Nestled in the western embrace of India, Maharashtra destinations stand as a canvas painted with a grand tapestry of culture, wonders of nature and a vibrant urban rhythm. This land boasts a treasure trove of history and fame within its borders, highlighting the iconic sites.
Tourist places in Maharashtra attract thousands of explorers to explore everything from its misty hill stations to sun-drenched beaches, from the secret havens of wildlife sanctuaries to ancient forts. Other places to visit in Maharashtra include temples and mystical caves echoing tales of history. Amidst this vibrant symphony, festivals like Ganesh Chathurthi emerge in vibrant colours, completing the sensory spectacle of Maharashtra.
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Whether you are looking for adventure, spirituality, romance or relaxation, Maharashtra places to visit has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 tourist places in Maharashtra that you should not miss.
Top 10 Tourist Places in Maharashtra:
1. Mumbai
Mumbai reigns supreme among the Maharashtra tourist places. Being India’s capital of finance and entertainment, it is one of the most famous places in Maharashtra. From towering skyscrapers to sprawling slums, opulent glamour to widespread poverty, the city is known for having it all. In light of Mumbai’s fame, its landmarks like the majestic Gateway of India beckons,
Taj Mahal Palace Hotel exudes timeless elegance. Marine Drive unfurls like a coastal ribbon, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus stands as a testimony to the architectural marvel, and Elephanta Caves guard their ancient secrets. Mumbai is also known for its nightlife that lights up the streets like stars. The city’s spotlight is the Bollywood industry that weaves larger-than-life dreams. For the traveller thirsty for the essence of India, Mumbai is a must-visit place.
2. Lonavala
Among other places to visit near Maharashtra, Lonavala is a popular hill station in the Western Ghats, about 80 km from Mumbai and 65 km from Pune. Some main attractions in Lonavala are Bhushi Dam, Karla Caves, Lohagad Fort, Rajmachi Fort and Lion Point. Lonavla is also known for its delicious chikki (a type of candy made from nuts and jaggery) and fudge. Lonavala is amongst the most popular places to visit in rainy season in Maharashtra, as it becomes even more beautiful and misty during rains.
3. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is another popular hill station in the Western Ghats, located about 120 km from Pune and 260 km from Mumbai. If you have a long weekend and are looking to plan a trip around, then Mahabaleshwar is one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra for a weekend. Some of the main attractions of Mahabaleshwar are Venna Lake, Pratapgarh Fort, Mapro Garden, Wilson Point and Lingmala Waterfall.
Mahabaleshwar is famous for its lush green strawberry fields, ancient temples reverberating with history, senses-awakening waterfalls, sky-touching vantage points, and the serene charm of sailing on calm waters. As the heart of Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar emerges as a popular weekend escape to enjoy leisure time in the grandeur of nature.
4. Aurangabad
The historical city of Aurangabad is one of the best tourist places in Maharashtra for couples. With echoes of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, who chose the region as his 17th-century capital, this place will take you to the time when stories were carved on stones. Renowned as the custodian of UNESCO’s treasures, Aurangabad is adorned with gems like the Ajanta Caves and the Ellora Caves. The city’s charm extends beyond these legendary caves. Bibi Ka Maqbara, often compared to the iconic Taj Mahal, also graces its grounds.
The formidable Daulatabad Fort beckons with age-old tales, while the sacred Grishneshwar Temple, home to one of the iconic Jyotirlingas, beckons pilgrims and enthusiasts alike. And let us not forget the mysterious Aurangabad Caves, which are a well-kept secret
amidst the stones. For those enamoured by the stories etched in every nook, Aurangabad unfurls as a canvas of history and culture, a destination that whispers legends in every breeze.
5. Alibaug
Located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, Alibaug is a coastal gem. Located about 95 km from bustling Mumbai, it is one of the unique places to visit in Maharashtra that can be reached by road or a serene boat ride. Alibaug proudly flaunts its identity as pristine expanses of sandy beaches, surrounded by swaying coconut groves.
Historic forts and temples, and adorned with a delectable array of seafood dishes. Add Alibaug to your Maharashtra holiday package and explore its priceless gems, such as the sun-drenched Alibaug Beach, the historic Colaba Fort, the charming Nagaon Beach, the mystical Kihim Beach and the formidable Murud-Janjira Fort.
This coastal hideaway is the perfect getaway for couples seeking romance and tranquillity. Maharashtra is blessed with a gem in Alibaug, where bird lovers can revel in an environment that matches perfectly with their tender affection.
6. Nashik
Nashik is a holy city in northern Maharashtra situated on the banks of the Godavari River. The city proudly claims to be one of the places where the grand tableau of the Kumbh Mela unfolds, a vibrant tableau that stands as the largest confluence of faiths in the world. Some of the main attractions in Nashik are Trimbakeshwar Temple (one of the 12 Jyotirlingas), Ramkund (a sacred bathing tank), Sula Vineyards (India’s largest wine producer), Pandavleni Caves (a group of ancient rock-cut caves), and Anjaneri Hill (the birthplace of Lord Hanuman).
7. Kolhapur
In the heart of Southern Maharashtra, Kolhapur stands as a tapestry of culture, adorned with its distinctive threads of artistry, culinary prowess and unique footwear traditions. Once the royal seat of the Maratha dynasty, the city is steeped in an illustrious history, reflected in its architecture and heritage. Kolhapur is famous for its Mahalakshmi Temple, one of the 51 Shaktipeeths, attracting lakhs of devotees yearly.
8. Tadoba
Located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, Tadoba looms as a zone of untamed wonder – a sanctuary where the elusive tiger roams proudly. The Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve encompasses both the Tadoba National Park and the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary.
Here, amid this lush green expanse, the symphony of life takes place to a breathtaking crescendo. Tadoba’s fame lies not only in its vibrant tapestry of flora and fauna but also in the regal presence of tigers that roam these lands alongside leopards, sloth bears and wild dogs. Gaurs, sambar deer, chitals, nilgai and countless other inhabitants. Tadoba is also known for its lakes, reservoirs and watchtowers that are silent witnesses to the jungle’s tales.
9. Matheran
Matheran is a unique hill station in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, Asia’s only automobile-free hill station. It is one of the best picnic spots in Maharashtra, just about 80 km from Mumbai, and can be reached by road or toy train.
Matheran’s distinctive charm lies in its untouched and pollution-free environment, where one can have a refreshing and soothing stay. Some main attractions in Matheran covered in Maharashtra tour packages are Charlotte Lake, Echo Point, Louisa Point, One Tree Hill Point, and the Neral-Matheran Toy Train.
10. Shirdi
Shirdi is a holy town in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra and is the most sought out destination in Maharashtra darshan tour packages. Its centre of attraction is the Sai Baba Temple, a holy place where the supernatural presence of Sai Baba rests in eternal rest, as well as the image of his life and principles.
Shirdi is also known for the Dwarkamai Mosque, the Chavadis, the Gurusthan and the Lendi Bagh – each site a testament to the spiritual significance woven into the city’s fabric. Shirdi is a must-visit for those searching for blessings and miraculous charms – a tapestry of divinity intertwined with a tapestry of human devotion.
Hire a Tour Planner in India
If you are considering a trip to any of these beautiful places in Maharashtra or any tourist places near Maharashtra & other parts of India, then hiring the services of a skilled tour planner can go a long way in your travel arrangements.
We at Trip Planners are a group of experienced tour planners who can design a suitable tour package within India to suit your financial constraints, personal preferences and timetable.
We are the best trip planners in India, known for curating the most suitable travel packages for our clients. We offer the best tour packages in India that are known for offering safety, well-being, and convenience to our clients during the duration of their expedition.
We at Trip Planners offer diverse tour packages encompassing cultural immersions, adventure pursuits, wildlife encounters, spiritual quests, romantic getaways, and family retreats. Our unique itineraries and comprehensive service offerings make us the best tour planners in India.
