Things to do in Maharashtra

Basic info

Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Elephanta Islands in Mumbai Harbour around 10 km away from the main city of Mumbai. It is a collection of cave temples predominantly dedicated to Lord Shiva, and consists of about five Shaivite caves and a few Buddhist stupa mounds that date back to the 2nd century BCE. There are two Buddhist caves as well that have water tanks built inside them.
The Elephanta Caves are made of solid basalt rock cut stone sculptures that

show the perfect syncretism of Hinduism and Buddhism in terms of ideas and iconography. It is a perfect example of Indian art depicting the most perfect expressions, particularly the main cave with massive reliefs. The caves were named by the colonial Portuguese who spotted big elephant statues on them. The caves were restored in 1970s and in 1987 the renovated caves were designated by UNESCO as World Heritage Site after which they are maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Tourist attractions

The major attraction is the main temple and its orientation along with its relative location with other temples forming a mandala pattern. The carvings portray Hindu mythologies with a gigantic monolithic 20 feet Trimurti Sadashiva (three-faced Shiva), Nataraja (Lord of dance) and Yogishvara (Lord of Yoga) among the

major attractions celebrated by the travelers. The Sadashiva sculpture represents three aspects of Shiva – the Creator, the Preserver and the Destroyer. The main body of the cave is exceptionally beautiful with three open side porticos and the back aisle framing a 27-m square supported by rows of six columns each.

Things to do

Explore the main cave marked as 1, as a must visit. There are 120 steep steps from the shore beach taking you to the main cave. You may also avail the

Explore the main cave marked as 1, as a must visit. There are 120 steep steps from the shore beach taking you to the main cave. You may also avail the

Basic info

Ellora Caves are located around 98 km from the famous Ajanta Caves and have immense importance of historical and cultural background. Locally known as Verul Leni, Ellora Caves are located near Verul to the northwest of Aurangabad. These caves are entitled as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and are among the most visited ancient destinations of Maharashtra. Often teamed with Ajanta caves, Ajanta-Ellora holds huge significance of Indian history, mythology as well as architectural marvel.
The caves at Ellora were built

between 6th and 10th centuries AD, and are carved out of the vertical face of Charanandri hills. The caves began to be carved out in around 550 AD it was about the same time when Ajanta Caves were abandoned. It was the same time when Buddhism was facing a steep decline in India and Hinduism was gaining to reassert its foothold. The caves beautifully exhibit the impressive complex of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain cave temples. The magnificent Kailash Temple built in the 8th century is among the most majestic works in the Ellora Caves.

Tourist attractions

There are 34 caves in the Ellora Cave complex all hewn out of solid rocks of the Charanandri Hills. These caves are not elaborated with dramatic settings like those at Ajanta, but these are definitely more exquisite sculptures. There are 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu and 5 Jain caves depicting the impartiality of all the three

religions. The coexistence of structures from three different religions portrays the prevalent religious tolerance of India and works as a splendid visual representation. The Kailash Temple, started by the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I, is a perfect example of a stupendous piece of architecture showcasing spatial effects and grand sculptures.

Things to do

The Ellora Caves are the beautiful illustration of religious as well as cultural face of ancient India. The annual Ajanta-Ellora Festival organized in Aurangabad is a way to pay tribute to the legendart caves and several other historical monuments in the region. It

The Ellora Caves are the beautiful illustration of religious as well as cultural face of ancient India. The annual Ajanta-Ellora Festival organized in Aurangabad is a way to pay tribute to the legendart caves and several other historical monuments in the region. It

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Ganapatipule is a famous pilgrimage center located in the Ratnagiri district on the Konkan coast of Maharashtra. It is also a popular beach town and one of the top holiday destinations of the state that is often visited along with Mahabaleshwar during a trip that includes the religious and cultural places of Maharashtra.
Ganapatipule is known for its famous temple of Lord Ganapati that is 400 years old. The deity is carved out in an idol which is believed to be a monolith which was self-incarnated. It dates back

to 1600 years when it was discovered as a unique temple where the deity faces to the west side unlike in majority of the temples of the country where east-faced deities are prominently present. For the same reason, it is known as the “Paschim Dwar Devata”. It is also counted as one of the Ashta Ganapati Temples of India. The temple is beautifully located at the base of a hill from where the pilgrims and devotees have to climb up the hill encompassing it in clockwise direction to show devotion for the deity.

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Gandhi Teerth (Gandhi Research Foundation) is a museum and research institution on Mahatma Gandhi in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. Established on 25 March 2012, it was initiated and promoted by Gandhi Foundation. Founded by Bhavarlal Jain, the structure was constructed sustainable with

Jodhpur stone. The Gandhi Research Foundation has an auditorium, an amphitheater, guesthouses, and meeting/classrooms. Several historic documents on Gandhi Ji are preserved in the library. Visitors can buy Khadi clothing, handmade gift items, and Gandhian literature from a shop in the complex.

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Girgaon Chowpatty is a public beach along the Queen’s Necklace adjoining Marine Drive in Girgaon, Mumbai. The beach is famous for

being the venue of immersion during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. The beach also hosts the 10-day long Ram Leela play onstage every year.

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Located at a distance of 41 from Panchgani, near Wai in Satara district of Maharashtra, Kamalgadh is a square hill fort which is also called Bhelanja or Kattalgad. The fort is situated at an elevation of over 4511 feet and is among the most visited places in the state by adventurous tourists mainly because of the breathtaking views of the magnificent Dhom Dam, and the trekking route.
With an elevation of 4000 feet, Kamalgadh Fort is one of the highest hill forts in the

region and is among the favorite trekking route and destination especially for the locals. The exact history and the construction of the fort is unknown, though it is said to have been established in the Medieval Period of India and was under the Maratha rulers before it became the part of British Empire. Totally surrounded by steep rocks, the fort can only be accessed by trekking and hiking and then passing through a tunnel which is built at its base and blocked by a huge rock.

Tourist attractions

The main attraction of the fort is its rugged look which is quite an adventurous one, especially for the young generation. Covering an area of 3-4 acres, the entire region is surrounded by thick woods and steep rocks which need careful scaling to reach its base.

Interestingly, there are no buildings on the top, neither are there any wall or gateway built in the fort which makes it very unusual and strange. An 18-20 feet well sunk through the rocks is the only structure built on the top, and the soil beneath has still water.

Things to do

While trekking remains among the favorite thing to do while visiting the Kamalgadh Fort, the route begins right from Vasole village or from Nandgaon. The initial route is well trodden with steep and narrow path. As

While trekking remains among the favorite thing to do while visiting the Kamalgadh Fort, the route begins right from Vasole village or from Nandgaon. The initial route is well trodden with steep and narrow path. As

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Kanheri Caves are a group of caves and rock-cut monuments cut into a massive basalt outcrop in the forests of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Situated on an island of Salsette in the western outskirts of Mumbai, the

caves had Buddhist sculptures and relief carvings, paintings, and inscriptions, dating back to the 1st century BCE to the 10th century CE. Having 109 caves, the Kanheri cave complex is a must-visit place in Mumbai.

Basic info

Lion’s Point is a popular vantage point and a favorite among the tourists. It is located midway between Bhushi Dam and Aamby valley in Lonavala. The spot is exceptionally popular for the scenic beauty which overlooks deep valleys and steep mountains offering mesmerizing panoramic views.
Considered among the must visit places of Lonavala, the best time to travel is during monsoons or just after the rainy season

to make the most of it. There are dozens of waterfalls which get filled with the rain water during monsoons giving a new life to the region. Additionally, lush green hills and lakes around the waterfalls are visual treat, especially during the monsoon. The place derives its name not because it is someway related to spotting lions or anything such. Instead, it is because the place is associated with the Lions Club of Lonavala.

Tourist attractions

Lion’s Point, Lonavala is the best spot to go for if you are looking for some beautiful sunrise or sunset. It is a paradise for nature lovers as well as for the photography freaks. The most refreshing thing about the region is the

strong gush of wind that blows rejuvenating one’s physical as well as emotional health. The edge of the cliff is a favorite place for the adventurous ones who want to push their adrenalin rush high by standing close to the thrilling area.

Things to do

It is an amazing experience to drive to the spot as the entire region is beautiful. The Shivling peak is a conical peak located towards the left side of Lion’s Point. It is among the best subject of

It is an amazing experience to drive to the spot as the entire region is beautiful. The Shivling peak is a conical peak located towards the left side of Lion’s Point. It is among the best subject of

Basic info

Located in the heart of the city, Mahatma Gandhi Udyan is a famous park in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. The park is popular among the locals as

well as tourists due to a wide variety of plants and flowers. In all, Mahatma Gandhi Udyan is a must-visit place in the town of Jalgaon.

Basic info

Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum is a historical building turned museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi located at Laburnum Road in the Gamdevi precinct of Mumbai. It is the place where Gandhi had initiated major political reforms like Non-Cooperation Movement, Satyagraha, Swadesi, Khadi and Khilafat. It used to be Gandhiji's residence between 1917 and 1934, while executing his political agenda.
The

mansion was owned by Revashankar Jagjeevan Jhaveri, Gandhiji's friend and host in Mumbai during the period when the Mahatma was staying at Mani Bhavan. The house was taken over by the Gandhi Smarak Nidhi in 1955 with the aim to make it a memorial to Gandhi. The house got renovated in the same year when it was established as a memorial for Gandhiji with a life-like statue of Gandhiji in the ground floor.

Tourist attractions

The house is a wonderful show of Gandhi's life with a statue at the main room in the ground floor. There is a library in the same floor which goes up to the first floor trailing a staircase adorned with multiple pictures of the Mahatma. There are paintings, framed letters

and documents that serve a look into the past. There are 3D tableaux depicting Gandhiji's life events. The famous Charkha (spinning wheel) and the Charpoy complete the overall look. Copies of Mahatma's favorite Les Miserables are well preserved and kept in the museum.

Things to do

Visit the museum if you are interested to explore the life of the Mahatma, his struggles for freedom and initiatives for the welfare of the countrymen. Watch out for the books like those by Tolstoys and Shakespeare which

Visit the museum if you are interested to explore the life of the Mahatma, his struggles for freedom and initiatives for the welfare of the countrymen. Watch out for the books like those by Tolstoys and Shakespeare which

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Located atop a hill in Jalgaon lies a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple is famously known as Padmalaya Ganesh Temple. It is one of the Saade Teen Shree Ganapati Peeth in India. Denoting One Peeth, the temple has two Swayambhu Ganesh idols, namely Siddhivinayak and Riddhivinayak. Both idols consist of coral (praval). One

idol has trunk (sund) towards the right while the other one has its trunk towards the left side. The temple is made up of stone and has many small temples around. There is also a large pond beside the temple. In the front of the temple, there are padukas of Shree Govind Maharaj. A huge bell weighing 440 kg is hanging near the padukas.

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Also called water mill, Panchakki is a monument in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Designed to generate energy via water brought down from a spring on a mountain, the Panchakki portrays the scientific thought process put in medieval Indian architecture. Dating back to

the 17th-century, the watermill helped in using the energy generated by flowing water from a nearby spring to turn the large grinding stones of the flour mill. The watermill was also used to grind grain for pilgrims, disciples of saints, and troops of the garrison.

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The Prince of the Wales Museum, or better known as The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya,, abbreviated CSMVS is the biggest museum of Mumbai founded the early 20th century. Prominent citizens of Mumbai are the founders of the museum who made this with the help of government. It was built to commemorate the visit of Edward VIII, the then Prince of Wales. It was renamed in 1998 after the founder of Maratha Empire - Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The

structure of the building follows the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture the most prominently, while elements of other styles of architecture like the Mughal, Maratha and Jain are also visible. Surrounded by a garden of palm trees and formal flower beds, the museum houses around 50,000 items on display belonging to ancient Indian history mainly. At the same time, there are objects from foreign lands, mainly categorized into art, archaeology and natural history.

Tourist attractions

The museum is a must visit for the ones interested in history and archaeology. There are Indus Valley Civilization artifacts and the different relics from ancient India that belong to the reign of the Guptas,

Mauryas, Chalukyas and Rashtrakuta. Spread over an area of 12,142.23 sq m, the three-storeyed museum building is a wonderful depiction built of locally quarried grey Kurla basalt and buff coloured trachyte Malad stone.

Things to do

Check out the exteriors ornamented by a garden of palm trees and formal flower beds. The dome of the museum carries an uncanny similarity with the Golconda Fort while the inner vaulting arches

Check out the exteriors ornamented by a garden of palm trees and formal flower beds. The dome of the museum carries an uncanny similarity with the Golconda Fort while the inner vaulting arches

Basic info

Salim Ali Lake is situated near Delhi Gate and opposite Himayat Bagh in Aurangabad. Known as Khiziri Talab in the Mughal period, it has been renamed after the great naturalist and ornithologist Salim Ali. The lake also has a small bird sanctuary. The area around the lake is suitable for bird watching. There is also a garden, which is managed by the Aurangabad Municipal Corporation. Tourists can also avail of a boating

facility on the lake. Salim Ali Lake is quite rich in biodiversity, including 11 shrub types, 32 terrestrial herbaceous plants, 12 aquatic herbs, 16 tree species, 8 climbers, 10 varieties of algae, 16 aquatic insects, mollusks, crustaceans, 9 varieties of fish, 7 types of rodents, mammals, 102 types of insects, and 15 species of reptiles. In all, the lake is a perfect spot to hangout for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

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Also known as the Land of Sai, Shirdi is a small town located around 258 km from Mumbai in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. Considered as one of the biggest and most popular pilgrimages, Shirdi is famous for the shrine of Shirdi Sai Baba, which is the main attraction for the devotees visiting there. It demarks the land where “a young bearded man with sparkling eyes” took shelter in a mosque. This man was named Sri Sai Baba later who lived the life of a fakir and preached the

principles of love and faith in humanity to all his disciples.
Sai Baba is known as one of the greatest saints of India in the 20th century. He visited the town of Shirdi at the age of 16 and stayed for the entire life till his demise in 1918. His life, teachings and contributions transformed this small hamlet into one of the holiest pilgrimage sites of India. There are records of multiple miracles done by the Sai in his lifetime and his preaching was inherited from both Hindu as well as Islam religion.

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Mahabaleshwar Temple is an ancient shrine and a popular tourist attraction located around 6 km from Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra. Considered as an ideal example of the Maratha heritage, the temple is also known as the Mahabali. The serene ambiance and tranquility of the temple complex attracts the devotees as well as tourists throughout the year. Lord Shiva is the main deity of the temple which is extremely popular among the Hindus visiting Mahabaleshwar for holidaying.
Among the ancient temples of Maharashtra, the temple was built in the 16th century

by Chanda Rao More dynasty. The architecture and construction glorify the Maratha Empire through its picturesque edifice built with the backdrop of mesmerizing hilly terrain. A five-foot wall guards the magnificent architecture, and there are two sections – the inner area and the outer area. The deity of Lord Shiva resides in the inner part known as the sanctum sanctorum. The temple complex promises a very serene and spiritual environment which is flocked by the visitors throughout the year to worship as well as to enjoy the peaceful aura of Lord Shiva.

Tourist attractions

Lord Shiva is worshipped as the main deity in Shree Malabaleshwar Temple which is adorned with Shiva’s apparent presence. Several of Shiva’s “belongings” including – his bed, damru (two-headed pellet drum), trishul (trident), carvings of his sacred bull and Kalbhairav and many more relevant knick-knacks add to the

existence of the deity within the temple. The main and central attraction of the temple is a huge Shiva Lingam which is 6-feet long and is 500-years old. One can only spot the tip of the lingam where stone incarnation of Lord Shiva is depicted. The Mahabaleshwar Temple is a prototype of the authentic Hemadant architecture which is more prominent in South India.

Things to do

The most celebrated festival in the temple is the Maha Shivratri which is celebrated with huge endeavor. Though the devotees flock in maximum number

The most celebrated festival in the temple is the Maha Shivratri which is celebrated with huge endeavor. Though the devotees flock in maximum number

Basic info

Siddharth Garden is spread across a wide patch of land in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. The well laid out and lush green garden encloses a park and a zoo. It is a famous picnic spot for the locals. As the garden has beautiful flowers, majestic trees, and lush green lawns, it is well-suited to

delight nature lovers and photographers. On the other hand, the zoo has a wide variety of animals, including leopard, tiger, lion, crocodile, deer, fox, etc. Tourists can also view different types of fish in an aquarium. The other attractions of the garden are a musical fountain and Buddha statue.

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The Sindhudurg Fort is an ancient fortress located off the coast of Maharashtra on an islet in the Arabian Sea. Spread across an area of 48 acres, the massive construction stands tall with huge walls against the crashing waves of the sea. The monument is protected and lies on the shore of Malvan town of Sindhudurg District in Maharashtra around 450 km south of Mumbai. The fortress isn’t identifiable from outside as the main entrance remains hidden strategically behind the huge rocks. It is a spectacular example of the

Maratha prudence and resourcefulness.
The fort was constructed by Shivaji Maharaj, the famous ruler of the Maratha Empire. It was built with the aim to counter rising influence of foreign, and also to cut down the rise of Siddis of Janjira. The construction work used 4000 pounds of lead for casting and the foundation stones were firmly laid down under the supervision of Hirojee Indulkar, in the year 1664. It took 3 years for the fort to get completed over 48 acres, with a 3 km long rampart, 30 feet high walls which are 12 feet thick.

Tourist attractions

The major attractions of the fortress are the massive walls that were designed with the purpose to serve as prevention against approaching enemies. It was also made as a deterrent to the waves and tides of the Arabian Sea. It is

indeed a pleasure to watch something that exhibits the revolutionary mindset of its engineer back then, a time when traveling by sea used to be a strict no by scriptures. The remains of the iron mould is a tourist attraction too.

Things to do

It is a pure delight to watch the magnificent architectural marvel that still stands the test of time. The unique and unyielding construction style with the natural protection provided by the surrounding rocks

It is a pure delight to watch the magnificent architectural marvel that still stands the test of time. The unique and unyielding construction style with the natural protection provided by the surrounding rocks

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Soneri Mahal is said to be the last surviving palace in Aurangabad. Named after the golden paintings that used to adorn it in the past, the palace is a two-storied building constructed in the Rajput architectural style. The palace has a museum, where tourists can view

sculptures, antiques, household items, ancient pottery, etc. The palace also hosts Ajanta and Ellora cave festivals, during which the palace is elaborately decorated with lights. Moreover, various artists, dancers, and musicians grace the four-day event at the palace.

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Considered among the 50 tiger reserves of India, Tadoba National Park is a popular tiger reserve and a favorite tourist spot in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra. It is the largest and oldest national park of the city with an area spread of 1727 sq km, and one of the top wildlife sanctuaries of India. Also known as Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, it was established in the year 1955 and was declared as a tiger reserve in 1986.
The

national park derives its name from the tribal god ‘Tadoba’ or ‘Taru’, who was a chief in the tribal village and was killed by a tiger. He is worshipped as a god whose shrine has been built on the banks of the river that runs through the region. Tadoba National Park is a famous destination to catch a glimpse of the Bengal tiger. It is also famous for a rich flora and fauna including 88 tigers as recorded in the year 2016.

Tourist attractions

The Tadoba National Park is divided into three different forest zones - Tadoba north range, Kolsa south range, and Mohurli range, with 6 different entry gates named Mohurli gate, Kolara gate, Kuswanda gate, Navegaon gate, Pangdi gate and Zari gate. Mohurli zone is the best area to spot

animals which lies in the central zone. Tadoba zone is the most visited for its scenic locations and animal spotting too. Kolsa zone is famous for its dense vegetation and forest region. Though safari isn’t an easy option here, people visit Kolsa zone to mainly focus on the flora.

Things to do

Safari is at the top of to-do list while visiting Tadoba National Park. There are open gypsy safari and bus safari that are conducted within the forest and are accompanied by professional guides. Open gypsy safari is

Safari is at the top of to-do list while visiting Tadoba National Park. There are open gypsy safari and bus safari that are conducted within the forest and are accompanied by professional guides. Open gypsy safari is

Basic info

Located at the heart of the city, The Gateway of India is one of India's most unique landmarks situated right at the center of Mumbai. It was constructed in 1924 at Apollo Bunder, with the gateway overlooking the Mumbai harbor bordered by the Arabian Sea in the Colaba district. It is a monument that marks India's chief ports and considered among major tourist attraction for visitors. It had cost the Indian Government a

total of around 21 lakhs during the British rule.
The 'First Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry' passing happened to be the first main event that took place at the Gateway of India on 28th February 1948. It was after Indian independence and after the last set of British troops and divisions left India. The main aim to construct the Gateway of India was to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay.

Tourist attractions

The major attraction of the Gateway of India is the structural design that is mainly a large arch reaching a height of 26 m. The beautiful construction is designed in the Indo-Saracenic style built in yellow basalt and indissoluble concrete.

Traces of Muslim architectural styles can also be seen in the structure of the grand edifice. The mesmerizing and intricate lacework along with the 4 turrets are among the most eye-catching features of the entire structure of the Gateway of India.

Things to do

One can spend around an hour witnessing the massive edifice. Elephanta caves are quite nearby and hence one can also visit the

One can spend around an hour witnessing the massive edifice. Elephanta caves are quite nearby and hence one can also visit the

Basic info

Counted among the most popular tourist destinations of Mumbai, the Hanging Gardens or the Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens is a terraced garden perched at the top of Malabar Hill, Mumbai. The history of the garden dates back to 1880 when it was built by Ulhas Ghapokar over Bombay's main reservoir with the aim to cover the contaminated water from the nearby Towers of Silence. It was later renovated in 1921.
The Hanging Gardens was built to

dedicate to its barrister Pherozeshah Mehta. The beautiful garden is spectacularly known for its lush green vegetation and animal shaped hedges and topiaries. Everything around the garden adds to its beauty, including the comforting view of the vast Arabian Sea and the bird's eye view of Marine Drive and Chowpatty. There are a number of flowers and plants of different varieties which make it all the more colorful and pleasant to look at.

Tourist attractions

It is a pure bliss to watch the sunset at the Hanging Gardens, it is indeed a lifetime experience. The main attractions of the garden, besides the flowers and green and scenic view, is the clock placed right at the center of the garden. The well

maintained garden is clean and complete with basic amenities for the ease of the visitors. The "Old Woman's Shoe" or "the Boot House" is another major tourist attraction. It is a gigantic boot structure made of stone and brick mainly for the kids to climb up.

Things to do

You can spend the day exploring the natural beauty in the terraced gardens, or you can get there for a family picnic. Watching the sunset is an exotic experience here amidst the lush

You can spend the day exploring the natural beauty in the terraced gardens, or you can get there for a family picnic. Watching the sunset is an exotic experience here amidst the lush

Basic info

Tourist attractions

Things to do