Phone Number
+918743000333
Email Address
info@culturalindiatours.com
Search Destination
Main Menu

Maharashtra

  • Home
  • |
  • Destinations

Maharashtra Best Visit Time

Best Time to Visit:

Summer:

Winter:

Monsoon:

Introduction
Maharashtra is a state on India's western coast. The state is known for its densely forested hills and valleys, which are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as ancient caves and a rich cultural heritage. Maharashtra is also known for being the hub of the Indian film industry, or Bollywood.
 
Maharashtra means "Great State" or "Great Country" in Hindi. The name is thought to have come from the word Rathi, which means "chariot driver" and "chariot builders," and who were known as "Maharathis" or "Fighting Power." It is India's third-largest state and the second-most populous. Maharashtra has been blessed with awe-inspiring natural beauty in the form of mountains as well as vast coastline with spectacular views of Arabian Sea.
 
The mighty Western Ghats or Sahyadri mountain ranges, Konkan coastal regions, ancient forts constructed on the hills by the Deccan Sultanate and the Marathas, UNESCO Heritage monuments like Ajantha and Ellora Caves, impressive hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Matheran, Nature Parks, and renowned pilgrimage centres like Shirdi and Pandharpur attract tourists to Maharashtra all year.
 
Maharashtra provides a wide range of things to do for tourists. Although mountain ranges provide opportunities for trekking, paragliding, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities, the beautiful Arabian Sea is well known for water sports such as scuba diving, snorkelling, river rafting, and banana boat rides. Some visitors can't help but go on food tours because the city is known for its delectable street food.
 
Maharashtra is also a shopper's dream, with beautiful sarees, jewellery, and other handicrafts to choose from. 
 
A pilgrimage or sightseeing tour of Maharashtra should be memorable, thanks to the state's efficient transportation system and a number of airports and rail stations that make travel easy. The climate in the state is tropical monsoon, with hot summers, heavy rainfall, and mild winters. It is best to stop travelling to Maharashtra during the monsoon season. Between October and February is the best time to visit the state.
 
20 Nights / 21 Days

Spiritual tour of North India with Maharashtra

04 nights / 05 days

Explore Maharashtra with Wildlife Tour

09 Nights / 10 Days

Jyotirlingas of Maharashtra with Shirdi Tour

05 Nights/ 06 Days

Golden Triangle Tour of Maharashtra

07 Nights / 08 Days

Jyotirlingas of Maharashtra with Shirdi Tour

04 Nights / 05 Days

Wildlife Tour of Maharashtra

04 Nights / 05 Days

Holy Yatra of Shirdi with Maharashtra Jyotirlinga

Traditions and Culture
Maharashtra is home to some of India's most vibrant and brilliant cultures. Maharashtra is also known as the "Land of Scholars, Saints, and Actors," as many Maharashtrians have achieved success in the fields mentioned above. Maharashtra's purogami culture is well-known (forward culture).
 
Maharashtra is divided into several regions, including Marathwada, Vidarbha, Khandesh, Konkan, and others, each with its own cultural identity manifested in the form of different dialects of the Marathi language, folk songs, cuisine, and ethnicity. The groups of Waghya Murali, Potraj, Vasudev, and Gondhali have managed to preserve their distinct cultures and vibrant art, enriching Maharashtra's cultural tapestry.
 
Maharashtra's history is also enriched by mesmerising dance styles and folk dances. Dance types such as Koli, Lavni, Banjara, and Povada are known for their graceful and rhythmic movements. Tamasha, Kala, Dhangri Gaja, and Dindi, as well as other folk dances, are common among the locals.
 
Maharashtra is a microcosm of India, with Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs living alongside Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Christians. It's no surprise that places of worship that follow each religion's traditions and values can be found all over the state.
 
The official language is Marathi. Though Marathi is spoken by the majority, other languages such as Hindi, Gujarati, English, and others are also spoken. Maharashtra's cities are metropolitan, blending multiple languages, and English is the official language. The majority of Maharashtrians are multilingual, speaking both Marathi and Hindi.
 
Men wear a dhoti or pyjama with a shirt, while women wear a nine-yard or five-yard sari. Women in urban Maharashtra are now wearing Punjabi dresses consisting of a Salwar and a Kurta, while men wear trousers and a shirt.
 
Fair and Festivals

Fairs and Festivals of Maharashtra:

Maharashtra's people are vivacious and eager to participate in and celebrate the state's various festivals. Both religions and faiths celebrate their festivals with equal fervour and joy. Marathi people celebrate festivals by wearing new clothing, cooking sweet meats, and playing, dancing, and singing. Here are some of the major ones:

  • Ganesh Chaturthi: Worshippers create colourful pandals (temporary shrines) that reach several metres in height to commemorate the elephant-headed Lord Ganesh's birthday. Foodies adore “modak,” a dish cooked by women at home and offered to the Lord as an offering. The “Ganpati visarjan,” or final-day immersion, is a sight to behold, as worshippers crowd the streets and a stage party performs.
  • Makar Sankranti: Makar Sankranti is observed on the 14th of January, when the Sun joins the sign of Capricorn. It is primarily a harvest festival in India that heralds the arrival of spring. After a long time of gloom and sadness, the coming of spring symbolises a period of enlightenment, harmony, prosperity, and happiness.
  • Gudi Padwa: Gudi Padwa marks the start of a prosperous new year, and Hindus regard it as one of the most auspicious days of the year. It is the first day of the Lunar calendar, signalling the start of a new year. It is commemorated with great fanfare and display in the state. Households are festooned with garlands and rangolis, and a gudi is erected outside the door to usher in wealth and good health.
  • Easter: The Christian festival, which commemorates Jesus Christ's rebirth 40 days after his assassination, is often observed in Mumbai and its environs. Until celebrating on this day, the Christian community fasts for 40 days. On this day, both churches hold a mass to mark the end of the mourning period. Sweets are abundant in stores, and customers can be seen buying them.
  • Shivaji Jayanti: Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Kingdom that was founded in 1674, was born in Shivneri Fort near Pune on February 19, 1627. Shivaji was a great military tactician, and the Marathas were able to effectively repel the Mughal Empire and other sultanate kingdoms under his command. On Shivaji Jayanti, people take to the streets to participate in the celebrations and atmosphere.
  • Ellora Festival: The Ellora caves, which are also a UNESCO world heritage site, are one of the state's most important historical sites. Ellora festival is a cultural, classical music, and dance festival held against the backdrop of the magnificent Ellora caves. The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation is hosting this grand affair, and the performances are sure to captivate you.
  • Pateti: The Parsi community in Mumbai is big, and they celebrate their new year in mid-August. The date has historical significance because it was on this day that the Shahenshahi Zoroastrians arrived in India after migrating from Persia. The Parsees celebrate at the Agyari, or fire temple, and feasts and gatherings of friends and relatives reinforce group relations.
  • Ramzan & Eid-ul Fitr: The mood is joyful during Eid-ul-Fitr, since it marks the end of Ramzan, the Muslim month of fasting, and the beginning of the new moon. The namaz is read and alms are kindly distributed.
  • Diwali: In Maharashtra, this five-day festival of lights symbolises the victory of good over evil. Women draw beautiful motifs called Rangoli in front of the doors, and people light crackers and tie lanterns in front of their doors. Small mud lamps are lit at night, giving the impression that there are a thousand stars dazzling all around. Pooja of Lord Ganesha and Goddess of Laxmi on the main day is the biggest part of the five day ritual.
 
Must Visit Place

Must Visiting Places in Maharashtra:

The country's third-largest state is rich in natural beauty, history, culture, adventure, and more. The breathtaking scenery includes scenic beaches and some of India's most spectacular hill stations. UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient caves, temples, and other religious sites are among the historical attractions. The Western Ghats, along with a world heritage site, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries and so much else offer thrills as well as elegance to the tourists. These top tourist attractions in Maharashtra are not to be missed:

  1. Mumbai- Mumbai is also referred to as the "City of Dreams." The city was named after the goddess Mumbadevi and is made up of seven islands. Many large empires have ruled over it, including the Maurya, Chalukya, and Rashtrakuta, as well as the Marathas. Since it was a port city, it thrived as a trading route and eventually fell under Portuguese rule. It is Maharashtra's capital and is home to romantic destinations, incredible eating establishments, awe-inspiring architecture, and stunning beaches. On a daily basis, Mumbai welcomes millions of visitors, whether on vacation or for business. Some of the famous places to visit in Mumbai include the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus), Elephanta Caves, Kanheri Caves, Haji Ali Darga, Siddhivinayak Temple, Juhu Beach, Marve Beach, Marine Drive, Chowpatty, Film City, Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya, Babulnath Temple, and Mount Mary Church. Mumbai is also known for its trendy clothing and variety of jewellery.
  2. Nashik- Nashik, the vineyard city of India, is unquestionably one of the best places in the state to visit. The Ramayana connection is what distinguishes the place. After Lord Rama's brother Lakshman snipped Ravana's sister Shoorpankha's nose, the place was given its name.
  3. Lonavala- The city of Lonavala is known as the "city of caves" and the "Jewel of Sahyadri." That's because the hill station is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery, including lush green valleys, incredible caves, tranquil lakes, and breathtaking waterfalls. With their old beams, motifs, and inscriptions, the impressive rock-cut Bhaja and Karla caves in Lonavala have wowed visitors.
  4. Aurangabad- Aurangabad, also known as the City of Gates, is one of Maharashtra's most important historical sites. Aurangabad is a tourist destination in Maharashtra named after the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Many historical monuments surround the city, including the world-famous Ajanta-Ellora Caves, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  5. Mahabaleshwar- Mahabaleshwar is a picturesque hill station nestled among the Sahyadri Hills of the Western Ghats and one of the best places to visit near Mumbai. During the British Era, it was the summer capital, and it is famous for its huge production of berries such as strawberries, mulberries, gooseberries, and raspberries, as well as delicious food and drinks.
  6. Shirdi- Shirdi is a holy pilgrimage site and one of Maharashtra's most prominent tourist destinations. Sai Baba was a divine man who preached love and unity rather than a specific faith. His miracles and teachings are believed by devotees of all religions from all over the world. The spiritual bliss you have experienced is beyond description.
  7. Tadoba- The state's two-decade-old national Tiger reserve is one of the state's oldest national parks. The carefree ways in which animals like lions, sloth bears, Indian leopards, and striped hyenas waltz around the park would astound you.
  8. Alibag- The town's name literally translates to "The Gardens of Ali," and refers to the fruit orchards planted by Ali, an Israelite who lived in the town's early days. Alibaug's beauty stems largely from its numerous beaches, as it is a coastal city. The beaches are also complemented by historical fort ruins and ancient temples that can be found nearby.
  9. Lavasa- The Lavasa Corporation is building this private area, which is known as India's newest hill station. The city is a lovely project that is modelled after the Italian town of Portofino. Lavasa is a natural combination of beauty and infrastructure, spanning seven hills and covering a total area of 25000 acres.
  10. Pune- It is known as the Oxford of the East because of its various educational institutions and tourist attractions. It is one of India's major cities and one of Maharashtra's most popular tourist destinations. Pune is situated at the confluence of two rivers, the Mula and the Mutha, and enjoys a good climate all year.
  11. Khandala- Khandala is a popular tourist destination in Maharashtra, located at the foothills of the Sahyadri mountain range. The famous weekend getaway is renowned for its picturesque scenery, which is known to entice tourists. Lush valleys, misty hills, tranquil lakes, frothy waterfalls, ancient views, perspectives, and more combine to cast a spell that binds everything. People no longer swear by Khandala for no apparent cause.
  12. Ganpatipule- The town is best known for its 400-year-old Lord Ganapati temple, which is the main attraction. Ganesha's idol is thought to be a self-incarnated monolith that was found over 1600 years ago. The Ganesha Temple in Ganpatipule is one of the few temples in the country where the presiding deity is facing west. It is one of the deities and is known as 'Paschim Dwar Devata.'
  13. Nagpur- Nagpur is one of Maharashtra's best tourist destinations, known for its sweet, juicy oranges and numerous tiger reserves. The city is known for its lush greenery, excellent sanitation, excellent transportation, and other amenities. In Nagpur, famous tourist attractions include Deekshabhoomi, Sitabuldi Fort, Futala Lake, Maharaj Bagh Zoo, Gorewada Lake, and Shri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir.
  14. Panchgani- Panchgani, also known as Paachgani, is a famous hill station and municipal council in Maharashtra's Satara district. Panchgani was established as a retirement destination for the British because it was fun all year. The Pandavas are also said to have spent some time in Panchgani and the cave where they stayed in the famous Devil's Kitchen during the Vanavasa time. Table Land, Parsi Point, Kamalgadh Fort, Devil's Kitchen, Rajpuri Caves, Sydney Point, Mapro Gardens, Dhom Dam, and other major tourist attractions in Panchgani include Table Land, Parsi Point, Kamalgadh Fort, Devil's Kitchen, Rajpuri Caves, Sydney Point, Mapro Gardens, Dhom Dam, and others. Panchgani is lined with old bungalows and Parsi houses in the British style. It is also known for its many residential educational institutions and as a popular health resort destination.
  15. Matheran- Matheran is one of Maharashtra's most open hill stations. The drive up is easy, and many people choose to hike all the way up. Check out the Chanderi Caves and Kalavanti Pinnacle, as well as the One Tree Hill point and the Dhodhani waterfall.
  16. Satara- Satara, one of Maharashtra's most popular tourist destinations, is a tranquil city located at the confluence of the Krishna and Venna rivers. Satara is named after the city's seven forts, which include Thoseghar Falls, Lingamala Falls, Ajinkyatara Fort, Natraj Mandir, Mayani Bird Sanctuary, Kaas Plateau, Pratapgarh Fort, Shivsagar Lake, Kaas Lake, Koynanagar Dam, and many others.
  17. Raigad- Raigad district, located in Maharashtra's Konkan belt, is well-known for its historical significance and breathtaking beauty. This district, nestled in the mesmerising Sahyadri ranges, welcomes you with a rare blend of beaches, religious temples, and historic forts. There is no dearth of tranquilly if you are bird watching at the Karnala Bird Sanctuary or visiting historic sites.
  18. Kolhapur- Kolhapur is a wonderful city with a fascinating history and culture. Spices, ethnic jewellery, sarees, and Kolhapuri footwear are also common in Kolhapur. Temples, lakes, forts, a wildlife sanctuary, and museums are all popular attractions in the area. Mahalakshmi Temple, Shri Chhatrapati Shahu Museum, Jyotiba Temple, Rankala Lake, and Siddhagiri Gramjivan Museum are some of the best places to visit in Kolhapur.
     
Cuisine
Maharashtrians have traditionally found their cuisine to be more austere than others. Mild and spicy dishes are served in Maharashtrian cuisine. Dietary staples include wheat, rice, jowar, bajri, tomatoes, lentils, and fruit. Vegetables are often eaten with peanuts and cashews. Maharashtra cuisine is heavily influenced by seafood due to its location on the Arabian Sea, and the cuisine common in the state's interiors is a good blend of traditional and contemporary preparations.
 
Some worth trying dishes are:
  • Puran Poli: Puran Poli is a kind of Indian sweet flatbread that is one of Maharashtra's traditional dishes. It is prepared by stuffing chana, desiccated coconut, jaggery or cane sugar, and nutmeg powder into a wheat flour flatbread. It's usually served at festivals and other large gatherings.
  • Misal: Misal is a specialty dish from Maharashtra, India. The name literally translates to "mixture of all," so the ingredients vary from cook to cook. Curd, pav, moth bean or pea curry, gravy, spiced potatoes, and garnishings such as onions, coriander, and tomatoes are the most popular ingredients in a traditional misal.
  • Pav Bhaji: Pav Bhaji, which originated in Maharashtra's capital city of Mumbai, was originally a quick bite for textile mill employees during lunch break. Its popularity grew to the point that it is now served as street food and in restaurants across India. The Maharashtrian word for vegetables is bhaji, which means bread roll. The vegetables have been mashed and cooked in a gravy. Unique spice blends are available.
  • Tandlachi Bhakri (Rice Rotis): Rice Rotis, also known as Tandlachi Bhakri, are extremely tasty and go well with dals, curries, and sabzis. It is a Maharashtrian specialty that is both balanced and delicious. It's simple to build, and if you want to improve your gol roti skills, give it a shot.
  • Vada Pav: Vada Pav can easily be compared to a burger in India! A tasty, spicy, deep-fried potato patty is sandwiched between two thick slices of bread, much like a burger bun. A spicy blend of spices and salt is sprinkled between the vada (patty) and pav (bread), and a fried, salted green chilli is garnished. It is very cost-effective, filling, and convenient.
  • Gulachi Poli: The Gulachi poli, similar to the Puran Poli, is a heavy meal made particularly for Makar Sankranti in typical Brahmin households. It's stuffed with soft/shredded Jaggery, toasted, ground Til (white sesame seeds), and gramme flour that's been toasted to golden perfection in plenty of pure Ghee. The stuffed roti is fried in pure ghee until crisp on both sides, much like a paratha.
  • Pudachi Vadi: The tastiest evening snack comes from Maharashtra's western regions, and it can re-ignite you after a long day. Pudachi Vadi is made with desiccated coconut, coriander leaves, chilli powder, and other Indian spices. This mixture is then stuffed into a gramme flour outer coating and deep-fried. As a sumptuous evening supper, serve this dish with a hot cup of masala chai.
  • Modak: Modak is a sweet Indian dumpling that is thought to have originated in Maharashtra. Modak is a dish that can be cooked in a number of ways and is known by many different names in India. It's also known as mothagam or kozhukattai in Tamil, modhaka or kadubu in Kannada, or kudumu in Telugu, depending on the region.
  • Pithla: Pithla is a common Maharashtra dish that takes just a few minutes to prepare. It's also known as Jhunka or Zunka. It's a semi-solid paste made mostly of chickpea flour that's sauteed with oil and spices. Pithla is usually eaten with rice or “Bhakri,” a jowar flatbread.
 
FAQ’s

 Located on the southwestern side of the country on the Western Ghats, fondly known as Sahyadris, the state of Maharashtra experiences hot and humid summers. Monsoons are pleasant and make the surroundings lush green. Winters are moderate and travel can be pleasurable. Hence, Monsoons or Winters are the best seasons to visit Maharashtra.

 

 Maharashtra has been blessed with several religious places which are worth a visit. From three Jyotirlingas, namely, Bhimashankar, Grishneshwar and Trimbakeshwar to revered Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Siddhivinayak Temple, Tulja Bhawani Temple, Shani Shignapur Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, Ganpatipule Temple, Haji Ali Dargah, etc. are usually visited by the tourists.

 Maharashtra has been blessed with several religious places which are worth a visit. From three Jyotirlingas, namely, Bhimashankar, Grishneshwar and Trimbakeshwar to revered Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Siddhivinayak Temple, Tulja Bhawani Temple, Shani Shignapur Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, Ganpatipule Temple, Haji Ali Dargah, etc. are usually visited by the tourists.

Maharashtra is overflowing with a variety of brilliant shrines, an amazing collection of caves, golden beaches lined with swaying palm trees, historic locations with deep past links, and a ton of emerald hill stations beneath the canopy of the western ghats. On a trip to Maharashtra, you can see historical works of art, get lost in the crowds, soak up the beautiful colours of its hill station, lose yourself in the raging waves, and see the famous sights of India.

Maharashtra's colourful fairs and festivals capture the essence of its culture, customs, and beliefs. Among the well-known holidays, like Holi, Diwali, Christmas and Eid, other festivals that are celebrated here are: Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival observed in August to honour Lord Ganesh's birth. Ganesh idols that have been exquisitely decorated are placed in homes, and on the last day, the God is carried in a procession while being accompanied by dancing and music before being submerged in surrounding rivers and water bodies. Another well-known event where snakes are honoured is Nag Panchami. Clay snakes are created, and worshippers present the gods with milk or treats. Gudi Padwa is a festival that marks the beginning of the Hindu calendar year. Gods are praised, and neem leaves, gramme pulse, and jaggery are served as prasad. According to the Hindu calendar, Narali Pournima is observed on the full moon day of the Shravan month. At the harvest festival known as Pola, bullocks are revered and honoured.
 

Maharashtra is home to some magnificent hill resorts and trekking destinations that benefit from being surrounded by the stunning Western Ghats Mountain range. From the renowned Raigad Fort trek, Rajmachi Fort Trek, Matheran and Bhimashankar Trek, to Kalsubai Trek, Korigad Fort Trek, Lohagad Trek and Tikona Trek there are several options that one can choose from.

You can experience a wide range of thrilling adventures in Maharashtra. One of the best places in Maharashtra for paragliding is in the neighbouring areas of Kamshet, Panchgani, and Mahabaleshwar. White Water Rafting: The Kundalika River is a great place to go on this experience. Hot Air Balloon ride: In India, the hill town of Lonavala, which is in the state's western region, is well-known for its hot air balloon rides. Wildlife Safaris: Satpura National Park and Tadoba Tiger Reserve are two stunning reserves in Maharashtra. Here, you can observe a wide diversity of species. Camping- Camping amidst verdant landscapes and tranquil sights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The best camping areas in Maharashtra are Kambre and Koyna.


 

The greatest way to grasp how Maharashtra finest exemplifies unity in variety is to visit Mumbai, which is constantly buzzing with activity. Travel to Mumbai to experience the ideal fusion of celebrations, religions, music, food, and theatre. While more traditional destinations like Nasik, Pune, and Shirdi give you a deeper understanding of the distinctive Maharashtrian culture, adventure destinations like Malvan and Tadoba quickly raise your heart rate. Every nook and cranny of this stunning state exudes splendour, from modest hill villages like Lonavala, Panchgani, and Mahabaleshwar to beachfront destinations like Alibaug.

A fascinating variety of flavours, textures, and hues may be found in Maharashtrian food. Maharashtrian cuisine is a delectable fusion of flavours that will tantalise your taste buds, from hot curries to sweet desserts. There are many different things one can sample, from a huge selection of appetisers to delectable curries. The two dishes that govern the world of fast food are Pav Bhaji and Vada Pav. Misal Pav is a hot curry cooked from sprouting beans that is served with a pav and garnished with chopped onions, cilantro, farsan, and a squeeze of lime. Pithla, which is regarded as the classic peasant dinner but has recently become extremely popular among city inhabitants, is another quick but healthy dish. Other well-known Maharashtrian dishes include Poha, Sabudana Vadi, Veg. Bhuna, Veg. Kolhapuri, Mutton Sukka, Puran Poli, Basundi, and Modaks.

Tour Itineraries