Explore the Top 10 best places to visit in Maharashtra to spend your holidays

When one speaks of Maharashtra, they almost invariably point to images of the kilometer-long Marine Drive promenade, quickly followed by the glorious Gothic-Victorian facade of the monument, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Regardless of that, the many famous tourist attractions in Mumbai, the most densely populated city in Maharashtra, host many tourist attractions in Maharashtra, which is the third-largest state in India.

There is something for everyone: pristine beaches, bizarre hill towns, daring climbs, strawberry fields, animal sanctuaries, pilgrimage sites, rich history, delicious food, and a dynamic culture.

If you've never considered vacationing in Maharashtra, now is the time to enjoy the state's splendor and bring home some unforgettable memories. In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a virtual journey to uncover the best places to visit in Maharashtra, unveiling the treasures that make this state a true gem of India

You are in for a pleasant surprise when you travel to Maharashtra 

Essential Tips for Your Maharashtra Adventure

• Best time to visit in Maharashtra: The best time to visit Maharashtra is all year round, however May to June are one of the ideal months to enjoy most of the places Maharashtra has to offer.
• Accommodation: It is suggested that you book in early, especially in famous tourist areas, because this is high season and rooms might fill up rapidly.
• Safety: Prioritize safety when participating in adventure sports. Follow local norms and cautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
• Applying for an India visa online: If you're planning to visit India, one of your first steps should be to apply for a visa. Applying for an India eVisa can be confusing, but our expertise simplifies the process.
• Getting travel insurance in India: If you lose money on airfare, accommodations, car rentals or activities because of trip cancellation or early departure, travel insurance that specifically covers trip cancellation and trip interruption may be a good option.

From Ancient Caves to Bustling Cities: List of top places to visit in Maharashtra 

Are you planning to visit the best tourist destinations in Maharashtra and looking for the best resorts to experience its stunning beauty?  Here is everything that they need to know ahead of their trip.

Mumbai

Start your journey in Mumbai, one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra.Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra, is a city of many names, some of them slightly contradictory. For example, it is called both the ‘ city of dreams’ and the ‘ city that never sleeps,’ the latter referring to the active and buzzing nightlife of Mumbai!

Today it is one of the most thriving hubs of art and culture in India, housing the biggest film industry in India, Bollywood. It in all probabilities is also the first stop for travelers starting a tour of Maharashtra as Chatrapati Sivaji International Airport is located in Mumbai.

Mumbai, one of the most popular tourist destinations of Maharashtra, let’s both travelers and residents be who they are with no questions asked! The most popular tourist spots in Mumbai include the architectural marvel Gateway of India, Nariman Point or the Shree Siddhi Vinayak Temple if you are religious or spiritual mind.

Mumbai is among the most populated Maharashtra tourist places

Pune

One of the youngest cities of India, Pune is fast developing into an urban and cosmopolitan industrial hub. It is the second largest city in Maharashtra after Mumbai. There are enough tourist attractions and mesmerizing sites in Pune to make your stay a memorable and busy one.

When in Pune you could go and visit the majestic Aga Khan Palace. It is one of the architectural marvels of a bygone era and one of the most renowned landmarks in the history of India.

Another place standing tall and receiving a lot of tourist attention is the Shaniwar Wada, this is the seat from which power flew in the days of the Peshwas, filled with beautiful fountains and majestic palaces. About 30 km away from Pune lies the popular trek trail of Singhbad Fort lying on the beautiful Sahyadri Mountains.

Other places of attraction are the 90 feet high, and 125 feet wide Chatursingi temple and the rough cut rock temple of Pataleshwar built during the time of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.

There are also a number of wildlife sanctuaries near Pune like Bhimshankar Wildlife Sanctuary and Mayureshward Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Maharashtra's perfect combination of city life and calmness resides in Pune

Aurangabad

Quite famous concerning tourism in India, it is adjacent to Ajanta and Ellora Caves as well as the Bibi Ka Maqbara. UNESCO has declared two places around it as World Heritage Sites. The 3-km distance from Aurangabad leads to the 'Maqbara of Bibi', the place of burial for the wife of Aurangzeb-reknowned as Rabia-Durani. It's not the Taj Mahal for nothing; the monument is popularly called Mini Taj of Deccan. The magnificent mausoleum is surrounded by large gardens, fountains, pathways, and pavilions in the Mughal garden style. Here, on lazy afternoons, history comes alive and whispers its tale to wise travelers. A lovely water mill, Panchakki, about a kilometer outside town, dates to the 17th Century. It was the site of underground water channels. Places with historic delights that surround the city are Naukhanda Palace which consists of nine apartments, Divan I Aam, Divan I Khaas, and beautifully sprawling gardens.

Mahabaleshwar

An enchanting resort town etched on the shayadri ranges of Western Ghats, in the Satara district of Maharashtra- Mahabaleshwar is a wonderful hill station packed with extraordinary natural beauty. A place that holds one of the few evergreen forests in India and forms the base of five strong and beautiful rivers, it has some amazing vistas and magnificent hills that yield an energizing ambiance.

Mahabaleshwar is an expansive plateau encompassed by lush valleys and striped by sparkling rivers. 

The magnificent forts and stunning Mahabaleshwar temples of ancient Indian rulers and the compelling and elegant colonial buildings such as RajBhavan- the bungalow of the Maharashtra Governor general and the other majestic structures in the area speak of the golden period of Marathas and the following British Raj that make an rare and interesting mix. Places to visit in Mahabaleshwar include Venna Lake, Pratapgad, Lodwick point etc. 

Mahabaleshwar, one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra with its eminent temples and the holy rivers, is also a religiously reverred destination in India. The scenic beauty of the region is so serene and mystic and almost mesmerizing. The deep cut valleys lush with vegetation snaked by the lovely rivers contrasting the barren plateau that lay beside, with a wonderful palate of mountainous backdrop this place is a concoction of natural beauty at its finest.

Mahabaleshwar is a tranquil and picturesque hill station in the state of Maharashtra

Lonavala

Lonavala is a go-to weekend destination for metro city dwellers. The peaceful weather and calming vibe attract the ones who seek a break from their bustling city lives. A weekend drive to Lonavala is one of the best things to do in Maharashtra. Ranging from luxurious to budget, Lonavala is filled with enchanting resorts that could fit anyone’s pocket. Do not miss out on shopping for the traditional ‘chikkis’, a sweet made from peanuts and jaggery.

Lonavala is situated in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats and radiates its real beauty during the monsoon season. The town is surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, dams and lakes. It is often visited by campers, thrill-seekers and long-drive lovers. Lonavala should certainly be visited if you are looking for some peaceful time. It is also a popular romantic spot. Make sure you visit Tiger Point and Lion Point.

Lonavala is a tiny hill town, but it is bordered by some of the top tourist attractions in Maharashtra

Lonavala is the most visited hill station in Maharashtra and the place to be during monsoons.

Alibaug 

Alibaug is a small seaside town in Maharashtra, about south of Mumbai, and one of the top places to see in Maharashtra. 

It is noted for its white sandy beaches, which are frequently less crowded and cleaner than Mumbai beaches and provide water and adventure activities. The beaches are the primary attraction of the area. The stunning golden sunset over the horizon, as well as the scenic sights, are worth photographing. The different temples are particularly worth seeing since they feature stunning Hindu Maratha architecture. 

Alibag, a charming coastal town just south of Mumbai, is renowned for its scenic landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant history

Kolad

Kolad is a part of Raigad district in Maharashtra, famous for its white water rafting across the world. Travelers, whosoever comes here to experience the water activity get maximum fun and entertainment. Kolad provides many water activities, including Kayaking, rafting, paragliding, rappelling, and boat ride. This place turned out to be one of the best Tourist Attractions in Maharashtra for those who look forward to getting picturesque backdrop of Sahyadris. It has earned its new name which is known as a Rishikesh of Maharashtra therefore, shutterbugs can capture stunning view while being here. It is surrounded by natural lush green meadow which is so appealing. Once you visit here, you will collect a good memory from here.

Kolad is one of the top 10 best places to visit in Maharashtra and it will be worth spending your vacation in this nature’s marvel.

Shirdi

Shirdi, located in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district, is a famous pilgrimage place in India. Shirdi, the former home of famed spiritual leader Sai Baba, attracts followers from all across the nation. It is one among the most popular religious destinations in Maharashtra tourism. Shirdi also has a devotional theme park named Saitheerth. In addition to visiting the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, pilgrims can seek blessings at Shani Shingnapur, one of India's most well-known Shani temples.

Keeping the religious sentiments alive, Shirdi is one of the most commonly searched towns of Maharashtra.

Khandala

You probably have heard of Khandala from Amir Khan's famous song. Wouldn't you like to visit the wonderful site in person? Well, this is one of the best tourist destinations in Maharashtra during the rainy season. It is home to a variety of hiking paths, including Visapur, Rajmachi, and Lohagad. Bedsa caverns, Duke's nose, Karla dam, and other attractions in Khandala are must-sees.

Panchgani

This charming little hill resort is surrounded by five hills, and has gained admiration mainly for its breathtaking waterfalls and emerald forests. If truly a natural holiday is on your mind, then Panchgani may be the place for you. Be sure to consider a visit while in Panchgani for the UNESCO Heritage Site of Kaas Plateau. The Kaas plateau and the adjoining grasslands, better known as the Valley of Flowers in Maharashtra, is a sight to behold in August and September when every inch is clothed in flowers. A direct deviation from Panchgani should include Mapro Garden for delectable fruit cuisines. Matheran is considered to be among the top 10 tourist places in Maharashtra 

Panchgani is the place of five hills – one of the prime attractions of the popular place in Satara district

Conclusion

If the mountains are calling, pack your bags and get ready to explore the diverse beauty of Maharashtra. Hill resorts like Lonavala, Khandala, Bhimashankar, Igatpuri, Matheran and Malshej Ghat are some of the best places to visit in Maharashtra. Meanwhile, during the end of the monsoon, the Kaas Plateau is a beautiful place to see colourful flower beds.

It would be a perfect place for raging waterfalls, moss-coated forts, scenic lakes, hidden trails, and heavenly food to etch the memory of Maharashtra in one's mind forever. 

Get an India e-visa through India Immigration Services to help you in visiting these sites. Make an Indian visa application and have all required documents ready online.