Top 15 Places to Visit in Maharashtra
Published on Jan 18, 2026Maharashtra is one of the most diverse travel destinations that has been attracting tourists from all over India. Irrespective of the kind of traveller that you are, you can find a lot of memorable places to visit in Maharashtra. This magnificent state leaves you with several options to choose from. These include age-old caves, majestic forts, peaceful beaches, spiritual towns, and stunning hill stations.
In this blog, we will discuss some of the best places to visit in Maharashtra. We will also help you plan a trip that merges culture, comfort, and discovery. Let us now explore extremely popular tourist places that capture the soul of the state.
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Maharashtra Tourist Places
Here is a list of the fifteen places you cannot afford to miss while on your tour in Maharashtra:
1. Mumbai – The City That Never Sleeps
One of the most popular tourist places in Maharashtra, the city of Mumbai, offers plenty of fun at every corner. Known as India’s financial capital, it strikes a perfect balance between colonial architecture, street food, modern skyscrapers, and beachside beauty.
Tourist attractions include the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and Elephanta Caves. Don’t miss the vibrant local markets. Explore the best of Mumbai, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi.
2. Pune – Culture, Education, and Heritage
Often regarded as one of the best Maharashtra tourist places, Pune is known for its soothing climate and rich history. This city proudly reflects Maratha pride through iconic landmarks, such as Shaniwar Vada and Aga Khan Palace.
Moreover, this Maharashtrian town is known for celebrating traditional events. It is deeply connected to the well-known festival, especially Ganesh Utsav. This festival brings together art, culture, and devotion.
3. Lonavala and Khandala – Classic Hill Escapes
Among the crowd-favourite hill stations in Maharashtra, Lonavala and Khandala are ideal for a quick escape from boring city life. Surrounded by green valleys, waterfalls, and misty hills, these destinations have become tremendously popular during the monsoon.
Bhushi Dam, Lion’s Point, and Rajmachi Fort make these places ideal for nature lovers.
4. Mahabaleshwar – The Queen of Hill Stations
Mahabaleshwar catches attention, as this fabulous hill station is known for its cool weather, beautiful viewpoints, and strawberry farms. You cannot afford to miss places like Arthur’s Seat, Pratapgad Fort, and Venna Lake.
If you are travelling to Mahabaleshwar with your loved ones or as a couple, you cannot afford to miss this awesome hill station.
5. Aurangabad – Gateway to Ancient Wonders
Internationally known for the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Aurangabad is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These rock-cut caves make this city one of the most crucial places to visit in Maharashtra for individuals who are fond of history.
Moreover, Aurangabad offers access to Daulatabad Fort and Bibi ka Maqbara, making it one of Maharashtra’s culturally rich tourist places.
6. Ajanta and Ellora Caves – Timeless Art and Faith
Your trip to Maharashtra will not be considered completed if you don’t visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, one of the must-visit attractions. Through these caves, you can experience Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions carved into stone in ancient times.
These caves are counted among the most visited Maharashtra famous places. They are admired for their creative excellence and sacred significance.
7. Nashik – Temple, Traditions, and Wine
Nashik – a unique blend of divinity and contemporary style – is well-known for ancient temples, vineyards, and the Kumbh Mela, which is one of the most famous festivals in Maharashtra.
This town is one of the most diverse places for tourists in the state. It offers serene river ghats along with modern experiences.
8. Shirdi – A Divine Journey
One of the best places to visit in Maharashtra, Shirdi, is renowned for the Sai Baba Temple. Pilgrims from all over the world visit this divine town to seek blessings and peace.
Its sacred ambiance makes it one of the most meaningful places to explore in Maharashtra.
9. Kolhapur – Royal Heritage and Devotion
Known for the Mahalakshmi Temple, Kolhapur offers you rich cuisine and traditional wrestling culture. Due to its deep-rooted traditions, the city holds a special place among tourist places in Maharashtra.
Moreover, Kolhapur celebrates regional festivals with utmost devotion, expressing the true nature of a Maharashtra festival experience.
10. Alibaug – The Coastal Retreat
Alibaug is one of the most popular seaside places to visit in Maharashtra. With spotless beaches, historic forts, and delicious seafood, it catches the attention of weekend travellers from Mumbai and Pune.
Alibaug is listed among the relaxed yet famous places in Maharashtra.
11. Ratnagiri – Konkan’s Coastal Gem
Well-known for its cultural heritage, Alphonso mangoes, and unspoiled beaches, Ratnagiri is among the less crowded tourist places in the state.
Perfect for those seeking peace, the coastal beauty makes Ratnagiri one of the least popular but best places to visit in Maharashtra.
12. Sindhudurg – History by the Sea
Built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Sindhudurg Fort is a powerful symbol of the naval strength of the Marathas. This destination is one of the historically important Maharashtra tourist places.
The surrounding region offers spotless beaches and genuine Konkani culture.
13. Matheran – The Eco-Friendly Hill Station
Regarded as one of the few vehicle-free hill stations in Maharashtra, Matheran is well-known for its red soil paths and vast viewpoints. It offers tourists a peaceful getaway from boring day-to-day life.
In fact, it remains one of the most appealing places to visit in Maharashtra for travelling at a relaxed pace.
14. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve – Wildlife Adventure
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, Tadoba is definitely the place to be. It is among the top tourist places in Maharashtra, which is known for Tiger sightings. The reserve offers safaris and nature trails.
15. Pandharpur – The Land of Devotion
Pandharpur is strongly connected to the Wari pilgrimage and Lord Vitthal. The Ashadhi Ekadashi celebration is a spiritually rich Maharashtra famous festival.
One of Maharashtra’s most sacred places to visit, Pandharpur offers insight into the devotional traditions of the state.
Best Time to Explore Maharashtra
Choosing the right season can take your experience to the next level while exploring the best places to visit in Maharashtra. The ideal time is between October and March. During this time, the weather remains pleasant across most tourist places in the state. You can look forward to enjoying hill stations during monsoon and winter, offering spectacular views and cooler temperatures.
Summer, on the other hand, is ideal for coastal tourist places, such as Alibaug and Ratnagiri. Winter is the best time to explore heritage cities and wildlife parks.
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Final Thoughts
From ancient caves and fast-paced cities to peaceful beaches and charming hill stations, Maharashtra offers a matchless variety. The places above cover it all, no matter whether you are planning a cultural trip, a spiritual break, or a nature getaway.
With friendly locals, memorable festivals, and rich history, Maharashtra still stands strong among the most rewarding travel destinations in India.