PLACES TO VISIT IN MAHARASHTRA
3 years ago
“EXPLORING DOMESTIC SITES“
The third largest and commercial state of India is Maharashtra. Facing the coast of the Arabian sea, Maharashtra has a lot to flaunt about. The prestige of Marathas, the elegant dance form ‘lavani’, preserved Marathi literature like ‘Dnyaneshwari’ by Dnyaneshwar, ‘Bhajans’ by Namdev, Tukaram, Savita Mali, etc; great authors and poets like Savitribai Phule, Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, P. L. Deshpande, etc; forts like ‘Raigad’ and ‘Pratapgarh’ with abundant historical events all represent the strong significance of this place.
Maharashtra also stands as an important land of India because ‘Mumbai’ – the financial capital of India is located here.
Maharashtra witnesses thousands of people of a different class, caste, and community traveling here every day for their subjective needs. The state of Maharashtra is definitely a tourist attraction as well making it among the top-visited destinations in India.
Here, we list down the most admired places of Maharashtra in brief. For more detailed information, you could always check the websites given below each destination. Or else you are free to access the official inquiry website of Maharashtra tourism, that is,
https://mtdcrrs.maharashtratourism.gov.in
AJANTA CAVES :
Ajanta Caves are preserved and protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India and also is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. It stands among the prestigious monuments of India. Ajanta Caves are universally known as the Buddhist religious traditions and art made of rock carved onto the 75-meter wall naturally. The sculptures and awestruck paintings make this place worth a visit.
- The best months to visit these beautiful caves are between the months of September to March.
- The peak season is between the months of December to February.
Website
ELLORA CAVES :
Ajanta and Ellora caves go along together. They are the frequently visited ancient monuments of India designated as the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ellora caves were carved out from the Charanandri Hills. This cave came into being when Buddhism was declining while Hinduism was reasserting in India.
- The best time to explore this destination is between the months of September to March.
- The peak season of this place is between the months of December to February.
Website : https://whc.unesco.org
MAHABALESHWAR :
A beautiful and astounding hill station of Maharashtra, located amidst the Western Ghat range is Mahabaleshwar. There are several elevated viewing spots or points such as Arthur’s Seat. In the West of Mahabaleshwar is the old and prestigious Pratapgad Fort, perched atop the mountains. It is also known as the ‘Paradise of Maharashtra’. The term ‘Mahabaleshwar’ finds its origin from the Sanskrit word meaning ‘God of Great Power’ that is indicated to Lord Shiva. Origin is also said to be from the word ‘Mamleshwar’ which is also none other than Lord Shiva.
The major production and exportation of strawberries throughout the country happen right here. Be sure to buy strawberries on your way back home.
- The right time to visit this place is between the months of September to January.
- Peak seasons are from the months of May to June.
Website : https://www.satara.gov.in
LONAVLA :
Another beautiful hill station to visit in Maharashtra which witnesses a huge crowd from within the state itself during every weekend is Lonavala. The origin of the word lies in the Sanskrit word ‘Lonavali’ referred to as a ‘group of caves’. It is located in the Sahyadri range of Western Ghats. The Karla Caves, the Bhaja Caves, several waterfalls, lakes, and hills are must-visit spots here.
This place is well – known for the production of ‘chikki’ which is a sweet item made out of different nuts mixed with jaggery.
- The best days to visit this place are between the months of September to January.
- The peak season is between the months of October to December and May to June.
Website : https://pune.gov.in
KHANDALA :
Khandala is a famous hill station in Maharashtra. Khandala comprises of beautiful valleys, scenic beauty, serene lakes, and mesmerizing waterfalls.
Lonavala and Khandala are called twin hill stations.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of April to June.
- The peak season of this place is between the months of June to September.
Website : https://pune.gov.in
SHIRDI :
One of the divine pilgrimages of India which is in Maharashtra is Shirdi. Shirdi is located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. Calm and soothing atmosphere lingering with spirituality leaves one spellbound.
The religious places to visit in Shirdi include Chavadi Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai Masjid, and so on.
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of October to March.
- The peak season of this destination is between the months of October to February and May to June.
Website : https://www.sai.org.in
ALIBAUG :
A mesmerizing coastal town in Raigad district of Maharashtra is Alibaug. Earlier this place was named as Kolaba Fort. Alibaug is also spelled as Alibag. Three sides of this place are occupied by water bodies, therefore making this place the Goa of Maharashtra. The naval chief during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, that is Kanhoji Angre founded this land in the 17th century. This land has witnessed several historical battles. The place is vastly known for the beaches and forts situated here.
- The right time to visit this place is between the months of October to March.
- The peak season of this place is between the months of November to February.
Website : https://alibagtourism.com
PANCHGANI :
Another popular hill station in Maharashtra is Panchgani. Panchgani’s literal translation is ‘five hills’. This place is well – known for the sunrise point and sunset point. This place is also referred to as the ‘Strawberry Garden of India’. Tableland, Kaas Plateau, Kate’s point are all among the several major attractions here. The beautiful scenic valley view is breathtaking.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of September to May.
- The peak season of this destination is between the months of October to December and May to June.
KOLAD :
Amazing land of waterfalls with a pleasing backdrop of Sahyadri ranges make Kolad worth a visit. Kolad is gaining popularity among tourists or visitors for adventure sports such as rappelling, rafting, kayaking, etc.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of June to March. Yet the monsoon season is recommended.
SHIVNERI FORT :
Shivneri stands as the most historical and magnificent rich forts of Maharashtra. This place holds a lot of significance because it is said that Shivneri fort is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s birthplace. It is also said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj spent his childhood and also undertook his military training here.
This is a triangular-shaped hill fort which also has a chain gate apart from the main entrance gate. There are several attractions in and around the fort. Do make sure you visit each of the spots well enough.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of October to March.
Website : https://pune.gov.in
MUMBAI :
Mumbai is the financial capital of India. Mumbai – ‘The City of Dreams’ that welcomes swarms of people from across the globe of different social structures makes it a beautiful place to explore. The blend of cultures and lifestyle with different paradoxes emerging like chaos and peace, hope and despair, modernity and tradition, and so on makes this destination a favorite tourist spot.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of October to February.
- Everyday is a peak day here.
Website : https://mumbaicity.gov.in
SANJAY GANDHI NATIONAL PARK (SGNP) :
Sanjay Gandhi National Park is one of the most notable national parks existing within a metropolis limit and is one of the most visited national parks in the world.
There are numerous attractions while trailing here. Such as Kanheri Caves, Butterfly Garden, Mini train filled with several impressive biodiversity, flora, and fauna, and other activities happening around.
- The best time to visit this destination is in the monsoon season.
Website :
https://sgnp.maharashtra.gov.in
MATHERAN :
The pleasant and beautiful climate of this hill station is awe-striking. The different points here give unique views. Such as Louise Point offers a view of waterfalls while Panorama point offers views of the mountains of Western Ghats.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of October to May.
- The peak season is between the months October and November.
Website :
https://www.matheranonline.com
SOMESHWAR WATERFALLS / DUDHSAGAR WATERFALLS :
Dudhsagar waterfalls are also known as Someshwar waterfalls. It is among the best hangout places of Nashik in Maharashtra. This waterfall is formed over the river Godavari. The Balaji Temple nearby this waterfall is a must-visit.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of June to September and November to December.
KARNALA BIRD SANCTUARY :
The Karnala Bird sanctuary in Maharashtra is one of its kind. It is located in the Panvel Taluka of Raigad district of Maharashtra. This sanctuary is located below the Karnala fort. It is home to several species. The sanctuary comprises deciduous forest and is not just home to birds and migratory birds but also to some common animals like langur, wild boars, and rhesus monkeys. Karnala Fort is also known as the Funnel Hill.
The right time to visit this destination is between the months of March and April.
IGATPURI :
One of the famous hill stations in Maharashtra is Igatpuri in the Western Ghats. Igatpuri is well known for the Vipassana International Academy. Here, an ancient technique of meditation is taught that is Vipassana. Igatpuri is amidst the highest peaks of Western Ghats. It’s a beautiful place to visit for trekking and hiking.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of June to March.
- Peak season of this place is between the months of November and December.
AURANGABAD :
Government back in 2010 had declared Aurangabad as the Tourism Capital of Maharashtra. The city acquired this name after the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Daulatabad Fort is one famous fort to visit here as it became popular for its strong defense system. Ajanta and Ellora caves are also a must-visit place here among several others.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of October to March.
- The peak season is between the months of November to February.
Website : https://aurangabad.gov.in
PUNE :
Pune is ranked as the number one place in India, to live in ease. Pune is gradually growing as a top metropolitan city in India. Pune is denoted as the cultural capital of Maharashtra. This land has witnessed a crucial role in the major historical events of our nation for independence.
Sinhagad Fort is a must-visit tourist place. There are a number of other spots to visit here as well. This destination also hosts a vastly known Sawai Gandharva Sangeeth Mahotsav which attracts music lovers ( classical music lovers to be specific ) from across the country.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of July to February.
- The peak season of this destination is the month of December.
Website : https://pune.gov.in
Nice.. It’s helpfull articles☺
Nice.. Good
It’s really very helpful…
Such a beautiful blog!!
I am sure it will help people to go handy while visiting MAHARASHTRA ❤
Very helpful article!!
Very helpful article
A really handy guide…Does come in useful!!
Thank you🤙🏻