Maharashtra is a vibrant state in west-central India, known for its bustling capital, Mumbai (formerly Bombay), which is home to the Bollywood film industry. Mumbai boasts iconic landmarks such as the Gateway of India and the Elephanta Island cave temples. To the south, the Konkan Coast offers a peaceful escape with its beautiful beaches. In Pune, you can visit the Aga Khan Palace, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. The state is also rich in history, with the 2nd-century B.C. Ajanta Caves, which feature stunning Buddhist murals, and the Ellora Caves, a vast complex of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples and monasteries. The nearby 13th-century Devagiri-Daulatabad Fort stands atop a hill, offering panoramic views. In the east, the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, and rare bird species. For a serene retreat, visit the hill stations in the Western Ghats like Matheran, a car-free resort town at 800 meters above sea level, and Mahabaleshwar, known for its lush forests and breathtaking viewpoints.
places to visit in Maharashtra
Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is a monumental arch built in the 20th century in Mumbai, India. It was erected to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India, marking their arrival at Apollo Bunder.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
Formerly known as Victoria Terminus, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is a historic railway station in Mumbai. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as the headquarters of the Central Railways.
Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada is a historical fortification in Pune, Maharashtra. It was once the seat of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire and is known for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.
Pench National Park
Located in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh, Pench National Park is named after the Pench River that runs through it. The park is famous for its rich wildlife, including tigers, and its scenic beauty.
Kailash Temple
Kailash Temple, also known as Kailasanatha Temple, is one of the largest rock-cut Hindu temples located in Ellora, Maharashtra. It is known for its stunning architecture, carved from a single rock, and its dedication to Lord Shiva.
Karla Caves
The Karla Caves, or Karli Caves, are a complex of ancient Buddhist rock-cut shrines near Lonavala, Maharashtra. These caves were developed between the 2nd century BC and the 5th century AD and feature intricate sculptures and pillars.
Kanheri Caves
The Kanheri Caves are a group of rock-cut Buddhist monuments located in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai. These caves date back to the 1st century BC and are known for their peaceful surroundings and ancient art.
Siddhivinayak Temple
The Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is one of the most revered temples in India, attracting thousands of devotees every day.
Mahalakshmi Temple
The Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas. It is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, with many Jain Tirthankara temples nearby.
Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves, located on Elephanta Island near Mumbai, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The caves are primarily dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and contain stunning rock-cut temples and sculptures.
Top destinations in Maharashtra
Mumbai
Mumbai, formerly called Bombay, is a densely populated city on India’s west coast. Known as the financial hub of India, it is the largest city in the country. The iconic Gateway of India, built by the British Raj in 1924, and Elephanta Island with its ancient cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, are major attractions. Mumbai is also famous for being the heart of the Bollywood film industry.
Pune
Pune is a sprawling city in Maharashtra, historically known as the base of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. Famous for its historical sites, it houses the Aga Khan Palace, built in 1892 as a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, and the 8th-century Pataleshwar Cave Temple dedicated to Shiva.
Lonavla
Lonavla is a hill station near Mumbai, surrounded by lush green valleys. It is home to the Karla Caves and Bhaja Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut shrines. Lohagad Fort and Bhushi Dam, which overflows during the rainy season, are notable landmarks here.
Aurangabad
Aurangabad, located in Maharashtra, is known for the 17th-century Bibi Ka Maqbara, a marble tomb modeled after the Taj Mahal. It is also home to the Shivaji Maharaj Museum, the Daulatabad Fort, and the ancient Aurangabad Caves, rock-cut Buddhist shrines.
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a scenic hill station located in the Western Ghats. The region offers spectacular viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat, the centuries-old Pratapgad Fort, and natural attractions like Lingmala Waterfall and Venna Lake, where visitors can enjoy boating.
Panchgani
Panchgani, a hill station in Maharashtra, is known for its Table Land, a large volcanic plateau. Scenic spots like Sydney Point and Parsi Point offer views of Dhom Dam and Kamalgad Fort. The Rajpuri Caves, with sacred ponds and a temple dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, are also notable.
Shirdi
Shirdi is a town famous for being the home of the revered spiritual leader Sai Baba. The Sai Baba Temple complex attracts thousands of devotees daily, and nearby sites like Dwarkamai mosque and Lendi Garden hold deep significance for followers of Sai Baba.
Nashik
Nashik, a holy city on the Godavari River, is linked to the Ramayana epic. Panchavati, a temple complex, and the Ram Kund water tank are important religious sites. Nashik is also home to Shri Kalaram Sansthan Mandir and Sita Gufaa caves, where Lord Rama and Sita are said to have worshipped.
Ganpatiphule
Ganpatiphule, located on the Konkan Coast, is known for its beautiful beaches like Ganpatipule Beach and Aare Ware Beach. The Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, housing a large statue of Lord Ganesh, is a key pilgrimage site. Jaigad Fort and a British-built lighthouse are nearby attractions.
Ratnagiri
Ratnagiri is a coastal port city located on the Arabian Sea. It is a part of Maharashtra’s Konkan division, known for its natural beauty, including beaches, and historical landmarks.
Matheran
Matheran is a hill station near Mumbai, famous for its colonial architecture and mild climate. Visitors arrive by narrow-gauge railway and enjoy panoramic views from points like Panorama Point and Louisa Point. The area is known for its well-preserved natural environment and the Prabal Fort.
Kolad
Kolad is a village in Raigad district, known for its proximity to the Kundalika River, where visitors can enjoy water activities like white-water rafting. It is located around 117 km from Mumbai.
Bhandardara
Bhandardara is a resort village near Igatpuri, known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, mountains, and lakes like Arthur Lake and Wilson Dam. Visitors can also explore nearby forts like Ratangad and Harishchandragad or hike to Mount Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra. The region is also known for the Fireflies Camp in Purushwadi.
Divegar
Divegar is a serene village located in the Shrivardhan Taluka of Raigad district, Maharashtra, approximately 170 kilometers south of Mumbai. Known for its peaceful and clean environment, the village features a picturesque beach stretching about four kilometers along the Arabian Sea. It is sparsely populated, with local businesses centered around coconut and beetle nut farming, as well as tourism activities like restaurants, cottage rentals, and small hotels. The area is home to a fishing settlement at Velas Agar and includes a bird sanctuary at the southern end of the beach.
Chiplun
Chiplun is a growing city located in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, about 320 km south of Mumbai. It is an important cultural hub and serves as the headquarters of Chiplun taluka. The name “Chiplun” translates to “The abode of Lord Parshuram.” The city lies on the Mumbai-Goa highway, making it easily accessible and a popular stop for travelers.
Dapoli
Dapoli, situated 215 km from Mumbai in Ratnagiri district, is also known as “Camp Dapoli” due to its historical significance as a British campsite. The town is home to the Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, one of India’s largest agricultural universities. Dapoli has British-era landmarks, including an abandoned church and the graves of British officers.
Tadoba
Tadoba is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and national park located in Chandrapur district, Maharashtra. Known for its tiger reserve, it is one of the oldest and largest national parks in India, offering tiger safaris and showcasing a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is a sanctuary for endangered species and a top destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
Khandala
Khandala, a beautiful hill station in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, is famous for its scenic viewpoints like Sunset Point and Rajmachi Point, with views of Rajmachi Fort. The Kune Falls, a three-tiered waterfall, and the surrounding Tamhini Ghat mountain pass are popular attractions. Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves such as Bhaja and Karla caves also add to Khandala’s historical charm.
Tarkali
Tarkarli is a coastal village in Maharashtra, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Located along the Arabian Sea, Tarkarli is popular for water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving. The historic Sindhudurg Fort, built by the Maratha rulers in the 17th century, lies on an island just off the coast. The peaceful backwaters of the Karli River are also a notable attraction.
Bhimashankar
Bhimashankar is a Jyotirlinga shrine located in the Ghat region of the Sahyadri Hills, approximately 50 km northwest of Khed. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is an important pilgrimage site, and the surrounding region is known for its scenic beauty, rich flora, and fauna.
Rajmachi
Rajmachi Fort, nestled in the Sahyadri mountains, is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers. The fort consists of two twin fortresses, Shriwardhan Ballekilla and Manaranjan Ballekilla. Rajmachi Fort was historically significant for controlling the Borghat trade route and offers stunning views, especially during the monsoon season when the landscape is covered in lush greenery and waterfalls.
Amboli
Amboli is a hill station in southern Maharashtra, located in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 690 meters. It is known for its heavy monsoon rainfall, mist, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. Amboli also has historical significance as a staging post during the British colonial era. The Hiranyakeshi River, which originates in the area, and an ancient Shiva temple are some of the major attractions.
Kamshet
Kamshet, located in Pune district, is a small village famous for paragliding and adventure tourism. Situated near Khandala and Lonavala, Kamshet offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and is known for its picturesque landscape. It is also home to villages with traditional mud and thatch architecture.
Malvan
Malvan, a town in Sindhudurg District, Maharashtra, is renowned for its historical Sindhudurg Fort and its thriving fishing community. The region is famous for producing Alphonso mangoes and Malvani cuisine, including dishes like Malvani Khaja and Malvani Ladoos. Cultural traditions such as the Malvani Dashavtar drama-play, based on mythological stories, are an integral part of the local life.
Kashid
Kashid is a beautiful beach town located on the Arabian Sea in the North Konkan region of Maharashtra. Situated 30 km from Alibag and about 135 km from Mumbai, it is known for its pristine white sands and clear waters. The town offers a peaceful escape with picturesque views, making it an ideal destination for those looking to relax by the beach.
Chikhaldara
Chikhaldara, located in Amravati district, is the only hill station in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. Situated at an altitude of 1,118 meters, it is famous for its cool climate, coffee plantations, and scenic beauty. The region also has a rich history, as it is believed to be the site where Bhima killed the villainous Keechaka in the Mahabharata. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the nearby Melghat Tiger Project, which is home to 82 tigers. Notable points include Hurricane Point, Prospect Point, and Devi Point, along with historical sites like the Gavilgad and Narnala Forts.
Harihareshwar
Harihareshwar, located in Raigad district, is a well-known pilgrimage site and beach resort. Surrounded by three hills, it is famous for the Harihareshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The town is often referred to as “Dev-Ghar” or the “house of God.” Harihareshwar has two beaches, one to the north and one to the south of the temple. The region is also a popular weekend getaway for people from Mumbai and Pune, especially for its serene beaches and the Kalbhairav Jayanti Utsav.
Malshej Ghat
Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass in the Western Ghats, located along the Thane-Pune road. Known for its rugged terrain and natural beauty, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a popular spot for trekkers and nature lovers, especially during the monsoon season when the region is lush and green.
Raigad
Raigad District in Maharashtra is historically significant as it was the capital of the Maratha Empire under Shivaji Maharaj. The Raigad Fort, located in dense forests on a spur of the Sahyadri range, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the Maratha heritage. The district also includes the large natural harbor of Pen-Mandwa, which is closely linked to Mumbai Harbor. The area is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and historical landmarks.
Alibag
Alibag, a coastal town located just south of Mumbai, is known for its beaches such as Alibag Beach and Varsoli Beach. The town is home to several historical landmarks, including the 17th-century Kolaba Fort, which is famous for its carvings of tigers and elephants. The nearby Korlai Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1521, features a lighthouse and adds to the region’s rich historical significance.
Lavasa
Lavasa is a planned city near Pune, designed to resemble the Italian town of Portofino. With its colorful buildings, lakeside views, and planned infrastructure, Lavasa is a modern, picturesque getaway, making it a popular spot for those seeking a blend of nature and urban life.
Jejuri
Jejuri, located in Pune district, is renowned for the Khandoba Temple, dedicated to Lord Khandoba, a popular deity in Maharashtra. The city is a significant pilgrimage site and is known for its vibrant festivals, especially the annual celebration of Khandoba’s marriage.
Ahmednagar
Ahmednagar, in the state of Maharashtra, is a city steeped in history, founded in 1494 by Ahmad Nizam Shah I. The city is home to several historic landmarks, including the Ahmednagar Fort, which once held Indian nationalists, including Jawaharlal Nehru, during the British rule. The city is also known for its contribution to the Indian military with establishments like the Indian Armoured Corps Centre and School.
Karnala
Karnala is a hill fort located about 10 km from Panvel, in the Raigad district. It is surrounded by the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The fort offers hiking trails with rewarding views, and the sanctuary is home to numerous species of birds.
Igatpuri
Igatpuri, situated in the Western Ghats, is a popular hill station known for its natural beauty and serenity. The DhammaGiri Vipassana Academy is one of its key attractions, offering meditation courses. The area is also home to Kalsubai Peak, the highest point in Maharashtra, and Tringalwadi Fort, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Durshet
Durshet is a scenic village located in the Sahyadri mountains, known for its natural beauty and adventure tourism. Visitors can enjoy activities like butterfly trails, nature walks, and exploring waterfalls. The region is ideal for those looking to reconnect with nature and experience outdoor adventures.
Satara
Satara, located at the confluence of the Krishna and Venna rivers, is known for its historical significance, including the presence of several forts around the city. The city’s name comes from the seven forts in the area. It is also famous for its sweet delicacy, kandipedhe, and for the Shivaji statue at Powai Naka. Satara has been recognized as a World Natural Heritage site due to its proximity to the Western Ghats.
Kolhapur
Kolhapur, situated on the banks of the Panchaganga River, is a city famous for its temples, especially the Mahalakshmi Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site. The Bhavani Mandap palace and Rankala Lake are key attractions in the city, and the Jyotiba Temple, located on a hilltop, offers scenic views of the surrounding area. Kolhapur is also known for its traditional Kolhapuri chappals and cuisine.
Solapur
Solapur is located in the southwestern part of Maharashtra and is an important city due to its strategic position on major road and rail routes between Mumbai and Hyderabad. The city is renowned for its numerous sugar factories, making it the leading district for sugar production in Maharashtra and India. It is also famous for its handloom industry, particularly Solapur chaddars and towels.
Junnar
Junnar, a historic city in Pune district, is notable for its connection to Maratha history. The Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj, is located nearby, making Junnar a significant historical and cultural destination. The city is also known for its ancient temples, caves, and rich heritage.
Amravati
Amravati, a city in Maharashtra, is known for its educational institutions and high literacy rate. It is home to several historical landmarks, including the Ambadevi Temple, Shri Krishna Temple, and Shri Venkateshwara Temple. The city also has a rich sporting culture, particularly with the famous Hanuman Vyayam Prasarak Mandal, which promotes physical fitness and sports.
Nagpur
Nagpur is a large city located in central Maharashtra and is known as the “Orange City” due to its significant production of oranges. The city has historical sites such as the Sitabuldi Fort, where a major battle occurred in 1817, and Deekshabhoomi, a Buddhist monument and pilgrimage site. Nagpur also hosts the Raman Science Centre and the Central Museum, which offer educational and cultural experiences.
Murud
Murud, a coastal town in Raigad district, is famous for its beach and the historic Palace of Nawab, built in 1885. The town’s serene environment, along with its proximity to Alibag, makes it a popular destination for tourists. The Nawab’s Palace, still owned by the Nawab’s descendants, is a notable historical site in the region.
Dahanu
Dahanu is a coastal town in the Palghar district, known for its peaceful beaches and proximity to industrial projects such as the Reliance Energy thermal power station and the Tarapur Atomic Power Station. It is also notable for its stalled Wadhawan new port project. Dahanu is 110 km away from Mumbai and serves as an important location in the region.
Trimbakeshwar
Trimbakeshwar, located in Nashik district, is home to the Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple is a significant pilgrimage destination for Hindus. The town is also famous for its scenic surroundings and the Brahmagiri Hills, which are linked to the origin of the Godavari River.
Shriwardhan
Shriwardhan, also known as Shrivardhan, is a historic town in Raigad district, famous for its beautiful beaches and temples. The town is an important pilgrimage site, especially for its connection to Lord Shiva. Shriwardhan was historically a significant port and a center for trade in the 16th and 17th centuries. It is also the birthplace of Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire, and has a monument dedicated to him.
Panhala
Panhala is a hill station located near Kolhapur and is known for the Panhala Fort, which offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The fort has a rich history, with legends linking it to various Maratha leaders. Panhala is a serene getaway with its cool climate, and it is one of the smallest cities in Maharashtra, rapidly developing as a tourist destination.
Jalgaon
Jalgaon, located in the Khandesh region of Maharashtra, is known for being the “Banana City” due to its large-scale banana production, contributing about half of Maharashtra’s output. The city is a commercial hub with well-developed infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and malls. Jalgaon is also close to the famous Ajanta Caves, making it a key stop for tourists exploring the region.
Sangli
Sangli, situated on the banks of the Krishna River, is known as the “Turmeric City” due to its significant production and trade of turmeric. The city also houses many sugar factories and is a key agricultural hub. The Ganesha Temple in Sangli is an important pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of devotees each year. Sangli is a vibrant city with a mix of agricultural, historical, and cultural significance.
Best time to visit Maharashtra
The best time to visit Maharashtra is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C. Summers can be hot, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 42°C, but the monsoon season (June to September) brings relief and lush greenery to hill stations like Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar. Winter is ideal for sightseeing, as the cooler temperatures make it comfortable for exploring attractions like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. The monsoon season (July-August) is perfect for experiencing the vibrant landscapes of the Western Ghats. Snorkeling at Tarkali Beach is another popular winter activity.
