North Maharashtra Travel Guide

Plan your trip to North Maharashtra with this comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, activities, food, and more.


Introduction to North Maharashtra

North Maharashtra is a region located in the northern part of Maharashtra state, in Western India. It is known for its historic landmarks, natural beauty, and religious significance. The region is rich in cultural heritage and has several popular tourist destinations.

List of Places to Visit in North Maharashtra

Here are some of the top destinations to visit in North Maharashtra:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ajanta and Ellora Caves
  • Bibi Ka Maqbara
  • Daulatabad Fort
  • Aurangabad Caves
  • Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
  • Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
  • Nashik’s Trimbakeshwar Temple
  • Bhandardara Lake and Dam

Natural Attractions of North Maharashtra: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Harihar Fort
  • Sandhan Valley
  • Kalsubai Peak
  • Malshej Ghat
  • Matheran Hill Station
  • Saptashrungi Gad
  • Yaval Wildlife Sanctuary

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Maharashtra

North Maharashtra offers several scenic hiking and biking routes. Some of the most popular ones are:

  • Ratangad Fort Trek
  • Harishchandragad Trek
  • Kalsubai Trek
  • Naneghat Trek
  • Pachnai Trek

Best Things to Do in North Maharashtra: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to experience in North Maharashtra:

  • Go on a wine-tasting tour in Nashik
  • Try paragliding at various hill stations
  • Visit the Ajanta and Ellora caves
  • Explore the historic forts of the region
  • Participate in adventure activities like rafting, trekking, and camping

Week-Long Itinerary for North Maharashtra

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring North Maharashtra:

Day 1: Arrive in Nashik, visit the Trimbakeshwar Temple and Sula Vineyards Day 2: Explore the Bhandardara Lake and Dam, hike to Mount Kalsubai Day 3: Visit Shirdi Sai Baba Temple and Shani Shingnapur Temple Day 4: Explore the historic Ellora Caves and Daulatabad Fort Day 5: Visit Aurangabad Caves and Bibi Ka Maqbara Day 6: Trek to Harishchandragad Fort Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of North Maharashtra

North Maharashtra is known for its spicy and delicious Maharashtrian cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Misal Pav
  • Sabudana Khichdi
  • Vada Pav
  • Puran Poli
  • Thalipeeth
  • Bharli Vangi
  • Kolhapuri Chicken

Local Beverages

  • Sugarcane Juice
  • Kokam Sharbat
  • Piyush
  • Maharashtrian Masala Chai

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

North Maharashtra has several options for accommodation ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some popular options:

  • Taj Residency
  • The Gateway Hotel
  • Ibis Nashik
  • MTDC Yatri Niwas
  • Soma Vine Village Resort
  • Hotel Panchavati Yatri

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

North Maharashtra is famous for its handicrafts and textiles, and here are some items to bring back as souvenirs:

  • Paithani sarees
  • Himroo shawls and stoles
  • Maharashtrian jewellery
  • Copperware items
  • Warli paintings
  • Bhajiya Chivda (snacks)

Local Culture and Customs of North Maharashtra

North Maharashtra has a rich cultural heritage, and the people here still follow traditional customs like Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Holi. The region is also home to various festivals like the Kumbh Mela and Nashik Wine Festival.

Best Time to Visit North Maharashtra

The best time to visit North Maharashtra is from October to March when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 20 to 30 degree Celsius. The monsoon season (June to September) is also a great time to visit as the hills and forests are lush green.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Maharashtra

Do:

  • Respect the religious and cultural beliefs of the local people
  • Carry sufficient cash as some of the places might not accept cards
  • Wear comfortable shoes for trekking and hiking
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

  • Dress in revealing clothes, especially at religious sites
  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings
  • Smoke or consume alcohol in public places
  • Photograph locals without their permission

Safety and Health

Safety in North Maharashtra

North Maharashtra is generally a safe place for tourists to travel, but it is important to take certain safety measures like avoiding dark and isolated places at night and being mindful of your belongings.

Health in North Maharashtra

It is essential to take care of hygiene while traveling in North Maharashtra. It is advisable to carry your own drinking water and avoid street food that might be unhygienic. It is also recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and take proper precautions while trekking.

Getting to North Maharashtra: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the transportation options available to reach North Maharashtra:

Airports Near North Maharashtra

  • Aurangabad Airport
  • Nashik Airport
  • Chikkalthana Airport

Bus Stations Near North Maharashtra

  • Aurangabad Bus Station
  • Nashik Bus Station
  • Jalgaon Bus Station

Other Options

  • Private taxis and cabs
  • Trains to Nashik and Aurangabad

How to Get Around in North Maharashtra

The best way to get around in North Maharashtra is by hiring a private taxi, particularly if you want to explore the scenic locations. However, local buses and auto-rickshaws are also available for shorter distances.

Where to Go Next from North Maharashtra: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations to visit from North Maharashtra:

  • Mumbai
  • Pune
  • Lonavala
  • Mahabaleshwar
  • Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Conclusion

North Maharashtra is a traveler’s paradise with its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and cultural significance. Plan your trip to this region with this comprehensive guide and explore the hidden gems of this beautiful corner of Maharashtra.



    Ahmednagar
    Karjat
    Nashik
    Prakasha
    Sarangkheda
    Shani Shingnapur
    Shirdi
    Siddhatek