Trip and Tales

Dancing Girl of Mohenjo-daro - currently in National Museum, Delhi

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Tourist Destinations in Maharashtra

Maharashtra, one of India’s most culturally vibrant and geographically diverse states, offers a range of must-see tourist destinations. Whether you’re drawn to bustling cities, serene hill stations, ancient caves, or coastal charm, the places to visit in Maharashtra promise a rich travel experience.
Wiki Link: Tourist Destinations of Maharashtra

Popular Places in Maharashtra

Gateway of India is a historic basalt arch in Mumbai, built in 1924 to honor King George V’s visit.

Gateway of India

A symbol of Mumbai, the Gateway of India was built in 1924 to commemorate King George V’s visit. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, it serves as a historical landmark and a bustling tourist hub. It is the starting point for ferry rides to Elephanta Caves. The structure blends Indo-Saracenic and Mughal architectural styles. With street vendors, photographers, and views of luxury hotels, it’s always lively. The sunset view from here is breathtaking.

Ajanta Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ajanta Caves are a collection of 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves. The caves were carved using simple tools, showcasing ancient India’s artistic brilliance. 

Shaniwar Wada

Once the grand palace of the Peshwas, Shaniwar Wada is an important historical landmark. Though much of it was destroyed in a fire, its ruins still narrate a glorious past.

Mahabaleshwar

A picturesque hill station, Mahabaleshwar is famous for its strawberry farms, misty valleys, and waterfalls. Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point, and Venna Lake are some highlights. 

The caves house magnificent sculptures of Lord Shiva, including the iconic three-headed Maheshmurti

Elephanta Caves

Located on Elephanta Island, these UNESCO-listed rock-cut caves date back to the 5th century. The caves house magnificent sculptures of Lord Shiva, including the iconic three-headed Maheshmurti. The island can be reached by a ferry ride from the Gateway of India. Intricately carved stone pillars and statues showcase India’s ancient artistic brilliance.

Ellora Caves

Another UNESCO-listed marvel, Ellora Caves house 34 rock-cut temples of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist origins. The Kailasa Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a monolithic masterpiece.

Sinhagad Fort

Sinhagad Fort is a hilltop fortress with a rich Maratha legacy, known for the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670. The fort panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains and is popular for trekking. 

Lonavala & Khandala

Nestled in the Western Ghats, these twin hill stations are famous for their waterfalls, forts, and greenery. During the monsoons, the region turns into a paradise with cascading waterfalls

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Bhimashankar Temple is set amidst dense forests.

Bhimashankar Temple

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Bhimashankar Temple is set amidst dense forests. The surrounding Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the rare Indian giant squirrel. The temple’s architecture and peaceful ambiance attract thousands of pilgrims and trekkers.

Home to sprawling vineyards offering wine tours and tastings. Sula and York wineries provide an unforgettable experience with wine-making insights and vineyard views.

Nashik Vineyards

Nashik, India’s wine capital, is home to sprawling vineyards offering wine tours and tastings. Sula and York wineries provide an unforgettable experience with wine-making insights and vineyard views. The SulaFest music festival adds to its charm.

Pratapgad Fort

A historic Maratha fort built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Pratapgad is known for the legendary battle against Afzal Khan. It offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and lush valleys.

Bhandardara

A picturesque lakeside destination, Bhandardara is home to Wilson Dam, Arthur Lake, and Randha Falls. The region is also known for the Kalsubai Peak, the highest in Maharashtra.

Tadoba National Park

Maharashtra’s largest tiger reserve, Tadoba is home to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of wildlife. Jeep safaris offer thrilling encounters with majestic wild animals.

A historic fort nestled in the Sahyadris, Rajmachi Fort is famous for its twin citadels – Shrivardhan and Manaranjan.

Rajmachi Fort

A historic fort nestled in the Sahyadris, Rajmachi Fort is famous for its twin citadels – Shrivardhan and Manaranjan. It offers stunning views, especially during the monsoons with lush greenery and waterfalls. The trek to the fort is an adventurous journey through dense forests.

Hidden Gems in Maharashtra

A UNESCO-listed biodiversity hotspot, Kaas Plateau comes alive with colorful wildflowers during monsoon

Kaas Plateau

A UNESCO-listed biodiversity hotspot, Kaas Plateau comes alive with colorful wildflowers during monsoon. Home to over 850 plant species, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. The landscape changes hues every few weeks due to different blooming flowers. Walking trails through the plateau offer breathtaking views.

Velas Beach 

A quiet coastal village, Velas is famous for its Olive Ridley turtle conservation. Every year, baby turtles hatch and crawl into the sea, offering a magical sight.

Jawhar

Jawhar is a lesser-known hill station with a rich Warli tribal heritage.Jai Vilas Palace and Dabhosa Waterfall are key attractions. 

Sandhan Valley

A hidden trekking gem, Sandhan Valley is a stunning canyon with towering rock walls. Sunlight barely reaches the valley floor, creating a mystical ambiance. 

Located near Pune, Madhe Ghat is a pristine waterfall accessible through a scenic trek

Madhe Ghat

Located near Pune, Madhe Ghat is a pristine waterfall accessible through a scenic trek. The region is lush with greenery, especially during monsoon. The waterfalls plunge into a deep valley, offering stunning views. The area remains relatively undiscovered, making it a peaceful retreat. A historical connection exists, as it was a route used by the Marathas. 

Formed by a meteor impact 50,000 years ago, Lonar Lake is saltwater body in a basaltic rock basin.

Lonar Crater Lake

Formed by a meteor impact 50,000 years ago, Lonar Lake is  saltwater body in a basaltic rock basin. The lake is surrounded by ancient temples and forests. 

Also known as Sonori Fort, Malhargad is one of the last forts built by the Marathas

Malhargad Fort

Also known as Sonori Fort, Malhargad is one of the last forts built by the Marathas. It remains an offbeat spot, perfect for history lovers and trekkers.

A misty hill station, Amboli is known for its lush greenery, hidden waterfalls, and cool climate.

Amboli Ghat

A misty hill station, Amboli is known for its lush greenery, hidden waterfalls, and cool climate. The monsoon season makes it a surreal paradise.

A small yet scenic Ghangad Fort offers breathtaking views of the Tamhini Ghat.

Ghangad Fort

A small yet scenic Ghangad Fort offers breathtaking views of the Tamhini Ghat.The fort is surrounded by greenery and fog during monsoons.

The only hill station in Vidarbha, Chikhaldara is famous for its coffee plantations, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints.

Chikhaldara

The only hill station in Vidarbha, Chikhaldara is famous for its coffee plantations, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints. It offers panoramic views of deep valleys and waterfalls. The Melghat Tiger Reserve nearby adds to its ecological significance.

Kataldhar Waterfall

A hidden monsoon gem near Lonavala, Kataldhar is a stunning waterfall that requires a challenging trek. It’s a perfect spot for adventurers and nature lovers.

Anjarle Beach

A pristine, less-explored beach in Konkan, Anjarle is known for its white sands and clear waters. The nearby Kadyavarcha Ganpati temple is a must-visit.

Kalavantin Durg

One of the most thrilling treks in Maharashtra, Kalavantin Durg has steep rock-cut steps leading to the summit. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.