Maharashtra

Sprawling Maharashtra, India's second most populous state, stretches from the gorgeous greens of the little-known Konkan Coast right into the parched innards of India's beating heart. Within this massive framework are all the sights, sounds, tastes, and experiences of India.

In the north there's Nasik, a city of crashing colors, timeless ritual and Hindu legend. In the south you can come face to face with modern India at its very best in Pune, a city as famous for its sex guru as its bars and restaurants. Further south still, the old maharaja's places, wrestling pits and overwhelming temples of Kolhapur make for one of the best introductions to India anyone could want. Out in the far east of the state towards Nagpur, the adventurous can set out in search of tigers hidden in a clump of national parks. On the coast a rash of little-trodden beaches and collapsing forts gibe Goa's tropical dreams a run for their money and in the hills of the Western Ghats, morning mists lift to reveal stupendous views and colonial-flavored hill stations. But it's the center, with its treasure house or architectural and artistic wonders (topped by the World Heritage-listed cave temples of Ellora and Ajanta), that really steals the show. Whatever way you look at it, Maharashtra is one of the most vibrant and rewarding corners of India, yet despite this, most travelers make only a brief artistic pause a Ellora and Ajanta before scurrying away to other corners of India, leaving much of this diverse state to the explorers.

Famous Cities in Maharashtra

Highlights of Maharashtra

Ellora Caves : Breathtaking Hindu, Buddhist and Jain caves carved from solid volcanic rock.

Ajanta Caves : Chiselled from a horseshoeshaped ravine and adorned with extraordinary Buddhist and Hindu murals.

Ambala Lake : An atmospheric holy lake near Ramtek, with few visitors and minimal exploitation.

Gandhi Ashram, Sevagram : Learn about the great man's life and beliefs at the ashram he lived in.

Miniature train to the hill station of Matheran : Fantastic views across the Western Ghats.

Konkan Coast : The scenic route from Mumbai to Goa, with a couple of relaxing beach resorts, temple sites and market towns along the way.

Ganpatipule : A little visited golden sandy beach, with a lovely Ganapati temple.

Accommodation in Maharashtra

Accommodation in Maharahtra is not a major issue. Here are several hotels and lodges which caters all the needs of the visitors.

Luxury Hotels in Maharahtra

Three Star Hotels in Maharahtra

Budget Hotels in Maharahtra

How to reach Maharahtra

Air:

Rail:

By Road: