Maharashtra is India's second-most populous state and a powerhouse of culture, history, and natural beauty. Home to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, ancient UNESCO World Heritage cave complexes at Ajanta and Ellora, majestic Sahyadri mountain forts, and pristine Konkan coastline beaches, Maharashtra offers an extraordinary diversity of experiences for every type of traveler.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Maharashtra.
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1
Ajanta Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising 30 rock-cut Buddhist monastery caves dating from the 2nd century BC to 480 AD, featuring extraordinary ancient paintings and sculptures. The caves contain some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art and are considered masterpieces of Buddhist religious art.
Tip: Hire a guide at the entrance for deeper understanding · Photography is allowed outside but restricted inside some caves · Visit Tuesday to Sunday to avoid Monday closures
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2
Ellora Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 34 remarkable rock-cut caves representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions, dating from 600-1000 AD. Cave 16, the Kailasa Temple, is the world's largest monolithic rock excavation, carved from a single enormous basalt rock.
Tip: Start with the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) as the centerpiece · Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking · Combine with a same-day visit to Grishneshwar Temple nearby
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3
Gateway of India
Mumbai's most iconic landmark, this 26-meter basalt arch monument was built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. It stands majestically on the waterfront of Mumbai Harbor with a stunning view of the Arabian Sea.
Tip: Early morning visits offer the best photos with fewer crowds · Ferries to Elephanta Caves depart from the nearby jetty · The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel across the road is worth photographing
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4
Elephanta Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbor, featuring magnificent rock-cut cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main cave contains a monumental 6-meter tripartite sculpture of Shiva known as Maheshmurti, considered one of the finest sculptures in Indian art.
Tip: Ferries depart from Gateway of India every 30-60 minutes · Arrive early to beat tour groups · Monkeys on the island can be cheeky; keep snacks in bags
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5
Raigad Fort
The majestic hilltop fortress that served as the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Maratha Empire. Perched at 820 meters above sea level, Raigad offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountains and was the site of Shivaji's coronation in 1674.
Tip: A ropeway (cable car) is available for those who don't want to hike up · Carry water and snacks as facilities are limited at the top · Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds
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6
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
One of India's most visited pilgrimage sites, the Shirdi Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir draws millions of devotees annually to pay tribute to the revered saint Sai Baba, who is venerated by both Hindus and Muslims. The complex is remarkably well-organized for such a massive influx of pilgrims.
Tip: Arrive very early for Kakad Aarti to see morning rituals · Dress modestly and cover your head · Book Prasadam meals at the temple canteen for an authentic experience
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7
Sinhagad Fort
A historic hill fortress located 30 km southwest of Pune, famous for the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670 where Maratha commander Tanaji Malusare died recapturing it from the Mughals. The fort sits at 1,312 meters and offers stunning panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountains.
Tip: A jeep service runs from the base to save energy for exploring · The local pitla-bhakar (chickpea curry) at the top is a must-try · Best visited during monsoon season for stunning greenery
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8
Mahabaleshwar
Maharashtra's most popular hill station, located at 1,372 meters in the Sahyadri mountains and offering spectacular views, fresh strawberries, and multiple viewpoints. The misty plateaus and lush green valleys are particularly beautiful during and just after the monsoon season.
Tip: Visit Arthur's Seat for the best valley views · Try fresh strawberries and cream at local stalls · Stay overnight to experience misty morning views
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9
Lonavala
A charming hill station between Mumbai and Pune at 622 meters elevation, famous for its chikki (traditional sweet), lush green valleys, and easy access to ancient Buddhist caves. Bhushi Dam, Tiger's Leap viewpoint, and Karla Caves are key highlights just minutes apart.
Tip: Karla Caves (nearby) are among the best-preserved Buddhist rock-cut caves in India · Buy chikki (local sweet) for gifts; Maganlal Chikki is the most famous brand · Visit during weekdays to avoid the Mumbai/Pune weekend crowds
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10
Aga Khan Palace, Pune
A magnificent palace built in 1892 by Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III, the palace holds great historical significance as the site where Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi, and his secretary Mahadev Desai were imprisoned by the British during the Quit India Movement in 1942.
Tip: The samadhi (memorial) of Kasturba Gandhi is within the grounds · Photography is allowed in the gardens but restricted inside · Combine with a visit to Pune's Shaniwar Wada fort
Attractions by category
Explore by your interests.
Landmarks
Gateway of India
Mumbai's iconic waterfront arch monument, built in 1924
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
UNESCO-listed Victorian Gothic railway station in Mumbai
Marine Drive
Mumbai's famous seafront promenade, known as the Queen's Necklace
Haji Ali Dargah
Indo-Islamic mosque and dargah on a tidal islet in Mumbai's Arabian Sea
Museums
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Mumbai's premier museum with art, natural history, and artifacts
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Pune
Private museum with 20,000 objects reflecting daily Indian life
Dr. Ambedkar Museum, Pune
Museum dedicated to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Dalit history
Aurangabad Museum
Archaeological museum with sculptures from Ellora and Ajanta
Nature
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
Maharashtra's premier tiger reserve in Chandrapur
Kaas Plateau
UNESCO-listed wildflower plateau in Satara, blooming September-October
Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
Western Ghats sanctuary and source of the Bhima River
Pench National Park
Kipling's inspiration for The Jungle Book, in eastern Maharashtra
Cultural
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
Major pilgrimage center in Ahmednagar district
Pandharpur Vitthal Temple
Sacred Varkari pilgrimage site on the Bhima River
Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga
One of India's 12 sacred Shiva shrines, near Nashik
Pune Festival Grounds
Site of the spectacular 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations
Practical information
What you need to know before you go.
- Hours
- Most attractions open 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM; religious sites often open from 5:00 AM
- Fees
- Cave sites (Ajanta, Ellora, Elephanta): INR 40-600 depending on nationality
- Best Times
- Early morning to beat crowds and heat; October to March for most sites
- Booking
- Tadoba safaris and Kaas Plateau entry must be booked online in advance
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Carry cash as many sites don't accept digital payments
Dress modestly for religious sites; carry a dupatta or scarf for head covering
Hire MTDC (Maharashtra Tourism) certified guides for historical sites
Avoid visiting popular spots on weekends and Maharashtra public holidays
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) runs official audio guides at major sites
Frequently asked questions
When is the best season to visit attractions in Maharashtra?
October to March for pleasant weather and clear skies; September-October for Kaas wildflowers
Are guided tours available for Maharashtra's attractions?
Available at major sites; MTDC guides charge INR 300-600 for half-day tours
Can I take photos at attractions in Maharashtra?
Allowed at most attractions; restricted inside Ajanta cave interiors and some temples
How much time do I need for Maharashtra's main attractions?
Plan 7-10 days to see key highlights including Mumbai, Pune, and Aurangabad