Maharashtra is full of variety from busy Mumbai to peaceful hill stations. It has a rich history, beautiful places, and amazing culture. In this blog, we’ll show you 15 top places you must visit in Maharashtra.
Maharashtra is one of India’s most diverse states. It has both the streets of Mumbai and hill stations of the Western Ghats, this incredible state offers something for every traveler. With a history existing over centuries, Maharashtra has been home to powerful dynasties like the Marathas, Mughals, and British colonial rulers, leaving behind many places to visit in Maharashtra full of architectural marvels and cultural landmarks.
In this blogpost, we will take you through 15 must-visit destinations that showcase the true essence of Maharashtra. Planning your journey becomes easier when you consider Maharashtra tour packages that can help you cover multiple destinations efficiently while ensuring you don’t miss any hidden treasures.
1. Ajanta Caves:
The magnificent Ajanta Caves stand as a testament to ancient Indian artistry and Buddhist philosophy. The best places to visit in Maharashtra list always features Ajanta at the top, and rightfully so. These 30 rock-cut caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, display some of the finest examples of ancient Indian art and sculpture, making this UNESCO World Heritage Site absolutely mesmerizing.
The caves were abandoned around 650 CE and remained hidden until 1819 when a British officer accidentally discovered them during a hunting expedition.
2. Ellora Caves:
Just 30 kilometers from Ajanta lies another archaeological wonder – the Ellora Caves. Unlike Ajanta’s purely Buddhist heritage, Ellora represents the perfect harmony of three religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. The 34 caves carved between 600-1000 CE showcase the religious tolerance of ancient India.
The main attraction of Ellora is the Kailash Temple, carved from a single rock and considered one of the most remarkable architectural achievements in the world. This massive structure required the removal of over 200,000 tons of rock, which makes it a must-visit destination among the fascinating and famous places in Maharashtra.
3. Mahabaleshwar:
Located in the Western Ghats at an elevation of 1,353 meters, Mahabaleshwar serves as Maharashtra’s most beloved hill station. This adorable town offers respite from the heat with its cool climate, lush green valleys, and stunning viewpoints. The strawberry farms here produce some of India’s finest strawberries, making it a unique agricultural attraction.
Mahabaleshwar is among the most preferred and best tourist places in Maharashtra, especially among families. It has several spectacular viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat, Elephant’s Head Point, and Kate’s Point, each offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Mahabaleshwar is also the source of the Krishna River, adding spiritual significance to its natural beauty.
4. Lonavala and Khandala:
The twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala rank among the places to visit in Maharashtra. It has been a favorite weekend getaway for Mumbai and Pune people for decades. Located in the Sahyadri range, these destinations come alive during the monsoon season when waterfalls cascade down the hills and the landscape turns emerald green.
Lonavala is famous for its chikki (a sweet made from jaggery and nuts), while Khandala offers stunning views of the Western Ghats. The ancient Karla and Bhaja caves near Lonavala add historical significance to the region. The toy train journey from Mumbai to Lonavala is an experience in itself, winding through 15 tunnels and offering spectacular valley views.
5. Shirdi:
Shirdi holds immense spiritual significance as the home of the revered saint Sai Baba. This small town in the Ahmednagar district, and the annual Punyithi festival celebrates Sai Baba’s life and attracts devotees from around the globe.
The temple complex includes the Samadhi Mandir, where Sai Baba is buried, and the Dwarkamai mosque, where he lived. The best time to visit Maharashtra for spiritual tourism is during the cooler months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for temple visits.
6. Aurangabad:
Known as the “City of Gates,” Aurangabad is the gateway to the famous Ajanta and Ellora caves. This historical city was once the capital of the Mughal Empire under Emperor Aurangzeb and retains much of its medieval remains.
The Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Taj of the Deccan,” is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture. Built by Aurangzeb’s son in memory of his mother, this monument is made from marble work and have gardens. The city’s 52 gates, including the famous Bhadkal Gate and Delhi Gate, tell past stories, making it one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra.
7. Matheran:
Asia’s smallest hill station, Matheran offers a unique experience as it’s completely vehicle-free which makes it rank top in the list of unique places to visit in Maharashtra. The red soil gives the town its name, which means “forest on the forehead.” This eco-sensitive destination can only be explored on foot, horseback, or by the narrow-gauge toy train.
The hill station has 38 designated viewpoints surrounding Western Ghats. Charlotte Lake is the most popular picnic spot in Matheran. The toy train journey from Neral to Matheran is a delightful experience that can’t be missed. On top of that, the absence of vehicles makes this hill station more and more peaceful.
8. Raigad Fort:
Raigad Fort holds a special place in Maratha historyand for Mahashtra people as the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s empire. This mountain fortress, located at an elevation of 2,700 feet, was where the great Maratha king wore the crown in 1674. The fort’s ruins are a great place to explore if you love history.
The fort has the remains of the royal palace, the coronation platform, and various administrative buildings. This historical site represents the glorious past of Maharashtra and stands among the famous places in Maharashtra. The Maha Darwaja (main entrance) and the stronghold walls showcase medieval military architecture. To reach Raigad fort, a ropeway is there that connects the base to the fort, making it accessible to visitors.
9. Alibaug:
Alibaug, often called the “Goa of Maharashtra,” has beaches and a relaxed atmosphere just a few hours from Mumbai. Alibaug’s black sand beaches, coconut groves, and sea breeze make it one of the most preferred places to visit in Mahashtra for a weekend getaway. The town’s proximity to Mumbai and excellent connectivity make it incredibly popular among urban people.
At Alibaug, you can explore the Kolaba Fort, various water sports activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides, and local seafood with fresh catches prepared in traditional Konkani style.
10. Nashik:
Known as the “Wine Capital of India,” Nashik has emerged as a major wine tourism destination. The city’s favorable climate and soil conditions support numerous vineyards that produce award-winning wines. Wine tasting tours and vineyard visits have become popular activities for tourists seeking unique experiences.
Nashik also holds religious significance as one of the four cities hosting the Kumbh Mela every 12 years. The Godavari River, considered sacred by Hindus, flows through the city. The Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, is located nearby. The combination of spiritual significance, wine culture, and pleasant weather makes Nashik one of the best tourist places in Maharashtra.
11. Panchgani:
Panchgani is a hill station located near Mahabaleshwar, and attracts visitors with its stunning views of the Krishna Valley and the Dhom Dam. Panchgani’s pleasant climate and scenic beauty have made it a favorite filming location for many Bollywood movies. The town’s colonial architecture and well-maintained gardens reflect its history as a British summer retreat.
Table Land, a vast plateau offering 360-degree views of the surrounding hills, is Panchgani’s main attraction. The strawberry farms and mulberry trees add to the town’s agricultural charm. Panchgani’s five hills give it its name, and each offers unique trekking opportunities. The town’s boarding schools have given it an educational reputation, while its natural beauty continues to attract tourists year-round.
12. Kolhapur:
Kolhapur is a royal city that displays the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra through its palaces, temples, and traditional crafts. Kolhapur is famous for its handcrafted leather chappals, jewelry, and the legendary Kolhapuri cuisine.
The Mahalakshmi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ambabai, is one of the Shakti Peethas and attracts devotees from across India. Kolhapur’s wrestling tradition is another reason why people visit Kolhapur, and it has produced many national and international champions. The city’s contribution to arts, culture, and sports makes it one of the famous places in Maharashtra.
13. Ganpatipule:
This coastal pilgrimage town is the combination of religious significance and beach beauty which makes Ganpatipule a unique destination among the best places to visit in Maharashtra featuring a 400-year-old Ganpati temple right on the beach. The self-manifested (Swayambhu) Ganpati idol makes it unique among Ganesh temples, adn its beach stretches for kilometers, offering golden sand and clear blue waters. The town’s name comes from the Ganpati temple and the surrounding grove (phule). The annual Ganesh festival attracts thousands of pilgrims who come to seek blessings.
14. Pune:
Often called the “Oxford of the East,” Pune’s educational institutions, IT industry, and cultural heritage are the reason of its name. Pune’s pleasant climate, gardens, and universal culture make it an attractive destination for tourists and students.
The Shaniwar Wada, a historical fortified palace, the Aga Khan Palace, where Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned, and the city’s numerous temples, including the famous Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple are some of its popular attractions.
15. Lavasa:
India’s first planned hill city, built around the Warasgaon Dam, Lavasa is a contemporary city featuring Italian-inspired architecture, well-planned infrastructure, and numerous recreational facilities. The city’s colorful buildings and scenic location make it a photographer’s dream.
The promenade along the lakeside offers pleasant walks with stunning water views. Adventure activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, and water sports keep thrill-seekers engaged. The city’s hotels, restaurants, and entertainment facilities provide modern amenities while maintaining harmony with the natural environment. Lavasa represents Maharashtra’s vision for sustainable tourism and urban development, making it one of the best tourist places in Maharashtra.
1. Which place is best for a 3-day trip in Maharashtra?
For a 3 day trip visit Mahabaleshwar plus a day trip to Panchgani and Matheran offers nature, viewpoints, boating lakes, strawberry farms and vehicle‑free peace. Easily accessible from Mumbai/Pune with varied scenery: hills, valleys, forts, forests and lakes in compact itinerary.
2. Which is the most visited place in Maharashtra?
Mahabaleshwar is the most visited place in the state, attracting domestic tourists year‑round for its pleasant climate, famous viewpoints (Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point), popular Venna Lake boating and nearby Pratapgad Fort.
3. Which is the coldest place in Maharashtra?
Currently Mahabaleshwar is coldest (around 22 °C/72 °F) then Chikhaldara (~24 °C/76 °F), making Mahabaleshwar the coldest location in Maharashtra.
4. What are the unique places to visit in Maharashtra?
Kaas Plateau for seasonal flowers, Lonar Lake from a meteor impact, Matheran’s vehicle-free peace, Velas beach for turtle sightings, Purushwadi firefly festival, and Ranjangaon’s Ashtavinayak temple offer truly unique places to visit in Maharashtra for offbeat experiences.
5. Where can couples go in Maharashtra?
Couples can visit Lonavala, Matheran, Mahabaleshwar, or Bhandardara for scenic getaways. These places offer privacy, waterfalls, boating, cool weather, and romantic views, iideal for honeymooners or weekend escapes with peaceful nature and cozy resorts.
6. Which is the best tourist point in Maharashtra?
Mahabaleshwar is the best tourist point, known for viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat, boating at Venna Lake, strawberry farms, and cool climate. It attracts all kinds of travelers and offers scenic beauty with good connectivity from Mumbai and Pune.