The Ajanta Caves are carved cliffside temples dating from the 2nd-century B.C., with vibrant Buddhist murals. Ellora is a sprawling Buddhist, Hindu and Jain rock-hewn complex, with 34 monasteries and temples. Nearby, ruins of the circa 13th-century Devagiri-Daulatabad Fort stand atop a hill rising from the plains. The eastern region’s Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve shelters Bengal tigers, leopards and rare birds. Hill stations in the Western Ghats range include 800m-high Matheran, an automobile-free resort, and forested Mahabaleshwar, with scenic overlooks.
There is no particular best time to explore the state since the eevry season has its own pros and cons. However, winters are most suitable since the weather remains calm and pleasant. Summers are too scorching but are perfect to visit hilly regions. In monsoons also, heavy downpours are observed but, rains add to the beauty of mountainous areas.
Maharashtra in Summer (March - May)
March marks the beginning of summer season in Maharashtra, and it lasts until May. Blistering heat is observed throughout the season as the mercury rises to 42 degrees Celcius. This is certainly not the best time to explore the state. However, you can head out to some of the famous hill station of Maharashtra like Mahabaleshwar, Malshej Ghat and Bhandardara.
Maharashtra in Monsoon (June - September)
Monsoons arrive in June, and heavy downpours are witnessed till September. July and August receive the maximum rainfall. This is also not a suitable season to unveil the state. The weather is very wet and humid. Also, rainfall might disturb your entire itinerary. Though, you will get mesmerising views from hill station like Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar. The lush greenery all around will win you over.
Maharashtra in Winter (October - February)
October to February is the winter season in Maharashtra. This is the perfect time to go around the state since winters are mild here. The mercury lurks between 12 to 25 degrees Celcius. The weather is welcoming in most cities and towns.
Adorned with nature’s wonders, iconic structures, ancient temples and virgin beaches, Maharashtra is an ultimate destination to sojourn. Easily accessible by air, rail and road, you can choose your favorable mode of transport to reach this amazing travel destination. The third largest state of India, Maharashtra has a lot to offer avid travelers, nature aficionados and lovers of history. Take a look at the modes of transports available and start chalking out your travel plans.
BY AIR:
If you wish to journey to Maharashtra by air, the state has numerous domestic and International airports. Santa Cruz domestic Airport, Chattarpati Shivaji International Airport, Aurangabad Airport, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Airport and several others. From these airports there are major flights operating to and fro, and thus connecting Maharashtra to various parts of India and abroad.
BY RAIL:
The state has a well knit rail network which connects all cities of Maharashtra. There are several fast running trains that operate from Mumbai, which is the most important railway station in Maharashtra. Trains function to and fro from the Mumbai railway station and connect the state of Maharashtra with the rest of India.
BY ROAD:
There is a strong and dependable network of roads that connect Maharashtra with other parts of the country.
Ajanta and Ellora caves, considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient rock-cut caves are located near Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra, India. Adorned with beautiful sculptures, paintings and frescoes, Ajanta and Ellora caves are an amalgamation of Buddhist, Jain and Hindu monuments as the complex includes both Buddhist monasteries as well as Hindu and Jain temples. The Ajanta caves are 29 in number and were built in the period between 2nd century BC and 6th century AD whereas the Ellora Caves are more spread out and 34 in number and dates to the period between 6th and 11th Century AD.
Ajanta and Ellora caves are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are quite popular among travellers from all over the world. Ajanta Caves, located around 99km north of Aurangabad are mostly Buddhist sites and were used as a retreat by Buddhist Monks. Ellora is just 15 km west of Aurangabad and have a better mix of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist sites. These hand-carved caves were built and sponsored by the Indian rulers of those periods and are almost buried by thick forests all around. One of the most famous sites in the entire Ajanta and Ellora Caves is the Kailash Temple, which is also the single largest monolithic structure in the world. These rock-cut caves containing carvings are some of the best examples of ancient Indian architecture and sculpture
Lonavala is a hill station surrounded by green valleys in western India near Mumbai. The Karla Caves and the Bhaja Caves are ancient Buddhist shrines carved out of the rock. They feature massive pillars and intricate relief sculptures. South of the Bhaja Caves sits the imposing Lohagad Fort, with its 4 gates. West of here is Bhushi Dam, where water overflows onto a set of steps during rainy season.
A hill town in Western Ghats, apart from its strawberries, Mahabaleshwar is also well known for its numerous rivers, magnificent cascades and majestic peaks.
Mahabaleshwar is a hill station located in the Western Ghats, in Satara district of Maharashtra. Known for its captivating beauty and the beautiful strawberry farms, the city comprises of ancient temples, boarding schools, manicured and lush green dense forest, waterfalls, hills, valleys. The city is definitely among the most sought after weekend getaways from Mumbai. Charming views, enticing valleys, serene lakes and a refreshing delight for your taste buds - the best way to summarize this natures gift.
Matheran is a hill station, near Mumbai, in the west Indian state of Maharashtra. It’s known for its mild climate and well-preserved colonial architecture. Motor vehicles are banned and many visitors arrive by narrow-gauge railway on the 1907 Neral–Matheran Toy Train. The Panorama Point lookout offers views across the mountains of the Western Ghats. Louisa Point has views of waterfalls and the ancient Prabal Fort.
Southwest of the town center, Charlotte Lake is a popular picnic spot and attracts domestic and migratory birds. Next to the lake is Pisharnath Mahadev Mandir, a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva. After the monsoon rains, water spills out of the lake creating a waterfall. A nearby trekking trail known as Shivaji’s Ladder leads from One Tree Hill Point down to the valley. The hills surrounding Matheran are covered in thick evergreen and deciduous forest, home to animals including monkeys, and birds such as cuckoos and bulbuls.
Aurangabad is a city in Maharashtra state, in India. It’s known for the 17th-century marble Bibi ka Maqbara shrine, styled on the Taj Mahal. The nearby Shivaji Maharaj Museum, dedicated to the Maratha king Shivaji, displays war weapons and a coin collection. North of the city, the Aurangabad Caves comprise ancient, rock-cut Buddhist shrines. West of the city, battlements surround the medieval Daulatabad Fort.
Northwest of Aurangabad are the Ellora Caves, around 1,500 years old, with Buddhist, Jain and Hindu cave temples said to indicate local religious harmony. Nearby is Grishneshwar Mandir, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, with intricate architectural details. In the northeast, the Ajanta Caves feature scenes from the life of Buddha depicted in paintings and rock carvings, some dating back more than 2,000 years. South of the city, Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary is a haven for migratory species including glossy ibises and flamingos, plus cranes that flock to the adjacent Nath Sagar lake.
Deriving its name from the five hills surrounding it, Panchgani is a popular hill station near Mahabaleshwar, famous for its various sunset/sunrise points and scenic valley view.
Located at an altitude of 1, 334 mts. , Panchgani is a hill station in Maharashtra, known for its scenic views. Five hills form the Sahyadri mountain ranges offer Panchgani its name. The picturesque backdrop of hills on one side and coastal plains on the other makes for an amazing view. In the British era, the place was treated as a summer resort and hence many colonial period establishments can be seen here. Mahabaleshwar is like a twin city to Panchgani.
Perched on the foothills of Sahyadri, Khandala provides for a perfect weekend respite for the Mumbai population, with its scenic valleys, grassy hills, serene lakes and misty waterfalls.
This is one of the most popular weekend getaway for the people from nearby cities of Mumbai and Pune. The place immortalized by the popular Bollywood song, "Aati Kya Khandala", is a must visit destination for everyone looking for beautiful nature, pleasant weather and the feeling of mist in the air. The natural beauty blooms to its zenith and reveals a magical charm during the monsoons. Its meandering waterfalls and glittering lakes attributes to the majestic look an imposing ambiance. ÊThe Duke's Nose peak and Karla hills are the two popular spots for rock climbing. ÊApart from these, there are many caves and lakes to be seen. A perfect place to sit back and relax.
Alibag, also known as Alibaug, is a coastal town, just south of Mumbai, in western India. It’s known for its beaches like Alibag Beach and Varsoli Beach. Just offshore, 17th-century Kolaba Fort has carvings of tigers and elephants, and temples dedicated to Hindu gods. To the south, Portuguese-built Korlai Fort dates from 1521 and includes a lighthouse. The island fort of Janjira has high walls, turrets and cannons
Beach town on the Konkan coastline, Ganpatipule has temples of Lord Ganesha as major attractions apart from the beautiful virgin beaches.
Ganpatipule is a small town in the Ratnagiri district in Konkan region with a long stretch of pristine beaches, Ganpatipule is a perfect idyllic getaway in the slip of nature. Confluence of beach with river could be witnessed along with a hill shaped like Ganpati, the Hindu God of worship. The village of Ganapatipule is famous for its 400-year-old Ganesha temple. The idol is said to be a self-created monolith of Lord Ganesha, allegedly discovered 1600 years ago. Untouched by commercialism Ganapatipule makes for a great destination for peace-seekers, beach lovers and pilgrim alike. Ganpatipule also has water sports to offer between the months of November-May. Ganpatipule is typically clubbed with Ratnagiri and other smaller villages like Velneshwar, Malgund and Pawas for a perfect 2-3 day trip.
Shirdi is a town in the state of Maharashtra, in western India. It's known as the former home of revered spiritual leader Sai Baba, and as a major pilgrimage site. Devotees gather daily at the Sai Baba Temple complex to honor his legacy. Here, the Samadhi Mandir shrine has an ornate marble statue of Sai Baba, alongside his tomb. Close by are Dwarkamai, a mosque where Sai Baba once lived, and tree-lined Lendi Garden.
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.
Located at the geographical centre of India, Nagpur has plateaus, flat tablelands with rivers and streams flowing through it.
Nagpur, also known as the 'Orange city' of India because of the juiciest varieties of oranges found here. Deekshabhumi - the largest hollow Buddhist stupa in the world, Ambazari Lake, Futala Lake, Ramtek fort temple, Bohra Masjid and orange orchards are a must-visit in Nagpur.
Ajanta and Ellora caves, considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient rock-cut caves are located near Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra, India. Adorned with beautiful sculptures, paintings and frescoes, Ajanta and Ellora caves are an amalgamation of Buddhist, Jain and Hindu monuments as the complex includes both Buddhist monasteries as well as Hindu and Jain temples. The Ajanta caves are 29 in number and were built in the period between 2nd century BC and 6th century AD whereas the Ellora Caves are more spread out and 34 in number and dates to the period between 6th and 11th Century AD.
Ajanta and Ellora caves are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are quite popular among travellers from all over the world. Ajanta Caves, located around 99km north of Aurangabad are mostly Buddhist sites and were used as a retreat by Buddhist Monks. Ellora is just 15 km west of Aurangabad and have a better mix of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist sites. These hand-carved caves were built and sponsored by the Indian rulers of those periods and are almost buried by thick forests all around. One of the most famous sites in the entire Ajanta and Ellora Caves is the Kailash Temple, which is also the single largest monolithic structure in the world. These rock-cut caves containing carvings are some of the best examples of ancient Indian architecture and sculpture.
Ajanta and Ellora caves, considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient rock-cut caves are located near Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra, India. Adorned with beautiful sculptures, paintings and frescoes, Ajanta and Ellora caves are an amalgamation of Buddhist, Jain and Hindu monuments as the complex includes both Buddhist monasteries as well as Hindu and Jain temples. The Ajanta caves are 29 in number and were built in the period between 2nd century BC and 6th century AD whereas the Ellora Caves are more spread out and 34 in number and dates to the period between 6th and 11th Century AD.
Ajanta and Ellora caves are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are quite popular among travellers from all over the world. Ajanta Caves, located around 99km north of Aurangabad are mostly Buddhist sites and were used as a retreat by Buddhist Monks. Ellora is just 15 km west of Aurangabad and have a better mix of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist sites. These hand-carved caves were built and sponsored by the Indian rulers of those periods and are almost buried by thick forests all around. One of the most famous sites in the entire Ajanta and Ellora Caves is the Kailash Temple, which is also the single largest monolithic structure in the world. These rock-cut caves containing carvings are some of the best examples of ancient Indian architecture and sculpture.
Tarkarli is a village in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. On the shores of the Arabian Sea, it’s known for the white sands and clear waters of Tarkarli Beach, a popular spot for water sports. Sindhudurg Fort, on an island just off the coast, was built in the 17th century by the Maratha rulers. To the south, the peaceful backwaters of the Karli River are lined with palm trees and inhabited by dolphins.
Raigad Fort
Soaring to a height of around 820 metres, the captivating Raigad Fort is perched on the Sahyadri mountain range in Mahad, Maharashtra. The majestic fort is accessible only from one side through a pathway which has about 1737 steps as deep valleys surround the other three sides. Alternatively, one can take the ropeway to reach the fort top in 4 minutes.
The fort is of great pride for the Marathas and is a reminder of the bravery and audacity. The Raigad fort is not just a tourist spot; it is a sacred place of pilgrimage which holds the imprints of the grand vision of Hindavi Swarajya as cherished by Chhatrapati Shivaji. While most of its parts are in ruins now, the fort still boasts of the brave history of Marathas.
After capturing the Raigad Fort, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj renovated and named it as the capital of Maratha kingdom. The Britishers named it as the Gibraltar of the East as this well-fortified structure atop a hill had defied various attackers. It has several beguiling gates Nagarkhana Darwaja, Mena Darwaja, Maha Darwaja and Palkhi Darwaja. There was also a statue of Shivaji erected in front of the ruins of the main market avenue that eventually leads to his own Samadhi and that of his beloved dog.
Bhandardara
Bhandardara is a holiday resort village near Igatpuri, in the western ghats of India. The village is located in the Tehsil Akole Ahmednagar district of the state of Maharashtra, about 185 kilometers from Mumbai. Bhandardara sits by the Pravara River, and the natural environment, waterfalls, mountains, Wilson dam, Arthur lake and Randha falls are tourist attractions. Bhandardara attractions include Wilson Dam and Arthur Lake. The recent attraction in this place is Fireflies camp in the Purushwadi area. There are number of historic and natural places of interest near the dam. From Bhandardara, visitors can climb up to see the Ratangad and Harishchandragad fort. Or, visitors can follow the trails that lead to Ajoba and Ghanchakkar peaks. The highest peak in Maharashtra, Mount Kalsubai is 1646 m, and the starting point for this trek is Bari Village, located 12 km away from Bhandardara. Atop, there is a small temple located at the summit, with views of Sahyadris and Bhandardara. The toughest trio-forts in Sahydri namely Alang Fort, Madangad fort and Kulang gad located on the southern side. A very narrow Sandhan valley is on the Western side of the dam.
Kolad River Rafting, Kolad
Kolad is an instance of paradise for adventure enthusiasts. Kundalika river's 14 kilometer stretch of exciting rapids provide one, one and a half hours of white water rafting. The monsoon season tends to be the best for the adventure sport, though at times rafting pauses due to weather conditions.
Nestled in the lap of Sahyadri Ranges, the small village called Kolad is known for attracting people with adventurous streak. Offering a nerve pumping rafting expedition on Kundalika River, the activity takes place across two dams covering an approximate stretch of 12 kms. Bundled with raw beauty of nature, the activity is a perfect opportunity to let your fear fly off. The adventure over the easy flowing and abundant water is not only about fun but about a passion. Maneuver your rafts and get ready for an adventurous ride on Kundalika River invading through a tiny and rustic hamlet of Kolad adding punch to the ride.
Rajmachi
Rajmachi is a small village situated in the Sahyadri mountain range of the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Rajmachi has two fortified peaks - Shrivardhan and Manaranjan forts, located near two famous hills of Lonavala and Khandala.
At the base of the fort is the village Udhewadi which is another name for Rajmachi. Rajmachi has seen many change of hands from Shivaji Maharaj, Emperor Aurangzeb, Shahu Maharaj and eventually the British reign. The fort of Rajmachi is famous among trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. If you want to experience a full-fledged trek, you can start from the Kondhane caves side which will take 3-4 hours of climbing, but otherwise you can drive right upto Udhewadi village (from the Lonavala side) and then trek for hardly 20-30 minutes to the top of the fort. The simple and clearly marked trail on both the paths make Rajmachi a very popular beginner's trek.
AmboliAmboli is a hill station in south Maharashtra, India. At an altitude of 690 m it is the last hill station before the coastal highlands of Goa. Amboli lies in the Sahayadri Hills of Western India, one of the world's "Eco Hot-Spots" and it abounds in unusual flora and fauna. However, as in the other parts of the Sahaydri Hills, denudation of the forest cover and unregulated government-assisted development are gradually ruining a once-pristine environment. Historically, Amboli village came into being as one of the staging posts along the road from Vengurla port to the city of Belgaum, which was extensively used by the British to supply their garrisons in south and central India. The source of the Hiranyakeshi river lies in the hills around Amboli village, and an ancient Shiva temple sits at the cave where the water emerges. The main attraction for tourists is the incredibly-high rainfall and the numerous waterfalls and mist during the monsoons. Legend has it that there are 108 Shiva temples in and around Amboli, of which only a dozen have been uncovered, one as recently as 2005.
Murud Beach, Murud Janjira
Situated in the town of Dapoli, the Murud beach is known for the scenic views of the surrounding landscape and adventurous water sports. And if you're lucky, you might even have the pleasure of encountering a few friendly dolphins here! Being one of the most popular tourist spots in town, this beach is always thronged with people and is a destination bubbling with activity.
You can enjoy thrilling water sports activities here such as parasailing, banana boat ride and much more. Horse riding activity is also available here. You can also dig into some local food items like seafood dishes, coconut and sweet corn at the many eateries that find a place here.
The sunrise and sunset of this location are mesmerizing and make up for the most picture-perfect moment in this destination. The Murud Janjira fort in the background adds another dimension to the beauty of this place.
DapoliDapoli is a small city in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra. It is 215 km from the state capital of Mumbai. Dapoli is also known as Camp Dapoli as British set their camps in Dapoli. Many high-ranking British officers' graves are found in this town. The city also has an abandoned church from the time of the British Raj. Dapoli is home to one of the biggest Agricultural Universities in India, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeet. Dapoli is administered by the Dapoli Municipal Council.
Diveagar Beach, Diveagar
Diveagar beach is a charming natural beauty situated in the Raigad district of Maharashtra and is situated 170 kilometres away from the capital city of Mumbai. A perfect representation of all that the Konkan Coast stands for, Diveagar Beach is a quaint amalgam of greenery and azure water with gentle sprinkles of white sand. Another unique aspect of the beach is that it is not a flat surface beach, rather, the wavy shores of the Diveagar beach along with the strong tides from the Arabian sea make it an ideal setting for sea surfing. A perfect weekend getaway for the beach holidays from nearby cities like Mumbai and Pune, there are also a variety of activities that you can pursue at Diveagar beach as well.
The coastline of the Diveagar Beach stretches across the length of 5 kilometres which is laden with the palm, Beatles and casuarina trees that are commonly found in Maharashtrian soil. The tide is low during the morning hours and you can frolick around in the water with your kids for the ultimate water adventure. One of the best ways to navigate the same is by taking an evening stroll along the frothy sea as the sun sets in the backdrop. Evening time also call for buggy rides which is an adventure in its own right. There are some beach resorts located on the Diveagar beach where tourists make their stay for a tranquil beach vacation.
Chikhaldara
Chikhaldara is a hill station and a municipal council in Amravati district in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Featured in the epic of the Mahabharata, this is the place where Bheema killed the villainous Keechaka in a herculean bout and then threw him into the valley. It thus came to be known as Keechakadara—Chikhaldara is its corruption. The sole hill resort in the Vidarbha region, it is situated at an altitude of 1118 meters with highest vairat point 1188 meters and has the added dimension of being the only coffee-growing area in Maharashtra. Chikhaldara has an annual rainfall of 154cm. Temperatures vary from 39C in summer to 5C in winter. The best months to visit are from October to June. It abounds in wildlife, such as tigers, panthers, sloth bears, sambars, wild boar, and rarely seen wild dogs. Close by is the famous Melghat Tiger Project which has 82 tigers. The scenic beauty of Chikhaldara can be enjoyed from Hurricane Point, Prospect Point, and Devi Point. Other interesting excursions include Gavilgad and Narnala Fort, the Pandit Nehru Botanical Gardens, the Tribal Museum and the Semadoh Lake.
Khopoli
Khopoli is an industrial city in the Khalapur taluka of Raigad district, in the Indian state of Maharashtra, at the base of the Sahyadri mountains. Patalganga River which is the tailrace channel of Tata Hydroelectric Power station flows through Khopoli. It is a municipal council and is a part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Khopoli Municipal council covers an area of 30 km². Khopoli is served by a railway station connected to the Mumbai suburban railway by a single line from Karjat. The distance between CST to Khopoli is 114.24 km along the Central Railway Suburban Line which is a broad gauge line carrying electric locomotives. Initially, Khopoli railway station was employed with a single platform for the up and down movement of local trains. In 2019, Khopoli station was revamped with an additional platform for the up and down movement of local trains in the Central railway system. It is also located on NH 4, about 80 km south of Mumbai. Khopoli is located approximately at a distance of 80 km from Pune. Khopoli is considered to be located in between Mumbai and Pune with both cities located approximately at the same distance.
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