Maharashtra, India Travel Guide

Discover Maharashtra: A vibrant state in India offering a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore Mumbai, Pune, ancient caves, and scenic hill stations.

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Maharashtra, located in the western peninsular region of India, is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling metropolis of Mumbai to the serene beaches of Konkan, Maharashtra offers a wide array of experiences for every kind of traveler. The state is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the majestic Ajanta and Ellora Caves, which are renowned for their ancient rock-cut architecture and exquisite murals. The city of Pune, often referred to as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, is a hub for arts, music, and education. Here, you can explore historic landmarks such as the Shaniwar Wada and Aga Khan Palace. For nature enthusiasts, the hill stations of Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar offer breathtaking landscapes and pleasant weather. The Sahyadri mountain range is perfect for trekking and adventure sports. Maharashtra's culinary scene is equally diverse, ranging from spicy street food in Mumbai to traditional Maharashtrian thalis in rural areas. The state's rich festivals, such as Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali, are celebrated with great fervor, offering tourists a chance to immerse themselves in local traditions. With its blend of urban sophistication and rural charm, Maharashtra promises an unforgettable journey through India's heartland.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Maharashtra.

Visit early morning to Ajanta and Ellora Caves to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Use Mumbai's local trains during non-peak hours for a quick and authentic travel experience.
Try local dishes like Vada Pav and Misal Pav at street food stalls for an authentic taste of Maharashtra.
Carry a light jacket when visiting hill stations as temperatures can drop unexpectedly.
Hire a local guide at heritage sites for deeper insights into the history and significance of the places.

Top City Travel Guides in Maharashtra

The cities of Maharashtra, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Mumbai

Goa

Udaipur

Ahmedabad

Pune

Destinations in Maharashtra

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Goa Beaches

Hampi

Mahabaleshwar

Gokarna

Tarkarli

Explore Maharashtra: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Maharashtra

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Gateway Of India Mumbai

Discover the historical richness and stunning views at the Gateway of India, Mumbai’s iconic landmark overlooking the Arabian Sea.

4.6

Sinhagad Fort

Discover the historical splendor and breathtaking views of Sinhagad Fort, a must-visit landmark in Maharashtra's scenic Sahyadri mountains.

4.6

Elephanta Caves

Explore the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing ancient rock-cut sculptures and rich Indian heritage off Mumbai's coast.

4.3

Ajanta Caves

Discover the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring breathtaking rock-cut architecture and ancient Buddhist art in Maharashtra, India.

4.6

Best landmarks in Maharashtra

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Gateway Of India Mumbai

Explore the majestic Gateway of India, a historic monument in Mumbai that symbolizes India's rich heritage and stunning coastal views.

4.6

Sinhagad Fort

Discover the historical marvel of Sinhagad Fort, where adventure meets rich Indian heritage amid breathtaking landscapes.

4.6

Ellora Caves

Explore the breathtaking Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where ancient rock-cut artistry meets spiritual heritage in Maharashtra, India.

4.7

BIBI KA MAQBARA , Aurangabad.

Discover the architectural splendor of Bibi Ka Maqbara, a stunning mausoleum in Aurangabad, reflecting the rich Mughal legacy and timeless beauty.

4.2

Best restaurants in Maharashtra

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Hotel Ashoka

Experience the rich flavors of South Indian cuisine at Hotel Ashoka – where every dish tells a story.

4.1

Hitchki Nagpur

Experience the fusion of traditional Indian flavors and contemporary dining at Hitchki Nagpur – where every meal is a celebration.

4.7

Gallops Restaurant

Experience exquisite fine dining at Gallops Restaurant in Mahalaxmi Racecourse - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views.

4.5

Great Sagar Restaurant

Discover Great Sagar Restaurant: A Culinary Delight Offering Authentic Indian Flavors in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

4.1

Best bars in Maharashtra

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Rude Lounge

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Rude Lounge in Powai, Mumbai, where exquisite cuisine meets lively nightlife in a modern setting.

4.2

Bombay Cocktail Bar

Experience Mumbai's vibrant nightlife at Bombay Cocktail Bar, where innovative cocktails and delectable cuisine come together in a chic lounge atmosphere.

4.2

Lord of the Drinks Worli

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Mumbai at Lord of the Drinks Worli, a trendy lounge offering exquisite cocktails and delectable dishes.

4.4

The Barkhana

Experience a delightful blend of continental cuisine and unique cocktails at The Barkhana, the must-visit restaurant in Pimpri-Chinchwad.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Maharashtra

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Employee's Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Employee's Club in Bense, Maharashtra - a budget-friendly night club with thrilling music and an energetic atmosphere.

3.8

Friend Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Friend Club, Parbhani's premier night club, where music, drinks, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

5.0

Ultra Miami

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Nagpur at Ultra Miami, a lively club featuring live music, dance, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

5.0

Best shops in Maharashtra

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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Phoenix Palladium

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Phoenix Palladium, Mumbai's luxury mall featuring top brands, dining, and entertainment.

4.5

Lifestyle Stores

Explore Lifestyle Stores in Pune for an unforgettable shopping experience featuring trendy clothing, unique gifts, and beauty essentials.

4.2

The Bombay Store - P.M. Road, Fort, Mumbai

Explore the essence of Indian craftsmanship at The Bombay Store, a premier gift shop in Mumbai offering unique souvenirs and handicrafts.

4.4

Satguru's - Indian Art & Home Decor Store Khar

Explore the vibrant world of Indian art and home decor at Satguru's in Khar, Mumbai, where every piece tells a unique story.

4.3

Explore Maharashtra on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Maharashtra, mapped for you.

Maharashtra Essentials

Maharashtra is well connected to major cities in India and internationally. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai is the primary gateway for international travelers. Pune Airport also handles some international and domestic flights. For domestic travel, Maharashtra is accessible by air, rail, and road. Major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and Nashik are well connected by Indian Railways. Buses and private vehicles can be used to travel to various parts of the state.
Within Maharashtra, transportation options include local trains, buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based ride services like Uber and Ola. Mumbai has an extensive suburban railway network, while Pune and Nagpur have metro systems. State Transport (ST) buses and private buses connect various cities and towns. Renting a car is also an option for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.
The official currency in Maharashtra (and India) is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to rural areas. ATMs are readily available in urban areas. Mobile payment methods like Google Pay, Paytm, and BHIM UPI are also commonly used.
Maharashtra is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to stay vigilant. High-crime areas particularly targeting tourists include certain parts of Mumbai like Dharavi and some isolated beaches. Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places like markets and train stations.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Major cities have well-equipped hospitals and medical services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Police stations are available throughout the state, and pharmacies can be found in most towns and cities for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering temples and cover your head when visiting certain religious sites. Public Transport: Do be mindful of your surroundings and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' or a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Maharashtra like a local, visit local markets such as Crawford Market in Mumbai or Tulshibaug in Pune for fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the state's culture and history. Don't miss visiting historical sites like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For a unique experience, take a ride on Mumbai's local trains during off-peak hours to see the city from a different perspective.

When is the best time to visit Maharashtra?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Maharashtra

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Maharashtra. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloनमस्कार
  [Namaskār]
- Goodbyeअलविदा
  [Alvida]
- Yesहोय
  [Hoy]
- Noनाही
  [Nāhī]
- Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [Kr̥payā]
- Thank youधन्यवाद
  [Dhan'yavād]
- Excuse me/Sorryक्षमस्व
  [Kṣamasva]
- How are you?तू कसा आहेस?
  [Tū kasā āhes?]
- Fine. And you?बरे. आणि तु?
  [Bare. Āṇi tu?]
- Do you speak English?तुला इंग्रजी येतं का?
  [Tulā iṅgrajī yetāṁ kā?]
- I don't understandमाझं समजत नाही
  [Mājha samajat nāhī]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेन्यू दाखवा
  [Kr̥payā men'yū dākhvā]
- I don't eat meatमी मांस खात नाही
  [Mī mānsa khāt nāhī]
- Cheers!चियर्स!
  [Chiyars!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मला पैसे द्या
  [Kr̥payā malā paisē dyā]
- Help!मदत करा!
  [Madat karā!]
- Go away!दूर जाऊन जा!
  [Dūr jāūn jā!]
- Call the Police!पोलीसांना बोलवा!
  [Polīsānna bōlvā!]
- Call a doctor!डॉक्टरांना बोलवा!
  [Ḍŏkṭarānna bōlvā!]
- I'm lostमी हरवले आहे
  [Mī haravalē āhe]
- I'm illमी आजारी आहे
  [Mī ājārī āhe]
- I'd like to buy...माझं खरेदी करायचं आहे...
  [Mājha kharedī karāycha āhe...]
- I'm just lookingमी फक्त पाहतोय
  [Mī phakta pāhato'y]
- How much is it?हे किती आहे?
  [He kitī āhe?]
- That's too expensiveहे खूप महाग आहे
  [He khūp mahāg āhe]
- Can you lower the price?किंमत कमी करू शकता का?
  [Kīmt kamī karū śakatā kā?]
- What time is it?सध्या किती वाजले आहेत?
  [Sadhyā kitī vājalē āhet?]
- It's one o'clockएक वाजले आहे
  [Ek vājalē āhe]
- Half past (10)साडे (10)
  [Sāḍē (10)]
- Morningसकाळ
  [Sakāḷ]
- Afternoonदुपार
  [Dupār]
- Eveningसंध्याकाळ
  [Sandhyākāḷ]
- Yesterdayकाल
  [Kāl]
- Todayआज
  [Āj]
- Tomorrowउद्या
  [Udyā]
- 1१
  [1]
- 2२
  [2]
- 3३
  [3]
- 4४
  [4]
- 5५
  [5]
- 6६
  [6]
- 7७
  [7]
- 8८
  [8]
- 9९
  [9]
- 10१०
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?एक/ते ... कुठे आहे?
  [Ek/te ... kuṭhe āhe?]
- What's the address?पत्ता काय आहे?
  [Pattā kāy āhe?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?तू मला दाखवू शकतोस का (नकाशावर)?
  [Tū malā dākhavū śakatōs kā (nakāśāvara)?]
- When's the next (bus)?पुढील (बस) कधी आहे?
  [Puḍhīl (bas) kadhī āhe?]
- A ticket (to ....)एक तिकीट (....साठी)
  [Ek tikīṭ (....sāṭhī)]

History of Maharashtra

The Maratha Empire, founded in the 17th century, marked a significant period in Maharashtra's history. Under the leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Marathas established a strong and resilient kingdom that challenged the Mughal Empire. Shivaji's innovative military tactics and fortifications, such as Raigad and Pratapgad forts, played a crucial role in the empire's expansion. This era is celebrated for its emphasis on Swarajya (self-rule) and the valor of the Maratha warriors.
Following Shivaji's legacy, the Peshwas became the de facto leaders of the Maratha Empire in the 18th century. The Peshwas, originating from Pune, expanded the empire further, reaching its zenith under Balaji Vishwanath and his descendants. This period also saw the establishment of Pune as a cultural and political hub. The Peshwas' administrative acumen and military prowess enabled them to dominate large parts of India, leaving a lasting impact on the subcontinent's history.
The 19th century saw the decline of the Maratha Empire and the advent of British colonial rule. The Anglo-Maratha Wars culminated in the defeat of the Marathas, leading to the incorporation of Maharashtra into the British Raj. The British introduced new administrative, educational, and infrastructural reforms, which had a profound impact on Maharashtra's socio-economic landscape. Cities like Mumbai (then Bombay) and Pune became significant centers of commerce, education, and social reform during this period.
The mid-20th century was marked by the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, which sought the creation of a separate Marathi-speaking state. The movement gained momentum with widespread support from the local populace and prominent leaders. On May 1, 1960, Maharashtra was officially formed as a state with Mumbai as its capital. This event is celebrated annually as Maharashtra Day, symbolizing the linguistic and cultural pride of the Marathi people.
Maharashtra boasts a rich cultural and religious heritage, reflected in its festivals, art, and architecture. The state is home to numerous ancient temples, such as the iconic Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, the Ashtavinayak temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Makar Sankranti are celebrated with great fervor, showcasing the region's vibrant traditions and communal harmony.
In contemporary times, Maharashtra has emerged as one of India's most economically and industrially advanced states. Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is a bustling metropolis known for its thriving film industry, Bollywood. Pune, often referred to as the 'Oxford of the East,' is a major center for education and research. The state's diverse landscape, ranging from the Western Ghats to the Konkan coast, continues to attract tourists from around the world, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.