Located in India’s Western region, Maharashtra holds the famous city of Mumbai, making it one of the most visited states in India, both domestically and internationally. Occupying a substantial part of the Deccan Plateau, it is the second most populous state in India, and the third largest by area. A centre for culture, architecture, politics, and of course the economic capital of India, Maharashtra has both historically and recently been a very important state in India. Formed in 1956, Maharashtra is the meeting spot for the Krishna and Godavri rivers, as well as being a part of the Konkan coast, and hosting the majority of the Western ghats (large mountains and players with lush green valleys).
Transport:
The state has 3 major international airports, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, and Pune Airport. While the state also has a wide and diverse network of railway lines, it also has thee central railway hubs, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus and Church gate in Mumbai, as well as Konkan Railway in Belapur. Along with this, the region has many ferry services, a very well-developed network of roads, and some unique short-distance flying opportunities for those who can afford it.
A brief history:
The seat of many erstwhile powerful dynasties, Maharashtra has been under the rule of the Satavahana dynasty, Ratrakuta dynasty, Western Chalukyas, Deccan Sultanates, Mughals, Marathas, the Dutch, Portuguese, and the British East India Company all for whom Mumbai was a significant economic and political region.. Which such a diversity of religions, rulers and influences, Maharashtra is a melting pot of cultures, especially owning to the diversity brought in by Mumbai. Going further back, Chalcolithis sites belonging to the Jorwe culture (circa 1300–700 BCE) have even been found throughout the state while the 4th and 3rd centuries BCE saw the rule of the illustrious Mauryan Empire. All of these influences are very apparent in its many monuments, mountain-side cities, tombs and turreted architecture.
With such a diversity of cultures and opportunities, Maharashtra provides an endless list of places that will boggle the mind and delight the eyes. From those, here are the top 35 places you must visit in Maharashtra:
The major cities:
- Mumbai
- Pune
- Nagpur
- Ahmednagar
- Aurangabad
- Kolhapur
The must-visit forts:
- Karnala Fort
- Vasai Fort
- Sindhudurg
- Rajmachi Fort
- Raigad Fort
- Murud Janjira
- Daulatabad Fort
The hill stations:
- Lonavala & Khandala
- Karjat
- Mahabaleshwar
- Matheran
- Panchgani
- Igatpuri
- Kamshet
- Bandardhara
- Lavassa
- Harishchandragarh
- Kalsubai
The beach destinations:
- Alibaug & Mandwa
- Ratnagiri
- Malvan
- Dapoli
- Ganpatigule
- Tarkarli
Historical sites:
- Shirdi
- Ajanta & Ellora Caves
Destinatins for a little bit of action, and a little bit of adventure:
- Nashik
- Kolad
- Adlabs Imagica
The major cities:
- Mumbai
The city of dreams, the city that never goes to sleep, he city that has the best combination of old world charms and modern lifestyle, Mumbai is a place truly like none other. Considered as one of the great cities in the world, in line with New York, Paris, Shangai and London, Mumbai is a bustling metropolis of activities and opportunities. Every year, the city sees millions visiting it, in hope of enjoying its job opportunities, better standard of living and of course, tourism opportunities. A trip to India, let alone Maharashtra, is incomplete without a trip to Mumbai, Truly, we could create a list of over 40 things to do in Mumbai alone! Rich in both culture and cosmopolitans, Mumbai is a melting pot of language, traditions, and fun. Mumbai is the economic capital of India, with Dalal Street the hub drawing in not only capital investments but many unique opportunities as well. Mumbai is also where most film stars reside, given that is is the home to Bollywood, the Indian Hindi Film Industry. While it’s beaches may not be the cleanest, despite many recent attempts, Mumbai is a bustling city that has many things to offer for a wide variety of people. The street food in Mumbai is legendary, and is often considered synonymous with the cuisine of Maharashtra itself. From high-end shopping to nifty street grabs, the world is your oyster in this dynamic locale.
Visit if:
Ideal for every type of traveller, Mumbai is not only a must-visit in Maharashtra, but the entirety of India. It being a central hub of transport for most international travellers, the city becomes an automatic point to begin and end your journey – and it does not disappoint.
Stay for:
While a week is a sufficient time to visit places in Mumbai, some people choose to stay for a longer duration owning to the many one day trips that can be taken from Mumbai as a transport and tourism hub.
Best time to visit:
Though enjoyable year-round, the region is best enjoyed in the winter months, from November to late February
Reach via:
With a bustling, chic international airport, a domestic airport and multiple significant railway hubs and national highways, you could visit Mumbai through any means you wanted!
Don’t miss out on:
- Gateway of India and a speed boat ride around it
- Victoria Terminus lit up at night
- A special tour of Victoria Terminus’ stained glass displays
- Nehru Science Centre
- Haji Ali Mosque
- Thrifty shopping at Colaba Causeway
- Nehru Planetarium
- Bhau Daji Lad Museum
- Kanheri Caves inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park
- Pay your respects at Babulnath
- Elephanta Caves
- Manori Beach
- Vasai Fort
- Mohammed Ali Road
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangharahalya (Museum)
- Film City
- Mumbai Dabbawala Center
- Mahim Dargah
- Siddhivinayak Temple
- Chor Bazaar
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, Bandra aka Mount Mary
- The beach and pagodas at Gorai
- Horniman Circle
- Asiatic Library Stairs
- Jahangir Art Gallery
- Kalaghoda Festival (Seasonal)
- Bandra Fort aka Castella de Aguada
- Mumbai Dhobi Ghat
- Mahalaxmi Temple
- Sunsets at Marine Drive
- Worli Fort
- Phule Market and Crawford Market
- Watch the iconic film, DDLJ at Maratha Mandir, open since 1958
- Prince of Wales Museum
- ISKCON Temple
- Turtle hatchlings at Versova Beach
- Flora Fountain
- Girgaum Chowpatty
- Bandra – Worli Sea Link
- Cafe Mondegar
- Cafe Leopold
- Pune
If Mumbai is perhaps the biggest city in the state now, Pune was once much much superior. The city of reign for the erstwhile Maratha empire, Pune is the most spectacular combination of culture, history, tradition, and modern thought. Once called the ‘Oxford of India’, Pune houses see of the finest educational institutes in the country. Both a central hub for culture as well as IT services, Pune has much to offer, drawing in many people every year for its unique combination of heritage and experience. While it has no shortage of interesting things to offer, it is also a popular stop for travellers given its proximity to a large roster of activities. Every part of Pune reflects its deep respect for the region’s rulers – who moulded not only its economic prosperity and architecture, but also much of its culture – as well as the large army base that is seated here.
Pune is a great location to enjoy some of Maharashtra’s more traditional offerings. Food, festival, clothing, native art music and theatre is of a very high calibre here. It is also a great hub for adventurists given its proximity to some of the best trekking trails in India, the many forts around it, the iconic palaces and monuments within city limits, and activities such as canoeing, camping and safaris in the surrounding wilderness.
Visit if:
Ideal for lovers of all things history and culture, Pune is a really culturally rich option to the more bustling, commercial Mumbai, making it ideal for families as well as friend groups.
Stay for:
3 to 4 days
Best time to visit:
Scorchingly hot in the summer months, the region is best enjoyed in the winter months, from November to late February
Reach via:
With a bustling, chic international airport, a domestic airport and multiple significant railway hubs and national highways, you could visit Pune through any means you wanted!
Don’t miss out on:
- Apu Ghar
- Aga Khan Palace
- Panshet Dam
- Shinde Chhatri
- Saras Baug
- Vishrambaug
- Pataleshwar Cave Temple
- Osho Ashram
- Khadakwasla Dam
- Mahatma Phule Museum
- Birla Ganpati Temple
- Vetal Tekdi
- Parvati Hill
- Katraj Snake Park
- Kamshet
- Dehu Gatha
- Taljai Hills
- Pashan Lake
- National Defence Academy
- Peacock Bay
- Kamala Nehru Park
- Diamond Water Park
- Katraj Lake
- Shaniwar Wada Palace
- Mulshi Lake
- Dagdusheth Halwai Temple
- Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden
- Lal Mahal
- Nagpur
If you travel all the way to Nagpur just for the succulent oranges, that’s already a trip well worth the trouble! Also an amazing geographical location to visit, Magpur is abundant with green gardens, dazzling lakes and rivers.
Visit if:
Ideal for both architecture buffs and lovers of curated gardens
Stay for:
2-3 days
Best time to visit:
The winter months from November to February
Reach via:
Best reached by rail or road
Don’t miss out on:
- Deeksha Bhoomi
- Ambazari Lake & Garden
- Futala Lake
- Pench Tiger Reserve
- Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground
- Ahmednagar
Located in its namesake district, Ahmednagar is 120 kilometres from Pune. Originally names after the well-known Ahmed Nizam Shah I, the city was founded by him in 1494 as a tribute tot he battlefield that once sat in its place. Signifincat to the king, it was the same place where he fought and won the battle against the Bahamani forces, a far superior and larger army than his own. The city many not be very populous, but every street, every turn of it is a shrine to the time sin which it was built, making it a very unique walkthrough experience.
Visit if:
Ideal for history buffs
Stay for:
1- 2 days
Best time to visit:
The winter months from November to February
Reach via:
Can be reached via road or rail from Pune or Aurangabad
Don’t miss out on:
- Ahmednagar College
- Ahmednagar Fort
- Salabat Khan Tomb
- Chandbibi Mahel
- Cavalry Tank Museum
- Farah Bagh
- Avatar Meher Baba Samadhi Meherabad
- Aurangabad
Visit if:
Stay for:
Best time to visit:
Reach via:
Don’t miss out on:
- Kolhapur
Named after the demon Kolhasur, the city is labyrinth of old and new, with a visual delight at every turn. Known as both a religious site, a foodie’s go-to city, and a nature lovers treat, Kolhapur has something for everyone!
Visit if:
The city is paradise for archaeology and history buffs
Stay for:
1-2 days
Best time to visit:
Winter months, from November to February
Reach via:
Can be accessed by rail and road
Don’t miss out on:
- Kopeshwar Temple
- Kaneri Math Temple
- Dajipur Wildlife sanctuary
- Siddhagiri Museum
The must-visit forts:
Stay for:
Ideal for a day trip
Best time to visit:
In the winter months
- Karnala Fort
Based close to asmall village in Raigad, the Karnala Fort is from the Yadava and Tughlaq eras. Fallen into ruins due to negligence during the British rule, today it is a protected spot, also being close to the Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
Visit if:
Ideal for nature lovers, photographers and architecture buffs
- Vasai Fort
Seated majestically on the banks of the Vasai Creek, Vasai Fort or Fort Bassein is a unique combination of Maratha, British and Islamic architecture. The recent discovery of the underground tunnels in the area have added even more mystique to the beautiful, over grown ruins.
Visit if:
Ideal for photographers, artists and history buffs
- Sindhudurg
Nestled amongst pristine beaches and open seas, this complex of forts in known for it ecological as well as historical significance. With sky-high edifices and 17th century strength, the fort is not only authentic to the renowned Shivaji Maharja’s architectural style, but also to Maharashtra.
Visit if:
Ideal for architecture buffs who want to enjoy a sea-side vacation
- Rajmachi Fort
More than just a fort, Rajmachi is a getaway destination like none other. Nestled in the lap of unbound nature and wilderness, besides the walk around the structure itself, the historical fort offers a wide variety of activities like nature walks and adventure parks.
Visit if:
Ideal for both friends and family, the region has something for everyone
- Raigad Fort
One of the most historically significant structures in Maharashtra, the majestic Raigad Fort has always been a symbol of Maratha pride. It was once called the ‘Gibraltar of the East’ by the British, due to its unique geographic advantages.
Visit if:
Ideal for those looking for a unique trekking experience, as the journey up to the fort consists of 1737 steps. For families hoping to visit, a ropeway ride is available as well.
- Murud Janjira
At first glance, the Murud Janjira Fort looks as if it is a mirage. An illusion protruding steadfast and suddenly in the middle of the Arabian Sea. And in many ways, it is. This seemingly floating fort can only be accessed by foot during the peak of the low tide, and is actually situated on an island established in the 16th century by Raja Ram Rao Patil. Fabled as one of the strongest marine forts, it is known for its display of 4 ancient cannon all exclusively named – Kalalbangdi, Chavri, and Landa Kasam. Besides these, the fort also has 572 cannons, 26 round bastions, and sea-facing gates, making a shudder run through enemies then and visitors now.
Visit if:
Ideal for a unique family vacation
- Daulatabad Fort
Just 15 kilometres from Aurangabad, the Daulatabad Fort is a 12th century marvel that is so magnificent, you’re unlikely to find any other fort that meets its splendour in the region. The now overgrown structure still carries vestiges of its resplendent past. Cradled at an altitude of 200 meters over a conical hill from where you can admire the aerial views of the entire city, one needs to climb 750 steps just to reach the entrance.
Visit if:
Ideal for architecture buffs and photographers
The hill stations:
Stay for:
2-3 days
Best time to visit:
All throughout the year
- Lonavala & Khandala
Located an average elevation of 2,400 feet above sea level, Lonavala and Khandala can be accessed via the highway between Mumbai and Pune (just 96 kilometres from Mumbai and 64 kilometres from Pune) and are perhaps the most popular hill stations in the state of Maharashtra. For many years, both towns have been the ideal escape for the heat, crowds, hustle and bustle of the neighbouring cities of Mumbai and Pune. Their scenic vistas and beautiful sunsets have also made them a popular location for both varied accommodation options and film shoots. Both Lonavala and Khandala in their present forms were said to have been ‘discovered’ and largely inhabited by then Governor of the Bombay Residency, Lord Elphinstone. Truly though, dating back to the BCEs, the region has been a popular location for the Yadava dynasty, Maratha and Peshwa empires, as well as many Malva warrior clans. All three location as nestled in the Western Ghat – mighty mountains through which one of the Indian government’s most daunting endeavours where made – to create a world-class quality road system that connects Mumbai and Pune as it winds around the mountains seamlessly and safely.
Lonavala is a vivid landscape of picturesque, jagged cliffs interspersed with misty waterfalls and whispy clouds. Directly after monsoon, where the regions water bodies are well fed, thousands of tourists visit the region to enjoy the surreal beauty of its many view points and vistas.
Khandala, located on a neighbouring hill from Lonavala is just as lush, green and resplendent. The region is the home to the iconic architectural marvel, Ajanta and Ellora Caves. With Bedse caves that date as far back as 60BCE, Khandala is also home to the much more recent posh locales of Aamby Valley. The region is also a hub for adventure junkies.
Visit if:
Idea for those hoping to take a break for the busy city. The region offers both luxury and affordable accommodation options. Ideal for families, friend group and honeymooners!
- Karjat
Both a city and a municipal county, Karjat is a scenic location in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. Technically, Karjat is part of the municipality of Mumbai, which is why it is the last stop on Mumbai’s network of local railways. While this may be true, many people prefer visiting this beautiful hilly oasis via car, owing to the scenic drive to it. Covered in a never-ending blanket of lush green mountains and manicured prosperous fields, Karjat has a number of tributaries that run through it, making an already deeply fertile land even more reading to view. The misty mornings and dewey days create a sense of calm and solitude, a beauty like none other. Karjat is a popular holiday destination for people from Mumbai, and a number of innovative accommodation options like AirBnbs and homesteads are available here. It is a great place to experience Maharashtra in a very accessible but very authentic form.
Visit if:
Karjat is an ideal location for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a great place to experience Maharashtra in a very accessible but very authentic form.
- Mahabaleshwar
Nestled in the picturesque Western ghats, Mahabaleshwar is a hidden gem that many non-locals often skip, but is often regarded as the better option to even Lonavala and Khandala’s commercialised over-full atmosphere. Just 120 kilometres from Pune and 285 kilometres from Mumbai, the town sits on one of the many Deccan plateaus, creating the feeling of the best of both worlds – rich mountainous views and comfortable walking trails of the plains. Rich with natural splendour and magnificent waterfalls, Khandala is known for it’s numerous rivers and majestic peaks. Besides the nature, there is much to see in Mahabaleshwar. Once the summer capital of British governors from Bombay, Mahabaleshwar’s architecture and culture reflects its English origins. The region has many ancient temples, illustrious boarding schools, manicured gardens and dense forests.
Visit if:
Ideal for nature lovers looking for a break. Best suited for family trips.
- Matheran
The smallest and perhaps most quaint of the hill stations, Matheran is most popularly known for its ban on vehicles in certain parts of the region. The fresh, unpolluted air, the endless green vistas, and the peasants temperatures make this a must-visit
Visit if:
Ideal for families and fitness enthusiasts
- Panchgani
Named after the five ‘panch’ hills that make the region, Panchgani is a hill station at the elevation of 1334 meters above sea level that is known for its towering mountains, serene valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. Nestled within the Sahyadris, flocks of Mumbai and Pune residents flock to Panchgani in the summer months to escape the sweltering sun and enjoy the calm serenity of the cool winds and beautiful clouds. Beyond its picturesque vistas, Panchgani is also known for the wide variety of adventure sports it offers. A stop at its hugely popular strawberry gardens is a must, with he free strawberry and cream being a crowd favourite. The region also has some of the best accommodation facilities amongst all the hill station int he region.
Visit if:
Ideal for both honeymooners and large family trips, Panchgani is heaven on Earth!
- Igatpuri
Located int he midst of the Western Ghats, the rollercoaster terrain of Igatpuri is a favourite for many people from Mumbai, Pune, and all around Maharashtra. Naturally beautiful locale located in the Western Ghats is known for its serene yet slow-paced adventure sports – treks, rafting, kayaking, and more! These activities have variants suited for both amateurs and pros! Igatpuri also has a variety of ancient temples that dot its landscape, along with beautiful natural elements like cascading waterfalls and enthusiastic rapids. The region is best visited during or just after the monsoon season when the lush green and rushing waters are at their healthiest.
Visit if:
Best suited for families with kids who’re looking for an active yet calming vacation
- Kamshet
A speelbinding hill station located in the midst of the Western Ghats, Kamshet is an adventure seekers paradise. Located amongst towering mountains, the region is known for paragliding, trekking, and more! This quaint village is both serene and thrilling, exciting and calming. The perfect blend of quintessential Indian village living and modern mechanisms for adventure, Kamshet is a must visit for all!
Visit if: This dichotomy of emotions are best experienced as a fun, romantic getaway or as a vibrant vacation with friends.
- Bandardhara
The journey through Bhandardhara is via long expanses of lush greenery int he plains. Truly, for a moment one questions how this route is to culminate into a hilly paradise, and then with one turn into the Ghats, the scenery is transformed! Bhandardhara is a hilly region seated amidst the proud Sahyadri mountains that is best known for it’s view of the reservoir and campaign opportunities.
Visit if:
Ideal for solar travellers, backpackers, and friend groups who want to enjoy outdoor living
- Lavassa
The most recent of the hill stations, Lavassa looks like a world out of Switzerland or Italy. The colourful European builds surrounded by the man-made lake are both perfectly manicured and homely, acting as an idyllic foreground to the majestic mountains that surround them.
Visit if:
Lavassa is a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts as well as those hoping to escape the busy city.
- Harishchandragarh
Situated 4665 feet above sea level, Harishchangarh is one of the oldest ancient forts in Maharashtra, and is of great historical significance to the district of Ahmednagar. The fort here was once the stronghold of rule for the entire region. Besides the religious folklore and fort itself, many people travel to the region for it’s well-known series of trekking trails. A must visit is also the grand architectural marvel, the Nageshwar Temple.
Visit if:
Ideal for large family groups due to the plethora of activities offered
- Kalsubai
One of the most varied treks in Maharashtra, at 1646 metres above sea level, Kalsubai is the highest point in Maharashtra. The trek may seem daunting in images, but when experienced with a seasoned guide can actually be both calming and invigorating.
Visit if:
Ideal for people of all ages, as well as amateur trekkers, as long as they have the stamina for the 5 hour round trip.
The beach destinations:
Stay for:
1 – 2 days
Best time to visit:
In the winter months of November to May
- Alibaug & Mandwa
While Alibaug is a central town, when referring to Alibaug, people are generally referring to a cluster of beaches on the Ionian coast, close to Mumbai. The region is known for its hospitable coastal culture, virgin beaches, and finger-lickin’ good seafood cuisine that is both delicious and authentic. The beaches are just a 5-6 hour drive from Mumbai, which has been further shortened by the newly opened ferry service from Mumbai to Alibaug (which also accommodates cars). A popular tourist place from Mumbai, you must research which beach is most suited for you to reside on. While beaches like Kashid and the main Alibaug beach are ideal for families, Revdanda is very popular amongst backpackers, campers, and solo travellers. Mandwa is a small village located on the other side of the Alibaug area. Mandwa is technically the point at which the Mumbai-Alibaug ferry drop travellers off. The small fishing village is a popular location for vacationers today, but was once famous for being a hotbed of criminal activity off the coast of Mumbai. This is ironic, considering the Buddhist caves, ruins of Portuguese historical sites and the iconic synagogue, Israeli Ali. The pristine beach has the best ‘vibes’ for all who visit.
Visit if:
Idea for those who want to slow down their pace and enjoy the sea breeze.
- Ratnagiri
Closer to the South-Western coast of Mahrashtra, ratnagiri is the perfect blend of Maratha and Konkan culture. Essentially a port city, it is known for being both a beachy and a mountainous region. The region is very hospitable, and is known primarily for its amazing local seafood cuisine.
Apart from its rich history and heritage sites, the region also has many fun beach-side activities, private homesteads to stay at, and beautiful beaches
Visit if:
Best suited for large groups – friends or family
- Malvan
Clean air, fried fish. Adventure sports, serene seaside shacks. Malvan is like a miniature version of some of Goa’s most famous beaches. While the opportunities for accommodation and limited, the region’s people are very accommodating and hospitable. A city where you are going to be spoilt for choice, Malvan is the perfect mix of authenticity and enjoyment.
Visit if:
A small coastal Konkan town, Malvan is the best chilled-out location for both adventure junkies and beach buffs.
- Dapoli
Located roughly 215 kilometres from Mumbai, Dapoli is a beauty region known for its unique white-and-black combination sand, clear blue waters, and endless coconut trees. Though a sea-side beach, it receives very pleasant weather, making it and ideal spot to visit all through the year.
Visit if:
The region is often full of families on day trips from Mumbai
- Ganpatigule
A small town with many white, pristine beaches (save one), Ganpatigule is the perfect slice of Konkan living, with everything from authentic food and festivals to bungalow living and endless plantations.
Visit if:
Ideal for large groups, families, or calm getaways with friends
- Tarkarli
Looking for all the beauty and chill-out vibes of places like Goa, Bali or the Maldives? The hidden gem of a beach, Tarkarli, will assuage all your needs while being easy on the wallet! On the Konkan coast, Tarkarli is a hamlet that is welcoming of tourists and full of amazing beaches.
Visit if:
Ideal for beginner snorkelers, scuba divers and adventure sports enthusiastic
Historical sites:
- Shirdi
Also known as Sainagar, Shirdi is a spiritual site for the Hindu saint, Sai Baba. What makes this site unique is that Sai Baba’s teaching are widely distributed amongst many, making it a site where pilgrims from all regions, languages, religions and classes come together in humble workshop.
Visit if:
Ideal for try believers and photographers
- Ajanta & Ellora Caves
A location so significant that a trip to Maharashtra is considered incomplete without visiting it, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves are not only one of the most beautiful sites in Maharashtra, but indeed in India. When entering the complex, one is immediately hit with the overwhelming amazement that this region was built centuries ago! A network of caves with intricate carvings and spectacular wall paintings, the caves are related to Buddhist culture but also include Hindu and Jain cave regions.
Visit if:
Particularly ideal for architecture and history buffs, the caves are a must-visit for all those who come to Maharashtra
Destinations for a little bit of action, and a little bit of adventure:
- Nashik
Often called the ‘Napa Valley of India’, Nashik is the perfect relaxing destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. A year round delight best enjoys=ed in the monsoon and winter months, Nashik is a region loaded with both vineyards, and heritage. Nashik hosts the famous Sula vineyards that draw in thousands every year for their annual wine festivals, as well as many other boutique wineries int he region. For the non-alcoholics, Nashik is also a beautiful destination for naturalists and spiritualists. An ancient holy city mentioned even in the Hindu epics of both the Mahabharata and Ramayana, Nashik is the iconic place where Ram cut off Ravana’s sister’s nose, the spark for the ensuing epic. The region is so religiously significant that every 12 years, it is one of the few Indian cities that have the privilege of hosting the Kumbh Mela, a religious festival for Hindus. Nestled amongst mountains and seated on the banks of the River Godavari, Nashik also has many forts and waterfalls.
Visit if:
Ideal for wine lovers, natural buffs, history nerds and even religious pilgrims – Nashik is ideal for every type of traveller.
- Kolad
Close your eyes. Imagine a pack on your back, the wind their your hair as you trek through some the most lush green mountains you’ve ever seen. Feels impossible? You just need to visit Kolad! A humble village that is a hub for nature enthusiasts and hikers, Kolad is a gem hidden in the towering Sahyadri mountains. With the charm of rural living yet the facilities of Maharashtra’s well-informed and well-developed tourism industry, Kolad is a must visit in Maharashtra. Fondly called the Rishikesh of Mharashtra, Kolad has recently become a major centre for white water rafting and other such adventure sports.
Visit if:
Ideal for nature enthusiasts who’re looking to enjoy an active, interesting, and adventurous vacation that is still conveniently located
- Adlabs Imagica
Perhaps the most superior theme park in India, Imagica has often been called a mini Disney land. From roller coasters and hasunted houses to adeventurelands and experiential theatres, Adlabs Imagica has it all!
Visit if:
Ideal for celebratory family vacations
Where any traveller would be spoilt for choices, which each experience more nourishing and memorable than the last, Maharashtra is an endless horizon of engaging activities and opportunities to make memories. A perfect blend of culture, traditions, adventure and beauty, coupled with beautiful climate year-round and deeply hospitable people, Maharashtra is an ideal way to enjoy both tourism and tranquility in India. Where you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, or a long holiday to live like a local, Maharashtra provides a buffet of options. May it be the bustling activity of its big cities or the silent solitude of its hill stations and beaches, Maharashtra truly has not just something, but many many things to offer for every type of traveller.
From UNESCO World Heritage sites to pal-fringed beaches,
from breathtaking rural sunsets to jagged metropolitan skylines,
from endless vineyards to mighty mountains…
Maharashtra has it all.
We ask, why wouldn’t you want to visit this lush, green gem in the Sahyadris?