India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and natural wonders coexist with vibrant cities.
Maharashtra is one of India's most diverse states, offering a mix of beaches, forts, caves, hill stations, wildlife, and city life. Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, nature lover, or spiritual traveler, Maharashtra has something for everyone!
Here’s a list of the must-visit places in Maharashtra that every traveler should explore.
1. Mumbai – The City of Dreams & Bollywood Capital
Best For: City Life, Bollywood, Nightlife, Shopping
✅ Mumbai is India’s financial hub, home to Bollywood & iconic landmarks.
✅ Explore the city’s colonial history, beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
✅ Best for first-time travelers, food lovers & shopaholics.
Top Attractions in Mumbai:
✔️ Gateway of India – Iconic colonial-era monument.
✔️ Marine Drive – Mumbai’s beautiful seaside promenade.
✔️ Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (UNESCO Site) – Indo-Gothic railway station.
✔️ Elephanta Caves (UNESCO) – Ancient rock-cut cave temples.
✔️ Bollywood Tour – Visit Film City & celebrity homes.
Best Time to Visit: October – March.
2. Ajanta & Ellora Caves – UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Location: Aurangabad
Best For: History, Architecture, Ancient Art
✅ Ajanta Caves (2nd Century BCE) – Buddhist rock-cut caves with stunning murals & sculptures.
✅ Ellora Caves (6th–10th Century CE) – Hindu, Jain & Buddhist caves, including the famous Kailasa Temple (World’s largest monolithic rock-cut temple).
✅ One of India’s greatest archaeological wonders!
Best Activities:
✔️ Explore 30 Ajanta caves with ancient fresco paintings.
✔️ Visit the 34 Ellora caves, including the grand Kailasa Temple.
✔️ Photography & historical insights with local guides.
Best Time to Visit: October – March.
3. Alibaug & Konkan Beaches – Maharashtra’s Best Coastal Retreats
Location: Konkan Coast, South of Mumbai
Best For: Beach Lovers, Water Sports, Weekend Getaways
✅ Alibaug, Kashid, Ganpatipule & Tarkarli offer pristine beaches & adventure activities.
✅ Tarkarli is the best place for Scuba Diving & Dolphin Watching.
✅ Alibaug is perfect for a quick beach escape from Mumbai.
Best Activities:
✔️ Scuba Diving & Snorkeling (Tarkarli Beach).
✔️ Fort & Beach Exploration (Murud-Janjira Fort, Alibaug Fort).
✔️ Parasailing & Jet Skiing (Kashid & Ganpatipule).
Best Time to Visit: October – March.
4. Lonavala & Khandala – Monsoon Paradise & Trekking Hub
Location: Western Ghats, 2 hrs from Mumbai & Pune
Best For: Hill Station Getaways, Trekking, Nature Lovers
✅ Famous for waterfalls, lush green landscapes & misty hills.
✅ Best visited during the monsoon season for stunning views.
✅ Popular Bollywood shooting locations.
Best Attractions in Lonavala & Khandala:
✔️ Rajmachi Fort Trek – Best adventure trek.
✔️ Bhushi Dam & Pawna Lake – Scenic picnic & camping spots.
✔️ Tiger’s Leap & Lion’s Point – Best viewpoints.
Best Time to Visit: June – September (Monsoon Magic).
5. Mahabaleshwar & Panchgani – Hill Stations & Strawberry Farms
Location: Western Ghats, Near Pune
Best For: Honeymoon, Nature Lovers, Families
✅ Famous for breathtaking viewpoints, lakes & strawberry farms.
✅ Ideal for a weekend retreat with pleasant weather year-round.
Top Attractions:
✔️ Elephant’s Head Point & Arthur’s Seat – Stunning viewpoints.
✔️ Venna Lake – Boating & scenic beauty.
✔️ Strawberry Farms & Mapro Garden – Best in winter.
Best Time to Visit: October – May.
6. Tadoba National Park – Maharashtra’s Best Tiger Safari
Location: Chandrapur, Vidarbha Region
Best For: Wildlife Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers
✅ Maharashtra’s oldest & best tiger reserve, home to Bengal Tigers.
✅ Great for jungle safaris, birdwatching & nature photography.
Best Activities:
✔️ Jeep Safari – Spot tigers, leopards & sloth bears.
✔️ Birdwatching – Over 195 bird species found here.
Best Time to Visit: November – April.
7. Shirdi – The Spiritual Capital of Maharashtra
Location: Ahmednagar District
Best For: Pilgrimage, Devotional Travel
✅ Home to the famous Sai Baba Temple, one of the most visited temples in India.
✅ Peaceful atmosphere with daily aartis & bhajans.
Best Activities:
✔️ Visit the Sai Baba Samadhi Temple.
✔️ Explore the Dwarkamai Masjid & Gurusthan.
✔️ Try Prasad & visit nearby Nashik for Trimbakeshwar Temple.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but avoid festival rush.
8. Raigad Fort – The Pride of the Maratha Empire
Location: Near Mahad, Maharashtra
Best For: History Lovers, Trekking, Heritage Tourism
✅ The capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s empire.
✅ A historic hill fort with breathtaking views & trekking routes.
Best Activities:
✔️ Trek or Ropeway Ride to the Fort.
✔️ Explore Shivaji Maharaj’s Memorial.
✔️ Enjoy sunrise views from the fort top.
Best Time to Visit: October – March.
9. Nashik – The Wine Capital of India