Best Tourist Places to Visit in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a charming state located in proximity to both Western Ghats and the beautiful Konkan Coast. Blessed with abundant natural beauty, the state is known for its scenic views and is also known as the ‘Gateway to the Heart of India’. 

From the modernity of Mumbai and Pune to the historic hotspots at Aurangabad and Kolhapur you can explore the Marathi culture at its best in Maharashtra. It offers a variety of tourist spots like ancient pilgrim destinations, gardens, beaches, forest-covered hills, and monuments. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Maharashtra for an exciting holiday with your family and friends.

Ajanta & Ellora Caves

The Ajanta and Ellora caves near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India are considered to be the best places to visit in Maharashtra. They are the finest examples of ancient rock-cut temples. The complex includes Buddhist monasteries as well as Hindu or Jain temples with beautiful frescoes that date back centuries. The art and architecture of these caves attract tourists from across the world. 

Ajanta has 29 separate rock-cut structures, while Ellora contains 34 such wonderful creations from various periods throughout India’s history. The caves have been estimated to be sculpted spanning the years from as far back as 400 BC all the way up until 1100 AD.

The Ajanta and Ellora caves are World Heritage Sites in India designated by UNESCO as part of ancient India’s cultural heritage. The site that houses these incredible structures is 99km northeast of Aurangabad in Maharashtra state and Ellora is 30 kms from Aurangabad.

You must explore the Kailash Temple and witness the beautiful carvings at the cave temple and the massive monolithic structure that it houses. You can also attend the Ajanta & Ellora Festival organized annually in October or November.

Mahabaleshwar 

Mahabaleshwar is a mountain retreat in the western ghats of Satara District. It is a popular tourist destination and among the best places to visit in Maharashtra. Renowned for its strawberries and other fruits, the destination is ideal for a relaxing holiday. Several rivers with magnificent waterfalls embellish the gorgeous mountains that surround Mahabaleshwar. The natural beauty and pristine atmosphere make it one of the best weekend getaways from Mumbai and Pune. 

Malcolm Peth, Old Kshetra Mahabaleshwar, and a region of the Shindola village form an ancient pilgrimage site. The mighty Krishna River originates from the spot and thus it is revered by Hindus. A 500-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Mahabaleshwar Temple is also a Hindu pilgrimage. 

Nature lovers can explore the beauty of Mahabaleshwar at Chinaman’s Falls, Dhobi Waterfall, Wilson Point, and Tapola. Venna Lake is a great place to visit in Mahabaleshwar and spend some time with your loved ones. You can have a picnic or enjoy boating at the lake. Mapro garden offers the best strawberries and fresh fruit products like jam, syrups, and jellies in the region.

Mumbai 

Mumbai is one of India’s busiest cities and is famous for its chaotic pace. The city blends an age-old culture with an ahead of the times cosmopolitan vibe to offer the best of both eras. Popularly known as “The City of Dreams”, Mumbai attracts tourists and inhabitants from across the globe. The dynamic lifestyle and career opportunities make it a dreamer’s paradise. The wide variety of tourist attractions in Mumbai make it one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra.

Nature has bestowed its best upon Mumbai in the form of scenic beaches. Popular beaches you must visit in Mumbai are Juhu Beach, Chowpatty Beach, Aksa Beach, Versova Beach, and Madh Island Beach. Siddhivinayak Temple, Mahalakshmi Temple, and Mumba Devi Temple are the most revered temples of the city.

Marine Drive and Bandstand are famous spots for watching the sunset over the Arabian Sea. Gateway of India is another prominent tourist attraction of Mumbai. You can enjoy a ferry ride on the Arabian Sea up to the Elephanta Caves or simply explore the beauty of the city. 

Lonavala 

Lonavala is a popular hill station in Maharashtra embellished with picturesque waterfalls, serene lakes, and lush forests. Located in the Sahyadri range of Western Ghats, the quaint hill station is situated close to Pune and Mumbai. It is a relaxing weekend getaway from Pune for those looking for respite from the hectic city life. The astounding views and horde of fun activities offered at Lonavala make it one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra.

Lonavala Hills are a haven for nature enthusiasts. The natural grandeur of Lonavala can be explored from its popular viewpoints at Tiger’s Leap, Duke’s Nose, and Lion’s Point. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in enthralling activities such as camping at the Pawana Lake, paragliding, zip-lining, rappelling, feet traversing, and hot air balloon safari. You can indulge in trekking at Tikona Fort, Lohagad Fort, and Rajmachi Fort, or go hiking at Tiger’s Leap.

Shirdi

Shirdi is the home of Sai Baba, a spiritual leader. He arrived at Shirdi in 1858 and spent 60 years here until his salvation in 1918. Sai Baba spread messages about universal brotherhood among people. Pilgrims from all over the world visit Shirdi and get a glimpse into Sai Baba’s life and the villagers.

You can seek blessings at the Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple, Shani Shingnapur, Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai, and Gurusthan. To learn more about Sai Baba you can visit the Dixit Wada Museum where his belongings have been exhibited. The Sai Heritage Village also portrays events from his life and rare memoirs have been displayed at Abdul Baba cottage.