Maharashtra, West India

Maharashtra, located on India’s western coast, is a diverse state blending bustling urban hubs, ancient forts, tranquil hill stations, and rich cultural heritage. It is home to the vibrant city of Mumbai, the lush Western Ghats, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and beautiful beaches.

 

Top Tourist Attractions in Maharashtra

1. Gateway of India, Mumbai

    • How to Get There: Located in South Mumbai; accessible by taxi, local train (Churchgate or CST station), or bus.
    • Entrance Fees: Free.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
    • Highlights: Iconic arch monument; ferry rides to Elephanta Caves start here.

2. Ajanta and Ellora Caves

    • Location: Near Aurangabad.
    • How to Get There: By train or flight to Aurangabad, followed by a taxi.
    • Entrance Fees: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners); children below 15 years free.
    • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM (closed on Mondays for Ajanta).
    • Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Site; ancient rock-cut Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves.

3. Marine Drive, Mumbai

    • How to Get There: Reach via local train (Churchgate station) or taxi.
    • Entrance Fees: Free.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
    • Highlights: Scenic promenade with a view of the Arabian Sea; iconic sunset spot.

4. Sinhagad Fort, Pune

    • How to Get There: 30 km from Pune; accessible by road.
    • Entrance Fees: ₹20.
    • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
    • Highlights: Historical fort with trekking options and panoramic views.

5. Mahabaleshwar

    • How to Get There: 120 km from Pune; 260 km from Mumbai. Accessible by road.
    • Entrance Fees: Free for town entry; points like Mapro Garden may charge.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7 for most viewpoints.
    • Highlights: Strawberry farms, Arthur’s Seat, Venna Lake, and scenic Western Ghats.

6. Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve

    • Location: Near Chandrapur.
    • How to Get There: Nearest airport is Nagpur (140 km); accessible by road or train.
    • Entrance Fees: ₹1,000–₹1,500 for safaris.
    • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM (depends on safari slot).
    • Highlights: Spotting tigers, leopards, and other wildlife.

7. Alibaug Beaches

    • How to Get There: 100 km from Mumbai; accessible by ferry from Gateway of India or road.
    • Entrance Fees: Free.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
    • Highlights: Pristine beaches, forts, and water sports.

8. Shirdi

    • How to Get There: Connected by train and road; nearest airport is Aurangabad (125 km).
    • Entrance Fees: Free.
    • Opening Hours: 4:00 AM–10:30 PM.
    • Highlights: Sai Baba Temple and spiritual atmosphere.

9. Lonavala & Khandala

    • How to Get There: 64 km from Pune; accessible by road or train.
    • Entrance Fees: Free for most points.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
    • Highlights: Rajmachi Point, Bhushi Dam, and monsoon greenery.

10. Elephanta Caves

    • Location: An island near Mumbai.
    • How to Get There: Ferry from Gateway of India.
    • Entrance Fees: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners); ferry charges ₹200–₹250.
    • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM (closed on Mondays).
    • Highlights: Ancient rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

How to Get Around in Maharashtra

  1. Local Trains: Efficient in Mumbai but crowded during peak hours.
  2. Buses: Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private operators connect cities.
  3. Taxis and Auto-Rickshaws: Available in cities; ensure meters are running or agree on a price.
  4. Rental Cars and Bikes: Convenient for hill stations and rural areas.
  5. Metro: Functional in Mumbai; expanding in Pune and Nagpur.

Popular Local Food

  1. Vada Pav: Spicy potato fritter in a bun.
  2. Pav Bhaji: Buttered bread served with vegetable curry.
  3. Misal Pav: Spicy curry with bread, topped with sev.
  4. Puran Poli: Sweet flatbread stuffed with jaggery and lentils.
  5. Seafood: Malvani fish curry, prawns, and Bombay duck.
  6. Kokum Sherbet: A refreshing drink made from kokum fruit.

Top Food Spots: Bademiya (Mumbai), Kayani Bakery (Pune), Mahesh Lunch Home (Mumbai).

 

Top Nightlife Spots

1. Tryst, Mumbai

    • How to Get There: Lower Parel; accessible by taxi or local train.
    • Entrance Fees: ₹3,000–₹5,000 (cover charges for couples).
    • Happy Hours: 6:00 PM–8:00 PM.
    • Highlights: Luxurious vibe with international DJs.

2. High Spirits, Pune

    • How to Get There: Koregaon Park; accessible by taxi or auto.
    • Entrance Fees: ₹500–₹1,000 for events.
    • Happy Hours: 6:00 PM–8:00 PM.
    • Highlights: Live music and comedy nights.

3. Titos, Alibaug

    • How to Get There: Near Alibaug Beach; accessible by taxi.
    • Entrance Fees: ₹1,000 cover charges.
    • Happy Hours: 5:00 PM–7:00 PM.
    • Highlights: Beachside bar with great music.

Detailed Itineraries

3-Day Itinerary

    • Day 1: Explore Mumbai (Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Marine Drive).
    • Day 2: Visit Lonavala and Khandala for a nature retreat.
    • Day 3: Head to Pune; explore Sinhagad Fort and Shaniwar Wada.

7-Day Itinerary

    • Day 1–3: Follow the 3-day itinerary.
    • Day 4: Drive to Mahabaleshwar; visit strawberry farms and Venna Lake.
    • Day 5: Visit Shirdi for spiritual exploration.
    • Day 6: Explore Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
    • Day 7: Relax at Alibaug Beach.