Alibaug derives largely from the various beaches here. With its glittering golden black sands and clear blue waves, the clean and sparkling beaches of the town are a sight to behold. The brilliance of the beaches is often complemented by the historical fort ruins and ancient temples that can often be found scattered around the place. Whether you’re a lover of the sea or a history buff looking for an insightful vacation, Alibaug is just the place for you. The excellent beaches here, such as the Alibaug Beach, Mandwa Beach or Nagaon Beach, among others, offer a happening day out for the entire family. Apart from the regular swimming and sunbathing, some of these beaches offer a marvelous variety of watersports as well.T hose with a penchant for the past can also spend a happening day touring all the historical attractions here, such as the Brahma Kund or the Kolaba Fort. One of the best ways to spend your time while in Alibaug is to try your hand at the watersports offered by the beach here. Sports like parasailing, jet skiing and banana boating can be done by beginners as well as experts, and promise a fun experience for all. While in Alibaug, you can also try your hand at camping, with the several beachside campsites here offering perfect locations for the activity. Summers in Alibaug are generally hot and humid, winter months tend to be cooler and pleasant. Winter here lasts between November and February, and is generally considered to be the best time to visit. Rainfall in Alibaug generally concentrates between the months of July and September, while the winter months remain dry.

Best of Maharashtra

Located in the mountainous and scenic district of Raigad, Karjat is a municipal council and city. This city is also a part of Mumbai’s metro city that travelers prefer the most. Right from couples to kids and families, anyone can make the most of Karjat as a holiday destination. That is because the city has a lot to offer in terms of beating the boredom. The hilly town of Karjat is full of entrancing temples, monuments, lush green seraphic valleys and exquisite caves. Undoubtedly, this city is one of the incredible getaways for adventure seekers that takes just two hours to reach from Mumbai. Hindu pilgrims and hikers frequent the city for its ancient and imposing temples. You can visit the hill station from nearby cities of Mumbai as well. You can indulge in a host of spine-tingling activities that include mountain climbing, hiking, trekking and river rafting. The adorable little hill station is 62 kilometers away from Mumbai and is popular for its ambrosial landscapes as well as awe-inspiring fresh natural beauty. When in Karjat city you must visit the stunning and ancient Kondana caves for the adventurous trek and bewildering beauty, beside the beautifully sculpted riveting temple of Kondeshwar. Take a shower and slide down under the Bhivpuri waterfall, and trek up to the Sondai fort to witness the phenomenal view of the Changewadi waterfall. Do not miss out on the lovely valley of Ulhas that is replete with nature’s marvels and encompasses the most wondrous streams and fragrant waterfalls. All you need to do now is to list down the things you desire to indulge in Karjat, and grab a map to select the locations for the most authentic sight-seeing experience. The best time to visit the city of Karjat is during the monsoon as the place looks simply heavenly, lively and extremely delightful with its lush greenery, misty atmosphere and numerous waterfalls.

Mahabaleshwar

Nestled in the picturesque Western Ghats, tourist places in Mahabaleshwar will captivate your imagination with their natural splendor. Mahabaleshwar is well known for its numerous rivers, magnificent cascades, and majestic peaks. The city comprises of ancient temples, boarding schools, manicured and lush green dense forest, waterfalls, hills, valleys that will take your breath away on your visit. The city is definitely among the most sought-after weekend getaways from metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Pune. Once, a summer capital of Bombay during the British Raj, the city has British influence of in its architecture. It is a very popular hill station that offers a plethora of tourist activities and attractions to avid travelers and nature lovers.

Plan your visit with Mahabaleshwar tour packages and witness the alluring dawns and dusks from the slope, in the midst of the rich green vista. Located about 120 kilometers southwest of Pune and 285 kilometers from Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar is a vast plateau measuring 150 kilometers, bound by valleys on all sides. The hill station in the Western Ghats is the source of the Krishna River that flows across Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Known for its captivating beauty and the stunning strawberry farms, Mahabaleshwar boasts of zigzagging roads, a calm breeze at all times, vantage points offering stunning views of hills and valleys, plenty of strawberries to gorge on and the main street full of shops offering all kinds of curios and snacks.

There are numerous enchanting tourist places in Mahabaleshwar exuding charm and elegance. Bordered by a few murmuring waterways, evergreen timberlands, captivating slopes and mountains there are some mesmerizing tourist places in Mahabaleshwar. Arranged in the Satara region in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar Sightseeing tours will get you near the captivating excellence of nature. The wonderful hill retreat brags of being one of the most splendid evergreen slope stations in India.

Nashik is a holy site seated in Maharashtra that is known for its religious importance for Hindu temples. This ancient holy site is of great religious importance in Hindu religion. It is also one of the all 4 locations where Kumbh Mela, every 12 years is organised.  Nasik is adorned with a number of natural sites that will blow your mind from its beauty. From the sprawling beauty of Sahyadri range giving rise to streams of Western Ghat to lovely vineyards spread over the hills, Nashik’s beauty is unbeatable and offers relaxation of mind. The Anjneri Hill, Pandavleni Caves and others are some of the main attractions to visit for sighting natural beauty. This holy location resides on temple trails, caves, waterfalls and more to make a complete bucket list for you. Some of the renowned attractions to visit in Nasik are Sula Vineyards, Coin Museum, Dudhsagar waterfall, Ram kund, Soma Vine village and many more. From shopaholics to adventure and history lovers, Nasik has an array of attractions for all tastes of tourists.  Apart from exploration, you can also indulge into various adrenaline rushing activities to tick off every item in your bucket list.  Plan your itinerary with Nasik tour package with thrilling activities like rafting, cliff jumping, go karting, temple visits, cave exploration and more.  Nasik experiences pleasant weather in winters that makes it an ideal time to visit and explore it. Summers experience scorching heat with temperature shooting high up to 40 degree Celsius. During monsoons, this destination receives heavy rainfall thus making it the least ideal time to plan your visits.

Situated in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, Raigad district is majorly known for its historical significance and awe-inspiring beauty. Earlier, the place was named as Coolaba but with the growing popularity of its Raigad fort, it was renamed to Raigad. Cradled amidst the mesmerizing Sahyadri ranges, this district welcomes you with a unique combination of beaches, religious temples, and historic forts. On your visit to this beautiful Konkani district, be ready to fall in love with its natural splendour that is second to none. As you will usher into the Raigad city, you will be welcomed by the striking landscapes of the Western Ghats and picturesque verdant beaches where one can unwind and bid farewell to their hectic lives. The city also boasts its diverse flora and fauna that forms the bedrock of its popularity. From verdant beaches like Alibag, Kihim, and Karnala to the historic forts like Kolaba, Raigad, and Sudhagad- Raigad has everything that makes it the tourist magnet of Maharashtra. With touristy spots like Elephanta Caves and Ashtavinayak Temple in reserve, it also provides you with a sneak peek into the glorious culture of Konkan region. Whether you want to embark on a scenic trip or delve deep into the history of Maharashtra, Raigad has got it all covered for you. There is a wide range of enthralling activities that one might indulge in here. Whether you are a loner who finds peace in looking out for exotic bird species at the Karnala Bird Sanctuary or the historic landmarks of the district is what that appeals to you the most- there is no dearth of things to do in Raigad. If you are willing to indulge in some exhilarating sports, set out on a ropeway ride near the Raigad fort and vouch for a fun-filled day. You can also embark on a gastronomic journey by exploring numerous restaurants across the city streets and relishing the taste of delicious Maharashtrian cuisines. Though the surreal landscapes and historical forts form the major highlights of Raigad, its pleasant weather adds to its existing charm. The city witnesses a pleasant climate during the colder months which makes it a superb winter destination. Hence, if you want to make the most out of your Raigad trip, it is best to visit here between November and March. Raigad experiences reduced tourist activities between March and June, owing to its hot weather during these months.

Best of Mumbai

Named after the five majestic hills enclosing it, Panchgani makes for a renowned hill station in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Perched at an elevation of around 1,334 meters above sea level, this hill town is packed with towering mountains, serene valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. Overlooked by the Sahyadri mountains, this town served as a beautiful summer retreat for the British officials in the bygone times. At the present day, Panchgani is visited by a plethora of tourists seeking peace, romance, nature, and adventure.  Enthralling local destinations such as Sydney Point, Table Land, Rajpuri Caves, and Dhom Dam form the major attractions of Panchgani and add to the beauty and charm of the place. Panchgani is not limited just to a few picturesque sights, but also goes beyond to offer its visitors a plethora of mind-boggling activities. From shopping at Shivaji Circle to admiring nature at Wai and from exploring history at Kamalgad Fort to boating at Venna Lake, this place has everything to let you experience an action-packed holiday. If you are a daredevil and seeking adventure activities, Panchgani  can offer you a plethora of adrenaline-fuelled sports including paragliding, rock climbing, trekking, speed boating, and horse riding. One of the top aspects that adds to the pleasurable vacation at Panchgani is the availability of top-class accommodation facilities in this town. Panchgani is bestowed with a plethora of budget-friendly as well as luxury resorts and hotels that are suitable for families, couples, and friends. These hotels are well-equipped with modern amenities and offer amazing facilities including thrilling outdoor activities. Furthermore, packed with many nature-friendly camping destinations, this place also allows the travelers to enjoy surreal night camping opportunities. So, no matter the kind of traveler you are, pack your bags to Panchgani and discover an exquisite holiday brimming with history, adventure, nature, and a lot more.

Located around 110 kilometres from Mumbai, Kolad is a small hamlet in the beautiful Raigad district of Maharashtra. Often called the Rishikesh of Maharashtra, the village boasts of numerous scenic valleys, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mist-laden hills and dense evergreen forests. The verdant greenery, clear streams and a peaceful ambience add to the beauty of this quaint hamlet. Kolad is a treasure trove of sightseeing attractions, and caters to all kinds of tourists. Some of the best attractions in Kolad City include the Kundalika River, which is the hub of white water rafting in the region. You can also visit the serene Tamhini Ghat, and soak in picturesque views of the surrounding hills. Or you can enjoy a fun-filled and memorable picnic at the Bhira Dam, while enjoying views of the gorgeous Devkund Waterfalls. Other famous attractions of Kolad include the ancient Ghosala Fort and the Kuda Caves. You can also enjoy camping and bird watching at the tranquil Sutarwadi Lake, or enjoy the history at the Talgad Fort. For adventure sports lovers, you can go trekking at the Plus Valley, or hike to the Devkund Waterfalls. From water sports like white water rafting and boating, to adventure activities like hiking, camping, nature walks and trekking, Kolad has a lot of thrilling activities for travellers. Due to its advantageous location, you can also enjoy paragliding in Kolad when the day is clear. Kolad experiences a typical tropical climate, with pleasant weather throughout the year. While the summers here are a little humid as compared to the other seasons, the monsoons are the best time to enjoy a river rafting experience in Kolad. Furthermore, the rains during this time make the entire region come to life, with the waterfalls and rivers flowing at their full speed, the forests and valleys experiencing the blooming of flowers and plants and an overall soothing and calm atmosphere. The months from November to February make up the cold winter season in Kolad, when the village transforms into a winter wonderland with dipping temperatures and beautiful sceneries. This is also a great time for sightseeing, hiking and other activities.

Thane is located in the north-eastern region of Salsette Island. It is located in the outskirts of Mumbai and is governed by the Municipal Corporation. The city is the fifteenth most populated city in India and has a population of 1,890,000. It houses around thirty lakes and is laced by Parsik and Yeoor hills. Thane has breezy beaches and bustling city life, colonial architecture and a skyline of high rises and a quaint old-world charm. It is laced with serenity, and you can enjoy here the best mix of the sand, sun, and the sea. It has lush green meadows, jagged peaks, and landscaped gardens that seem straight out of a fantasy novel. The city presents a kaleidoscope of nature, culture, and wildlife and makes for an extravagant visual treat. Thane is replete with delightful insights and wonderful attractions that will leave a lasting impression on your mind. You can visit Naneghat Hills, which is a popular trekking trail for visitors. If you’re a history lover, you can visit Sudhagad Fort, which is a hilltop location renowned for its natural retreat. Gorakhgad Fort and Bassein Fort are also the major attractions in Thane that are an unusual retreat for trekkers and history lovers. Yazoo Park is a popular picnic spot in Thane that features a wide range of slides and rides. There are a plethora of enthralling activities that you can enjoy in Thane for an unforgettable vacation experience. You can enjoy adventure camping at Barvi Dam and trek to Chota Mahuli. For an added thrill, you can enjoy water rappelling in Kasara or undertake a nature Trail To TikuJi Ni Wadi. You can also visit Korum Mall, which is a central hub for foodies and shoppers. Thane enjoys tropical and hot weather all around the year. It receives copious rainfall from June to September. January is the coldest month of the year, with the mean daily maximum being 30.1 °C and the mean daily minimum being 16.4 °C.

Nestled in the bosom of the Western Ghats, Igatpuri is a little hill station in the state of Maharashtra. Igatpuri is surrounded by some of the highest ranges of the Sahyadri Ranges, making it a haven for trekkers and nature lovers alike. The little town acts as a popular weekend destination around major cities like Pune and Maharashtra, and is often sought after for its serene ambience. Offering an ideal getaway in the very heart of nature, the little city is a perfect escapade from the hustle and bustle of the busy city life. With its numerous little hills, clear streams and thundering waterfalls, the beauty of Igatpuri city is quite unparalleled. Ancient fort ruins and historic temples add to the charm of the little town. Although little in size, the places to visit in Igatpuri are many. While lovers of history will have the time of their lives exploring the ancient forts of Tringalwadi and Avandha, nature lovers can spend a quieting time in the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary or the Vihigaon waterfalls. The little town is also extremely well known as the home to the world’s largest meditation centre, the Vipassana Academy, which acts as a wellness retreat. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, you will never run out of things to do while in Igatpuri. The adventure sport options in the city are many: from river rafting in the rapids of the Vaitarna, to camping under the open stars, Igatpuri has it all. The area is of a special interest to trekking and hiking enthusiasts, with its slopes and waterfalls offering an ideal location for the sport. Being located at a high elevation, Igatpuri enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year. The temperature generally remains on the cooler side. The hill station enjoys significant rainfall throughout the year, with the dry season spanning between November to March.

Best of Goa

Kamshet also known as the paragliding capital of India is located in the state of Maharashtra. It is 45 km from Pune, 16 km from Lonavala and Khandala, and 110 km from Mumbai. Surrounded by the Western Ghats and decked with Sahyadri Ranges' beauty, Kamshet is a fairyland with rich flora and fauna. It has a quaint vibe coupled with a rich cultural heritage, and you will get enchanted with its ever-captivating beauty. The gurgling waterfalls, monasteries, beautiful temples, and magnanimous hills are an emblem for serenity. It is a paragliding paradise that has been featured in the top ten must visit destinations of India for an enthralling expedition. Hence, it is dotted with many flying and paragliding schools. Kamshet is one of the best paragliding spots in India owing to its perfect weather and highly suitable topography. There are some of the best paragliding spots here like Shinde Wadi Hills, Tower Hill, Shelar and Kondeshwar Cliff. It is also blessed with Buddhist caves having sculptures and images of Lord Buddha. Some of the most picturesque lakes, such as Pawna Lake and Uksan Lake that offer a blissful escape from the fast-paced city life are also here. Begin your heritage exploration by visiting Tikona Fort, Lohagad Fort, and Visapur Fort, a testament to the rich past of this city. Kamshet is a hub for parasailing and you can try here acro tandem to instructional tandem and joy tandem. You can also pitch your tent at Pawna Lake to witness the sparkling night sky and learn about the local culture. Enjoy a trekking expedition at Visapur fort and enjoy zip-lining at Pawna Lake. Take part in cave Exploration at Bhairi caves and Bedse caves that are situated on the high rocks of Kamshet. Or simply relish the local food and world-class cuisines at some of the best restaurants and dhabas. Kamshet experiences a tropical climate with warm summers and cool winters. The summers start from March and extend till the end of April. During the summers, it experiences high humidity, and hence this season might feel uncomfortable visiting the town.

Known as the” cutest little hill station of India”, the Matheran hill station is the best place to enjoy the sunset and sunrise view along with some mind blowing sceneries to keep you fresh and up front. This extraordinary hill station offers the best tourist places in Matheran which are untouched and undisturbed by the rustling city life that surrounds the town. The place is actually located on the Western Ghats that ranges in an elevation of around 800 meter above the sea level. The place always has a pleasant weather to enjoy during any time of the year, but its beauty gets added up during the season of rain and thunderstorm.

 Another thing about the beautiful hill station is that it is eco friendly and has no rush of cars and buses honking on the street. The major was taken by the government of Maharashtra in order to protect Matheran. The best thing about this place is that it is like a quiet and relaxing place with no buzzing of horns and pollution and along with that it contains some mesmerizing places and views of the extraordinary nature that will leave you bewitched of its beauty and make you feel relax and stress free.

  Just not only trekker, Matheran is a treat for the photographers also to explore and capture the best of the beauty of the beautiful hill station. The beauty of Western Ghats, Matheran is the smallest hill station of India. Travellers and tourists who visit the place love exploring the place by walking on foot. By which it becomes more exciting to get lost in the scenic beauty of the town while finding your way. Plan your trip to Matheran and indulge yourself in various activities that Matheran provides like camping, trekking, rappelling etc.

Matheran town is the best option for a person who loves getting lost in the nature and also for those who wants to take a break from their busy city life. The tourist places in Matheran are absolutely breathtaking.

Bhandardara

Perched beautifully amidst the Sahyadri ranges in the state of Maharashtra, Bhandardara is a wonderful hill station for nature lovers. It is often called the Queen of Sahyadri ranges for its lush green natural landscapes. The name Bhandardara literally translates to valley of treasures and it is not a doubt to say that the natural beauty of this place certainly justifies the name. It is a picturesque retreat for the backpackers in Ahmednagar district and boasts of some scintillating natural attractions for those who are fond of raw beauty of nature.

The village has prominent places like Wilson Dam, Umbrella Falls and Arthur Lake where you can plan a picnic with your loved ones. The village is also a delight for history lovers as there are places like Ratangad and Harishchandragad Fort. Another famous tourist attraction of Bhandardara is Mount Kalsubai which is also hailed as the highest peak in Maharashtra. There are also many local villages where one can visit to relax and enjoy the pleasant weather of this scenic hill station in Maharashtra.  

For the adventure lovers, there are some enthralling activities where you can explore Ajoba and Ghanchakkar peaks to soak in the serenity of nature with the views offered by Sahyadri ranges. 

There are numerous trekking and hiking places in the Sahyadri ranges where you can savour an adrenaline rush. Bhandardara also has various resorts where one can enjoy the panoramic views and just relax with their loved ones. The gorgeous hill station offers a soothing environment with a cool climate throughout the year where you can refresh yourself and see some of the most eye-catching vistas of the Sahyadri ranges. 

Bhandardara is a small village where the tourists are in for a treat as they are surrounded by mountains and enchanted by gurgling waterfalls away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. The place is a wonderful respite when you are looking for a rejuvenating weekend getaway near the city of Mumbai.

Best of Pune

Preached peacefully near the confluence of Krishna and Venna rivers, the city of Satara was established back in the sixteenth century. Being a part of Maharashtra, this city was once the seat of Chhatrapati of Maratha Empire. Exhibiting the true magic of nature, Satara is loaded with dream-like destinations and historical ruins. Sitting on the Sahyadri Range, the city of Satara is home to some of the most beautiful panoramas of the mountains and a wide variety of flora and fauna. Majorly known for its valley of flowers - Kaas Plateau, Satara has become a UNESCO Biodiversity World Heritage Site. Be it the scenery of gushing waterfalls or the pristine panoramas of lakes, this small city is loaded with pretty landscapes and adrenaline rushing topography. Ranging from historical ruins to natural abodes, there are several beautiful and adventurous places to visit in Satara. The Holy Natraj Mandir and the Shikhar Shingnapur have been acting as a sanctuary for many pilgrims. While locations like the Rajpuri Cave and Satara Fort are exhibiting the best of ancient craftsmanship, the places like Natskies Observatory and Mayani Bird Sanctuary have been attracting various adventure seekers. Be it watching flamingoes in the Mayani Bird Sanctuary or gazing into the planets from the Natskies Observatory, there is an array of fun activities one can enjoy in Satara. Visiting the waterfalls and dwelling in history in its many forts is also one of the must do things here. The most famous activity which has attracted thousands of tourists to Satara is trekking to Kaas Plateau, also known as “the valley of flowers”.Preached at a height of just 710 metres above the sea level, Satara is blessed with a tropical climate. The summers here will load you with heat and precipitation and the winters will last just for a month. The best time to visit here is just after the monsoons. The average temperature of Satara stays around 24 degree celsius.

Karnala city is located in the Raigad district  of  Indian  State  Maharashtra. The city is about 65 km from the  city centre  of Mumbai and about 16 km from Panvel. The city has also got very good connectivity with the nearby metropolis. You will on no occasion face any kind of difficulties reaching your favorite place of interest. Karnala is loaded with bountiful natural beauty in terms of both flora and fauna. Coming over to this place especially in the monsoon time would be the best to spot alluring lush greenery all around. Karnala city is very well known for its bird sanctuary which is home to more than 150 species of birds and many other wild animals like rhesus monkeys, wild boars, etc. Karnala is  also widely popular among the history and architecture lovers because of its ancient fort that was constructed under the Devagiri Yadavas and Tughluqs in 1400 BCE. In the course of  your stay in Karnala, you can also visit Prabalgad Fort, Adai Waterfall, Khandala, Ambarnath Shiva Temple, and Elephanta Caves. Karnala is not  only visited by nature lovers and architecture lovers, but it is  also visited by avid adventure lovers. Karnala is a popular trekking paradise from a considerable time in the past. Apart from trekking to the Karnala Fort, you can also indulge in hiking to Kalavantin Durg, visit the Smart Eco-park, spend some relaxing time at Sagar Vihar Garden, view the sunset from Little Chowk Point, explore the beauty of the Kharghar Hills, and take a boat ride to the Khanderi Fort. Karnala has got a moderate climatic condition all through the year. The monsoons are bit severe and it is at times suggested to be very careful  while carrying out outdoor activities in this phase of the year. The best time to come over to Karnala to enjoy its pleasant weather would be from the month of October to the month of April.

Lying at a small distance of about 35 kilometers from Pune, Mulshi is a scenic village with luxuriant environs. This place is an ecotourism hotspot that boasts natural serenity and a peace atmosphere. Owing to its rejuvenating and tranquilizing experiences, Mulshi city is considered to be one of the top-rated getaways from nearby cities like Pune and Mumbai. The green and clean environment, the photogenic vistas packed with bountiful flora, and the spectacular views of the majestic Sahyadri ranges make Mulshi nothing less than a piece of paradise. Dotted with verdant valleys, rugged cliffs, dense forests, and magnificent forts, this mesmerizing destination lures travelers of all moods. Mulshi tourism encompasses a plethora of well-known attractions that have achieved a lot of popularity among the travelers. While Tamhini Ghat entices tourists with its cascading waterfalls, shimmering lakes, and emerald green forests, Andharban Trail Point attracts travelers owing to its famous vantage points, meandering streams, and hiking paths. While Temghar Dam exhibits awe-inspiring scenic beauty and charming roads, Kailasgad Fort manifests tales of the bygone times. The city of Mulshi lets you enjoy umpteen varieties of joyous activities, irrespective of the type of holiday you are seeking. While the adventure seekers can trek to Koraigadh and Dhangad forts, spiritual seekers can seek blessings at Vanjai Mata temple. While couples can enjoy a romantic boat ride on the serene Mulshi Lake, families can experience camping and bonfire at the photogenic Mulshi Dam. Mulshi enjoys mild and moderate weather throughout the year. Monsoons pose to be the most ideal time to plan a trip to Mulshi, as the rains make the place more greener and livelier to let you bask in the enthralling beauty of this surreal destination. 

Khandala City is a hill station that is located on the Western Ghats Mountain Range of Maharashtra. It is about 3 km from Lonavala, 12 km from Khopoli and about 33.4 km from Karjat region. Located at the top of Bhor Ghat, this place serves as the main link between the major cities of Maharashtra - Mumbai and Pune. Khandala is a beautiful place and has got a good share of nature’s alluring beauty. As it is surrounded by lush green forest covers, misty valleys, and cascading waterfalls, this place serves as a great weekend getaway as well as adventure hotspot for travellers from various parts of the country. Khandala is mainly famous for hiking tours to sight panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountain ranges in Western Ghats. Khandala is home to some of the wonderful tourist attractions in Western India. You can visit the vantage spots like Rajmachi Point and Sunset Point, dramatic three tiered Kune waterfalls, serene Tamhini ghat mountain pass, and ancient caves of Bhaja and Karla which are adorned with the etchings of Buddhist religion. You can also visit Lohagad which is known for its serene environs, Bhushi Lake for its peaceful ambience, Duke’s Nose for its impeccable beauty and many other brilliant attractions. Khandala is also a dream destination for adventure lovers. You can trek to the summit of the Tiger’s leap to sight pristine sunrise and sunset views, trek to the top of the Rajmachi fort to sight alluring natural beauty, relish the mesmerizing ambience at the reversing station, and trek up to the Shrivardhan Fort to glance the beautiful Sahyadri Mountain ranges. As Khandala lies about 571 meters above sea level, the climatic condition here remains tropical. Khandala receives significant rainfall in most months with a very short dry season. The average temperature of this place is 24.3 degree celsius and the annual rainfall is recorded at 4541 mm per year.

Best of Karnataka

Located at a distance of about 65 km from Pune , the beautifully planned city of Lavasa is surrounded by the majestic Western Ghats. The city is constructed in the Mulshi Valley and covers a sprawling 25,000 acres. With such mesmerizing views of hills, valleys, and lakes, the city has gained immense popularity among different types of travelers. The beauty of this privately planned city lies in the seamless blend of stunning infrastructure and the enrapturing beauty of nature. Here, you will find different topographical variations such as the lofty Sahyadri range, the beautiful rivers, and the gorgeous valleys. The serene ambiance coupled with the raw beauty of nature soothes the soul from the stressful chaos of daily life. The magnificent city of Lavasa boasts numerous attraction sites. You can explore the enigmatic beauty of nature in the form of Tikona Fort, Devkund waterfall, Dasve Viewpoint, and the Tamhini Ghat. However, if you seek adventure, then you can visit the Xthrill Adventure Academy, Vortex Splash Pad, etc. No matter your traveling preferences, rest assured your wanderlust will be satisfied. There are a plethora of activities that you can indulge in Lavasa. If you are an adventure fanatic, then there are various exciting adventurous activities for you. You can try out rappelling, hiking, camping, raft building, biking, etc. However, if what you seek is peace and the chance to admire nature, you can do that too. Now, if you are a foodie, then Lavasa will definitely not disappoint you. Here, you will find different regional and global cuisines. With an altitude of about 3000 sq feet from the sea level, Lavasa enjoys a tropical climate. It means that the weather is pleasant throughout the year. However, the best time for a visit is between the months of September and March.

Famed for being the port town of Maharashtra , Ratnagiri City is located on the shores of Arabian Sea. A very big exporter of Alphonso mangoes, this place has been a very important business centre for Maharashtra. Having the Sahyadri Range on its other side, this town remains loaded with the best of nature’s bounties. Having its location on the shore, the places like the beaches, ports and lighthouses altogether add to the beauty of this town. Ratnagiri is dotted with numerous such locations which are picture perfect and are ought to be the perfect spots where people can relish the best of nature. From lakes to rivers and mangroves, this small town is loaded with a big array of waterbodies. Be it the ancient forts like the Jaigad Fort or the locations related to India's struggle of freedom like the Tilak Ali Museum, Ratnagiri is loaded with numerous places perfect for sightseeing tours. Many beaches like the Mandwa Beach and the Pandre Samudra also attract various tourists with their white sandy shores and coasts dotted with palms. If wishing to indulge in some of the most adrenaline rushing activities then Ratnagiri will make sure that you are provided with the proper dosage of thrill. The pristine beaches surrounding it are loaded with various activities you can try your hands on including boating, swimming and many others. Being a port city, the town of Ratnagiri is surrounded by waters on its one side, thus making its climate moist in the summers. Due to high levels of precipitation, the rains remain high as well, thus making winters the best time to enjoy a vacation here. The average temperature of Ratnagiri remains close to 20 degree celsius and can go up in the summers. Overall, the climate here is pleasant enough for you to enjoy hassle free sightseeing tours.

Nagpur City, or the city of oranges one may say, is a part of Maharashtra and known for its diverse culture. Situated on the banks of River Nag, this city has been the centre of India during the british rule a witness of which is the Zero Mile Marker. Being a major trade centre of Oranges has made it a very famous city of Maharashtra. Nagpur has a population of more than 26 Lakhs and covers up an area of 227.4 KM square.For the ones who wish to spend some time in the laps of nature and want to appreciate its impressive creations, the beauty of Nagpur will offer perfect chances to do so. Being a home to around 11 lakes and three tiger reserves, this city has been a go to spot for nature enthusiasts. Places like the Lata Mangeshkar Musical Garden and the Japanese Rose Garden add more charm to its beauty. The places to visit in Nagpur city range from natural to thrilling and historical to religious. Many attractions like the Deekshabhoomi and the Ambazari Lake and Garden have been a very famous tourist spot here. Attracting people from various corners of the world, the Umred Pauni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary And Tiger Reserve takes you close to the wild cats and adds the much required thrill on your vacation. If you are an adrenaline junkie and want to indulge in various thrilling adventures then Nagpur will make sure that you get what you want. With its lofty hills to trek on and serene lakes to enjoy boating at, this place offers various activities to its guests.Being a part of Maharashtra state, Nagpur lies close to the seas and often experiences humid and damp climate. The average temperature of Nagpur lies around 22 degree celsius. The monsoon season in Nagpur starts from June and ends in the start of August, making the window of August to November the best time to enjoy a vacation  here.

Mandwa is a small village that lies in the heart of Maharashtra in Raigarh district. It is about 9 km distance from Alibaug and about 100 kilometers from Mumbai by road. Mandwa can also be reached by the Mumbai Alibaug ferry, which starts from the gateway of India and ends at a small harbor near the village. This small fishing village is now a renowned beach destination and a popular weekend getaway where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. This place is renowned for its Buddhist caves, churches, ruins of Portuguese historical sites, and a synagogue. Another famous attraction of this spot is the Karmarkar Museum that is known for its alluring sculptures. It is also renowned for its beautiful Mandwa beach that is thronged by tourists all around the year. The beach is lined with coconut and areca palms. It looks like a paradise with golden white sands and blue waters with white foamy waves crashing the shores. The view of the sunset from the beach is really breathtaking.  Mandwa village and the adjoining beach is particularly known for their abundant water sport activities. This includes Banana Boat, Jet Ski, bumper ride, Quad Bike Ride, Wakeboarding, Power kite, Parasailing, Kite surfing, and swimming. You can also enjoy fishing around the beach to test out your adventurous skills. The pristine vibes of this beach offer a pleasant and relaxing experience for the visitors. The best time to visit this beach is between November to May. At this time, the sky is clear, and you can see the best sunsets on the horizon. In the summer months, you can enjoy the buzz of watersports activities here, and you can also have a long walk around the seashore. The weather in this region is hot and humid during summer, and it experiences heavy rains during monsoon. 

Best of Alibag

 Shirdi, also known as Sainagar, is a town located in the Rahata Taluka of district Ahmednagar. The quaint city of Shirdi is one of the holiest places to visit in Maharashtra. While most people know Shirdi for its temples and pilgrimages, the city has so much more to offer to tourists. The city is famous around the globe as the birthplace of late 19th century spiritual guru Sai Baba. His temple, Sai Baba Mandir attracts thousands of tourists each year and gives peace and solace to the visitors. Here you can witness the resting place of the saint and take blessings. Besides that, there are plenty of religious temples like Hanuman Mandir, Shani Shingnapur, and Dwarkamai that can take you on a deep spiritual journey of cleansing. Whether you follow any religion or not, you will find peace within the walls of the shrines.    Apart from religious spots, the city is home to Sai Heritage Village that is like stepping into the past to witness the life of Sai Baba. The Wet N Joy Water Park can also give you a refreshing time with family and friends. The exquisite Jangli Maharaj Ashram and Lendi Baug encompass lush greenery that can rejuvenate you with the pristine beauty. Shirdi is a popular spot for tourists all around the year. The holy city is located in the laps of majestic western ghats. The pleasant weather here makes it ideal for you to unwind and have a sacred journey with ease. If you are seeking religious harmony along with the epitome of simplicity, natural beauty and fun activities to enjoy, Shirdi is the place to visit. Plan your trip today for a great time.  

Ahmednagar is a beautiful city that is also the largest district in Maharashtra, India. This city was founded in the year 1490 by Ahmad Nizam Shah, and eventually, the city came to be named after him. As the city of Ahmednagar is situated in the rain-shadow-region of the Western Ghats, this region has a rugged natural beauty along with undulating stretches of lush greenery and mesmerising flower valleys.There are several attractions in this city. Some of the most remarkable places to visit are the majestic Ahmednagar Fort, Amruteshwar Temple, Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, Meher Baba’s Samadhi and much more. There are also a number of natural attractions such as the mesmerising Sandhan Valley, Randha Falls, Bhandardara Lake, and the Umbrella Falls, all of which are ideal for trekking, picnics and nature walks. In fact, Ahmednagar is known for the many adventure activities that can be enjoyed when you are here. Hiking, trekking and rappelling are some of the most sought-after activities you can enjoy in the enthralling cliffs of the Sahyadri ranges. Harishchandragad Trek and rappelling at Kokan Kada are some of the popular sports that are enjoyed by all visitors. Since Ahmednagar is situated on the side of the Western Ghats that receives less rainfall, the city generally experiences a hot and dry climate throughout the year. The summers are very hot and dry and rainfall, even during the monsoon season, is sparse. The winter mornings are cool and sunny and it is the best time to visit the city and enjoy its natural and historical beauty.

A small coastal town nestled in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, Malvan forms a popular getaway for beach buffs and adventure junkies. The beach town is settled on the Konkan coast which is sprawled over the coastal regions of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka. In addition to being the flourishing hub for adventure sports and beach activities, Malvan also serves as a confluence point of Arabian Sea and Karli river. With vast expanses of white sandy beaches, and rich aquatic life as its prime facets, the beauty of Malvan needs no introduction. The city also houses a coral beach named Tarkali where you can hop on a leisurely boat ride across the Karli River and admire the picturesque landscapes of Malvan. To soak in the panoramic backdrops of this coastal beauty, make your way to the iconic Rock Garden which awaits your presence with its tranquil sea breeze and meandering waves.   If you are hunting for the best sightseeing attractions in Malvan, get ready to be spoiled for choices. The city is home to a plethora of beaches where you can slack off on the white sand, soak in the sunset views, or indulge in adrenaline-stirring water sports. From pristine beaches like Kolamb, Achara, and Malvan to adventure spots such as Tarkali, the list of attractions in Malvan goes on and on. If you are looking for some serene spots to laze around on your leisure vacation, don’t miss out on a visit to Chivla Beach, Tsunami Island and Rock Garden. For all the history buffs who wish to dive deeper into the ancient account of the city, Sinhagad Fort is an ideal relaxation spot.  Malvan city appeals to both leisure travelers, as well as, adventure enthusiasts, thanks to its diverse topography that has got something for everyone. While attractions like Rock Garden give you respite from the maddening hustle and bustle of the city, the adventure sites of Tarkarli, Devbagh beach, and Tsunami Island awaits your presence with a wide range of adrenaline experiences. While here, feel free to go scuba diving at one of its beaches, pose like a star at the Bollywood Film City, and spend a day surrounded by marine species and corals. Don’t forget to amuse your taste buds with the delicious Malvani cuisines which include Jhinga Fry, Solkadhi, Ghavan, and Malvani Khaja.   Being a coastal beauty, Malvan experiences somewhat hot and humid weather throughout the year. However, the monsoon and winter months are comparatively cooler and hence, come as a great respite for the travelers who want to explore around the town without getting beaten up by the scorching heat. If you are ready to bear with the sultry weather for the love of beaches, you can visit Malvan even during the summers.   

Located a little over 200 kilometres from Mumbai, Dapoli is a small city surrounded by coconut and palm trees. Dapoli is located in the northern part of the district of Ratnagiri, in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, and is a popular beach destination. In addition to the many coconut farms that are scattered in Dapoli, the city also has numerous scenic beaches, which offer beautiful views of the seashore and the natural landscapes. The verdant greenery, along with the hills surrounding the city, add to its beauty. Dapoli is a treasure trove of sightseeing attractions, and has something to offer to all kinds of tourists. From pristine beaches and historical structures, to ancient temples, mesmerising caves and age-old forts, the city has a lot to explore. Some of the best attractions of Dapoli include the Harnai Sea Port, which is one of the best attractions that offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Other famous attractions of Dapoli include the Kanaka Durga Fort, also known as the Land Fort, and the Suvarnadurg, or the Sea Fort. You can also take a dip at the perennial Unhavare Hot Springs, and relax during your trip here. For history buffs, the best place to visit in Dapoli are the ancient Panhalekaji Caves, where you can not only enjoy the history, but also the archaeology findings. For those who love water sports, you can visit one of the many scenic beaches in the region, such as the Murud Beach, or the Kelshi Beach. When visiting Dapoli, you can also enjoy a lot of exciting activities. In addition to water sports like swimming, surfing and parasailing, to adventure activities like hiking and trekking, Dapoli has a lot to offer to tourists. You can also enjoy exploring the caves here or watching dolphins in the backwaters in Dapoli. Due to its advantageous location in the Konkan region, Dapoli is also a great place to indulge in the local Kokum juice, jackfruit chips or the numerous mouth-watering Konkani delicacies. Due to its tropical location, Dapoli experiences cool weather throughout the year. However, summers in Dapoli are comparatively more humid than the other months. The rainy season from July to September makes the entire region come to life with lush greenery and a relaxing ambience everywhere. The months from October to March make up the winter season in Dapoli, when the cool weather makes it great for sightseeing and water sports, and even dolphin watching.

Best of Mahabaleshwar

The city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra is the sixth most populated city in the state and is an important cultural hub. The city has a hilly landscape and is the centre of art, education and commerce. Aurangabad is also famous throughout the country for its silk and cotton clothes. Despite not being a metropolitan city, it is well-connected internally via urban transport facilities. It has a well-developed network of buses, metered taxis and chauffeur-driven cars for hire. Auto-rickshaws are also available in plenty to travel locally. Well-organized bus service is also provided if one needs to travel to and from Aurangabad and other cities. The most famous and important place to visit in Aurangabad is Ajanta and Ellora caves. It is the most historically significant asset of the city. These caves are situated 99 km from the main city of Aurangabad and are some of the finest specimens of rich Indian heritage. The Ajanta caves were built around the 2nd to the 6th century A.D. and Ellora Caves were built sometime during the 6th and 11th century A.D. These caves were carved out from a single rock and cave paintings inside that are thousands of years old, give you a breathtaking insight into the history of art and culture in India. Other important sites to visit in and around Aurangabad are Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort, Jama Mosque, Grishneshwar Temple, Himayat Bagh, Salim Ali Lake and Panchakki, to name a few. The best time to visit Aurangabad is between October and March. The weather during this time of the year remains pleasantly cool which makes it ideal for exploration and sightseeing. Winters are cold as the temperature drops down to a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius, which is relatively pleasant. There are several hotels, resorts, home-stays and inns in the area to accommodate all your needs comfortably when you visit Aurangabad.

Panvel City happens to be a municipal corporation in Raigad district of Maharashtra. This city is also termed as the gate of Raigad as it is the first city that one would pass through while entering Raigad from the East. The city is located on the banks of Gadhi River which connects to the Arabian Sea. It is an incredible tourist destination as it remains cool and comfortable all though the year making it convenient for tourists to plan out trips. Being at this city, you will get to enjoy the natural rawness, serene beauty, alluring lush greenery, and much more. Panvel is located at a close proximity to Mumbai which means there are a lot of places of tourist interest where you can marvel along with your loved ones. In the course of your visit, you must explore Prabalgad Fort, Major Ashtivinayak Mandir Ballaleshwar Mandir, 165-years Old Beth El Synagogue Panvel, Peaceful Vibes of Adai Waterfalls,  Famous Hindu Shrine Khandeshwar Shiva Temple , Haven For Birdwatchers Karnala Bird Sanctuary and Kalavantin Durg. Panvel city can be considered as one of the best place in Mumbai for adventure seekers as you can explore the nature and mystic waterfalls, get in touch with your spiritual side, indulge in architectural sightseeing, birdwatching, take a sneak peak into historical architecture, have some fun in the water park, learn about culture at Beth El Synagogue Panvel, trekking and sightseeing. The climatic condition of Panvel city remains moderate all through the year with pleasant atmosphere perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. 

Khopoli is an industrial city that falls into the Raigad district of Maharashtra and is among the topmost weekend getaway destinations from Mumbai and Pune. The encompassing Sahyadri Hills bring much natural opulence to the city and offer a relaxing break in the lap of lush surroundings. The temperatures and climate conditions remain nice and comfortable all throughout the year which is also a major reason behind the tourism influx here. Besides this, Khopoli is also replete with numerous recreational attractions and sites that add the perfect charm to your trip.  Whether you are a family heading to Khopoli or friends and couples, there is something for everyone to enjoy here. One of the most popular places being Imagica - it is a modern day water and amusement park that has many thrilling rides, Rollercoaster, themed areas and much more that can entertain people of all ages. If you are someone who would like to seek adventures while also spending time in quiet surroundings then the Kune and Zenith waterfalls and Tungarli Lake are the best picks for you to go on treks, nature-walks and picnics. Many ancient temples and vantage are also a part of the Khopoli landscape that lures devotees, and adrenaline-junkies and photographers respectively. To further enhance your holiday to the city, many upscale resorts and hotels are available in the most prime locations that one can explore as lodging options for a comfortable and enjoyable time

Settled along the bank of the Vasai Creek that extends into the Ulhas River flowing through the Western state of Maharashtra, Vasai is a bustling metropolis in the Palghar district. One of the most popular attractions of the town is the centuries-old Vasai Fort also known as Bassein Fort. It is surrounded by water on three sides and has a rustic design that looks appealing against the green environs. To spend a tranquil picnic people head to this spot over a weekend from Mumbai and Pune. You can also  plan a trip to Vasai-Virar almost all through the year due to the unchanged nice and pleasant climate with lower temperatures.  Furthermore, to satiate your need for adventure one can pay a visit to the Arnala Beach in Vasai-Virar. The place is fringed with palm trees, soft sand and clear sea waves where you can also indulge in parasailing, Jet-skiing, horse-riding and much more. Typically the travellers make a short trip here over the weekend to relax and unwind at any of the luxury resorts and lodging options amidst natural scenery, or a religious visit at the prestigious temples like Tungareshwar, Jivdani and other temples. Moreover, in the last few years the Waterparks and other entertainment facilities in Vasai have also been a welcomed surprise to the people, especially families wanting to have a full-day of fun with their young ones. The water and amusement rides at the Great Escape and other parks offer a lot of memorable experiences. 

Best of Igatpuri

Idling along the banks of the Panchganga river, Kolhapur is a little Indian city in the state of Maharashtra. With its birth dating back to the medieval era, Kolhapur is one of the oldest cities in the country, and its age is evident in the numerous ancient forts and monuments it houses. The city was once a princely state ruled by the Maharaja Emperor Chhatrapati Shahu, and was later declared independent after 1947. Flanked by the towering Sahyadris on one side and the sidling river on the other, the beauty of the little city is one to behold. From shining lakes to well-manicured gardens, the city has it all. The charm of the historic place is enhanced by the towering forts and palaces around it, which stand testament to the glorious past of Kolhapur. One of the best ways to spend your time while in Kolhapur is to take a tour of the various ancient attractions around the place. From the majestic Panhala Fort, to the Chhatrapati Shahu Museum at the New Palace, these attractions help one get a better feel of the city and its history. Those with a love for nature can also spend a day touring the Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary, or having a picnic by the banks of the Rankala Lake, which offer peaceful escapades from the bustle of the regular city life. If you’re of a religious bent of mind, you can also spend a fruitful time visiting the various temples in the city. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or one with a religious disposition, you can never run out of things to do while in Kolhapur. Those with an adventurous spirit can spend a good day trekking to the Panhala Fort or taking a jeep safari at the Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary. Alternatively, one can take a quiet evening walk around the Rankala Lake, or even have a pleasant picnic at the Amba Ghat. Kolhapur experiences summer between April to September. During this time, the weather here generally remains warm and clammy, with a high level of humidity. Winter in the city occurs between the months of November and February, during which the temperature generally remains on the cooler side. The months between June and October generally experience a high degree of rainfall, making it the designated monsoon season here.

Nestled amidst the sea, Sindhudurg stands tall as a remarkable part of Maharashtra. This eternal place is an aide-memoire of royalty and grand history. Carved out of the erstwhile Ratnagiri District, Sindhudurg falls under Konkan division. The city is surrounded by Ratnagiri district on the north, Goa on the south, the Arabian Sea by the west, and crest of the Sahyadri Range by the east.  Sindhudurg is made up of exotic beaches and royal forts. In ancient times, from the Sindhudurg fort to Vijaydurg fort, Sindhudurg’s importance lay significantly in the numerous sea forts and sky-high edifices.  Also, the astonishing Mangeli waterfall, Napapne waterfall, Shivapur waterfall, etc. are an epitome of the place’s natural beauty.  When it comes to  tourist attractions in Maharashtra , Sindhudurg has a whopping range of places to visit. Dating back to the 17th century, Maratha warrior King, Chhatrapati Shivaji established Sindhudurg fort over a rocky island location. The fort is flanked by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea on respective sides. Also, the traditional and authentic side of Sindhudurg embellishes with Navadurga temple and India’s oldest Sai temple. With an impressive coastline, the city features several beaches, like the Tarkarli beach, Nivati beach, among others. A city filled with grandiose and adventure, one will never run out of things to do in Sindhudurg. To quench the adrenaline rush, you can head to Tarkarli for scuba diving, Nivati for snorkelling, and other activities. Also, your nature-loving soul would be mesmerized by the safari organised amidst the dense forests of Sindhudurg. You will come across several wild animals like leopard, wild boar, mongoose, elephants, etc.  However, the climate of Sindhudurg plays an important role in exploring the niceties. The climate is semi-tropical and it remains warm and humid throughout the year. The proximity to the Arabian sea results in heavy rainfall and proximity to Sahyadri brings cold and misty weather. The temperature usually drops to 15 degrees Celsius in winters and rises to 32 degrees Celsius in summers.

Ganpatipule

Ganpatipule, a small town residing amidst white sandy beaches of Maharashtra. This town might be small but holds a significant position in the Hindu mythology. Ganpatipule is 25 km away from Ratnagiri and along the Konkan coast of Maharashtra. It is governed and maintained by the Ganpatipule Gram panchayat.  The beauty of Ganpatipule resides significantly in the folklore of Lord Ganesha. Here, you will come across a hill shaped like lord Ganpati along with the convergence of a river and a beach. This idyllic getaway is a holy destination for peace-seekers. Also, the virgin beaches of the town are far away from commercialization. These beaches boast off white clear sands and pristine waters, perfect for a quiet holiday. When it comes to  places to visit in Maharashtra , Ganpatipule has conquered it all. The town comprises of iconic temples and holy religious faith. The most unique place of the town is the 400-year-old, self-created monolith of Lord Ganesha. Head here to dive into the pool of serenity and spirituality. Also, don’t forget to stroll through the splendid coastline and mangroves trees present at the Ganpatipule.  With so much to see and do, Ganpatipule will not let you sit idly. If you want to participate in the Puja practices, you can visit the Swayambhu Ganapati Temple, a self-created ancient place. Also, the festival of Ganesha Chaturthi is a prosperous occasion to witness the vibrancy of rituals and celebrations. Along with religious practices, Ganpatipule also excels in offering adventure sports from November to May. During this time, several watersports activities like boating etc. take place. The proximity to the sea results in a humid climate of Ganpatipule. In summers, May is considered as the hottest month when the temperature rises to 40 degrees Celsius. Whereas, heavy rainfall is usually observed from June to October.

Best of Kamshet

The city of Lord Indra, Amravati, is the second-largest city of the Vidarbha region in Maharashtra. Situated 156 km west to Nagpur, this eternal city is named after the ancient Ambadevi temple and  serves as the administrative centre of Amravati district. Earlier, the city was assigned to the East India Company and it became a part of state Maharashtra in 1960. The beauty of Amravati is synonymous with stunning religious edifices. The city is home to the intricately built architectural wonders of Shri Ambadevi temple, Shri Krishna temple, and Shri Venkateshwara Swamy temple. Apart from the overwhelming spiritual vibes, Amravati boasts of glorious hill stations too. From Satpura hills to Panchbol point, nature’s bounty of Amravati can’t be explained in words. There might be a plethora of  places to visit in Maharashtra  but Amravati is exceptionally unique. The true essence of spirituality can be explored at the holy temples. During Navratri, Ambadevi temple lights up gloriously. You can witness the vibrant and enthusiastic celebrations inside the temple. For a laid-back experience, you can head to Chatri Talao and Wadali Talao. Or, head to Melghat Tiger Reserve for witnessing one of the last remaining habitats of Indian tigers in Maharashtra.  In Amravati, you will never run out of things to do. For an outdoor adventure, head to Chikhaldhara and embrace the beauty of Vidarbha region’s only hill station. If you are a photography enthusiast, explore the Hurricane Point, Prospect Point, or Devi Point. Or, you can take a brisk walk through the forests to reach these points. Many tourists prefer to stay close to these holy places and participate in spiritual meditation. The beauty of Amravati outshines with the exotic climate of this city. Throughout a year, you will witness tropical wet and dry weather. Like other cities of Maharashtra, this place experiences heavy rainfall during monsoon. The summers are usually dry and the temperature rises to almost 49 degrees Celsius. On the contrary, winters are mild and the temperature drops to 5 degrees Celsius too.

Located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, Tarkali is a small hamlet in the western part of Maharashtra. This village is renowned for its pristine clear water of the sea and the white sands, which marks the beach. A newfound weekend getaway from Mumbai and Goa, this place offers a host of adventurous water sports. To the south of this hamlet flows the Tarkarli river lined by dense forest. Take a boat ride in the river to enjoy the serenity of the backwaters where it flows into the Arabian Sea. For a walk through the history, you must visit the Sindhudurg Fort located on the shore of the sea. A visit to this offbeat destination in Maharashtra ensures that you relax on the beaches lined with suru trees. Other attractions on the beach are scuba diving and snorkeling sessions where you can enjoy the view of the world beneath the sea! What makes this village all more alluring is the tranquil beaches like Kolam, Achara, and Tarkarli where you can watch the sunset down the sea. The hue of the setting sun will completely enchant your mind and body. In addition to the splendid beauty of the sea, you can also spot dolphins prancing around in the waters. For relishing on some extraordinary seafood and boat rides in the sea, do visit Deobagh, a small fisherman village nearby. Also, the extensive Dhamapur lake, encircled with lush greenery is ideal for finding solace within nature. Sit and unwind yourself by the lake and enjoy the delicacies from the eateries around. Don’t forget to enjoy the local shark curry and fresh seafood to mingle with the authentic culture of this little beach hamlet!

Maval is a small town and a popular tourist destination of Maharashtra where agro tourism has flourished over the years. It belongs to Maval taluka in Pune district of Maharashtra. Maval town is located 59 km west of Pune. Nestled amidst the Sahyadri range, Maval abounds natural and historical marvels with hills, dams, old forts and ancient caves. After monsoon the entire region seems to be covered under a green blanket which attracts tourists to spend their vacation close to nature. Three major vacation spots of Maharashtra- Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala and Khandala are located close to Maval. Apart from being hotspots of tourism, these places are the shooting sites of a number of Bollywood movies. Maval is also famous as a historical site and two most important historical monuments are the Korigad Fort and Tikona Fort. There are several museums in Maval that preserve portraits, inscriptions, pottery items, manuscripts and paintings of the earliest days. Maval, being close to Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar, is a preferred destination for adventure activities. Kamshet is an alluring campsite amid the mountains and forests. You can also enjoy boating in the tranquil waters of Takve Lake. Those who are looking for some adrenaline rush water sports can participate in water rappelling, tunnel climbing, skywalk and river crossing. Mountain lovers can go trekking to the Bhaja caves and get an insight of Buddhism. If you are looking for a restful vacation in natural surroundings, Maval is the right place for you. Maval enjoys a pleasant climate round the year. Winters are chilly and summers are hot and dry. The breezy climate of the place makes it favourable for sightseeing and adventure activities.

Known as the Mini Mahabaleshwar of Thane, Jawhar is a quaint hill station surrounded by lush and majestic Sahyadri ranges. Earlier it was under Thane but now comes in the newly-made Palghar district. The hill station not only boasts of its surreal beauty but amuses visitors with its strong cultural ethics and ancient architectural marvels. Founded under the Munke dynasty, it also served as the camping point for Maratha king Shivaji and his army. A tranquil getaway from the city's hustle-bustle, Jawhar is a comparatively less explored and untouched hill station in Maharashtra. With an abundance of the scenic beauty of verdant valleys, stunning mountains, deep woods, cascading waterfalls, accompanied by a pleasant climate all year round make this small town a true nature retreat. From grand ancient temples (Hanuman Point), serene dams (Jaisagar Dam, Khad Khad Dam), magnificent palaces (Jai Vilas Palace, Old Fort) to majestic waterfalls like Dabhosa, etc., Jawhar houses a myriad of attractions that enthrall visitors of all ages. It is a perfect spot to have a rejuvenating experience, capture beautiful panoramic views, and learn about rich heritage and culture. Along with these, it is also famous for its tribal communities like Warli, Kolcha, and Kukana, which are trying to preserve their art and culture by offering their adobes as homestays and selling their handicrafts like Warli paintings, wooden items, etc., as souvenirs. Jawhar is gaining popularity as a gorgeous weekend destination for romantic couples, peace seekers, nature lovers, and even adventure lovers. With a range of thrilling activities like mountaineering, trekking, hiking, witnessing sunset views, eating, to shopping, Jawhar offers a range of fun-filled to adrenaline-raising activities to satisfy the fantasies of every sort of traveler. Being covered with thick forests and valleys, it offers a fresh and pollution-free environment throughout the year. Though monsoons transform it into a green paradise having a number of splashing waterfalls, it offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities in winters. Jawahar offers a tranquil and refreshing break in all seasons and leaves you with cherishable memories.

Best of Khandala

Junnar city is located in the district of Pune of the Indian State of Maharashtra. The heritage of this city dates back almost to the first millennium. As per the legends, the fort close to this city, Shivneri Fort happens to be the birthplace of the great Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Junnar city was also declared as the first tourism taluka of Pune District by the State Government of Maharashtra on 9th of January, 2018. The city has been one of the important parts of the trading and political centre for the two millenium as it falls on the trade route that links some of the western ports of India.  Junnar is dotted with a number of beautiful tourist attractions which will surely cast a mystical charm in your mind. During your visit to this city, you can marvel at lenyadri girijatmaj temple which is popular for its natural beauty and divine connections, Junnar Fort which is popular for its majestic stance and heritage, Shwanta Theatre which is known for its classical acts and culture, Junnar Caves known for its artworks and mystery, Lenyadri Caves famous for its a series of about 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves, and Harishchandragad Fort known for its trekking activities.  There are a lot of activities to indulge during your visit to the historical city of Junnar. You will get a chance to visit loads of religious places, marvel at some of the historical and mythological attractions, explore the wonderful forts and caves, and enjoy some trekking expeditions through the Sahyadri Mountain Ranges.  The climate of Junnar city is hot semi arid type along with tropical wet and dry type. The average temperature of this place ranges in between 20 and 28 degree celsius. The summer months are experienced from the month of March to the month of May, rainy season is experienced from the month of June to the month of October and winter season is experienced from the month of November to the month of February. 

Konkan Coast is the 700 km long rugged section of the Western Coastline of Arabian Sea which extends from Damon in the North to western side land of Maharashtra and Goa. The coast is dotted with loads of tourist places adorned with alluring natural beauty and plethora of things to do. You would come across exoitc tropical settings with bountiful offerings of nature in forms of cascading waterfalls of Alibaug, virgin landscapes of Alibaug, age old historical forts of Kelshi, heritage sites of Dapoli, and scrumptious seafood of Ratnagiri. This is all that you can expect from the Konkan Coast. The coast also calls for adventure getaways to test your skills and to challenge your soul. With trekking, parasailing, kayaking, banana boat rides, forest trails, and much more, every single adventure seeker will meet his or her dream arena to jump out of the comfort zone to try out something out of the box and come out with flying colors. Apart from scenic natural beauty and nerve wracking adventures, the Konkan Coast is also home to some of the largest cities of India like Mumbai and Thane which will give you a vacation with modern comfort and luxury. Heading out on a trip to the Konkan Coast to explore the exotic beaches of Ganpatipule, port townships of Ratnagiri, wholesome Alibaug, fort township of Sindhudurg, cultural trails of Dapoli and the hidden gem Kelshi, you will surely be delighted.

Nestled amidst the Sahyadri ranges, Durshet is a town settled between Mumbai and Pune. The area is surrounded by hillocks and plateaus with rivers and waterfalls decorating the premises. This accustoms the travelers with an aura of rejuvenation and wanderlust. In Durshet, you can conquer the mighty hills and you can have a glimpse of the ethereal beauty of nature. The hillocks with waterfalls traversing through them, the verdant greenery and natural beauty all around has made it a renowned tourist destination. Durshet is also a haven for trekkers and mountaineers. The area around River Amba is an abundant natural reserve for exotic wildlife and flora of the area around. There are several ancient ruins of temples and heritage sites around the area, including the collective Siddi Ashtavnayak Temples. These temples flaunt all their grandeur to the devotees and visitors that come to seek the blessing of the gods. They offer a magnificent view of the surrounding lakes, rivers, and waterfalls.  Due to the recent tourist influx, the place has also become a hotspot for watersport activities, including the established IMAGICA Park within its proximity. There are several other activities for those seeking excitement and thrill to make their adrenaline go berserk. These include walking across the magnanimous Burma Bridge, rappelling, wall-climbing, or mountaineering along the rocky terrain, nature walks for nature lovers, laddering, and Tarzan Swing. Also, the Uddar Hot Spring here is a frivolous place to submerge into hot water on cold days. If you are wondering about the nightlife of Durshet, then there is plenty that it has to offer. The sanctuaries have a night safari to explore the flora and fauna in their natural habitat. Durshet has a particularly humid climate, hot in the summers. It receives unpredictable showers during monsoon, often heavy, which makes sightseeing around the area difficult. However, winters are the best time to explore the waterfalls, rivers and wander about in the wilderness. The post-monsoon season further makes this place even more alluring to travel as the entire area gets covered with greenery. 

Known as the “Eastern Gateway of Maharashtra”, Gondia lies on the border of the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. Owing to the presence of a plethora of rice mills and the bountiful cultivation of rice here, this quaint district is also referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Maharashtra”. Gondia city has been named after the Gond rulers, who ruled over this district for a prolonged period. The city of Gondia is known popularly for its rich culture and glorious history. This place is also bestowed with a myriad of ancient sites, dense forests, gorgeous waterfalls, lofty hills, and serene lakes, all of which make the city naturally comby. Gondia is packed with a number of famous attractions that propel all kinds of travelers to this destination and enrich its tourism industry. Gondia tourism includes every element of manmade and natural beauty starting from temples and national parks to caves and dams, attracting every kind of holiday seeker. While Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary and Navegaon National Park propel wildlife enthusiasts, Nagra Shiv Temple and Mando Devi Temple bring in a huge number of spiritual seekers. While Kachargadh Caves and Darekasa Caves attract history buffs, Itiadoh Dam and Hajra Fall entice nature lovers and peace seekers. Gondia allows its visitors to spend a relaxing laid back as well as an fun-filled action-packed holiday. Travelers flocking to this balmy city love to enjoy jungle safaris in the national parks, have picnics near the lakes and dams, and seek blessings at the age-old temples. They also spend time interacting with the locals and learning more about the enchanting Gondal culture. The climate of Gondia is similar to that of the state of Maharashtra, where the summers are scorching hot, monsoons bring in heavy downpours, and winters are tolerably cold. The most ideal time for visiting this exuberant city is during the winter months of October to March when the weather condition is mild and soothing.

Popularly known for its Hydro Power Projects, Bhira is an integral part of Maharashtra. Dating back to 1927, the village is known for the establishment of Tata’s hydro generation projects. One of the unexplored rural places of Maharashtra, Bhira village is 150 km away from Mumbai and resides in Raigad district. The undiscovered beauty of Bhira has a tinge of ruralness in it. The majority of the portion is dedicated to power projects. While the rest of Bhira comprises of Kundalika River, Bhira Dam, Devkund waterfall, and lush green forests. The proximity to nature makes this village a perfect spot for enjoying life away from the hassles of city life. Or, one can head near these rivers and take a quick stroll to embrace the warm ambience of Bhira.  To keep yourself busy on your trip to Bhira, you should head out and explore some top attractions. The rural attractions consist of the Kundalika River which flows from the trails of Sahyadri to the Arabian sea. At the Kundalika river, you can also participate in the river. Whereas, many tourists head on a trekking excursion to the Devkund waterfall. Apart from the exotic rivers, Bhira also houses a hidden Devkund waterfall which is nestled amidst the setup of deep and dense forest area. Many tourists head on a trekking excursion to the waterfall or spend a night camping near the fall.  Enjoy your trip to Bhira when the climate is at its best. The climate ranges from tropical to semi-tropical which is quite favourable in exploring the tidbits of the village. You will likely experience heavy rainfall during monsoon, i.e., from July to mid-October. Proximity to the Arabian sea somehow results in humid weather during summers. Due to the Sahyadri range, the climate is cooler than the nearby places.

Other Attractions

Pratapgarh fort.

Looking for some beautiful historical places? Pratapgarh Fort is one of the best Satara tourist places that you mustn’t miss. Well, the fort is completely suitable for clicking stunning pictures and photographs. Pratapgarh fort is quite nearby Mahabaleshwar, as being one of the most popular hilltops in Maharashtra. Astounding valleys, lakes and the entire city is visible from hill top of Pratapgad Fort.

Harishchandragad

Settled at a height of 4665 ft, Harishchandragad is an ancient hill fort of Ahmednagar district. This hill fort holds relevance to the history of Malshej Ghat and Kothale village in protecting and controlling the entire region. The strong fortifications of Harishcandragarh can be entered by multiple routes, including the Junnar gate, Sadhale ghat, Nalichi wat, and Indore wat.   When it comes to  places to visit in Maharashtra , a plethora of attractions can be found at Harishchandragad. The religious folklore of this place leads to several temples and holy edifices. Moreover, the village houses Kedareshwar cave where a huge Shiva Linga is established. Also, you can witness grand architectural wonders at the Nageshwar temple and the temple of Harishchadreshwar. Both these places have carved out intricate work on the pillars, domes, and the interiors. Additionally, Harishchandragad is famous among trekkers and fun-seekers too and many tourists trek to Konkan Kada and Taramati Shikhar for a splendid viewpoint. -Best time to visit 1. October to February – These months are the best to visit Harishchandragad. In this post-monsoon season, the weather will be pleasant and the region will convert into the serene lush green bed of forest. 2. March to June – These months constitute the summer season. During this period, Harishchandragad dries up and arid weather is usually observed. These months aren’t suitable to explore the trails of Western Ghats. 3. July to September – In this monsoon season, heavy rainfall takes place in Harishchandragad. The pathways become slippery and it isn’t safe to commute around this area during these months.

Raigad Fort

Raigad Fort is a majestic fort in Maharashtra which you can see in Sahyadri mountain ranges of Western Ghats. The fort is a symbol of Maratha pride and one of the great reminders of the history of Marathas. It was named as Gibraltar of the East by the British due to its strategic location and one of the most important landmarks in the city of Pune.

Some main attractions of Raigad Fort are the Hirakani Buruj, Maha Darwaja, the King’s Durbar, Takmak Tok, Jagdishwar Mandir etc. The fort has become a major tourist spot for its trekking opportunities where one needs to climb up to 1737 steps and enjoy a breath-taking view of the landscape. For those who wish to give trekking a miss, there is a splendid ropeway ride to give you goosebumps as you move through the winds with an exquisite aerial view of the landscape. The place has been dubbed as one of the most exciting Pune tourist destinations for history lovers and adventure freaks. - Location:  Raigad Fort, Raigad, Maharashtra - Best Time to visit:  The best time to visit Raigad Fort is from November to March| - Entry fee:  The cost of an entry ticket for Indians is INR 10 / USD 0.15 and for foreigners, it is INR 100/ USD 1.54| - Timings:  Tourists can visit Raigad Fort from 10 am to 6 pm every day

Top Experiences To Do in Raigad Fort

Tadoba National Park

The oldest and largest tiger reserve in Maharashtra, Tadoba National Park resides in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra. Its name is taken from the god Tadoba, who is worshipped by the tribes living in the deep forests of Tadoba and Andhari region. Earlier, a national park and Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary were established in the adjacent forests. But in 1995, both were merged to introduce the now tiger reserve. Stretched over 625.3 square kilometres, Tadoba National Park houses protected forest, the Tadoba lake, and Chimur Hills. The natural wonders of this place can be observed in life and in bold action. There are 88 tigers present in the reserve, along with other mammals like the Indian leopards, sloth bears, nilgai, sambar, barking deer, and much more. Also, the Tadoba lake houses a wide range of water birds and raptors. The grey-headed fish eagle, crested serpent eagle, and changeable hawk-eagle-like endangered species can also be spotted within the reserve. -Best time to visit   1. November to February –  The best time to visit Tadoba National Park is from November to February. The surrounding will compose of lush green setup and water birds can be observed in their element. 2. March to June –  During this time, the temperature rises to 47 degrees Celsius. Exploring the wonders of Tadoba National Park can be hard but sighting mammals near the lake is highly poss ible. 3. July to October –  These months constitute the monsoon. During this time, Tadoba National Park experiences heavy rainfall. The humidity also reaches extreme heights. Mammals and other species are hardly visible at this time.

Murud Janjira

Settled amidst the marvelous Arabian Sea, Murud Janjira Fort is a pristine landscape standing tall apart from the world and near the port town of Murud. The island was established in the 16th century by Raja Ram Rao Patil. The  tourist attractions of Maharashtra  are incomplete without the imperial Murud Janjira. Famed as one of the strongest marine forts in India, it consists of three enormous cannons named Kalalbangdi, Chavri, and Landa Kasam. The fort also consists of 572 cannons, 26 round bastions, and sea-facing gates.  Apart from the powerful war position, Murud Janjira also has an exotic small pond within the vicinity. Moreover, there is the grand palace of Nawabs residing in Janjira as well. To reach the fort, tourists are supposed to travel by sailboats from Rajapuri jetty.  -Best time to visit 1. October to February –  The best time to visit Murud Janjira is from October to February. The weather remains pleasant and appropriate for exploring the stunning town. Although a cool breeze rolls around this time, it’s bearable. 2. March to June –  Summers take place from March to June in Murud Janjira. A heatwave can be experienced and the temperature usually drops by 42 degrees Celsius. 3. July to September –  Settled near the Arabian Sea, Murud Janjira witnesses heavy rainfall this time. It is usually not advisable to visit during these months as the commute might not be easy.

Kolaba Fort

Encircled by the clear blue waters of the Arabian sea and offering some of the most gorgeous views around, Kolaba fort is a historical building located in Alibaug. The fort is nearly 300 years old and it once acted as one of the major naval stations during the time when Shivaji Maharaj ruled in Maharashtra. The spectacular fort was once an isolated military fortification in the middle of the Arabian Sea, and had a strategic geographical importance for the Marathas when it came to warfare.

The fort is located just two kilometres from the Alibaug Beach, and if there is a low tide you can easily reach this place by walking here.  However if there is a high tide you will have to hire a boat to visit the fort. If you happen to take a walk to the fort, you will be delighted by the serene and tranquil quality of the area, as this region is very thinly populated and only a few people go to the fort. 

The fort itself is full of historical artifacts and various paraphernalia of its golden period. You will find huge cannons and sculptures of various birds and animals on the walls of the fort. You can also find various old temple buildings here. In fact, there is a Lord Ganesh temple that is present within the grounds and is still used as a place of worship by the local fishermen community. The fort is surrounded by the sea waters on all its sides, and a significant hallmark worth noting is the presence of a freshwater well within the fort. 

The fort held an important geographical advantage for the Marathas and was used as a Chief Naval Station for planning strategic attacks on the British army. Nowadays it is a popular tourist attraction and one of the most important destinations in the town. The Archaeological Survey of India has declared it as a Nationally Protected Monument due to its historical significance. 

Top Experiences To Do in Kolaba Fort

Ekvira Devi Temple

Snuggled in the proximity of Karla caves, the Ekvira Devi temple is a spectacular spiritual retreat for the visitors. The goddess is believed to be an incarnation of the Goddess Renuka who is believed to be the mother of Parshurama. For the Koli fishermen and the local tribe, the goddess the supreme power and they visit the temple on a daily basis seeking her blessings.

At this temple, you can know about the learning of the Buddhist culture as it serves as a great cultural & spiritual center for that. On festive occasions namely Navratri and Chaitra the aura of the temple transforms completely and becomes even more lively.

Right from the traditional folktales to the vibrant decorations and dances, you can witness everything at the temple. To reach out to the temple you will have to traverse 200 steps that will take you to the notch and that’s where the temple is located. The temple was built by the Pandavas and this temple is one of the most serene temples of the region. If you are looking for a spot where you can witness a blend of spirituality and splendid views, then this is the right place for you.

Takin Festival

Malshej Ghat

Harihareshwar Beach

Daulatabad Fort

Ajanta And Ellora Caves

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Vast and rugged, the modern state of Maharashtra is the third largest in India and one of the most visited by foreign tourists. While many venture no further than its port capital, Mumbai , as soon as you leave its concrete estates, industrial works and swampland, you enter a different world. Plan your trip to Maharashtra with our guide to Maharashtra - based on The Rough Guide to India , your travel guide for India. 

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Undoubtedly, Maharashtra’s greatest treasures are its extraordinary cave temples and monasteries. The finest of these are found near Aurangabad .

The busy commercial city is the obvious base for visits to the Buddhist caves at Ajanta , with their still-vibrant murals, and the monolithic temples of Ellora . Here the astonishing Hindu Kailash temple was carved in its entirety from one single rock. Despite Maharashtra’s early importance as a centre of Buddhism, Hinduism is very much at the core of the life in the state.

Balancing modern industry alongside ancient associations with the Ramayana, Nasak has always been the main pilgrimage centre. This is a handy place to break journeys en route to Aurangabad. One of the four locations of the Kumbh Mela, the city is always a hive of devotional activity, and lies close to one of India’s most sacred Shiva shrines.

In the state’s far northeastern corner, the city of Nagpur lies close to Sevagram. This is where Mahatma Gandhi set up his headquarters during the struggle for Independence.

Thinking of visiting Maharashtra? Talk to our local India experts to kick-start curating your perfect trip.

Ajanta caves, Maharashtra, India © Shutterstock

Away from the cities, one of the most characteristic features of the landscape is a plenitude of forts.

Rising a short distance inland from the sea, the Sahyadri Hills — part of the Western Ghats — form a series of huge steps that march up from the coastal strip to the edge of the Deccan plateau. These flat-topped hills could easily be converted into forts where small forces could withstand protracted sieges by large armies. Today, visitors can scale such windswept fortified heights at Pratapgadh and Daulatabad.

During the nineteenth century, the mountains found another use. When the summer proved too much for the British in Bombay, they sought refuge in nearby hill stations. The most popular of these, Mahabaleshwar , now caters for droves of domestic tourists. Matheran, 800m higher, has a special attraction — a rickety miniature train.

South of Matheran, a series of magnificent rock-cut caves clustered around Lonavala . This provides the main incentive to break the journey to the modern, cosmopolitan city of Pune , famous for its Osho resort founded by the New Age guru Bhagwan Rajneesh. Pune's atmospheric old town and restaurant and bar scene offers additional appeal.

To the west, Maharashtra occupies 500km of the Konkan coast on the Arabian Sea, from Gujarat to Goa . The little-explored palm-fringed coast winds back and forth with inlets, ridges and valleys. Highlights here include Murud-Janjira, whose extraordinary fortress was the only one never conquered by the Mughals.

Ganpatipule, the region’s chief pilgrimage centre, and home to kilometres of deserted, palm-fringed beaches, is another gem around these parts. By the time you reach Kolhapur, the main town in the far south of the state, famous for its temple and palace, Mumbai feels a world away. 

Chowpatty beach, Mumbai © O'SHI/Shutterstock

Most of Maharashtra’s attractions revolve around the region’s cave temples, monasteries and forts. Add to that fine wine, sophisticated cities, a plethora of palm-fringed beaches, and Ghandi’s last ashram, and Maharashtra adds up to a distinctively diverse — and rewarding — region.

#1 Visit Mumbai

As the powerhouse of Indian business, and the source of its most seductive media images, Mumbai , the Maharashtrian capital, can be a compelling place to spend a day or two. 

Nowhere reinforces your sense of having arrived in Mumbai quite as much as the Gateway of India — the city’s defining landmark. Nearby, the Prince of Wales Museum should be on your list of sightseeing priorities, as much for its flamboyantly eclectic architecture as for its art treasures.

Planning to visit Mumbai? Discover five ways to live like a local in the city, and read up on how to enjoy a more sustainable stay in Mumbai .

Mumbai, Maharashtra © Shuttertock

#2 Enjoy ancient culture and fine wine in Nasik

Lying at the head of the main pass through the Western Ghats , Nasik makes an interesting stopover en route to or from Mumbai. One of the four sites of the world’s largest religious gathering, the Kumbh Mela, the ghat-lined banks of the River Godavari here are always animated. 

According to the Ramayana, Nasik was where Rama (Vishnu in human form), his brother Lakshmana and wife Sita lived during their exile from Ayodhya. This is also where the archdemon Ravana carried Sita to his kingdom in an aerial chariot. The scene of such episodes forms the core of the busy pilgrimage circuit – a lively enclave packed with religious specialists, beggars, sadhus and street vendors touting puja paraphernalia. 

However, Nasik has a surprising lack of historic buildings, and its only real monuments are the rock-cut caves at nearby Pandav Lena. Excavated at the peak of Buddhist achievement on the Deccan, these 2000-year-old cells hark back to the days Nasik dominated the trade routes linking the Ganges plains with the ports to the west. 

In addition, with its temperate winters, rich soil and gently undulating landscape, Nasik’s arid and dusty hinterland is ideal for growing wine grapes. As a result, the city has established itself at the centre of India’s fast-expanding wine industry. 

Nasik, Maharashtra, India

#3 Explore Ellora Caves

Among Maharashtra’s most visited places, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it'll come as no surprise that visiting Ellora Caves is one of the best things to do in India . 29km northwest of Aurangabad, these might not enjoy as grand a setting as their older cousins at Ajanta, but their amazing wealth of sculpture more than compensates.

In all, 34 Buddhist, Hindu and Jain caves line the foot of the 2km-long Chamadiri escarpment as it tumbles down to meet the open plains. The site’s principal attraction — the colossal Kailash temple — rears from a sheer-edged cavity cut from the hillside. A vast lump of solid basalt has been fashioned into a spectacular complex of colonnaded halls, galleries and shrines. 

Going it alone? Read our tips for backpacking India .

Ellora Caves, Maharashtra, India © Shutterstock

#4 Be awe-struck by Ajanta caves 

Move captivating cave experiences wait at Ajanta , home to the finest surviving art gallery from any of the world’s ancient civilizations. Hewn from the near-vertical sides of a horseshoe-shaped ravine, the caves occupy a site worthy of the spectacular ancient art they contain.

Less than two centuries ago, this remote spot was known only to local tribespeople — the entrances to its abandoned stone chambers lay buried deep under a thick blanket of jungle. In 1819, the chance arrival of a detachment of East India Company troops brought the caves’ obscurity to an abrupt end. Led to the top of the bluff by a young scout, the tiger-hunters spied what has now been identified as the facade of Cave 10. 

Further exploration revealed a total of 28 colonnaded caves chiselled out of the brown and grey basalt cliffs lining the River Waghora. More remarkable still were the immaculately preserved paintings writhing over their interior surfaces.

In addition to the stone Buddhas and other sculptures enshrined within them, Ajanta’s excavations are adorned with a swirling profusion of murals.These depict everything from battlefields and sailing ships, to animal-filled forests and snow-capped mountains.

Awe-inspiring Ajakta caves © Shutterstock

#5 Visit Gandhi’s ashram in Sevagram 

Sevagram, Gandhi’s model “Village of Service”, is deep in the serene Maharashtran countryside. The Mahatma moved here from his former ashram in Gujarat during the 1936 monsoon. 

At the centre of the Subcontinent, within easy reach of the Central Railway, it made an ideal headquarters for the national, nonviolent Satyagraha movement.

These days, the small settlement is a cross between a museum and a living centre for Gandhian philosophies. Interested visitors are welcome to spend a couple of days here, helping in the fields, attending discussions and prayer meetings, and learning the art of hand-spinning.

Once past the absorbing visitors’ centre, which documents Gandhi’s life, the focal point of the ashram is the sublimely peaceful main compound.

These modest huts – among them the Mahatma’s main residence – have been preserved exactly the way they were when the great man and his disciples lived here.

View of the huts and cottages of Mahatma Gandhi's ashram at Sevagram, India © Shutterstock

#6 Explore the unspoiled Konkan coast 

Despite the gradual appearance of a string of resorts aimed at wealthy urbanites, the coast stretching south from Mumbai, known as the Konkan, remains relatively unspoilt.

Backed by trees and coconut plantations, and framed by the distant Western Ghats, empty beaches regularly slip in and out of view. At the same time, fortified towns preserve a distinct coastal culture, with its own dialect and fiery cuisine.

The number of rivers and estuaries slicing the coast meant this little-explored area was difficult to navigate. These days, the Konkan railway, which winds inland between Mumbai and Kerala via Goa, now renders it more easily accessible.

Konkan coast, Maharashtra, India © ImagesofIndia/Shutterstock

#7 Take a miniature train to Matheran 

With fantastic views across the Western Ghats revealed during the train ride up to this former British hill station, Matheran is well worth the journey. 

108km east of Mumbai, Matheran is set on a narrow north–south ridge at an altitude of 800m in the Sahyadri Range. From evocatively named viewpoints at the edge of sheer cliffs that plunge into deep ravines, you can see way across the hazy plains. 

The town itself, shrouded in thick mist for much of the year, has, for the moment, one unique attribute. Namely, cars, buses, motorbikes and auto-rickshaws are banned. That, added to the journey up on a miniature train that chugs through spectacular scenery, gives the town an agreeably quaint feel.

Matheran toy train, Maharashtra, India © Shutterstock

#8 Potter around Pune 

Known as the “Oxford of the East”, the sophisticated city of Pune is home to an absorbing old town, a riveting museum, and some excellent places to eat and drink. 

Since the colonial days, Pune has continued to develop as a major industrial city. It's also one of India’s fastest growing business and tech centres. Signs of prosperity abound, from multi-storey apartment blocks and gated estates, to coffee shops, air-conditioned malls and hip boutiques.

Pune, recently voted India’s most “liveable city”, also has a couple of spiritual claims to fame. Koregaon Park is home to the famous Osho ashram, while on the outskirts you’ll find yogarcharya BKS Iyengar’s illustrious yoga centre.

Aga Khan Palace, Pune, India © Shutterstock

Best places to stay in Maharashtra

It’s true to say travellers are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the best places to stay in Maharashtra . You have a fair few options to consider no matter what your budget — from luxurious colonial era mansions in huge grounds to affordable hotels.

Below we highlight to what expect from places to stay around the region. For detail on where to stay in the state capital, read our guide to Mumbai .

Most of Nasik’s hotels, stretching along the Mumbai–Agra road en route to Pandav Lena, are pitched at business travellers. You'll find a few more budget-friendly exceptions around the Old City Bus Stand chowk. As this is wine country, you could explore staying near, or in, a vineyard.

Explore places to stay in Nasik.

Ellora Caves

Planning to visit Ellora Caves? Most visitors use Aurangabad as a base for day-trips to the caves. Aurangabad’s proximity to some of India’s most important monuments, together with its “boom-city” status, ensures a profusion of hotels, though standards are variable.

If you prefer to take in the caves at a more leisurely pace and climb Daulatabad Hill, either spend the night at Ellora or leave Aurangabad early in the morning.

Search for places to stay in Aurangabad.

Matheran has plenty of hotels, though all are pricey – particularly at weekends, when rates almost double (book ahead), and during peak periods when they become astronomical.

Most are near the railway station on MG Rd. Note that 10–11am checkouts are standard, and many places close down during the rainy off -season.

The town’s hoteliers almost universally refuse beds to “stags” (single male travellers). Most places only have hot water in the morning. Many provide full or half-board at reasonable rates, and there are also numerous thali joints near the station.

Check-out accommodation in Matheran.

While top-end hotels are springing up all over Pune, there’s a chronic shortage of budget and mid-range places. As a result, prices are high and vacancies like gold dust, so book as far in advance as possible.

Browse places to stay in Pune, and more places to stay in Maharashtra.

Marine Drive, Mumbai © Skreidzeleu/Shutterstock

Easily accessible by air, rail and road, once in the state, Maharashtra is also easy to get around by train and road. The extensive train network connects all Maharashtra’s cities and towns, with several fast trains operating from Mumbai. 

In addition, reliable roads connect Maharashtra with other parts of India. National Highway 6 and National Highway 17 are the major highways, with State Highways and National Highways connecting Maharashtra to neighbouring states. 

Maharashtra is easy to get around by train © Josemon_Vazhayil/Shutterstock

At the very least, we’d suggest spending at least five days in Maharashtra. While you might not want to linger long in busy Mumbai, it’s worth spending at least a day here to get a feel for the place, and to see its top sights. 

Add to that visiting at least some of the region’s top attractions, especially Ellora Caves and Ajanta caves, and those five days will fly by. In fact, if you have more time, plan to visit for at least a week.

Looking for inspiration for your trip?  Check our India itineraries  or talk to our local India travel experts .

Khadi product shop selling small sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi © Shutterstock

The best time to visit Maharashtra is the October–February period, when it's typically hot and dry. That said, the eastern side of the state may get a few showers.

Temperatures ramp up from March to May, when it can get uncomfortable, and thunderstorms are not uncommon. Months to avoid — the monsoon generally hits in June and lasts till September, with July the wettest month. Most hotels in the hill station of Matheran close during this period.

It's also well worth trying to coincide your visit with one of the state’s many festivals. For more on that, read our guide to when to go to India .

Garden of Shaniwar Wada Palace, Pune, India © Shutterstock

Maharashtra is easily accessible by air, rail and road. 

By air 

The state of Maharashtra has numerous domestic and International airports. These include Santa Cruz domestic Airport, Chattarpati Shivaji International Airport, Aurangabad Airport, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, and Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Airport. 

By train 

The state also has a great rail network connecting all cities of Maharashtra. Several speedy trains operate from Mumbai.

Getting to Nasik

Gandhinagar airport is around 5km southeast of the city and has irregular flights to/from Delhi. 

By bus 

Buses from Mumbai pull in at the Mahamarga Bus Stand, 10min by rickshaw from the city centre. Aurangabad and Pune buses terminate at the central New City Bus Stand.

The Old City Bus Stand is around 500m north along the Old Agra Rd and is primarily useful for buses to Trimbak. It’s an easy walk from either stand to several budget hotels and restaurants. 

Nasik Road is the nearest railway station, 8km southeast of the centre. Local buses regularly ply the route into town, and there’s no shortage of shared taxis and auto-rickshaws.

Getting to Pune

Pune is very well connected, but demand for seats on planes, trains and buses far exceeds supply, so book onward transport as soon as you can. 

Lohagaon airport Pune’s airport, 10km northeast of the city centre, is a major hub, with regular direct flights to cities throughout India. It’s a 15–30min journey to/from the city centre, depending on traffic.

The railway station is in the centre of the city, south of the river. One of the last stops for numerous long-distance trains to and from Mumbai, rail services are excellent. Reservations should be made as far in advance as possible online, either via a travel agency, or at the reservation centre next to the station. 

By shared taxi

For Mumbai, 24hr shared taxis leave from agencies at the taxi stand in front of Pune railway station. They’re quicker than the buses, but only take you as far as Dadar. 

Pune has three main bus stands. If you’re unsure which station you require for your destination, ask at the enquiries hatch of the City Bus Stand. More comfortable private buses depart from offices throughout Pune. Tickets can be bought from travel agencies in Koregaon Park.

Talk to our local experts about curating your ideal trip to India.

Railway station in Mumbai © Pavel Laputskov/Shutterstock

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 27.06.2023

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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9 Top Maharashtra Tourist Destinations and Attractions

What to See and Do in Maharashtra

These top Maharashtra tourist places offer a diverse mix of ancient cave temples, forts, mountains, wineries, and beaches. Of course, there's cosmopolitan Mumbai as well.

Mumbai, the capital city of Maharashtra, is the financial capital of India and the home of India's Bollywood film industry. Also called India's "maximum city", Mumbai is known for its extreme standards of living, ​fast-paced lifestyle, and the making (or breaking) of dreams. Captivating examples of colonial British architecture can be found all over the city and make up many of Mumbai's top attractions , including the Gateway of India and Haji Ali. Mumbai also has a pulsating nightlife, with unforgettable bars , live music venues, national park , and traveler hangouts.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are located near Aurangabad in northern Maharashtra, around 400 kilometers (250 miles) from Mumbai. There are 34 caves at Ellora dating from between the 6th and 11th centuries AD, and 29 caves at Ajanta dating back to between the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD. While the Ajanta caves are rich in paintings and sculpture, the Ellora caves are renowned for their extraordinary architecture. The most incredible thing about all these caves is that they were crafted by hand, with only a hammer and chisel.

Konkan Coast

The Konkan Coast in Maharashtra offers a bounty of beautiful beaches, which are among the most pristine in the country.Delightfully off the tourist trail, they are devoid of much commercial development and many are practically deserted.

The closest hill station to Mumbai, Matheran was discovered in 1850 by the British during their occupation of India and subsequently developed into a popular summer retreat. At height of 800 meters (2,625 feet) above sea level, this serene place provides a cooling escape from searing temperatures. However, the most unique thing about it and what makes it so special, is that all vehicles are banned there -- even bicycles. It's a soothing place to relax away from any noise and pollution. Get there by taking the scenic toy train .

Nashik, approximately four hours northeast of Mumbai in Maharashtra, is a city of contrasts. On one hand, it's an ancient and sacred pilgrimage destination with a fascinating Old City and temples, such as Naroshankar and Kalaram. On the other, it's home to the biggest winery region in India. 

Tadoba National Park

Overlooked by tourism until recently because it was off the beaten track and lacked accommodations, these days Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra is fast gaining a reputation as one of the best places to see a tiger in the wild in India.

Just two hours southeast of Mumbai, and halfway between Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala provides an eclectic blend of hills, history and adventure. Its a popular misty monsoon destination, and its lush surroundings have been the backdrop of many Bollywood movie song and dance scenes. Attractions include forts, lookouts, lakes, dams, and waterfalls (during the monsoon season).  Nirvana Adventures conducts paragliding in Kamshet, close to Lonavala. The ancient rock-cut Karla caves are also worth visiting.

Mahabaleshwar

For fresh strawberries (as well as mulberries, raspberries, and gooseberries) head to Mahabaleshwar in the Western Ghat mountains (known as the Sahyadri mountains in Maharashtra). Strawberry season runs from November to March and you can feast on them at Mapro Gardens and Archie's Farm. Otherwise, go trekking, fishing, boating, horse riding, or take in the views at one of the many sightseeing points and lookouts (there are nearly 30 of them!).

The historical and cultural city of Kolhapur is a lesser-known tourist destination alongside the Panchganga River in southern Maharashtra. Yet, it certainly has plenty to offer! Its magnificent temples are one of the main attractions, with the Mahalaxmi Temple being the focus. The city has a long line of both Hindu and Muslim rulers, and has been the site of intense confrontations. Prior to India's Independence, from 1700 it was controlled by the Maratha Empire and the British. The new palace of the Maharaja of Kolhapur, built in 1884, has grandiose Indo-Saracenic architecture. It now houses the Shree Chhatrapati Shahu Museum, containing memorabilia of Kolhapur's rulers. Kolhapur also has a couple of interesting claims to fame: the famous Kolhapuri chappals (shoes) originated from there and the city is said to produce the best Kushti wrestlers.

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Popular itineraries for a week in maharashtra.

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Maharashtra Trip Plan For 4 Days

Maharashtra is a place with historical & heritage sites, pilgrimage, cultural venues, beaches, wildlife, and hill stations. An itinerary for four days offers you an expedition to cultural and historical sites. Learn about the ancient ruins and forts of Maharashtra with your Maharashtra tour packages.

Explore the places like Ajanta Ellora Caves, Bibi ka Maqbara, Panchakki, Pitalkhora Caves, and DevGiri Fort along with shopping malls and amusement parks of Aurangabad in this trip plan for four days . The trip is highly elevated towards a visit to ancient heritage sites soothing people having an interest in history and culture.

Maharashtra is the third largest state of India with immense beauty and great tourist spots. In your itinerary for four days , you will take a cultural and historic visit to the famous places of Aurangabad and Daulatabad. Enjoy Maharashtra and make memories of the splendor of caves and forts.

Aurangabad: Arrival and Sightseeing

Other Benefits (On Arrival)

Reach Aurangabad, check-in to the hotel. Visit Ajanta Ellora Caves, Bibi ka Maqbara, Panchakki. Explore amusement parks and shopping malls. Stay overnight in hotel.

Aurangabad: Sightseeing

• Sightseeing

Visit the caves of Ajanta and Ellora. Spend night in hotel.

After breakfast, visit Ellora Caves. Explore the sculptures and painting in this package itinerary for three nights and four days. Visit Pitalkhora Caves. Overnight stay in hotel.

Daulatabad: Sightseeing and Departure

Travel to Daulatabad from Aurangabad, after breakfast. Visit Devgiri Fort, Bibi ka Maqbara. Get ready for departure.

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

Hotel vijay residency

35 Hotel Vijay Residency Town Centre | Behind Nupur Cinema, Opp. M.G.M. Hospital, Aurangabad 431003, India

• Air conditioning
• Room service
• 24-hour front desk
• Daily Breakfast
• Room on Double Sharing
• Sightseeing at all the mentioned places
• Pick-up and drop from the Nearest Airport/Railway station Fuel, Toll, Parking, Driver Allowance
• All applicable taxes and service charges
• Transportation by individual Cab
• Flight Fare/Train fare
• Personal Expenses such as Laundry
• Telephone calls
• Tips & gratuity
• Mineral water, Soft & hard drinks
• Extra Mattress
• River Rafting
• Wildlife Safari
• Rock climbing
• Paragliding
• Joy ride (Toy Train)
• Additional sightseeing or Extra usage of vehicle
• Other than mentioned in the itinerary
• Extra Meals (Additional food charge ) or Drinks & meal supplement for children like Milk and cornflakes
• Non Veg Food
• Mineral Water / Cold Drink Laundry
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FAQs About Maharashtra Tour Packages

Is maharashtra safe for women.

Maharashtra is one of the friendliest and safest places in India. It is perfectly safe for both Indian and foreign women.

What is the budget required for visiting Maharashtra?

The budget for the trip to Maharashtra depends on the locations and sightseeing. On average, consider 14,000 INR per person for a tour itinerary for four days .

What are the languages spoken in Maharashtra?

The official language of Maharashtra is Marathi. Several other languages are also spoken there locally.

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Myoksha Travels

Chardham and Jyotirlinga Tours

5 Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra – List, Itinerary, Map, Tour Packages

The five Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra are Bhimashankar , Trimbakeshwar , Grishneshwar , Nagnath in Aundha and Parli Vaijnath . These 5 jyotirlingas together are also known as Pancha Jyotirlingas . They are dedicated to Lord Shiva .

If you are planning to visit these places, call us on 7977184437 or e-mail us on [email protected] for best tour packages. You can also take a look at our tour package by clicking on below button.

This guide explains the significance of the 5 Jyotirling in Maharashtra, map, travel itinerary, tour packages and frequently asked questions about panch jyotirlinga.

How many Jyotirlingas are there in Maharashtra?

There are five jyotirlingas in Maharashtra . Here is the list:

1. TRIMBAKESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA, NASHIK

It is believed that Trimbakeshwar is the holiest place of Hindu mythology. The most unique feature of this temple is that the Shiva Linga here has 3 faces of the three almighty Gods of Hindu mythology – Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara. River Godavari originates from here and anyone is believed to have acquired salvation, once he or she visits this place.

2. BHIMASHANKAR JYOTIRLINGA, PUNE

Lord Shiva appears as “ Ardhanareeshwara ” in this temple. River Bhima originates from Bhimashankar . The river is considered sacred because it is believed that the river is actually the perspiration of Lord Shiva after he defeated the demon Tripurasura. A holy dip in the river is believed to relieve one of their sins.

3. GRISHNESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA, AURANGABAD

Located very near to the Ellora caves , Grishneshwar temple is the last of the 12 Jyotirlingas. For devotees who undertake the Jyotirlinga pilgrimage , a visit to this temple completes their journey to the holy places of Shiva. One can reap the benefits of worshiping all the 12 Jyotirlingas by just visiting this one temple.

4. PARLI VAIJNATH JYOTIRLINGA, MAHARASHTRA

This temple is located in a village that is home to mountains and thick forests rich in medicinal herbs. Since the Parli Vaijnath temple is amidst such a healing atmosphere, the Lord here is addressed as Vaidhyanath . Devotees are allowed to touch the Shiva Lingam during worship and this helps in healing and reaping various health benefits.

5. AUNDHA NAGNATH JYOTIRLINGA, MAHARASHTRA

It is believed that the Aundha Nagnath Temple was built by Yudhisthira , the eldest Pandav, while they were in an exile for 14 years. Devotees believe that by praying at this temple, one can safeguard themselves against all poisons.

Jyotirlinga Itinerary for Maharashtra

Maharashtra Itinerary : Bhimashankar, Ahmednagar 1N, Aundha Nagnath, Parli Vaijnath 1N, Grishneshwar, Aurangabad 1N, Trimbakeshwar.

Day 1: Mumbai – Bhimashankar – Ahmednagar

• Early morning departure from Mumbai.
• Proceed to Bhimashankar and complete Darshan.
• Proceed to Ahmednagar.
• Overnight stay in Ahmednagar.

Day 2: Ahmednagar – Aundha – Parli

• Early morning travel to Nagnath and complete Darshan.
• Proceed to Parli Vaijnath and complete Darshan.
• Overnight stay in Parli.

Day 3: Parli – Grishneshwar – Aurangabad

• Early morning travel to Grishneshwar Temple and complete Darshan.
• Overnight stay in Aurangabad.

Day 4: Aurangabad – Trimbakeshwar – Mumbai

• Early morning travel to Trimbakeshwar Temple and complete Darshan.
• After darshan, proceed to Mumbai.

Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra Map

List of all 12 Jyotirlingas in India

There are a total of 12 Jyotirlinga in India . They are as below:

• Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga located in Varanasi. One of the most famous temples in India.
• Somnath temple located in Veraval, Gujarat. Located on the seashore.
• Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga located near Nashik in Maharashtra. Famous for Kaal Sarp Dosh Puja.
• Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga located in Madhya Pradesh near Mandhata on the banks of River Narmada.
• Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga located in the holy city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. Famous for Bhasmarati.
• Grishneshwar temple located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra. Located right next to Ellora Caves.
• Kedarnath Jyotirlinga located in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. Also famous as one of the char dham.
• Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga located near Pune in Maharashtra. Source of River Bhima.
• Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga located in Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh.
• Nageshwar Jyotirlinga located near Dwarka in Gujarat. Nagnath in Maharashtra is also considered as the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga.
• Parli Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga located in Maharashtra. Also, the one in Jharkhand is considered as the Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga.
• Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga located in Tamil Nadu. Also part of the bigger char dham yatra.

Frequently Asked Questions about Five Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra

There are five Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra. 1. Trimbakeshwar, 2. Grishneshwar, 3. Bhimashankar, 4. Aundha Nagnath and 5. Parli Vaijnath. In total there are twelve jyotirlingas in India.

To cover all five jyotirlingas in Maharashtra, you can start your trip either from Mumbai or Pune. Both the cities are well connected by rail, road and air. It will take you four days to cover all the places.

Jyotirlinga is considered as a true or Swayambhu form of Lord Shiva. Swayambhu Linga means that Lord Shiva turned himself into a Linga. There are 12 Jyotirlingas in all.

The Jyotirlinga near Shirdi are Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga (Around 120 km) and Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga (Around 100 km).

The Jyotirlinga near Aurangabad is Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga (Around 30 km).

The Jyotirlinga near Pune is Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga (Around 110 km and 3 hrs).

Get down at Nanded railway station and take a bus/taxi to Parli.

Get down at Nashik railway station and take a bus/taxi to Trimbak.

Get down at Pune airport or railway station and take a bus/taxi to Bhimashankar.

Get down at Aurangabad airport or railway station and take a bus/taxi to Verul.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in September 2024

Maharashtra, a vibrant and diverse state in Western India, is a captivating destination that offers a myriad of experiences. September is an ideal month to explore Maharashtra, as the monsoon rains begin to retreat, revealing lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and cooler temperatures. From hill stations and coastal getaways to historic forts and spiritual retreats, Maharashtra boasts a variety of destinations perfect for an unforgettable September trip. Here are the 10 best places to visit in Maharashtra during this month.

Table of Contents

Top 10 Destinations to Explore in Maharashtra This September:

1. matheran.

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Matheran is a quaint hill station known for its tranquility and pollution-free environment. As Asia’s only hill station without automobiles, Matheran is the perfect escape for nature lovers. During September, the monsoon rains retreat, leaving behind misty hills, lush forests, and tranquil landscapes. Read More: 7 Popular Places to See in Matheran

Highlights:

• Charlotte Lake: The serene lake surrounded by greenery is a perfect picnic spot.
• Panorama Point: This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the valleys and peaks of the Western Ghats.
• Eco-friendly Transport: Horse riding and hand-pulled rickshaws are the primary modes of transportation here.

Ideal for: Nature lovers, trekking enthusiasts, and those looking to escape city life.

3 Days Matheran Trip Itinerary

2. Lonavala & Khandala

Lonavala and Khandala, often referred to as the twin hill stations, are incredibly popular during September. The region’s verdant hills and majestic waterfalls make it a monsoon paradise. The cool breeze, mist-covered peaks, and the rumbling waterfalls of Lonavala and Khandala are a treat to the senses during this time.

• Tiger’s Leap: A cliff-top viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views.
• Bhushi Dam: A famous spot where tourists love to enjoy the overflowing water during the monsoon.
• Rajmachi Fort Trek: The trail through dense forests is challenging yet rewarding with its incredible views.

Ideal for: Adventure seekers, trekking enthusiasts, and couples.

3 Days Lonavala Khandala Travel Package

3. Mahabaleshwar

Known for its strawberries and cool climate, Mahabaleshwar is another hill station that comes alive in September. The rain-fed forests, misty mountains, and the glistening Venna Lake offer a postcard-perfect setting. The mist-filled valleys and fresh air make Mahabaleshwar a refreshing getaway from the urban chaos. Read More: 6 Famous Tourist Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar

• Arthur’s Seat: Known for its ‘floating’ hills, this point offers mesmerizing views of the valleys below.
• Pratapgad Fort: A historical fort that played a key role during Shivaji Maharaj’s reign.
• Mapro Garden: A perfect spot for strawberry lovers to taste fresh strawberry products.

Ideal for: Families, couples, and history enthusiasts.

4 Nights 5 Days Mahabaleshwar Tour

4 Days Mahabaleshwar With Panchgani Trip

4. Panchgani

Just a short drive from Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani is renowned for its scenic beauty and salubrious climate. Surrounded by five hills, this quaint hill station offers a panoramic view of the Krishna River valley. The cool September breeze, misty mornings, and picturesque landscapes make Panchgani a dreamy destination during this time. More Read: Top 5 Destinations to Visit in Panchgani

• Table Land: A flat expanse of laterite rock, offering sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
• Parsi Point: A popular viewpoint offering views of the winding river and lush valleys.
• Devrai Art Village: A unique initiative where you can explore tribal art and crafts.

Ideal for: Couples, nature photographers, and art lovers.

4 Days Panchagani Mahabaleshwar Trip

5. Tarkarli

If you’re looking for a beach escape in September, Tarkarli is a perfect choice. This coastal village, located along the Konkan coastline, is known for its pristine beaches and adventure water sports. The weather in September is pleasant, and the beaches come alive with crystal-clear waters and refreshing breezes. Tarkarli is also famous for its marine life, making it a great spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.

• Tarkarli Beach: Known for its clean sands and clear waters, it’s a haven for beach lovers.
• Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world of the Arabian Sea with exciting water sports.
• Sindhudurg Fort: A historic sea fort that offers a glimpse into Maharashtra’s rich maritime history.

Ideal for: Beach lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs.

6. Malshej Ghat

Famous for its stunning waterfalls, misty peaks, and lush green valleys, Malshej Ghat is a monsoon lover’s paradise. September brings out the best in Malshej Ghat, as the waterfalls gush with full force and the entire landscape is bathed in vibrant greenery. This mountain pass in the Western Ghats is perfect for a quick weekend getaway or a nature retreat.

• Harishchandragad Fort: A challenging trek leading to an ancient hill fort with spectacular views.
• Waterfalls: Numerous waterfalls cascade down the cliffs during the monsoon, creating an awe-inspiring sight.
• Flamingo Spotting: During this time of year, flamingos migrate to the nearby reservoirs, offering a unique wildlife experience.

Ideal for: Trekkers, nature lovers, and photographers.

2 Nights 3 Days Mumbai Itinerary

7. Raigad Fort

Raigad Fort, perched on a hilltop in the Sahyadri mountain range, holds immense historical significance. It served as the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s kingdom. Visiting Raigad Fort in September offers cooler temperatures and lush green surroundings. The panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking, and the trek to the fort is an adventure in itself.

• Raigad Ropeway: A thrilling ropeway ride takes you to the top of the fort, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
• Maha Darwaza: The grand entrance gate of the fort is an architectural marvel.
• Samadhi of Shivaji Maharaj: A visit to the resting place of the great Maratha ruler is a spiritual and historical experience.

Ideal for: History enthusiasts, trekkers, and culture explorers.

8. Bhandardara

Bhandardara is a hidden gem in the Sahyadri mountains, known for its pristine lakes, waterfalls, and trekking trails. In September, the monsoon rains fill the Wilson Dam and Arthur Lake to the brim, making it a haven for nature lovers. The surrounding mountains, covered in thick greenery, make Bhandardara an ideal destination for a peaceful retreat.

• Randha Falls: A powerful waterfall that roars to life during the monsoon.
• Mount Kalsubai Trek: The highest peak in Maharashtra offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience.
• Arthur Lake: A serene spot for camping, surrounded by the lush greenery of the Sahyadris.

Ideal for: Campers, trekkers, and those seeking tranquility.

Nashik is a city of contrasts. It’s known both as a major pilgrimage center and for its thriving wine industry. Visiting Nashik in September allows you to experience the best of both worlds. The pleasant weather is perfect for exploring the vineyards as well as the spiritual sites. Explore More: Places to See near Nashik with Distance

• Sula Vineyards: One of India’s most famous vineyards, offering wine tours and tastings.
• Trimbakeshwar Temple: A significant Jyotirlinga temple located near the source of the Godavari River.
• Panchvati: A sacred spot associated with the Ramayana, featuring temples and bathing ghats.

Ideal for: Wine lovers, spiritual seekers, and culture enthusiasts.

Nashik Shirdi Shani Shingnapur Tour

10. Alibaug

Alibaug, located along the Konkan coast, is a popular beach destination near Mumbai. Known for its sandy beaches, historic forts, and laid-back vibe, Alibaug is a great destination to visit in September. The post-monsoon weather ensures pleasant days, perfect for enjoying the beaches or exploring the nearby attractions. Check More: Alibaug Travel Guide – All You Need to know

• Alibaug Beach: Famous for its clean sands and stunning views of the Colaba Fort.
• Kihim Beach: A quiet beach surrounded by coconut groves and casuarina trees.
• Murud-Janjira Fort: A majestic fort located on an island, accessible by a short boat ride.

Ideal for: Beach lovers, history buffs, and weekend travelers.

Maharashtra is a state full of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance, and September is one of the best months to explore it. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a beach lover, Maharashtra has something for everyone. From the hill stations of the Western Ghats to the pristine beaches of the Konkan coast, these destinations offer a diverse range of experiences. So pack your bags and head to Maharashtra this September for an unforgettable journey amidst stunning landscapes and fascinating history.

Further Reading:

• Top 20 Popular Caves of Maharashtra
• Maharashtra Famous Trekking Places
• Stunning Forts in Maharashtra
• Maharashtra Famous Beaches
• Hill Stations in Maharashtra
• Maharashtra Historical Monuments
• 12 Popular Temples in Maharashtra
• Maharashtra Honeymoon Places
• Wildlife National Park in Maharashtra
• Maharashtra Places to See in Winter
• Religious Places in Maharashtra
• Maharashtra Tourist Places to Visit
• Maharashtra Famous Camping Sites 

About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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