Maharashtra is a state in western India that offers a diverse range of attractions for travellers, Here are some of the best tourist places to visit in Maharashtra. From the cosmopolitan city of Mumbai to the ancient caves of Ajanta and Ellora, from the serene hill stations of Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar to the coastal towns of Alibaug and Ratnagiri, Maharashtra has something for everyone: 10 Breathtaking Hill Stations In India
- Lonavala and Khandala is famous Places to Visit in Maharashtra
- Mahabaleshwar is famous hill Places to Visit in Maharashtra
- Alibaug is popular beach Places to Visit in Maharashtra
- Nashik is holiest Places to Visit in Maharashtra
- Igatpuri is beautiful Places to Visit in Maharashtra
- Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad) is the famous Places to Visit in Maharashtra
- Kolhapur is the best Places to Visit in Maharashtra
- Ratnagiri is the best Places to Visit in Maharashtra
- FAQ's of Places to Visit in Maharashtra
- Conclusion of Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Lonavala and Khandala is famous Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Lonavala and Khandala are twin hill stations located about 100 km from Mumbai and 70 km from Pune. They are popular destinations for weekend getaways, especially during the monsoon season when the hills are covered with lush greenery and waterfalls. Explore during Lonavala Khandala One day Trip from Mumbai and Pune
Some of the attractions in Lonavala and Khandala include:
- Rajmachi Fort: A historic fort that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is also a popular trekking destination.
- Tiger’s Leap: A cliff top that resembles a tiger’s leap and provides a scenic view of the Western Ghats and the plains below.
- Bhushi Dam: A masonry dam on the Indrayani River that forms a lake and a waterfall. It is a popular picnic spot and a place to enjoy water activities.
- Karla and Bhaja Caves: Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves that date back to the 2nd century BC. They are known for their exquisite carvings and sculptures.
- Imagicaa: A theme park that offers a variety of rides, shows, and attractions for all age groups.
The best time to visit Lonavala and Khandala is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the hills are green. You can reach Lonavala and Khandala by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Pune, which is about 65 km away.
Mahabaleshwar is famous hill Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar is a hill station and a city in the Western Ghats, about 120 km from Pune and 260 km from Mumbai. It is known for its strawberry farms, honey, and jam production, as well as its natural beauty and historical significance. Mahabaleshwar One Day Trip from Pune – Best tour
Some of the attractions in Mahabaleshwar include:
- Mahabaleshwar Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. It is also a place of pilgrimage for many devotees.
- Venna Lake: A man-made lake that offers boating, horse riding, and fishing facilities. It is also surrounded by lush greenery and strawberry farms.
- Pratapgad Fort: A 17th-century fort that was the site of the famous battle between Shivaji and Afzal Khan. It offers a splendid view of the valley and the Konkan coast.
- Mapro Garden: A garden and a factory that produces various products from strawberries, such as jams, syrups, chocolates, and candies. It also has a restaurant and a shop where you can buy these products.
- Lingmala Waterfall: A waterfall that cascades from a height of about 600 feet and forms a pool at the bottom. It is a scenic spot and a popular trekking destination.
The best time to visit Mahabaleshwar is from December to February, when the weather is cool and dry. You can reach Mahabaleshwar by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Pune, which is about 120 km away.
Alibaug is popular beach Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Alibaug is a coastal town and a municipal council in Raigad district, about 100 km from Mumbai and 150 km from Pune. It is a popular beach destination and a weekend getaway for the city dwellers. It also has a rich history and culture, as it was once the capital of the Maratha navy under Shivaji. Pune To Alibaug One day Trip
Some of the attractions in Alibaug include:
- Alibaug Beach: A sandy beach that offers a spectacular view of the Kolaba Fort and the Arabian Sea. It is also a place to enjoy water sports, camel rides, and horse rides.
- Kolaba Fort: A 17th-century fort that is situated in the sea and can be reached by boat or by walking during low tide. It has several temples, cannons, and bastions, and is a historical monument.
- Varsoli Beach: A beach that is less crowded and more serene than Alibaug Beach. It is also a place to witness the fishing activities of the local fishermen.
- Mandwa Beach: A beach that is famous for its Bollywood connections, as many movies have been shot here. It also offers a stunning view of the Gateway of India from its bay, and is a place to enjoy water sports and adventure activities.
- Akshi Beach: A beach that is ideal for birdwatchers, as it attracts many migratory and resident birds. It is also a place to relax and enjoy the sunset.
The best time to visit Alibaug is from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm. You can reach Alibaug by road, rail, or ferry. The nearest airport is Mumbai, which is about 140 km away. You can also take a ferry from the Gateway of India to Mandwa, which takes about an hour.
Nashik is holiest Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Nashik is a city and a district in the northwest region of Maharashtra, about 180 km from Mumbai and 210 km from Pune. It is one of the holiest cities in India, as it is the site of the Kumbh Mela, which is held every 12 years. It is also a major wine-producing region and a hub of agriculture and industry. Nashik Darshan One Day Trip From Mumbai by Private cab
Some of the attractions in Nashik include:
- Trimbakeshwar Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. It is also the source of the Godavari River, which is considered sacred by the Hindus.
- Sula Vineyards: A vineyard and a winery that produces some of the finest wines in India. It also has a tasting room, a restaurant, and a resort, where you can enjoy the wine and the scenic views of the vineyards and the lake.
- Pandavleni Caves: A group of 24 rock-cut caves that date back to the 3rd century BC. They are Buddhist caves that have chaityas, viharas, and sculptures of various deities and saints.
- Ramkund: A holy tank that is believed to be the place where Lord Rama and Sita bathed during their exile. It is also the place where the ashes of the deceased are immersed in the Godavari River.
- Coin Museum: A museum that displays a collection of coins from various periods and dynasties of Indian history. It also has exhibits on the history and evolution of coinage in India.
The best time to visit Nashik is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. You can reach Nashik by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Mumbai, which is about 170 km away.
Igatpuri is beautiful Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Igatpuri is a hill station and a city in the Western Ghats, about 130 km from Mumbai and 50 km from Nashik. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, as it offers scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and trekking trails. It is also a place of spirituality and meditation, as it is home to the world’s largest Vipassana centre. Igatpuri One Day Trip From Mumbai – Visit Beautiful Place.
Some of the attractions in Igatpuri include:
- Bhatsa River Valley: A valley that is situated at the end of the Thal Ghat, and offers a breathtaking view of the Bhatsa River, the hills, and the forests. It is also a place to spot various birds and animals.
- Vipassana Centre: A meditation centre that teaches the ancient technique of Vipassana, which was taught by Gautam Buddha. It is also known as Dhamma Giri, and has a golden pagoda that is the largest in Asia.
- Kalsubai Peak: The highest peak of the Sahyadri Range, which stands at an altitude of 1646 m. It is a popular trekking destination, and offers a splendid view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Vaitarna Dam: A dam that is built on the Vaitarna River, and forms a lake that is used for irrigation and hydroelectricity. It is also a scenic spot and a picnic spot.
- Ghatandevi Temple: A temple that is dedicated to Ghatandevi, the protector of the ghats. It is located near the Camel Valley, and has a backdrop of the Tringalwadi Fort.
The best time to visit Igatpuri is from June to September, when the monsoon enhances the beauty of the place. You can reach Igatpuri by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Mumbai, which is about 140 km away.
Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad) is the famous Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Sambhaji Nagar, formerly known as Aurangabad, is a city and a district in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra, about 335 km from Mumbai and 235 km from Pune. It is a historical and cultural city, as it was once the capital of the Mughal Empire in the Deccan, and later the seat of the Maratha Empire. It is also a gateway to the World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora caves. Shirdi to Aurangabad One day Trip By Private Cab
Some of the attractions in Sambhaji Nagar include:
- Bibi Ka Maqbara: A mausoleum that was built by Aurangzeb for his wife, Dilras Banu Begum. It is also known as the Taj of the Deccan, as it resembles the the Taj Mahal in Agra. It is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture and a symbol of love.
- Ajanta and Ellora Caves: A group of 29 and 34 rock-cut caves respectively, that date back to the 2nd century BC and the 10th century AD. They are famous for their paintings and sculptures that depict the Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain faiths. They are also among the finest examples of ancient Indian art and culture.
- Daulatabad Fort: A 14th-century fort that was once considered to be the most impregnable fort in India. It was also the capital of the Tughlaq dynasty for a brief period. It has several features, such as a moat, a drawbridge, a maze, and a cannon.
- Grishneshwar Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. It is also a place of pilgrimage for many devotees.
- Panchakki: A water mill that was built in the 17th century by a Sufi saint. It uses an underground water channel to power a grinding stone that was used to grind grains for the pilgrims. It also has a garden and a mosque.
The best time to visit Sambhaji Nagar is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the caves are open. You can reach Sambhaji Nagar by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Aurangabad, which is about 10 km away.
Kolhapur is the best Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Kolhapur is a city and a district in the southwest region of Maharashtra, about 375 km from Mumbai and 240 km from Pune. It is a historical and cultural city, as it was the capital of the Maratha kingdom of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. It is also known for its cuisine, handicrafts, and festivals. Kolhapur Darshan One Day Trip Sightseeing by Private cab
Some of the attractions in Kolhapur include:
- Mahalaxmi Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, who is the consort of Lord Vishnu. It is one of the Shakti Peethas, where the goddess is worshipped as the supreme power. It is also a place of pilgrimage for many devotees.
- New Palace: A palace that was built by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj in the 19th century. It is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, and has a museum that displays the royal artefacts, weapons, and paintings.
- Rankala Lake: A lake that was formed by a dam on the Panchganga River. It is a popular spot for boating, horse riding, and bird watching. It also has a garden and a temple on its banks.
- Panhala Fort: A fort that was built by the Shilahara dynasty in the 12th century, and later captured by Shivaji. It is the largest fort in the Deccan, and has several monuments, such as the Teen Darwaza, the Sajja Kothi, and the Ambarkhana.
- Jyotiba Temple: A temple that is dedicated to Jyotiba, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. It is located on a hill, and offers a panoramic view of the Kolhapur city.
The best time to visit Kolhapur is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and the festivals are celebrated. You can reach Kolhapur by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Kolhapur, which is about 10 km away.
Ratnagiri is the best Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Ratnagiri is a coastal town and a district in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, about 330 km from Mumbai and 200 km from Pune. It is a scenic and serene place, as it is surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the Sahyadri Range, and the rivers. It is also a place of historical and cultural importance, as it is the birthplace of Lokmanya Tilak, a freedom fighter and a social reformer. Kolhapur To Ratnagiri One Day Trip By Cab
Some of the attractions in Ratnagiri include:
- Ganpatipule Beach: A beach that is famous for its white sand, clear water, and a temple of Lord Ganesh. It is also a place to enjoy water sports, such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
- Jaigad Fort: A fort that was built by the Bijapur Sultanate in the 16th century, and later controlled by the Marathas and the British. It is located on a cliff, and overlooks the Jaigad Creek and the Jaigad Lighthouse.
- Thiba Palace: A palace that was built by the British in the 20th century, to house the exiled king of Burma, Thibaw Min. It is a majestic structure, and has a museum that displays the artefacts and photographs of the king and his family.
- Ratnadurg Fort: A fort that was built by the Bahmani Sultanate in the 15th century, and later conquered by Shivaji. It is shaped like a horseshoe, and has a temple of Goddess Bhagawati in its premises.
- Aare Ware Beach: A beach that is less crowded and more peaceful than Ganpatipule Beach. It is also a place to witness the sunrise and the sunset, and the dolphins in the sea.
The best time to visit Ratnagiri is from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. You can reach Ratnagiri by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Mumbai, which is about 340 km away.
FAQ’s of Places to Visit in Maharashtra
A: Maharashtra is a large and diverse state that has many tourist places to visit. The number of days required to visit Maharashtra depends on your preferences, budget, and itinerary. However, a general estimate is that you would need at least 10 to 15 days to cover the major attractions of Maharashtra.
A: Maharashtra has a well-developed network of roads, railways, and airways that connect the various tourist places within the state. You can choose the mode of transport that suits your convenience, comfort, and cost. Some of the options are:
By road: You can hire a car, a taxi, or a bus to travel within Maharashtra by road. This is a good option if you want to enjoy the scenic views of the countryside and the ghats. However, it may also be time-consuming and tiring, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
By rail: You can take a train to travel within Maharashtra by rail. This is a fast and economical option, as Maharashtra has many railway stations that connect the major cities and towns. However, you may also have to book your tickets in advance and deal with the crowd and the hygiene of the trains.
By air: You can fly to travel within Maharashtra by air. This is the most convenient and comfortable option, as Maharashtra has several airports that connect the major tourist places. However, this may also be the most expensive option, and you may miss out on the natural beauty of the state.
Conclusion of Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Maharashtra is a state that has a lot to offer to the tourists, as it has a variety of attractions, such as hill stations, beaches, forts, temples, caves, and vineyards. It is also a state that has a rich history and culture, as it was the land of the Marathas, the Mughals, and the British. It is also a state that has a vibrant and diverse cuisine, as it has dishes from the Konkan, the Deccan, and the Vidarbha regions. Maharashtra is a state that can cater to the needs and interests of different types of travellers, and can make your trip a memorable one.
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