Paithan Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich town of Paithan in Maharashtra with this comprehensive travel guide, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Paithan

Paithan is a small town located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra state in western India. The town is situated on the banks of the Godavari River, which adds to its beauty. It has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times, and it is famous for its handloom sarees, which are made using fine silk and cotton. Paithan has served as a hub for trade and commerce as well as an important center for religion and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Paithan

Paithan town has a mix of natural and man-made attractions to offer to visitors. There are historical sites, landmarks, scenic views, and more. Here is a comprehensive list of places to visit in Paithan:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Paithan Museum: Located in the heart of the town, the Paithan Museum has a vast collection of ancient sculptures, coins, and inscriptions that reflect the region’s rich history and culture. A must-visit for history enthusiasts.
  • Jayakwadi Dam: Just twenty kilometers from Paithan, the Jayakwadi dam is an engineering marvel, retaining 1056 million cubic meters of water. The dam offers breathtaking views of the beautiful surrounding landscape.
  • Dnyaneshwari Temple: One of the oldest temples located in Paithan, it houses the beautiful idols of Lord Vishnu and other gods and goddesses. It was built in the 13th century and is deemed among the most visited places around Paithan.
  • Eknath Maharaj Temple: This temple is located on the banks of the Godavari river and is dedicated to the saint Eknath Maharaj, who was one of the most influential saints in Maharashtra’s Bhakti Movement. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
  • Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary - Located 60 km from Paithan, Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a plethora of flora and fauna species, including leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, wild boars, antelopes, and more. A perfect place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Natural Attractions of Paithan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Godavari Riverbank: The Godavari Riverbank is the perfect place to relax and admire the scenic beauty of nature. It’s an excellent place for picnics, nature walks, or to get a taste of the local culture and people.
  • Paithani Kendra: One of the must-visit places for art connoisseurs is the Paithani Kendra near the Godavari River. It is an initiative from the Maharashtra government to promote and preserve handmade Paithani sarees – a staple attire for weddings and festivities in Maharashtra.
  • Pandavleni Buddhist Caves: If you are interested in exploring ancient Indian history, do visit Pandavleni Caves. It’s a group of 24 rock-cut caves dating back to the 3rd century BC.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paithan

Paithan town and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking trails. The Godavari river has many trekking routes with beautiful views of the valley. Hiranya hill and Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the popular hiking spots.

Best Things to Do in Paithan: Activities and Tours

  • Enjoy a boat ride in Godavari river: If you’re visiting Paithan, don’t miss the chance to relish a boat ride in the Godavari River. It’s a great way to experience the town’s scenic beauty, relax, and take in the sights and sounds.
  • Visit the Paithani Kendra: As mentioned earlier, Paithani Kendra is a great initiative promoting traditional handicrafts, and it is famous for products made using the traditional Paithani weaving technique. Visitors can purchase unique handmade souvenirs, such as sarees, scarfs, stoles, etc.
  • Explore the History and Culture at Paithan Museum: If you’re a history buff, visit the Paithan Museum, displaying intricate sculptures, inscriptions, and coins, showcasing the development of art, literature, and science of medieval India.
  • Stroll along the Godavari Riverbank: Walking along the Godavari riverbank is an experience in itself. It is the ideal place for birdwatching, soaking in the peaceful environment, and getting a glimpse of the locals’ life and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paithan

Here’s a week-long itinerary to help you make the most out of your trip to Paithan:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Paithan and visit Eknath Maharaj Temple and Jayakwadi Dam
Day 2 Take a boat ride on the Godavari river, visit Pandavleni Caves
Day 3 Visit the Paithani Kendra and Paithan Fort
Day 4 Go hiking to Hiranya hill, shop at the local markets for souvenirs
Day 5 Explore Pundalik Temple and Paithan Museum
Day 6 Visit Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary, enjoy a nature walk, and bird watching
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Godavari Riverbank, meet the locals, and taste the local food.

Food and Drink Scene of Paithan

Must-Try Dishes

Paithan is famous for its flavorsome local cuisine, with a unique mix of spices and herbs that give the dish a distinct taste.

  • Bharli Vangi: It is a popular dish made by stuffing brinjal with a masala or spices mix and cooked in a simmering gravy of onion, tomato, and coconut.
  • Shrikhand: An Indian sweet dish served with a dollop of cardamom, saffron, and sugar. It is a must-try dessert in Paithan.
  • Bakri: A crispy and flaky flatbread made from wheat flour served with spicy curry, rice, or vegetables makes for a filling meal in Paithan.

Local Beverages

Paithan town has a traditional drink called Sol-Kadhi, which is made by mixing kokum with buttermilk and flavored with spices like garlic, ginger, and green chili. It’s a refreshing drink perfect for the hot summers in the town.

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

Here are some top-rated accommodations in Paithan:

  • Hotel Paradise: A budget hotel near the Godavari riverbank with modern amenities and excellent hospitality.
  • Hotel Panchavati: A mid-range hotel offering comfortable rooms, 24-hour room service, and a restaurant serving local and international dishes.
  • Alok Lodge: A homely guesthouse with a cozy ambiance and clean rooms located near the Paithani Kendra.

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

Paithan is famous for its Paithani sarees, made by local craftsmen. Visitors can purchase authentic silk and cotton sarees, stoles, scarfs, and more from the Paithani Kendra. Besides, the town has a bustling market selling traditional handicrafts, including jewelry, artifacts, and clothes. It’s an ideal place to shop for souvenirs and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Paithan

The local culture of Paithan reflects its rich history and traditions. People speak Marathi, the official language of Maharashtra. The town is primarily known for handloom and weaving craftsmanship for making fine silk sarees. The people of Paithan are welcoming and are happy to share their local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Paithan

The ideal time to visit Paithan is from October to March when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be quite scorching, and the monsoons can lead to flooding in the area, making it challenging for travelers to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paithan

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few Marathi phrases to communicate with locals.
  • Wear comfortable clothes and footwear.
  • Carry enough cash as ATMs may not be readily available in town.
  • Try out the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter, protect the environment of the town.
  • Do not use abusive or foul language.
  • Do not intrude on private property or sacred places without permission.
  • Do not wear revealing clothes while visiting religious places.
  • Do not purchase counterfeit products or items made from animal skin

Safety and Health

Safety in Paithan

Paithan is a relatively safe town, and violent crime is rare. However, it would be best to take necessary precaution while traveling solo, especially at night time.

Health in Paithan

Paithan has good health care facilities, but it is advisable to carry a medical kit with necessary medication. Also, keep yourself hydrated, wear sunscreen and stay protected from mosquito bites to avoid infections.

Getting to Paithan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Paithan town is well-connected to other major cities in Maharashtra. Here are the transportation options to reach the town:

Airports Near Paithan

The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport, which is around 56 kilometers from Paithan. It has regular flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.

Bus Stations Near Paithan

Paithan has a well-connected bus service to major cities in Maharashtra, including Aurangabad, Pune, and Mumbai. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation and private operators run these buses.

Other Options

Renting a car or hiring a cab is a popular option among tourists visiting Paithan.

How to Get Around in Paithan

Paithan is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Auto-rickshaws, cycles, and taxis are readily available for local transportation.

Where to Go Next from Paithan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some popular destinations near Paithan, which you can visit after exploring the town:

  • Aurangabad: The city of Aurangabad is famous for its historical landmarks, including the Ajanta and Ellora caves and Bibi ka Maqbara, situated around 52 km from Paithan.
  • Ajantha: Located around 108 km from Paithan, Ajantha is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it houses 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves and exquisite paintings.
  • Shirdi: A holy place in Maharashtra, Shirdi is a little over 100 km from Paithan and is famous for the Sai Baba temple.

Conclusion

Paithan town is a hidden gem that offers travelers a glimpse into Indian history, culture and offers an authentic experience of rural India. From natural wonders to cultural monuments, Paithan is a perfect place to explore and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or looking for an offbeat travel experience, Paithan has something for everyone.