Places to Explore in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is one of the historically significant places in India, which is evident through the remnants of the past. The places of interest in Maharashtra include the ancient ruins, age-old monuments, and heritage sites.

• Ajanta Caves: Indian artistic architecture is visible through these caves in the horseshoe-shaped cliff. The monuments include frescoes, sculptures, and chaityas that tell the story of Buddha and Jataka tales.
• Ellora Caves: The carvings of these caves showcase a blend of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. The intricate carvings, massive pillars, and towering spires of the structures make the travellers stand awestruck.
• Raigad Fort: It is a popular historical site, as it was the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s empire. Trek to the fort and witness the grandeur of the majestic palaces, marketplaces, and the iconic entrance.
• Sinhagad Fort: It is famously known for the multiple battles that took place due to its strategic location. The breathtaking landscapes and mesmerising views are popular reasons for trekking in this area.

The lush green valleys, misty hills, serene atmosphere, and cascading waterfalls are some of the beautiful places to see in Maharashtra. Travellers wanting a leisure experience surrounded by nature must visit these stunning hill stations.

• Mahabaleshwar: It is a seamless blend of nature and culture, as it is blessed with scenic spots and a rich cultural heritage. Some of the must-visit attractions are Arthur’s Seat, Venna Lake, Mapro Garden, and Lingmala Waterfall.
• Lonavala: It is a green paradise that comes alive, especially during the monsoon season. The powerful waterfalls, off-the-beaten trekking trails, and misty mountains are specialities of the region. Bhushi Dam, Pawna Lake, and Tiger’s Leap are highlights of Lonavala.
• Matheran: The old-world charm of the region is attractive, and anyone expecting a quieter experience surrounded by nature should have Matheran on the list. Attractions that shouldn’t be missed out on are Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Charlotte Lake.

The state might be popular for its forts and gorgeous waterfalls, but its wildlife and national parks are also worth exploring. The wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are among the cool places to visit in Maharashtra for any age group.

• Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve: Spotting wild tigers is highly possible in the oldest and largest tiger reserve of Maharashtra. The highlights are jeep safaris, Tadoba Lake, and the Butterfly Park.
• Sanjay Gandhi National Park: The vast national park is surprisingly located in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai. It has fantastic trekking trails, lion and tiger safaris, and an ancient Buddhist cave that promises rich experiences.
• Pench National Park: It is a popular national park that is shared by Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. It isn’t as crowded as the rest, and it’s perfect for a quieter safari experience. Generally, this place offers nature walks, birdwatching, and guided treks.

It is well-known that Maharashtra is a region where multiple religious faiths co-exist harmoniously. It is home to several temples, shrines, dargahs, and monasteries that have admirable architecture.

• Shirdi: Every year, millions of devotees visit this temple, making it one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in India. Shirdi is dedicated to Sai Baba, who is equally respected by all religious people for his teachings of love and peace.
• Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga: It is situated on the banks of the Godavari River and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. This temple hosts the Kumbh Mela every 12 years, which attracts thousands of pilgrims.

Every spot in Maharashtra has something to offer other than just the outer beauty. While spiritual places provide a sense of peace, the historical sites give a glimpse of the region’s past. The immersive experience in the beautiful land promises to forever change the perspectives of the travellers. Let every step you take in Maharashtra lead you closer to a story worth remembering.