Tourist Places to Visit in Maharashtra

Waterfalls, ancient forts, Chhatrapati Shivaji, Lavani, Bollywood, skyscrapers, busiest railways and appetizing Maharashtrian delicacies define Maharashtra. It is one of the most developed states in India that contributes 25% in the industrial output of the country. The state has a long coastline that stretches for nearly 530 km along with the length of the Arabian Sea.

Rich in history, places to visit in Maharashtra are well connected via seaways, roadways, railways and airways. Its ruined forts, ancient temples, hill stations unfold the stories of its powerful rulers. The art and craft of this state also act as a major factor for drawing a huge number of tourists with an imaginative outlook.  So, let us share the best places to visit in the state during a Maharashtra Darshan tour package: -

1. Mumbai

Mumbai, the capital city of this state, is among the best places to visit in Maharashtra. Additionally, it is also labelled as the ‘financial capital of India’ and The City of Dreams. Home to India's Bollywood film industry, Mumbai is always bustling with energy. From sprawling skyscrapers to the biggest slum areas, you can all have it in one. Mumbai has some of the most popular beaches in Maharashtra often recalled in many of the Bollywood movies. The fragrance and sound of the sea waves, hustle bustle on the beaches, overcrowded local trains and, of course, the dedicated Dabbawalas surely demand an experience. Mumbai creates such immense energy that you feel like embracing it within seconds.

2. Ajanta and Ellora caves

One of the oldest UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India is Ajanta and Ellora Caves is an amalgamation of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain scriptures. Magnificent paintings and carved sculptures in Ajanta and Ellora are located near Aurangabad in northern Maharashtra, around 400 kilometres from Mumbai. One of the best historical places in Maharashtra, there are 34 caves at Ellora dating from between the 6th and 11th centuries AD, and 29 caves at Ajanta dating back to between the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD. These incredible caves were crafted by hand with only a hammer and chisel. Ajanta Caves should be a top attraction for those who love travelling in the panorama of ancient India. For what they have to offer, Ajanta and Ellora caves are among the most important historical places in Maharashtra.

3. Shirdi

Shirdi, also known as the Land of Sai, is a small town located in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. This is one of the holiest places in India and also one of the most famous pilgrimage places. Shirdi is the shrine of Sai Baba which attracts the devotees of Sai Baba from all over the world as it holds a strong significance among them. Sai Baba visited Shirdi when he was 16 years old and stayed there until his death in 1918. Shirdi unfolds many stories of the great Shirdi Sai Baba. One of the most revered places to visit in Maharashtra, there are many religious places to be seen in Shirdi such as Chavadi, Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai Masjid, and Shani Shignapur.

4. Mahabaleshwar

At a distance of 243 km from Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar is a popular hill station in India. It is also one of the best destinations to visit in Maharashtra. Mahabaleshwar is surrounded by high peaks and countless streams. It is burgeoned by beautiful valleys, forests, Strawberry farms, ancient temples, Pratapgad Fort and points like Arthur’s seat, monkey point, elephant rock, Wilson point and Lingmala waterfalls – all these should be visited when you are here. As far as activities are concerned, trekking, fishing, boating, and horse-riding is a must-try adventure in Mahabaleshwar.

5. Alibag

Just 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, Alibag is a very popular weekend getaway holiday destination and has received itself the name of mini-Goa or Goa of Maharashtra. You can enjoy the one-hour ferry ride from Gateway of India, Mumbai to Alibag or can drive via NH-66. Sandy beaches, clean unpolluted air and plenty of forts and temples in a small town ensure that you will never run out of activities to do. Alibag provides the perfect backdrop for an evening of relaxation as it is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and sun-kissed beaches. You can stroll amidst the dense coconut groves in calm weather to relax from the noisy city life. One of the top destinations in Maharashtra, Alibag is also popular among celebrities.

6. Lonavala

At a distance of 67 km from Pune and 95 km from Mumbai, Lonavala is an amazing hill station in the Pune district of Maharashtra. This is also among the best places in Maharashtra. It offers a perpetual view of dense forests and beautiful waterfalls. Nature’s gateway, Lonavala and is frequented by hikers and trekkers and those seeking a relaxing weekend in a serene atmosphere. As a famous monsoon destination, its lush green surroundings have been the backdrop of many Bollywood movie songs. If you want to get a clear view of nature then you must visit places like Rajmachi Point, Lonavala Lake, and Shivaji Udyan.

7. Lavasa

If you are planning to visit Mumbai or Pune, you must come down to visit the scenic beauty of Lavasa. It is a modern-day privately planned hill city, turning out to be a new hangout for people looking for a small trip away from hectic city life. Spreading across 7 hills, covering an area of 25000 acres, Lavasa is a perfect blend of Italian infrastructure. It is absolutely a leisure holiday destination with adventures like water sports, trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and cycling. This planned town has luxurious hotels with good food and ayurvedic massage centres to spend your lazy weekend. Many couples go for their pre-wedding or maternity shoot in Lavasa hill city to capture its outstanding landscape.

8. Khandala

Khandala with its scenic valleys, grassy hills, serene lakes and misty waterfalls provides a perfect weekend relief for the populace of Mumbai and Pune. The place made popular by the Bollywood song, "Aati Kya Khandala" is a must-visit destination in Maharashtra. People looking for beautiful nature, pleasant weather and peace will love it here! The most common activities that one can enjoy in Khandala is hiking, swimming, and picnics between the lush green valleys. Along with this, Khandala boasts of many other beautiful attractions, such as the Kune Waterfalls which is the 14th highest waterfall in India. It is a three-tiered waterfall with an overall height of 200 metres. Other key places include the Lion’s Point, a cliff between Aamby Valley, and the Bhushi Dam which gives scintillating views of the Tungarli Lake.

Tourist places in Maharashtra are many in number and to be honest, quite diverse in what they offer. If you have been working on a travel itinerary to explore this state, adding these places to visit in Maharashtra are sure to make your list feel complete.