Maharashtra Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Maharashtra with our comprehensive guide. From attractions to hiking routes, food scene to cultural customs, safety to transportation, we've got you covered!


Introduction to Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a state located in western India. Known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Maharashtra is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The state is home to bustling cities, serene beaches, majestic mountains, archaeological sites, and much more, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

List of Places to Visit in Maharashtra

Maharashtra has plenty of attractions to offer to its visitors. Here are some top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
  • Ajanta and Ellora Caves
  • Gateway of India
  • Elephanta Caves
  • Bibi Ka Maqbara
  • Shaniwar Wada Palace
  • Aga Khan Palace

Natural Attractions of Maharashtra: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lonavala and Khandala Hill Stations
  • Matheran Hill Station
  • Panchgani Hill Station
  • Sula Vineyards, Nashik
  • Kaas Plateau of Flowers
  • Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
  • Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some popular hiking and biking routes:

  • Harishchandragad Trek
  • Raigad Fort Trek
  • Karnala Bird Sanctuary Trek
  • Saguna Baug Bike Trail
  • Lonavala to Bhimashankar Bike Trail
  • Bhandardara to Kalsubai Peak Trek

Best Things to Do in Maharashtra: Activities and Tours

From sightseeing to adventure, Maharashtra has a lot of fun activities for tourists:

  • Visit the Mumbai Film City
  • Try your luck at the Deltin Royale Casino
  • Take a heritage walk around Pune’s old city
  • Go paragliding in Kamshet
  • Take a hot air balloon ride in Lonavala
  • Take a cruise through the backwaters of Murud Janjira

Week-Long Itinerary for Maharashtra

Here’s a suggested one-week itinerary for Maharashtra:

Day Activity
1 Explore Mumbai’s landmarks
2 Visit Elephanta Caves and Gateway of India
3 Tour Ajanta and Ellora Caves
4 Trek to Kalsubai Peak or go paragliding in Kamshet
5 Take a hot air balloon ride in Lonavala
6 Visit Panchgani Hill Station
7 Explore Shaniwar Wada Palace and Aga Khan Palace in Pune

Food and Drink Scene of Maharashtra

Maharashtra’s cuisine is known for its spice, flavors, and variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Here are a few must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Vada Pav
  • Pav Bhaji
  • Misal Pav
  • Thalipeeth
  • Puran Poli
  • Kolhapuri Chicken

Local Beverages

  • Sol Kadi
  • Kokum Sharbat
  • Sugarcane Juice
  • Doodh Poha

Where to Stay in Maharashtra: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options available for accommodation in Maharashtra, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some top picks:

  • Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai
  • The Machan, Lonavala
  • Hotel Ravine, Panchgani
  • JW Marriott Pune

What to Buy in Maharashtra: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Maharashtra has a rich history and culture, and its markets offer a variety of souvenirs and local products. Here are a few popular items to buy:

  • Paithani Sarees
  • Kolhapuri Chappals
  • Warli Paintings
  • Nashik Wine

Local Culture and Customs of Maharashtra

Maharashtra has a rich cultural heritage and celebrates various festivals throughout the year. Some of the important festivals celebrated in Maharashtra are:

  • Ganesh Chaturthi
  • Diwali
  • Holi
  • Gudhi Padwa

Best Time to Visit Maharashtra

The best time to visit Maharashtra is between November and February when the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities, festivals, and sightseeing. However, if you’re interested in trekking or hiking, monsoon season (June-September) is the best time as the hills and mountains are lush green and offer stunning views.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maharashtra

Do:

  • Try the local food and beverages
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Bargain when shopping in local markets
  • Carry cash as some places might not accept cards

Don’t:

  • Get involved in public display of affection
  • Wear revealing clothes in religious places
  • Click photographs of people without their consent

Safety and Health

Safety in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place, one should take some precautions:

  • Don’t carry too much cash or expensive items while traveling
  • Hire a reputable guide or tour operator
  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places

Health in Maharashtra

Tourists are advised to take proper precautions to avoid falling sick during their trip. Here are a few tips:

  • Drink bottled water or boiled water
  • Carry hand sanitizer and use it frequently
  • Use mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases

Getting to Maharashtra: Transportation Options and Logistics

Maharashtra is well-connected to other parts of India and the world. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Maharashtra

  • Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai
  • Pune International Airport
  • Aurangabad Airport

Bus Stations Near Maharashtra

  • Mumbai Central Bus Stop
  • Pune Bus Station
  • Nagpur Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train: Maharashtra is well-connected to other parts of India by train
  • Taxi: Taxis are easily available for local travel

How to Get Around in Maharashtra

Maharashtra has several transportation options available for tourists:

  • Local trains: Mumbai has a well-connected local train system
  • Taxi/Cab: Taxis are easily available in most cities and towns
  • Bus: Maharashtra has a vast network of government and private buses connecting cities and towns
  • Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are an affordable mode of local travel

Where to Go Next from Maharashtra: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Maharashtra has several nearby destinations that are worth visiting:

  • Goa
  • Rajasthan
  • Gujarat
  • Karnataka

Conclusion

Maharashtra is a beautiful state filled with history, adventure, natural beauty, and culture. With our comprehensive guide, you are now equipped to plan your trip to Maharashtra with ease. From attractions to food, culture to transportation, we’ve got all the information you need to make your trip memorable.

Map of Maharashtra, Republic of India Map of Maharashtra, Republic of India Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Vada with Chatni is popular in Maharashtra Vada with Chatni is popular in Maharashtra


    Marathwada
    North Konkan
    North Maharashtra
    South Konkan
    South Maharashtra
    Vidarbha