Maharashtra Tourism | How to Plan a Trip to Maharashtra

Home to bustling cities like Mumbai, Pune, Aurangabad, Nagpur, and most awe-inspiring hill stations like Mahabaleshwar and Matheran, Maharashtra is an incredible amalgamation of everything. Located on the western coast of India, Maharashtra boasts golden sand beaches and treasures like Marine Drive. The Bollywood film industry, which is gradually taking over the world of cinema, thrives here in Maharashtra.

This quintessential destination is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and pilgrims. Maharashtra is renowned for its rich culture and heritage with a remarkable collection of shrines and architectural marvels. This is a state of historical and magnificent monuments. Boasting about ancient forts, pilgrimage sites, exquisite palaces, beautiful valleys, mesmerizing hill stations, and sacred monuments. You can also explore palm-fringed beaches, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, lofty mountains, and some of the most impressive national parks. This Maharashtra travel guide will teach you about each tourism section and help you plan your best holiday in this state.

• How to Reach Maharashtra
• Best Time to Go
• Places to visit in Maharashtra
• Historical Places in Maharashtra
• Popular Hill Stations in Maharashtra
• Things to do in Maharashtra
• Shopping in Maharashtra

Here is a detailed travel guide to Maharashtra so that you will have a trip

How to Reach Maharashtra

Maharashtra is an ultimate destination to travel to and is well-connected with the rest of the country by air, rail, and road. This state has numerous domestic and international airports. Some of the major airports in Maharashtra include Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (Mumbai), Aurangabad Airport (Aurangabad), and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (Nagpur). This state also has excellent connectivity by rail and connects it with the rest of the country. You can find major railway stations in Mumbai, Pune Nashik, Aurangabad, Jalgaon, and Nagpur. Apart from it, this state has an extensive range of national and state highways to connect with major destinations in India.

Best Time to Visit Maharashtra

Maharashtra is located on the southwestern coast of the Indian subcontinent. Due to its proximity to the Arabian Sea, Maharashtra experiences a tropical climate with three distinct seasons – Summer, Monsoon, and Winter. Among them, the best time to visit Maharashtra is the winter season, from October to March. It is the period when the torrential monsoon recedes, scorching heat passes, and the state experiences cool and pleasant weather. However, every season comes with a unique charm. If you love the rainy season, you can visit beautiful hill stations in Maharashtra during the monsoon seasons. Lonavala, Malshej Ghat, Karnala, Khandala, and Panchgani are some of the popular monsoon destinations.

Places to visit in Maharashtra

Tourist places in Maharashtra include palm-fringed beaches, iconic attractions, emerald hill stations, and various entertainment places. In addition, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cave temples, ancient forts, pilgrimage sites, national parks, and various historical monuments are dotted throughout the state. With an incredible mashup of everything, Maharashtra is a fantastic holiday destination. For more information about Maharashtra tourist attractions, places to visit in Maharashtra.

Beaches in Maharashtra

You can get a blend of rejuvenating vibes and thrilling activities at the beaches of Maharashtra. You can indulge in water sports activities and catch the best sunrise/sunset through your eyes from these famous beaches.

The popular beaches in Maharashtra are:

• Mumbai – Juhu Beach, Marine Drive, Chowpatty Beach, Madh Island Beach, Versova Beach
• Alibaug – Varsoli Beach, Akshi Beach, Alibaug Beach, Kihim Beach, Nagaon Beach
• Kashid – Revdanda Beach, Kashid Beach
• Dahanu – Bordi Beach, Dahanu Beach
• Ratnagiri – Ganpatipule Beach, Malgund Beach, Mandavi Beach
• Malvan –  Kolamb Beach, Malvan Beach, Tondavali Beach, Tarkarli Beach, Devbagh Sangman Beach
• Harihareshwar – Diveagar Beach, Shrivardhan Beach, Harihareshwar Beach, Aaravi Beach, Kondivali Beach
• Murud – Karde Beach, Murud Beach, Palande Beach, Harnai Beach

National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries in Maharashtra

Reconnect with nature and explore the lush greenery at various wildlife sanctuaries in this state. You can take a jungle safari for a thrilling experience and learn about the different species of flora and fauna.

Popular national parks of Maharashtra are:

• Mumbai – Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Karnala Bird Sanctuary
• Bhimashankar, Pune – Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Sangli, Pune – Chandoli National Park, Sahyadri Tiger Reserve
• Amravati – Gugamal National Park,
• Chandrapur, Nagpur – Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
• Gondia, Nagpur – Navegaon National Park
• Satara, Pune – Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary
• Solapur, Pune – Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary

Pilgrimage Sites in Maharashtra

You can make a connection with spirituality by visiting the sacred destinations in Maharashtra. Each city of this state is dotted with pilgrimage sites that will give you a peaceful vibe.

Popular pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra:

• Mumbai – Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, Haji Ali Dargah, Mumba Devi Temple, Walkeshwar Temple, Mount Mary Church, Saint Thomas Cathedral
• Nashik – Saptashringi Temple (Shaktipeeth), Trimbakeshwar Temple (Jyotirlinga),
• Aurangabad – Grishneshwar Temple (Jyotirlinga), Aundha Nagnath Temple (Jyotirlinga), Parli Vaijnath Temple (Jyotirlinga), Ajanta Ellora Caves
• Nanded – Shri Hazur Sahib Gurudwara (Panj Takht), Renuka Ma Temple (Shaktipeeth)
• Solapur – Tulja Bhavani Temple (Shaktipeeth), Akkalkot, Pandhapur
• Kolhapur – Mahalaxmi Temple (Shaktipeeth), Maruti Temple
• Ratnagiri – Jai Vinayak Temple, Swayambhu Ganpati Temple, Ganpatipule
• Shirdi – Sai Baba Temple, Shani Shignapur Temple, Dwarkamai Mosque
• Pune – Lord Ganesha Temples of Ranjangaon, Theur, Morgaon and Siddhatek (Ashtavinayak Temple Circuit), Bhimashankar Temple (Jyotirlinga), Dagdusheth Temple, Osho Ashram

Famous Historical Places in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is one of the well-known states in terms of historical significance. You can visit this state’s various historical sites, ancient caves, museums, and forts. However, the associated fascinating stories show the rich past of this state that will blow your mind.

Popular historical places in Maharashtra:

• Mumbai – Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus  (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Rajabai Clock Tower, Global Vipassana Pagoda, Mount Mary Church, Prince of Wales Museum, Mani Bhavan Museum, Elephanta Caves (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Khandala – Lohagad Fort, Rajmachi Fort, Visapur Fort, Bhaja and Karla Caves, Shrivardhan Fort
• Pune – Aga Khan Palace, Shaniwar Wada, Sinhagad Fort, Lal Mahal, Shivneri Fort, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
• Satara – Wai Ghat and Temples, Pratapgad Fort, Ajinkyatara Fort
• Sindhudurg – Vijaydurg Fort, Sindhudurg Fortress
• Aurangabad – 52 Gates, Ajanta Caves  (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Ellora Caves  (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Bibi ka Maqbara, Zainuddin Shirjai’s Maqbara, Naukhanda Palace, Chand Minar, Devagiri Daulatabad Fort, Chini Mahal
• Raigad – Raigad Fort, Kondane Caves, Sagargad Fort, Queen’s Palace, Raigad Museum
• Ahmednagar – Harishchandragad Fort, Tomb of Salabat Khan, Cavalry Tank Museum
• Nagpur – Deekshabhoomi, Dhamma Chakra Stupa, Central Museum, Raman Science Centre, Narrow Gauge Rail Museum
• Ratnagiri – Jaigad Fort, Ratnadurg Fort, Tilak Ali Museum, Ratnagiri Marine Museum

Most Popular Hill Stations in Maharashtra

Hill stations in Maharashtra are perfect sites for enjoying the monsoon. People from different states visit here to enjoy the rainy season, indulge in trekking experiences, and have a rejuvenating holiday.

Popular hill stations of Maharashtra:

• Khandala-Lonavala
• Matheran
• Mahabaleshwar
• Panchgani
• Karjat
• Malshej Ghat
• Igatpuri
• Bhandardara
• Rajmachi
• Bhimashankar

Things to do in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is blessed with mighty mountains, glistening rivers, gushing waterfalls, palm-fringed coastlines, sandy beaches, and Sahyadri ridges. There are a plethora of things to do and tourism activities in Maharashtra in which tourists can indulge and make their vacation memorable.

Here are the categories of popular activities to do in Maharashtra

Adventure Activities in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a paradise for adventure lovers, and there is a bucket-load of activities in which tourists can indulge during their tour. Boasting about breathtaking mountains, majestic forts, fascinating lakes, and renowned wildlife sanctuaries, Maharashtra is prevailing with a sense of adventure and thrilling activities.

Popular adventure activities in Maharashtra:

• Paragliding – Kamshet, Lonavala, Panvchgani, Kolad, Saputara, Nashik
• Trekking – Kalsubai trek, Lohagad Fort Trek, Andharban Trek, Tikona Fort, Rajmachi Fort, Harishchandragad Trek
• Camping – Pawna Lake, Bhandardara, Lavasa Road, Lonavala, Kashid Beach, Lohagad, Kurungwadi
• Hot Air Balloon Safari – Lonavala
• Bungee Jumping – Kolad, Mumbai
• Paramotoring – Mumbai, Pune
• Wildlife safari Tour – Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary, Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Tadoba Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnala Bird Sanctuary
• Rock Climbing – Pune, Belapur, Tamhini Valley, Lingana
• Cave Exploration – Aurangabad Caves, Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves

Water Sports in Maharashtra

Boasting vivacious rivers, tranquil beaches, pristine surroundings, and breathtaking views, Maharashtra is among the most amazing locations for elating water sports. The rivers and beaches of Maharashtra serve as a great treat for adventure junkies. Maharashtra offers excellent opportunities for incredible watersports. Tourists can experience the utmost thrill and tons of excitement.

Places for water sports in Maharashtra are:

• Sailing – Mandawa, Mumbai
• White River Rafting – Kolad, Karjat
• Scuba Diving – Malvan, Alibaug, Tarkarli, Dandeshwar, Vengurla, Murud
• Speed Boat Rides – Alibaug, Ganpatipule
• Jet Skiing – Alibaug, Mandawa, Kundalika River, Mumbai
• Kayaking – Kolad, Alibaug, Mandawa, Malvan
• Parasailing – Mumbai, Tarkarli, Diveagar, Dapoli
• Waterfall Rappelling – Vihigaon

Kid-Friendly Activities in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a fantastic destination for kids as well, home to numerous waterparks, amusement parks, museums, aquariums, and art galleries. Museums and galleries guarantee to entertain along with educating the kids.

Popular places to visit for kids:

• Waterpark Resorts – Royal Garden Resort, Shivganga Waterpark and Resort, Great Escape Waterpark, Panshet Water Park, Sentosa Water Park, Dolphin Water Park, Diamond Water Park, Water Kingdom, Rajgad Water Park, Imagica Water Park
• Theme Park – On Wheelz Amusement Park, Essel World, Dinosaur Park, Imagica, Visava Amusement Park, Della Adventure Park
• Galleries and Museums – Nehru Planetarium, RBI Monetary Museum, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, New Palace Museum, Prince of Whale Museum, National Maritime Museum, Taraporewala Aquarium

Shopping in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a perfect amalgamation of the best shopping malls and vibrant streets, which makes it a popular shopping destination. People can get great deals, and each region of the state has something unique to offer travelers. Maharashtra also offers an eclectic blend of traditional and modern when it comes to shopping.

Famous shopping places in Maharashtra:

Mumbai – Colaba Causeway, Linking Road, Crawford Market, Zaveri Bazaar, Hill Road, Fashion Street, Chor Bazaar
Pune – Laxmi Road, Hong Kong Lane, Koregaon Park, Fashion Street, Clover Centre
Nashik – Saraf Bazar, Deolali Camp Market, Tibetan Market, Nashik City Centre Mall, Pinnacle Mall
Aurangabad – Prozone Mall, Hypercity Mall, Paithani Silk Weaving Centre, Mughal Silk Bazaar, Himroo Factory
Nagpur – Eternity Mall, Sitabuldi Main Road, Sarafa Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar, , Empress City Mall

Accommodation in Maharashtra

Being one of India’s most popular states, Maharastra offers visitors the best services for traveling. You can choose from luxurious 5-star hotels to budget-friendly hotels through a wide range of accommodation options in Maharashtra. If you are planning to visit Maharashtra with your pet, you can also find plenty of pet-friendly hotels that offer the best services with great comfort. Moreover, accommodation in this state provides first-class services, and you can enjoy a variety of foods to get a great dining experience.

Cuisine in Maharashtra

From the famous vada pav to lip-smacking poha, Maharashtrian foods offer a great treat for your taste buds. The food of Maharashtra can be categorized into two styles; Konkan and Varadi. In addition, Goda Masala, Kokum, Tamarind, and Coconut are some important ingredients in the foods of Maharashtra. Konkan belongs to the coastal region, whereas Varadi cuisine belongs to the Vidarbha region. You will find diverse cuisines in every part of this state. Pav Bhaji, Vada Pav, Puran Poli, Misal Pav, Sreekhand, Modak, Ragda Pattice, Bharli Vangi, Poha, and Sabudana khichdi are some must-try foods in this state.

Fairs & Festivals in Maharashtra

The entire state celebrates a good number of festivals throughout the year. These festivals of Maharashtra give you an insightful experience of various cultures and traditions. In fact, many tourists visit Maharashtra to attend the festivals and be a part of events. Attending the fairs and festivals is one of the best parts of your vacation, and you will enjoy every bit of this experience. Kala Ghoda Art Festival, Elephant Festivals, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Janmashti Festival are some of the great festivals that will blow your mind on your Maharashtra tour.

Nightlife in Maharashtra

It is enjoyable to experience the nightlife on your vacation, especially in Maharashtra. There are many different pubs and clubs where you can unwind yourself after enjoying the long day of sightseeing. Bars in Maharashtra offer a wide variety of drinks and snacks where you can get the best nightlife experience. You can rock and relax in the soothing ambiance of the clubs. However, you can enjoy nightlife beyond clubs and bars in Maharashtra and indulge in exciting night activities. Having a cup of coffee in the corner of the cafe is also a way to enjoy a wonderful experience.

Is it safe to visit Maharashtra?

Yes! Maharashtra is one of the safest states in India. You can enjoy Maharastra tourism peacefully without facing any threat. However, it is advised to avoid strolling alone at night.

How to save money on a Mumbai trip?

Maharashtra is one of India’s largest states and offers a lot of opportunities for every kind of traveler to enjoy a holiday. However, saving money on holiday is a common problem across the globe. If you are unsure how to save money on your Maharashtra tour, here we tell you the money-saving tips. Find affordable hotels, Visit in the off-season, enjoy street shopping, and advance booking for flights and hotels are some of the practical tips that can save your money.

Maharashtra Travel Tips

• Women are advised to dress appropriately and cover their heads before entering any shrine.
• Do not be overfriendly with a taxi driver and any strangers.
• Do not roam alone around the city after the dark. 
• In case you are traveling in the summer, it is advised to carry a water bottle to keep you hydrated.
• Avoid public display of affection and respect the country’s sentiment. 
• It is recommended not to take too much cash in the busy area. 
• Wear comfortable clothes and footwear if you are planning to enjoy trekking and other kinds of activities.