Maharashtra is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich states in India. It has a wealth of attractions and activities that make it an ideal destination for travelers from all over the world.
It is home to some of India’s most iconic cities such as Mumbai, Pune and Aurangabad.
From stunning beaches to ancient monuments, Maharashtra has something for everyone.
The state offers a wide range of places to visit including historical monuments, religious sites, natural wonders, and man-made marvels.
From the majestic Ajanta and Ellora Caves to the lively beaches, there are many places in Maharashtra that are worth exploring, Maharashtra offers breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for adventure lovers.
The state also boasts some of India’s best wildlife sanctuaries where you can spot rare animals like tigers and leopards.
Maharashtra is a great place to explore if you’re looking for a unique experience. With its diverse culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vast array of attractions, this state is sure to provide an unforgettable journey!
Here are the Some Top Places to Visit in Maharashtra:-
An Epic Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra (Updated 2023)
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In this section, we are sharing our views on some of the top tourist destinations and attractions in Maharashtra which you must plan to visit with your friends & family anytime soon. They are all fun and religious places to visit.
Let us know of any place we missed or you want to add in our list of tourist destinations across the state. Let’s dive in:
1. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a hill station located in Satara district of the western state of Maharashtra, India. It lies at an elevation of 1,372 meters above sea level and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state.
The town is surrounded by several hills and valleys, making it a beautiful place to visit.
It has many interesting places to visit such as Pratapgarh Fort, Venna Lake and Lingmala Waterfall. It is also known for its Old Bombay Presidency, greenery, gardens alongside old historical landmarks and breathtaking views.
It also offers some great trekking opportunities for adventurous travellers.
Mahabaleshwar is also home to vast stretches of strawberry farms which makes it one of the best places to visit near Mumbai for nature lovers and foodies alike.
2. Matheran
Matheran is a hill station located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra and is known for its picturesque landscapes, breathtaking views, and pleasant climate.
The town of Matheran offers peaceful surroundings and a charming ambiance, making it an ideal spot for travellers looking to explore the best places to visit in Maharashtra. Whether you are looking for a quiet getaway or an adventure filled with thrilling activities, you are sure to find something interesting here.
Things you can do at Matheran includes your visits to: Ambarnath Shiv Temple, Dodhani Waterfalls, Little Chowk Point, Chanderi Caves, Charlotte Lake, Rock Climbing, Louisa Point, Rambagh Point, Kalavantin Pinnacle, Porcupine Point, Neral-Matheran Toy Train.
From nature walks to boating at Charlotte Lake, there are endless possibilities that await you at this beautiful hill station near Mumbai.
3. Satara
Satara is a famous tourist destination in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Located at an elevation of 721 feet above sea level, Satara is known for its picturesque hills and valleys, dramatic waterfalls, lush green forests and a pleasant climate.
It is also home to some of the best places to visit in Maharashtra like Kaas Plateau, Thoseghar Waterfalls, Sajjangad Fort and Ajinkyatara Fort.
For those looking for interesting places to visit near Mumbai, Satara offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can only visit Satara from Mumbai easily through the train or the bus route and reach there in just 4-5 hours.
With its diverse flora and fauna along with many beautiful temples and monuments, it’s sure to provide a memorable experience for tourists.
There are several places you must visit in satara, some of them are: Thoseghar waterfall, Pratapgarh fort, Kaas pathar, Lodwick point, Natraj mandir and many such places.
4. Lavasa
Lavasa is a picturesque hill station situated near Pune, Maharashtra. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations across Maharashtra and is visited by locals as well as tourists from around the world.
It offers an array of interesting places to visit near Mumbai and Pune, making it one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra for a weekend getaway. It takes only 1.30 hours to reach Lavasa from Pune and from Mumbai it takes around 3 hours to reach Lavasa.
From spectacular views to thrilling adventure activities, Lavasa has something for everyone. You can do alot of fun activities and visit places like Temghar Dam, Dasve viewpoint, Lavasa nature trail and you can play water sports.
Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend away from the hustle and bustle of city life or want to explore new tourist spots, Lavasa will not disappoint you!
5. Alibaug
Alibaug, located in the Southern part of Maharashtra in Raigad district it is an ideal tourist destination that offers a wide variety of activities for travelers. It is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, historical monuments and water sports to thrill your life.
The town is surrounded by lush green hills and the Arabian Sea on one side, making it one of the most picturesque places in India.
Apart from its beaches and temples, Alibaug has some interesting places to visit such as the Kolaba Fort, the Janjira Fort, Kankeshwar Temple and Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
There are also various water sports activities available here like kayaking, fishing and parasailing. Alibaug also has great restaurants offering delicious local dishes like Malvani cuisine.
It’s only like 100 Km from Mumbai and well connected by rail, roads and ferry to save you a lot of time. All these make Alibaug one of the best destinations to visit in Maharashtra for tourists looking for a perfect holiday experience.
6. Ajanta & Ellora Caves
Ajanta and Ellora Caves are two of the most renowned tourist destinations in Maharashtra. Located near the city of Aurangabad, these caves are a must-visit for any traveler to Maharashtra.
The Ajanta Caves are an ancient Buddhist monastery located deep in the Sahyadri hills, dating back to 2nd century BC.
The Ellora caves, on the other hand, were constructed between 5th and 10th century AD and contain some of India’s finest artworks from sculptures to paintings.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves offer amazing opportunities for sightseeing and exploration. From cave paintings to religious carvings, these famous tourist destinations in Maharashtra bring alive the culture and history of this great state.
With its proximity to Mumbai, Ajanta & Ellora Caves are one of the best places to visit near Mumbai when you’re short on time.
It takes around 6 hours 30 minutes to reach here from Mumbai by car and is around 350 km. But it only 30 mins from Aurangabad.
Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway these interesting places have something for everyone!
7. Jawhar
Jawhar is a small town located in Palghar district of Maharashtra in the Western Ghats of India. It is known for its idyllic beauty, natural landscape and vibrant culture.
It has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra and offers some of the best places to visit in Maharashtra. From historical forts to beautiful lakes, Jawhar has everything one could ask for in terms of sightseeing.
There are also interesting places to visit near Mumbai that can be easily reached from Jawhar making it an ideal weekend getaway destination.
8. Shani Shingnapur
Located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, Shani Shingnapur is one of the most popular religious tourism destinations near Mumbai.
It is known for its religious significance and spiritual vibes that attract devotees from all over India.
The village of Shani Shingnapur is home to a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shani, making it an important pilgrimage center for Hindus. Tourists can witness the deep-rooted culture and tradition in this place that dates back centuries.
There are several interesting places to visit around Shani Shingnapur such as Pune, Nashik, Lonavala and Igatpuri which makes it one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra.
9. Tadoba National Park
Tadoba National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra. Situated in the Chandrapur district, it is known for its beautiful landscapes, diversity of wildlife and picturesque views.
It provides an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. It is home to many endangered species like tigers, sloth bears and leopards.
In addition, there are also some interesting places to visit near Mumbai such as the ancient fort of Narsimha and the Hidimba Devi Temple in Mahabaleshwar.
The best time to visit Tadoba National Park is Oct-Jun is a Peak Season, And Jul-Sep is an Off-season which makes it one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra that offers tourists a chance to explore nature at its finest.
10. Pune
Pune is one of the most heritage and popular city in Maharashtra. It is also known as the cultural capital of the Maratha dynasty.
Pune is a city full of culture and history, offering a plethora of activities for visitors. From ancient forts and monuments to beautiful gardens, Pune has something for everyone.
There are also plenty of interesting places to visit near Mumbai such as Aksa Beach and Matheran Hill Station.
Visitors can explore the wildlife sanctuaries or take part in adventure activities like river rafting or trekking.
With its diverse range of attractions, Pune offers something for everyone and makes it an ideal destination to explore with family and friends!
11. Lonavala
Lonavala is a hill station located in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state and is known for its beautiful scenic views, lush greenery, and plenty of interesting places to explore.
It’s proximity to Mumbai makes it an ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers who are looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
From breathtaking waterfalls to historical sites, Lonavala has something for everyone. So if you’re planning a trip to Maharashtra, be sure to add Lonavala to your list of must-visit destinations!
12. Amravati, Maharashtra
Amravati is a vibrant city in the state of Maharashtra, India. It is the sixth-largest city in the state and is known for its cultural heritage, ancient temples, and tourist attractions. The city has a rich history which dates back to the 2nd century BC.
Amravati has become one of the best tourist destinations in Maharashtra due to its beautiful landscapes and many interesting places to visit.
Tourists can visit some of the famous historical monuments like Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), Gateway of India, Jijamata Udyan Zoo, and several other sites.
There are also various interesting places nearby such as Ellora Caves, Lonar Lake, Ghatghar Dam, Ajanta Caves and more. All these places make Amravati an ideal destination for tourists who are looking to explore Maharashtra in all its glory!
13. Pratapgarh Fort
Pratapgarh Fort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra. Located just outside Mumbai city, it is a great spot to explore interesting places and experience breathtaking views.
It is known for its imposing architecture and intricate stone carvings which are worth admiring.
It also has some historical significance as it was once the site of an important battle between the Marathas and the Mughals.
Pratapgarh Fort is a must visit destination if you are looking for tourist attractions near Mumbai city or best places to visit in Maharashtra.
14. Nashik
Nashik is one of the best tourist destinations in Maharashtra, India. It is known for its rich culture and heritage, as well as for being home to some of the most important pilgrimage sites in India.
With its lush green hills, serene valleys, and breathtaking waterfalls, Nashik is a paradise for nature lovers.
It also boasts a number of interesting places to visit near Mumbai including ancient temples, hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries and many other attractions.
From adventure activities to historic landmarks and pilgrimage sites, Nashik has something for everyone.
Come explore this beautiful destination and discover why it has been attracting tourists from all over the world!
15. Amboli
Amboli is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra. Located at the southern end of the Sahyadri mountain range, it offers breathtaking views of lush green forests and waterfalls.
The area is also home to a diverse collection of flora and fauna, making it an ideal place for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. If you are looking for interesting places to visit near Mumbai, then Amboli should definitely be on your list.
You can explore its various attractions such as its waterfalls, churches, temples and shrines, as well as enjoy activities like trekking and camping in the hilly terrain. Whatever your interests are, Amboli has something for everyone to enjoy!
16. Panyala
Maharashtra is a state in India known for its rich culture and heritage. It offers numerous tourist destinations for travellers to explore.
One of the most popular places to visit in Maharashtra is Panyala, which lies near Mumbai on the western coast.
Panyala is a hill station, situated amidst lush green forests and hills. It boasts of stunning waterfalls, temples and other interesting places to explore.
Panyala also offers some great trekking trails, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
From ancient forts to gorgeous beaches, there are plenty of activities one can enjoy here. So if you’re looking for an exciting vacation spot this year, then look no further than Panyala!
17. Lonar
Maharashtra is a state located in the western region of India and is home to some of the most interesting tourist destinations in India.
One of the most popular places to visit in Maharashtra is Lonar, a small town located about 150 km from Mumbai. This town boasts of its vibrant culture, ancient monuments, excellent shopping centers and beautiful landscapes.
There are several interesting places to visit near Mumbai that can be enjoyed by tourists when they plan a trip to Lonar.
Tourists can explore ancient temples and caves, spot exotic birds and animals, enjoy water sports activities, indulge in local delicacies and shop at the bustling markets here.
18. Chikhaldara
Located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra, Chikhaldara is one of the best tourist destinations in the state. It is known for its natural beauty, lush green hills, and picturesque valleys.
It also houses a number of stunning temples and historic monuments that make it one of the most interesting places to visit near Mumbai.
From serene lakes to majestic waterfalls, Chikhaldara has something for everyone. From adventurous activities like zorbing and rappelling to spiritual visits to ancient temples and monuments – there’s no dearth of activities here.
The region also has some amazing wildlife sanctuaries where you can spot exotic birds and animals like tigers, leopards, barking deer, etc. All these factors make it one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra!
19. Raigad
Raigad is one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra. Located in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, Raigad boasts some of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the state.
From historical sites such as Raigad fort, to stunning waterfalls and lush green hills, there is something for everyone here.
Raigad is also a popular destination for tourists who are looking for interesting places to visit near Mumbai.
From wildlife sanctuaries and secluded beaches, to historical monuments and ancient caves, the region has plenty of attractions that can be explored.
Apart from this, you can also enjoy activities like trekking and paragliding while exploring this beautiful region.
20. Ganpatipule
Ganpatipule is a small beach town located in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra. It is known for its breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and its calm and tranquil atmosphere.
It has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra due to its unique location, stunning views, and fun activities.
People from all over India come here to enjoy the beauty of this village and explore the nearby attractions such as Prachin Konkan Museum, Ganapatipule Temple, Jaigad Fort, Aare Ware Beach, Malgund Beach, Pawas Beach and many others.
If you are looking for interesting places to visit near Mumbai then Ganpatipule should be on your list!
Unique Experiences You Can Have While Visiting Maharashtra, India
In this article, we will explore some of the most unique experiences you can have while visiting this stunning state.
From adrenaline-pumping adventure activities to must-experience activities in Maharashtra, India. we will cover it all!
1. Diving in the Arabian Sea:
For those looking for an adventure, exploring the Arabian Sea is a great option. It rose up from a volcanic eruption millions of years ago and has been home to many incredible creatures & vibrant marine life since then.
The average depth ranges from 20 to 50 metres and with visibility around 100 metres, it really is a sight to behold! Activities in Pune, India are an adventure in themselves, and as such, require some sort of mental strength.
Whether that’s conquering your fear of heights or scaling a mountain – these activities will definitely leave a lasting memory!
Best time to visit: October to April
2. Ziplining
Devgad, located in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra is now home to the state’s only coastal zipline.
Vaishnavi Joil, an IT engineer and robotics expert, developed this zipline to help her people in difficult financial situations.
It is made of a 12-mm Usha Martin steel wire rope set high up in the air at about 280 feet from sea level and runs for a total length of 1,885 feet.
Ziplining has become a popular outdoor experience for outdoor enthusiasts in the Western Ghats. This area is well-known for its amazing biodiversity, as it is home to a wide range of plants and animals.
You can find ziplining sites spread all over this region, while Mumbai is also host to several clubs that offer ziplining experiences from various locations within the city.
Looking for adventure outside Mumbai? Mulshi, Kolad and Palghar are all reachable within a few hours of travel.
Each location is full of scenic beauty with plenty of outdoor fun activities to experience – making it an ideal choice for thrill seekers!
Best time to visit: December to April
Distance from Mumbai: 494 km approximately by road
3. Mountain Biking
Experiencing the thrill of mountain biking through a challenging mountainous landscape is an unbeatable feeling.
The right bike can make it a truly unforgettable adventure. Heading downhill while mountain biking can be a thrilling experience.
Maharashtra has the perfect hills and valleys to explore in its Western Ghats, and Pune is the go-to destination for biking enthusiasts due to its many clubs and trails.
Whether you’re an experienced mountain biker or a novice just starting out, Pune’s hills have something to offer for everyone. From relaxed & easy routes to intense tracks perfect for thrill-seekers, you’re sure to have an amazing time.
For those living in and around Pune, a few popular destinations for scenic biking trails are Vetal Tekdi, Pashan Trail Park in Baner, Temghar Valley and Sinhagad Trails.
For a unique experience, the Spirit of Mowgli Pump Track and Café is worth a visit since it is the only purpose-built and maintained course in Maharashtra.
Distance from Mumbai: 150 km approximately by road.
Best time to visit: December to April
Conclusion
Maharashtra is a state in India with a rich history and culture. It is home to some of the most beautiful places in the country.
From the bustling city of Mumbai to the serene hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala, there are many places to explore in Maharashtra.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday or an adventure-filled experience, Maharashtra has something for everyone.
From ancient monuments and temples to wildlife sanctuaries and beaches, there are plenty of options for everyone who wishes to visit this wonderful state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is very famous in Maharashtra?
Situated in the Aurangabad region, Ajanta and Ellora Caves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These ancient caves are Maharashtra’s prime tourist attractions, visited by travellers and historians from all over the world. Both the caves are noted for their Indian paintings and sculptures.
Q2. Which is the coolest place in Maharashtra?
Malvan, Amboli, Kashid, Lonavala, Khandala, Mahabaleshwar, Mumbai, Pune, Ellora Caves, Alibaug, Matheran, Panchgani, Lavasa, Murud- Janjira, Tadoba, Raigad, Nashik, Jawhar, Malshej Ghat and many more.
Q3. What is 1 famous food of Maharashtra?
The most-popular forms are bhaji, vada pav, misalpav and pav bhaji. More-traditional dishes are sabudana khichadi, pohe, upma, sheera and panipuri.
Here are the some famous places to visit in Maharashtra:-