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Arising from a vibrant history, the naturally blessed state of Maharashtra is home to a broad range of historic sites, national parks, and cultural legacies. According to archaeological surveys, its history dates back to as early as the Chalcolithic period. It was dominated by various dynasties including the Mauryas, Chalukyas and Cholas, before the British took over after the third Anglo Maratha War. So one can see the influences of these various historical chapters refining the state. Lying on India’s western coast, as one of India’s largest states, it offers a pleasant insight into the country’s natural wonders and historic roots. With a lengthy coastline, surrounded by six other Indian states, it has become a cosmic pot of influence and original
Arising from a vibrant history, the naturally blessed state of Maharashtra is home to a broad range of historic sites, national parks, and cultural legacies. According to archaeological surveys, its history dates back to as early as the Chalcolithic period. It was dominated by various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Chalukyas, and Cholas, before the British took over after the Third Anglo-Maratha War. So one can see the influences of these various historical chapters refining the state. Lying on India’s western coast, as one of India’s largest states, it offers a pleasant insight into the country’s natural wonders and historic roots. With a lengthy coastline, surrounded by six other Indian states, it has become a cosmic pot of influence and originality. With Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh up north, Dadra & Nagar Haveli in the northwest, Telangana and Chhattisgarh in the east, and Goa and Karnataka surrounding the south, it still offers a lot as a unique Indian state. Dominated by some beautiful geographical features like the Western Ghats, the Deccan Plateau, and the Konkan coastline, you can imagine the variety of wonders nestled within the state with rivers like the Krishna, Bhima, Tapti, and Godavari flowing through the state. Comparatively unexplored, it frequently finds a spot in the must-sees of a traveller's wishlist as there are many captivating things to see in the state. From the mega-metropolis Mumbai, hill stations of Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Matheran, and the white beaches along the Konkan coast, there is plenty to make a refreshing new tale for your Incredible India tour. Here is a look at all the major attractions in the state that will surely enlarge your view of India's must-sees.
Charmingly known as the city of dreams, Mumbai is the heart of the state and this country because of its larger-than-life Bollywood industry. The well-deserved title showcases the beautiful nuances this city has to offer to each and all who visit. While the city may seem chaotic to some, it has evolved into a melting pot of cultures, transforming through time to exhibit a perfect blend of today’s aspirational souls. Earlier known as Bombay, the city is home to many stories, be it through historic websites, hotels, or vibrant alleys.
Located in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is one of Maharashtra’s most scenic hill stations. A smooth drive from Pune (120 km) and Mumbai (285 km), it has become an ideal weekend getaway for travel seekers and family vacationers. Its various rivers, breathtaking peaks, spectacular cascades, and strawberry farms define its scenic beauty. As the river Kaveri also originates from here, it is also a famous Hindu pilgrimage centre. There are many historic old temples that are also occasionally visited by the locals. Once the summer capital of the Britishers, it has many boarding schools and dense forests spread across the valley that make it an ideal weekend getaway
Located in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is one of Maharashtra’s most scenic hill stations. A smooth drive from Pune (120 km) and Mumbai (285 km), it has become an ideal weekend getaway for travel seekers and family vacationers. Its various rivers, breathtaking peaks, spectacular cascades, and strawberry farms define its scenic beauty. As the river Kaveri also originates from here, it is also a famous Hindu pilgrimage centre. There are many historic old temples that are also occasionally visited by the locals. Once the summer capital of the Britishers, it has many boarding schools and dense forests spread across the valley that make it an ideal weekend getaway. Over the years, it has also become a base for visiting the historic Pratapgad Fort, which is about an hour away. There are many places that you can see, like Elephant’s Head Point, which is known for its stunning view of the Sahyadri ranges; the Chinaman & Dhobi waterfalls that are postcard-worthy; or Wilson Point for its breathtaking view of the sunset. Do not forget to take some fresh strawberries if the season allows as the region is known for its growth.
Known as the ‘Oxford of the East’, Pune has become a central point for people and activities with this complex calm. Ranking as one of the most premium cities in terms of the quality of life, it has surely set an example for all other cities in the country. A perfect balance of fast-paced days and laid back evenings is what Pune stands for. As a city, it has beautifully integrated modernism with history and colonial-era elegance. The history of the place highlights how it was the hub of the Maratha empire, later playing a pivotal role in India’s liberation history. The city is famous for the Osho Ashram, which draws visitors from all over the world.
Known as the ‘Oxford of the East’, Pune has become a central point for people and activities with this complex calm. Ranking as one of the most premium cities in terms of the quality of life, it has surely set an example for all other cities in the country. A perfect balance of fast-paced days and laid back evenings is what Pune stands for. As a city, it has beautifully integrated modernism with history and colonial-era elegance. The history of the place highlights how it was the hub of the Maratha Empire, later playing a pivotal role in India’s liberation history. The city is famous for the Osho Ashram, which draws visitors from all over the world. Two of the most important palaces and temples in the area are the Shaniwar Wada Palace and the Aga Khan Palace. For architecture lovers, there are many Maratha empire remnants like the Sinhagad Fort, titled a must-see destination when in Pune. Pune is also known for recognised for its bakery items and offers a wide range of dining options, from street food to high-end restaurants. The scrumptious sweets, which range from biscuits to pastries to cakes, are not to be missed.
All situated close to each other in the Western Ghats, they are ideal spots for weekend getaways. Many adventure seekers find their way to Rajmachi, a small village in Maharashtra’s Konkan area. Located in the Sahyadri mountain range, it has two fortified peaks, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan forts, and is located near the Lonavala and Khandala hills. With a history dating back to the time of Shivaji Maharaj, Emperor Aurangzeb, and the Britishers, the area is now hit among the trekkers who find it equally exciting and fun during monsoons. Located close to Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala is another popular hill station in the region.
All situated close to each other in the Western Ghats, they are ideal spots for weekend getaways. Many adventure seekers find their way to Rajmachi, a small village in Maharashtra’s Konkan area. Located in the Sahyadri mountain range, it has two fortified peaks, Shrivardhan and Manaranjan forts, and is located near the Lonavala and Khandala hills. With a history dating back to the time of Shivaji Maharaj, Emperor Aurangzeb, and the Britishers, the area is now hit among the trekkers who find it equally exciting and fun during monsoons. Located close to Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala is another popular hill station in the region. Especially during the monsoons, the beauty of the place is multifold as everything is greener and there are many small waterfalls all around the region. The place is home to many resorts and trek routes that cater to different kinds of travellers. Adventure seekers also trek and set up campsites in the area as it has an abundance of waterfalls and lakes surrounded by scenic hills. Grassy hills, beautiful valleys, and calm hills of Khandala attract many to this place. One can find many Mumbaikars (as the residents of Mumbai are lovingly known) here enjoying the landscape shift from vertical buildings to mystical mountains. The place is also ideal for trekkers as it offers some good hiking routes
Shining as the prized possession of the state are the Ajanta and Ellora caves, one of the country’s best examples of rock-cut caves. The Ajanta and Ellora caverns complex contains Buddhist monasteries, Hindu and Jain temples, as well as exquisite sculptures, paintings, and murals. The Ajanta Caves are 29 in number and were constructed between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD, whilst the Ellora Caves are 34 in number and date from the 6th to 11th centuries AD. The caves have been entitled as UNESCO World Heritage sites and attract tourists from all over the world. It is seen that the Ajanta caves are predominantly Buddhist sites
Shining as the prized possession of the state are the Ajanta and Ellora caves, one of the country’s best examples of rock-cut caves. The Ajanta and Ellora caverns complex contains Buddhist monasteries, Hindu and Jain temples, as well as exquisite sculptures, paintings, and murals. The Ajanta Caves are 29 in number and were constructed between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD, whilst the Ellora Caves are 34 in number and date from the 6th to 11th centuries AD. The caves have been entitled as UNESCO World Heritage sites and attract tourists from all over the world. It is seen that the Ajanta caves are predominantly Buddhist sites and were initially used by Buddhist monks. They are located roughly 99 kilometres north of Aurangabad. Ellora is about 15 kilometres west of Aurangabad and contains a more diverse collection of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist sites. The Indian rulers of the time built and financed these hand-carved caves, which were nearly concealed by dense trees. One of the most well-known attractions in the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is the Kailash Temple, which is also the world's single largest monolithic structure. There are several magnificent examples of old Indian architecture and sculpture on display
Like every other state in the country, Maharashtra also has a unique flavour highlighted in many local dishes and desserts. While the conventional flavours may range from mild to spicy, the cuisine has an abundance of regional desserts that you can relish. Street dishes like Vada Pav (potato-filled cutlets with buns), Misal (a spicy stew of pulses garnished with onions), onion fries, and other dishes are common in this region and are primarily associated with the state cuisine
Like every other state in the country, Maharashtra also has a unique flavour highlighted in many local dishes and desserts. While the conventional flavours may range from mild to spicy, the cuisine has an abundance of regional desserts that you can relish. Street dishes like Vada Pav (potato-filled cutlets with buns), Misal (a spicy stew of pulses garnished with onions), onion fries, and other dishes are common in this region and are primarily associated with the state cuisine. The region’s history and neighbouring states also play a role in influencing its flavours and eating habits. There are diverse ingredients that match local cooking styles and add that special uniqueness to the taste of dishes. When in Maharashtra, don’t miss out on eating the locally prepared dishes as well as the street food.
Be it Mumbai, Aurangabad, or Pune, there are numerous shopping options, a mix of traditional and modern varieties. Some of the best souvenirs to take home would be Kolhapuri Chappals, a regional gem; Warli Art, the old art painting form; Pathani sarees, the regional local handicrafts; metalware best suited for home decor; wines from vineyards in Nashik; Vintage Bollywood posters. These are just a few classic things you can pick up on your way through the state. Don’t miss out on the chance to visit the local markets and indulge in some materials that best represent the local culture.
Maharashtra is more or less a year-round destination, with many visiting the hill stations even during monsoons. If you want to avoid the heat best visit during October to February. Its location on the seashore ensures a cool and pleasant winter season. The rain, however, has its own charm, no matter how inconvenient it is for the herds of suited employees rushing to their workplaces. Summers provide the ideal opportunity to visit one of Maharashtra’s many hill stations
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai is the second busiest airport in the country with numerous international and national connections. In addition, the state also had 3 international and 4 domestic airports that made for convenient connections throughout. An extensive rail network run by the Central and Western railways connects all major hubs in Maharashtra to the main cities. There is a well-laid transport system with inter- and intrastate tax services also available at all hours.
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