17 Best Destinations to Visit in Maharashtra

From the breezy beaches of Konkan to the misty peaks of the Sahyadris, and from bustling historic cities to serene forest getaways, Maharashtra offers a beautifully diverse travel palette. Whether you’re looking for weekend getaways, spiritual retreats, or adventure-packed vacations, this western Indian state has something for everyone.

In this blog, we explore the 15 best destinations to visit in Maharashtra, grouped by travel experience—hill stations, culture, coastlines, wildlife, and hidden gems.

In This Blog

Hill Stations & Mountain Escapes in Maharashtra

Cool Weather, Lush Valleys & Scenic Serenity

When the plains of Maharashtra begin to warm up, the Sahyadri hill stations offer the perfect high-altitude hideaway. These destinations aren’t just cooler in climate—they’re steeped in colonial charm, ancient forts, gushing waterfalls, and endless viewpoints. Whether you’re planning a monsoon road trip, a cozy winter getaway, or a summer escape, the hill stations of Maharashtra promise a refreshing mix of nature, nostalgia, and quiet adventure.

Here are the top 4 hill destinations in Maharashtra you absolutely must visit:

Suggested Itineraries for Maharashtra tour:

1. Mahabaleshwar – The Queen of Sahyadris

Why Visit:
A classic favorite nestled in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is known for its cool climate, mist-covered valleys, and endless strawberry fields. Once a British summer capital, the town still echoes colonial-era charm with old churches, viewpoints, and stone pathways.

Top Attractions:

Arthur’s Seat: One of the best viewpoints offering panoramic views of the valleys and the Savitri River.
Venna Lake: Ideal for boating, horse riding, and lakeside snacks.
Mapro Garden: A must-visit for strawberry treats, jams, and sandwiches.
Pratapgad Fort: A historic site offering insight into Maratha valor and strategic hilltop defense.

Ideal For: Couples, families, photographers, and nature lovers.

Best Time to Visit:

October to June for pleasant weather.
March–April for strawberry season.

How to Reach:

By Road: 120 km from Pune; 250 km from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar.
Nearest Railhead: Wathar (60 km); Pune is the more convenient railhead.

Travel Tip: Stay in a plantation homestay or heritage resort for an immersive hill station experience. Evenings can be chilly—carry a jacket year-round.

2. Lonavala & Khandala – Monsoon Magic Close to Mumbai

Why Visit:
Famous for their lush greenery and proximity to major cities, Lonavala and Khandala are weekend favorites for those seeking misty mountains, waterfalls, and trekking trails. In the monsoon, the entire region transforms into a green wonderland.

Top Attractions:

Bhushi Dam: A popular picnic spot, especially during the rains.
Tiger’s Leap & Duke’s Nose: Dramatic cliffs offering spectacular views of the valley.
Karla & Bhaja Caves: Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves with intricate carvings.
Lonavala Lake & Rajmachi Point: Ideal for evening walks and photography.

Ideal For: Quick getaways, monsoon drives, couples, and trekking enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit:

July to September for monsoon lovers.
October to February for clear skies and cool weather.

How to Reach:

Well-connected via Mumbai–Pune Expressway.
Lonavala has its own railway station, with frequent trains from Mumbai and Pune.

Travel Tip: Try the iconic Lonavala chikki and head out for short hikes like Lohagad Fort or Rajmachi Trek if the weather permits.

3. Matheran – The Vehicle-Free Hill Town

Why Visit:
Tucked away in the Western Ghats, Matheran is India’s only hill station where vehicles aren’t allowed. That means pure air, peaceful walks, and the sound of birds instead of honking. The town’s red soil pathways and forested trails create a romantic, timeless atmosphere.

Top Attractions:

Panorama Point: For 360-degree views and unforgettable sunrises.
Charlotte Lake: Calm and serene, surrounded by dense forest.
Echo Point & One Tree Hill: Accessible by pony or foot, offering great photo ops.
Matheran Toy Train: A heritage ride through forests and bridges (subject to seasonal operation).

Ideal For: Couples, solo travelers, and offbeat explorers.

Best Time to Visit:

October to May for dry, pleasant weather.
Avoid peak monsoon (June–August) due to slippery trails.

How to Reach:

Take a train to Neral station and a toy train or shared cab to Dasturi Point.
From Dasturi, walk or take a horse ride into the town (2–3 km).

Travel Tip: Pack light and wear good walking shoes. Most exploration here is on foot or horseback.

4. Bhandardara – A Hidden Gem by the Lake

Why Visit:
If you’re looking for peace, untouched beauty, and a place away from the tourist rush, Bhandardara is your answer. Set around Arthur Lake and nestled amidst the Sahyadri ranges, it’s ideal for stargazing, camping, and natural sightseeing.

Top Attractions:

Randha Falls & Umbrella Falls: Especially stunning during monsoon.
Wilson Dam: One of the oldest dams in India, surrounded by greenery.
Kalsubai Peak: Trek to the highest point in Maharashtra.
Agastya Rishi Ashram: A peaceful, spiritual stop by the river.

Ideal For: Offbeat travelers, trekkers, couples, and camping lovers.

Best Time to Visit:

August to February for waterfall views and cool weather.
March to June for clear skies and treks.

How to Reach:

Closest station: Igatpuri (45 km away).
Around 170 km from Mumbai, best reached by road.

Travel Tip: If you visit on a new moon night, Bhandardara is a great astrophotography spot with minimal light pollution.

Cultural & Historic Cities of Maharashtra

Where Legacy, Architecture, and Faith Come Alive

Maharashtra has played a central role in shaping India’s spiritual, artistic, and political history. Its cities—whether once ruled by the mighty Marathas or deeply rooted in spiritual traditions—offer a glimpse into the state’s glorious past and dynamic present. From ancient caves carved in stone to Mughal-era tombs and modern temples, each city holds its own distinct personality.

Here are four of the most iconic cultural and historic destinations in Maharashtra:

5. Pune – The Cultural Capital of Maharashtra

Why Visit:
Pune perfectly balances its Maratha legacy with modern sophistication. Known as the “Oxford of the East,” Pune is not only an academic hub but also a city steeped in history, spirituality, and youthful energy. From royal forts to buzzing food streets and spiritual retreats, it caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions:

Shaniwar Wada: The once-grand seat of the Peshwas, now a historic ruin wrapped in tales of power and mystery.
Aga Khan Palace: A peaceful site with Gandhi’s legacy, beautiful gardens, and colonial architecture.
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple: A revered temple with stunning gold adornment and a spiritual vibe.
Pataleshwar Cave Temple: An ancient rock-cut temple right in the middle of the city.
Koregaon Park: Known for the Osho International Ashram, cafés, and artistic ambiance.

Ideal For: Culture lovers, history buffs, foodies, and spiritual seekers.

Best Time to Visit: October to February (cool and pleasant)

How to Reach: Pune has a major international airport and a busy railway station connected to all major Indian cities.

Travel Tip: Spend a morning exploring the Pune Heritage Walk through old city areas like Tulshibaug and Vishrambaug Wada.

6. Aurangabad – Gateway to Ancient Wonders

Why Visit:
A perfect base to explore the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Aurangabad is a city where history speaks through rock. It’s also dotted with Mughal architecture, Buddhist heritage, and spiritual landmarks.

Top Attractions:

Ajanta Caves (UNESCO Site): 30 rock-cut caves filled with Buddhist paintings, dating back to the 2nd century BCE.
Ellora Caves (UNESCO Site): 34 caves featuring Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain sculptures, including the magnificent Kailasa Temple carved from a single rock.
Bibi Ka Maqbara: Often referred to as the “Mini Taj Mahal,” this mausoleum was built by Aurangzeb’s son.
Daulatabad Fort: A hilltop fortress with incredible views and mysterious escape routes.
Panchakki: A 17th-century water mill used for grinding grains—powered by a clever canal system.

Ideal For: Architecture admirers, history enthusiasts, and spiritual travelers.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

How to Reach: Aurangabad has a domestic airport and is connected by train Aurangabad from Mumbai and Pune.

Travel Tip: Keep two full days if you plan to visit both Ajanta and Ellora, as they’re located in opposite directions from the city.

7. Nashik – Wine, Pilgrimage & the Kumbh Legacy

Why Visit:
Where else can you sip world-class wine while standing just miles from a Kumbh Mela ghat? Nashik is a city of dual identities—deeply religious yet refreshingly modern. It offers sacred experiences in its ancient temples and indulgent afternoons at picturesque vineyards.

Top Attractions:

Sula Vineyards & York Winery: Enjoy wine tasting, vineyard walks, and gorgeous sunset views.
Trimbakeshwar Temple: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, set against the Brahmagiri Hills.
Panchavati Area: A sacred district housing Kalaram Temple, Ramkund, and Sita Gufa, connected to the Ramayana.
Anjneri Hills: Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman—great for short treks and mythology lovers.

Ideal For: Spiritual pilgrims, couples, food & wine lovers

Best Time to Visit:

November to March for vineyards
February–April for spiritual festivals
Avoid peak summer due to heat

How to Reach:

By Train: Nashik Road Station (well-connected)
By Road: 3.5–4 hours from Mumbai

Travel Tip: Visit Sula during Grape Harvest Season (January to March) to enjoy their vineyard festival and wine stomp.

8. Kolhapur – The City of Temples, Arts & Spices

Why Visit:
Rich in Maratha history, temple architecture, and spicy cuisine, Kolhapur offers a cultural feast. It’s famed for the Mahalakshmi Temple, traditional jewelry, wrestling culture, and chappals (leather footwear).

Top Attractions:

Mahalakshmi Temple: A Shakti Peetha revered across India, dating back to the 7th century.
New Palace Museum: The royal residence of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, with exquisite artifacts and architecture.
Rankala Lake: A peaceful place for sunsets and horse-cart rides.
Jyotiba Temple: Perched on a hill, it’s painted entirely in pink and offers sweeping valley views.

Ideal For: Temple-goers, heritage travelers, food explorers

Best Time to Visit: October to February

How to Reach:

Kolhapur has its own airport and railway station with good connectivity to Mumbai and Pune.

Travel Tip: Don’t leave without trying Kolhapuri misal, tambda rassa, and Kolhapuri jaggery. Visit local shops for authentic Kolhapuri chappals and sarees.

Beaches & Coastal Escapes in Maharashtra

Where the Sahyadris Meet the Sea

While Goa often takes the spotlight for beach holidays, Maharashtra’s Konkan coast offers equally captivating—and often less crowded—coastal experiences. From golden-sand beaches and coastal forts to Ganesh temples and seafood shacks, these beach towns provide the perfect blend of nature, culture, and calm.

Here are three of the best beach destinations in Maharashtra to explore:

9. Alibaug – The Coastal Getaway Closest to Mumbai

Why Visit:
Just a short ferry ride away from Mumbai, Alibaug is a perennial favorite for weekenders seeking a mix of clean beaches, cozy homestays, and ancient forts. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone needing a peaceful break without a long commute.

Top Attractions:

Alibaug Beach: Great for beach walks and sunset views of Kolaba Fort.
Kolaba Fort: A sea fort accessible by foot during low tide—don’t miss the cannon-lined ramparts!
Nagaon and Kashid Beaches: Quieter and perfect for water sports or lounging under palm trees.
Kankeshwar Temple: Set atop a hill with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

Ideal For: Weekend getaways, families, beach walks, and fort lovers

Best Time to Visit: November to March for clear skies and cool breeze
Avoid: Peak monsoon due to rough seas

How to Reach:

From Mumbai: Ferry to Mandwa Jetty (1 hour) + 30 min drive to Alibaug
By Road: 100 km from Mumbai, 140 km from Pune

Travel Tip: Take an early morning ferry and rent a two-wheeler to explore nearby beaches at your own pace.

10. Ganpatipule – Temple by the Sea

Why Visit:
Ganpatipule is a serene beach town known for its 400-year-old Ganesh temple situated right beside the ocean. With its clean golden beach, spiritual atmosphere, and quiet surroundings, it’s perfect for both pilgrimage and relaxation.

Top Attractions:

Swayambhu Ganpati Temple: A naturally formed idol of Lord Ganesha facing the sea.
Ganpatipule Beach: Ideal for meditative walks or light water sports like jet skiing.
Prachin Konkan Museum: A great spot to learn about Konkan culture, lifestyle, and architecture.
Malgund Village: Birthplace of Marathi poet Keshavsut—visit the memorial and old-style homes.

Ideal For: Spiritual travelers, families, peace seekers

Best Time to Visit: October to March for calm seas and festivals
Avoid: July–August due to heavy monsoon rainfall

How to Reach:

Nearest Railhead: Ratnagiri (30 km)
By Road: 345 km from Mumbai; 300 km from Pune

Travel Tip: Stay in a sea-facing MTDC resort for direct beach access and soothing views from your room.

11. Tarkarli – Maharashtra’s Snorkeling & Scuba Paradise

Why Visit:
Located near the Goa border, Tarkarli is one of Maharashtra’s most stunning coastal destinations. Known for its clear waters and white-sand beaches, Tarkarli offers water sports, snorkeling, and scuba diving, making it the best spot in the state for marine exploration.

Top Attractions:

Tarkarli Beach: Clean, serene, and lined with shacks and homestays.
Devbagh Sangam: A peaceful point where the Karli River meets the sea—ideal for boat rides.
Sindhudurg Fort: A sea fort built by Shivaji Maharaj, located on a rocky island.
Scuba Diving & Water Sports: Certified operators offer scuba, parasailing, banana boat rides, and more.

Ideal For: Adventure seekers, couples, beach lovers, photographers

Best Time to Visit: October to February for clear visibility underwater
Avoid: Monsoon season—diving is suspended during rough seas

How to Reach:

Nearest Railhead: Kudal (33 km) or Sindhudurg (20 km)
By Road: Around 475 km from Mumbai, 160 km from Goa

Travel Tip: Book water activities in advance during peak season. Try Malvani seafood—Tarkarli is famous for fresh fish and coconut-infused cuisine.

Other Beautiful Beaches in Maharashtra

Velas: Known for its annual turtle festival in March–April.
Diveagar: A peaceful beach town with a Ganesh temple and a laid-back vibe.
Harihareshwar: A coastal temple town surrounded by hills, forests, and sea.
Shrivardhan: A quiet beach with good connectivity to Diveagar and Harihareshwar—ideal for a beach-hopping weekend.

Wildlife Sanctuaries & Natural Retreats in Maharashtra

Into the Wild: Forests, Safaris, and Scenic Solitude

If your idea of travel includes dense forests, tiger trails, serene lakes, and waking up to birdsong instead of city noise, then Maharashtra’s wild side is calling. With a variety of landscapes—from dry deciduous forests to wetlands and high-altitude grasslands—this state offers some of India’s most diverse and rewarding wildlife experiences.

Here are three of the best nature and wildlife destinations in Maharashtra:

12. Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve – Maharashtra’s Tiger Territory

Why Visit:
Often called the “Jewel of Vidarbha,” Tadoba is Maharashtra’s oldest and most famous tiger reserve. Unlike some other parks in India, sightings here are relatively frequent, especially in summer when animals congregate near waterholes.

Wildlife to Spot:

Bengal Tigers (very high sighting chances)
Indian leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs (dholes), crocodiles
Birdwatching: Over 200 species including honey buzzards, peacocks, and eagles

Zones & Safaris:

Core zones: Moharli, Kolara, Navegaon
Buffer zones: Devada, Agarzari (less crowded, still good for sightings)
Jeep and canter safaris available—book in advance on the official site

Ideal For: Wildlife photographers, nature lovers, families

Best Time to Visit:

Feb to May: Best for tiger sightings
October to February: Cooler weather and birdwatching

How to Reach:

Nearest city: Chandrapur (45 km)
Nearest airport: Nagpur (approx. 140 km)

Travel Tip: Stay in eco-resorts near Moharli Gate for the best safari access. Morning safaris offer better chances to see tigers.

13. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary – Where Forest Meets Faith

Why Visit:
Bhimashankar is both a spiritual pilgrimage site and a biodiversity hotspot. Located in the Western Ghats, this sanctuary is part of a global ecological treasure, home to dense evergreen forests, tribal hamlets, and rare wildlife like the Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru).

Top Attractions:

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple: One of the 12 revered shrines of Lord Shiva
Gupt Bhimashankar Trail: A serene forest trek rich in birdlife
Ahupe Ghat & Nagphani (Cobra’s Hood): Viewpoints with valley panoramas

Wildlife Highlights:

Shekru (state animal of Maharashtra)
Barking deer, hyenas, civets, and more
Over 100 species of birds and butterflies

Ideal For: Spiritual-nature combo, trekking, birdwatching

Best Time to Visit:

October to March for cool weather
June to September for lush green treks and waterfalls (but be cautious of leeches)

How to Reach:

Nearest city: Pune (110 km)
Accessible by road via Manchar or Karjat-Ghatghar route

Travel Tip: Consider staying overnight in a nearby village homestay or forest lodge to experience sunrise hikes and starry skies.

14. Kaas Plateau – Maharashtra’s Valley of Flowers

Why Visit:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kaas Pathar (Kaas Plateau) is a high-altitude volcanic plateau near Satara that blooms into a floral paradise between late August and October. Although technically a post-monsoon spot, the surrounding area is beautiful and peaceful in early summer and perfect for nature walks and lake views in May.

Top Attractions:

Kaas Plateau: A 1000-hectare natural carpet of rare flowers (seasonal)
Kaas Lake: Quiet and ideal for birdwatching or a short picnic
Sajjangad Fort & Thoseghar Waterfall (nearby)

Flora & Fauna:

Over 850 species of flowering plants
Rare species like the Sonki flower, orchids, and carnivorous plants
Habitat for many butterflies and endemic insects

Ideal For: Botanists, nature photographers, weekend explorers

Best Time to Visit:

For flowers: Late August to early October
For lakes and hikes: May offers quiet walks and great views before the bloom season

How to Reach:

Nearest city: Satara (25 km)
Approx. 135 km from Pune; 280 km from Mumbai

Travel Tip: Entry is limited during bloom season—book your visit slot online in advance. Carry drinking water and sun protection if visiting in summer.

Offbeat & Hidden Gems in Maharashtra

Where Silence, Culture, and Solitude Create Magic

Sometimes, the best travel experiences lie off the map—in small towns, ancient villages, forested ridges, and riverfronts that haven’t yet been taken over by crowds. These destinations let you slow down, breathe deeply, and see Maharashtra through a more personal lens.

Here are the final 3 destinations in our guide—quiet, scenic, and soul-stirring.

15. Amboli – Misty Hills of the Konkan Ghats

Why Visit:
Tucked into the Sindhudurg district near the Goa border, Amboli is one of Maharashtra’s least explored hill stations. Often shrouded in mist and known for its waterfalls, forest cover, and biodiversity, Amboli offers an enchanting monsoon or early summer retreat without the crowds of Lonavala or Mahabaleshwar.

Top Attractions:

Amboli Waterfall: Best seen during or just after the rains, but still scenic in early summer.
Sunset Point: Overlooks the Konkan valley—perfect for an evening pause.
Hiranyakeshi Temple & River Source: A peaceful temple by a freshwater spring and cave.
Madhavgad Fort Ruins: Offers panoramic views and quiet forest trails.

Ideal For: Nature lovers, solitude seekers, bikers, and offbeat explorers

Best Time to Visit:

July to September for mist and waterfalls
May for pleasant mornings and peaceful forest walks

How to Reach:

Nearest town: Sawantwadi (30 km)
Nearest railhead: Kudal or Sawantwadi; about 500 km from Mumbai

Travel Tip: Carry binoculars—Amboli is a paradise for birdwatching and spotting rare frogs and reptiles, especially during the monsoon.

16. Lonar – The Ancient Crater Lake

Why Visit:
What if we told you Maharashtra hides a meteorite impact crater that’s both scientifically fascinating and spiritually significant? Lonar Crater Lake was formed over 50,000 years ago by a meteor strike, and its alkaline and saline ecosystem remains a subject of global research. Surrounding it are ancient temples, eerie silence, and mysterious magnetic effects—making it a perfect blend of science, mythology, and mystery.

Top Attractions:

Lonar Lake: Trek down to the lakebed and observe the changing water shades.
Daitya Sudan Temple: An intricate Hemadpanthi-style temple near the lake.
Yadava-Era Temples: Scattered around the crater, many are semi-ruined and atmospheric.
Gomukh Temple: A freshwater spring near the lake.

Ideal For: History lovers, geology enthusiasts, photographers

Best Time to Visit: November to February for cool, clear weather
May is warmer but good for uninterrupted exploration and photography with fewer tourists

How to Reach:

Nearest railhead: Jalna or Aurangabad
By road: Approx. 140 km from Aurangabad

Travel Tip: Hire a local guide if you want to explore the full mythology and science behind the crater—it’s far more intriguing than it looks!

17. Dapoli – Coastal Calm Meets Village Life

Why Visit:
Known as “Mini Mahabaleshwar”, Dapoli is a peaceful coastal town in Ratnagiri district with a hill-station-like climate and a string of beautiful, quiet beaches. Unlike more commercial beach towns, Dapoli retains a rural charm, with fishing villages, ancient temples, and breezy plantations.

Top Attractions:

Karde Beach & Ladghar Beach: Clean, long stretches ideal for walks and dolphin spotting
Murud Harnai Fort & Suvarnadurg Fort: Coastal forts accessible by boat
Panhalekaji Caves: Ancient rock-cut Buddhist and Hindu caves tucked into the forest
Unhavare Hot Water Springs: Believed to have healing properties

Ideal For: Couples, family trips, peaceful beach holidays

Best Time to Visit:

October to March for breezy beach days
May for low-season tranquility and affordable stays

How to Reach:

Nearest station: Khed (40 km)
Approx. 190 km from Pune and 230 km from Mumbai by road

Travel Tip: Choose a homestay near Karde Beach for stunning sea views, fresh fish thalis, and evening beach bonfires.

The Journey So Far…

Let’s recap the 5 themes we’ve explored in this detailed Maharashtra travel guide:

Hill Stations – Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Matheran, Bhandardara
Cultural Cities – Pune, Aurangabad, Nashik, Kolhapur
Beaches & Coasts – Alibaug, Ganpatipule, Tarkarli
Wildlife & Nature – Tadoba, Bhimashankar, Kaas Plateau
Hidden Gems – Amboli, Lonar, Dapoli

Final Thoughts

In these lesser-known corners, Maharashtra sheds its busy-city skin and becomes something entirely different—slower, deeper, and more intimate. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Amboli, contemplating cosmic mysteries at Lonar, or soaking in coastal life in Dapoli, these destinations invite you to travel differently—curiously and consciously.

You won’t just be visiting a new place. You’ll be discovering a quieter, richer version of Maharashtra that stays with you long after you leave.

Dive Deeper Into These Topics:

The 17 Best Destinations to Visit in Maharashtra

Hill Stations & Mountain Escapes in Maharashtra

1. Mahabaleshwar – The Queen of Sahyadris