It is hardly an unknown fact that the world craves Bollywood. Being a hardcore cinephile will automatically attract you to the land of love, music, and films. But the contrasting cultures of Maharashtra, especially its diverse hill stations, beaches, and an ever-young crowd dwelling in the land of dreams, make it even more irresistible as a must-visit destination.
Covering the coveted parts of the Western peninsula and bordered by the Arabian Sea in the West, Maharashtra is the second-most populous region of India. With its 36 districts, Mumbai serves as the state capital, and Nagpur, also known as the city of oranges, takes over as the winter capital. The Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Elephanta Caves, The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, The Western Ghats, and The Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles make up the most sought-after world heritage sites in the area.
Here are the 15 best places to visit in Maharashtra when you travel to India.
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Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar
Spearheaded by evergreen forests all through, Mahabaleshwar is an amalgamation of both valleys and lush strawberry plantations. Once you reach, the first place to look forward to is Tapola, also known as Mini Kashmir. It houses the Shivsagar Lake and the dense jungles around it, being an ideal spot for the Eco Agro Tourism Initiative. The Elephant’s Head Point offers the best view of the entire Sahyadri range. Next, go boating in the Venna Lake, submerging a number of pilgrimage spots in the vicinity. You can also trek through the serene Lingamala Falls, where water falls from a massive height of 600 feet, only to get illuminated when sun rays fall on it. If you are in for a multi-day trip, you can visit Pratapgarh Fort, situated approximately 24 km away from Mahabaleshwar. Historically, it is a very significant site as the infamous Battle of Pratapgarh, between Shivaji I and Afzal Khan, took place here in 1659.
Alibaug
Alibaug is a coastal town in the district of Raigad. Spend your mornings by the Nagaon Beach and your evenings by the Varsoli Beach. If you are a fanatic for water sports, go for Mandwa Beach. It offers fun and frolic like no other region with its trained experts guiding you through parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat riding and sea kayaking. Drive 21 km from Kashid to visit the turquoise waters around the Murud-Janjira Fort. It dates back to the 15th Century AD and was built by Ahmednagar’s ruler Malik Amber. For a camel ride and golden sands, visit Kihim Beach. You can also spot venomous snakes, leopards, and boars in the dense canopies of Kanakeshwar Forest.
Panchgani
Move towards the southeast of Mumbai, and you will land at another hill station. The region is a magnanimous volcanic plateau known as The Table Land. If you want a bird’s eye view, go paragliding at an elevation of 1387 m above sea level. Kate’s Point and Sydney Point also offer the best view of Dhom Dam, Pandav Garh, and Mandardeo. If you are a food enthusiast, visit the Mapro Garden, which houses a chocolate factory, a nursery and a production house of jams and juices, operational since the 1980s.
Lonavala
Go for the panoramic Tiger’s Leap Point in Lonavala for the blissful views of the sun in its many colors. The Karla and Bhaja Caves have existed since the 2nd Century BC. It is the oldest and the largest cave site used as a chaitya or prayer hall. These are Buddhist rock-cut caves that house a beautiful lion-supported throne with carvings of three elephants. The Bhushi Dam makes for an overview of the hilly terrain standing on the Indrayani River. If you want to witness the magnificence of the Khandala Ghat, climb up the Duke’s Nose, locally called Naagpaani or cobra’s hood. The Rajmachi Fort has also been home to Shivaji, Aurangzeb, Shahu Maharaj and the British Empire, offering a great opportunity to hike the age-old trails.
Matheran
Matheran is famous for its colonial architecture and mild climate, perfect for your dream weekend getaway. The top tourist attraction is the ride on the Neral-Matheran Toy Train, built in 1907. The Echo Point is ideal for you to shout at the top of your voice and hear it back, while Porcupine Point offers a captivating view of the forests underneath. If you are up for a rock climbing spree, do it at the most popular spots like Shivaji’s Ladder, Alexander Point, and Louisa Point. Charlotte Lake is ideal for birdwatching.
Nashik
Nashik is considered an ancient holy site of the Ramayana era. However, you must have heard about it as it’s where Sula Vineyards originated. It was the valley’s first commercial winery. It was bestowed with the silver medal for the 2012 Sauvignon Blanc. Go for a relaxing tasting session over its 160 acres. If you are visiting during the monsoons, the Dudhsagar Falls will be a sight to behold. Drive to the Saptashrungi Hill Range to be blessed by the tribal Goddess Saptashrungi Nivasini. Pandu Leni, or the Tri Rashmi Caves have been mentioned in three inscriptions of diverse eras, the Kshatrapas, the Satavahans and the Abhira.
Khandala
On your visit to Khandala, visit the Visapur Fort. Trek up the stunning hills and rest assured, you are in for a treat! Follow that with the Bhedsa Caves, one of the oldest in Maharashtra, dating back to 60 BC. It is considered a marvel for its embellishments, which include four sets of 25-foot-high pillars. Lohagad Fort, near Malavali, and the Kune Waterfalls should also be added to your itinerary. The latter is a unique masterpiece of nature with its three-tiered fall at a height of 200 meters.
Aurangabad
The Ellora Caves in Aurangabad have its roots in Hindu, Jain and Buddhist monumental structures. The rock-cut temples stand side by side with monasteries, a total of 34 exquisite carvings. You must make it a point to visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, a mausoleum built in 1679 in dedication to Aurangzeb’s wife, Rabia-ud-Daurani. Next, visit Khuldabad, housing the hospice and shrine of Sufi Saint Muntajib al-Din. The spirit of tolerance is embedded in each site, as you embrace the smallest Jyotirlinga, Grishneshwar Temple, the Jama Masjid, and the Dargah of Pir Ismail.
Amboli
Amboli is a village in Maharashtra in the Sindhudurg District. The Amboli waterfalls attract local travelers throughout the year, and are considered an ecological hotspot. The Amboli Ghat stretches for 18 km from the Deccan Plateau to the Konkan. The Madhav Gad fort is also a nearby walk. Even in ruins, it offers breathtaking views. The Hiranya Keshi Temple was built to offer solace to local travelers and is situated on the banks of the river by the same name. If you want the best hikes of Maharashtra, opt for the Durg and Dhakoba peaks, located between Naneghat and Bhimashankar Hills.
Shirdi
Shirdi is one of the holiest spots in the whole of India, revered as the former home of the spiritual Guru, Sai Baba. It’s a pilgrimage site that is now a rave, open to tourists worldwide. At the entrance of the Samadhi Temple, stand under the calmness of the mosque-turned-temple Shri Dhwarkamai. Right opposite Chavadi, you will also see the cottage of Haji Abdul Baba. It is believed that he was a devotee of Sai Baba till the end of his life, and all his belongings hold testimony to the days gone by. Do not miss the Dixit Wada Museum for local anecdotes!
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri is a popular port town in Maharashtra, directly overlooking the Arabian Sea. The Jaigad Lighthouse offers a top-notch view of Ganpatipule Beach. Visit the Thibaw Point to cover the Bhatye Bridge, Pawas and the Someshwar Creek. Pande Samudra is also a nearby beach with its amazing silver sands, reformed coastline and a relaxing ambience. Guhagar Beach has swaying palm trees and Kunkeshwar Beach offers a remarkable view of the skyline. Choose your favorite!
Pune
Pune once served as the capital of the Peshwa dynasty of the Maratha Empire. The Shaniwar Wada Palace, a fortified site built in 1732, was a seven-storied capital building during the era. It could accommodate more than a thousand people, ensembling the Thora Rayancha Diwankhana (court reception hall), ornamental Naachacha Diwankhana (dance hall) and Juna Arsa Mahal (Old Mirror Hall). You should also visit the Aga Khan Palace, a landmark destination that served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi and his wife during the Freedom Movement. Do not miss the Osho Ashram, Lal Mahal, and the Pataleshwar Cave Temples.
Durshet
A tiny village on the banks of Amba, Durshet is situated within the Sahyadri ranges in Maharashtra. If you want to loosen in a retreat, stay in the Durshet Forest Lodge. It is located amidst 35 acres of a private teak forest area. A heaven for trekkers and Nature enthusiasts, the Uddhar hot water springs are rich in sulfur and can cure skin diseases. Go for river crossing, rafting, and rappelling on the Kundalika River.
Kolhapur
Located on the banks of Panchganga River, Kolhapur is famous for its Kolhapuri Chappals (local slippers), necklaces, and its delectable Mutton spices. The Mahalakshmi Temple is dedicated to the Goddess of Wealth. Her idol is adorned with diamonds and other precious stones. It incorporates a unique architectural style called the Hemadpanthi style, named after the royal courtier Hemadpant in the 13th Century. One of the oldest lakes in India, the Rankala Lake blankets the Ranka Bhairav Temple in the middle. Go there for cool breezes and horse riding in the evening. Take a stroll around Maharaja’s Palace, where the present king of Kolhapur resides. Other epitomes of architectural wonders include Kopeshwar Temple, Binkhambi Ganesh Temple, and the Panhala Fort at an altitude of 2700 ft.
Diveagar
Situated in Shrivardhan Taluka, Diveagar is a village of beaches. Yes, you heard it right! Harihareshwar Beach is surrounded by four of the most scenic hills, namely, Harihareshwar, Pushpadri, Brahmadri, and Harshinachal. The old Bankot Fort of the Peshwas oversees the historic village of Bhagamandala. Go for the Velas Beach Turtle Festival during the months of February, March, or April to witness the grand turtle nesting spots. If retro is your buzzword, definitely visit Kondivali Beach, an unspoiled and rocky wonderland.
