Tourist places to visit in Maharashtra

 

Say Maharashtra and the image of a kilometres-long Marine Drive promenade flash across your mind, quickly followed by the front view of the Gothic Victorian structure—Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Both are famous landmarks in Mumbai, the most popular city in Maharashtra. But there are more, much more tourist places in Maharashtra, the third-largest state in India. Pristine beaches, surreal hill stations, adventurous treks, strawberry farms, wildlife sanctuaries, pilgrimage sites, rich history, scrumptious food, and a vibrant culture—it has something for everyone.

If you have never thought of vacationing in Maharashtra then probably it is time you discover the beauty of the state and bring home some memorable experiences it offers. Here’s a comprehensive list of places to visit in Maharashtra for a complete and fulfilling trip.

1. Mumbai, Maharashtra

 

 

Mayanagri, the city of dreams, the one that never sleeps, India’s financial centre, Bollywood—Mumbai has many names and it lives up to each of them every day.  Mumbai is among the most populated Maharashtra tourist places. Dotted with well-maintained architectural wonders from India’s colonial past, Mumbai offers a visual treat to Gothic architecture lovers. Meanwhile, for those who wish to experience the charm of a fast-moving city, a quick hop on the Mumbai local during the peak hours will be a story to tell. Or just embark on a 15-minute ferry ride from Gateway of India jetty to revisit a lost world at Elephanta Island.

• Best Places to Visit: Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Elephanta Caves, Juhu Beach, Haji Ali Dargah, Siddhivinayak Temple
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Things to do: Visit Bollywood Studios and Film City, Explore the markets of Colaba Causeway and Crawford Market, Ferry to Elephanta Caves, Sunset at Marine Drive, Try street food and local delicacies
• How to Reach:
• By Air: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
• By Train: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Mumbai

Also Read: Places to Visit in Mumbai | Things to Do in Mumbai

2. Pune, Maharashtra

 

 

Cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune holds a place of pride in every Marathi’s heart. Once a political centre of the Indian sub-continent, Pune was the seat of Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. The district alone boasts  17 forts of which the most famous are Shaniwar Wada, Singhagad Fort, and Purandar Fort, closely followed by a remarkably different- looking Aga Khan Palace that served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi soon after he launched the Quit India movement. Pune is a heaven for an art, culture, and adventure lover.

• Best Places to Visit: Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, Sinhagad Fort, Osho Ashram, Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Things to do: Visit the Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Explore the markets, Try the street food,  Boating
• How to Reach:
• By Air: Pune International Airport
• By Train: Pune Railway Junction
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Pune

Also Read: Places to Visit in Pune | Things to Do in Pune

3. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

 

 

Nestled amid the scenic Western Ghats, this popular hill station is known for its breathtaking landscapes, evergreen timberlands, waterfalls, and ancient temples. A trip to Mahabaleshwar means boating in Venna Lake, undertaking a sunset trek to the Pratapgarh Fort, visiting Rajpuri Caves, tantalising your taste buds with freshly-plucked berries, and clicking picture-perfect photos with astounding views of the hills and valleys in the background.

• Best Places to Visit: Arthur’s Seat, Pratapgarh Fort, Venna Lake, Lingmala Waterfall, Elephant’s Head Point, Wilson Point
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Things to do: Trekking, Boating, Enjoying strawberries, Exploring Mahabaleshwar Temple
• How to Reach:
• By Air: Pune International Airport
• By Train: Satara Railway Station and Pune Railway Junction
• By Bus: Mahabhaleshwar Bus Stand
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Mahabhaleshwar

Also Read: Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar | Things to Do in Mahabaleshwar

4. Lonavala, Maharashtra

 

Located between Mumbai and Pune, this beautiful hill station offers a quick getaway from the rushed city life. Famous for mouth-watering chikki (Indian candy made of nuts set in jaggery or sugar syrup), Lonavala offers a scenic drive from both cities. The beautiful winding roads and long tunnels on the Pune-Mumbai Expressway is a reason enough to keep going back to Lonavala. While Lonavala itself is a very small hill station, it is surrounded by some of the best tourist places in Maharashtra such as Pawna Lake, Lohagarh Fort, Visapur Fort, Tiger’s Point, Bhaja Caves, Kune Falls and Shree Narayani Dham Temple. You can also enjoy camping and trekking in Lonavala.

• Best Places to Visit: Rajmachi Point, Tiger’s Leap, Bhushi Dam, Karla Caves, Lohagad Fort
• Best Time to Visit: June to February
• Things to do: Trekking, Boating, Sightseeing, Photography, Visit Wax Museum
• How to Reach:
• By Air: Pune International Airport
• By Train: Lonavala Railway Station
• By Bus: Lonavala Bus Stand
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Lonavala

Also Read: Places to Visit in Lonavala | Things to Do in Lonavala