Select Country
One of India’s most populous states and a cradle to rich Indian history and culture, Maharashtra holds great appeal for travel enthusiasts, a state which blends bustling urbanization with long-preserved heritage. The abundance of historical places in Maharashtra makes it a treat for serious travelers and explorers.
With Mumbai being the kernel of youthful dreams, Pune an educational hub and other cities like Aurangabad and Nashik upholding rich Indian history and tradition, Maharashtra is a treasure trove which you’re bound to fall in love with!
For the essential growth of a community, its history plays a crucial role. Maharashtra has harbored some legendary and royal figures of Indian history and to take a tour around some of its famous landmarks is an inescapable adventure. You will naturally give in to your strong yearning to discover these historical sites with their arcane ambience.
The list is long, and quite obviously, it’s not possible for you to visit each and every heritage site in Maharashtra in a single trip. However, here are some of the attractions worth considering.
The colossal forts and castles of ancient kings are one of the topmost attractions while visiting historical places in Maharashtra. The architecture of these forts goes back to craftsmanship in ancient times. Here are some of the best forts of Maharashtra-
A hill fort in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, this was captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and he made the fort his capital. The Maha Darwaja and the famous wall named Hirakani Buruj are two principal attractions of this fort.
Also known as Valour Fort, this fort is located in the Satara district of Maharashtra and is famous for the Battle of Pratapgad.
Located in the Raigad district, its position on an oval-shaped rock off the Arabian Sea coast fascinates visitors immensely. The three enormous cannons, famous for their shooting range and the secret gates are also big draws.
Ancient Indian caves are as enticing as labyrinths. You never know what you’re going to come across next! The parietal art in the form of paintings on the cave walls or ceilings are like cultural treasures that tell you about your predecessors. These are the famous caves of Maharashtra you just cannot miss visiting:
Located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, these caves are one of the most renowned caves of India, comprising of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments, exhibiting the finest sculptures and paintings related to Buddhism.
Situated on the Elephanta Island of Mumbai Harbour, it is a fascinating compilation of sculptures and temples, predominantly related to Lord Shiva. There are also some Buddhist caves containing stupas and water tanks.
These caves are also a collection of rock-cut monuments located in the forests of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Kanheri Caves preserves ancient Buddhist sculptures, inscriptions, paintings and carvings, denoting the influence of Buddhism on ancient India.
Indian heritage is a blend of native Indian art and culture with a tinge of socio-cultural influences from other communities. The historical Places and heritage sites in Maharashtra vary from being predominantly Indian, Buddhist and Mughal to being essentially British or Christian.
Situated in Mumbai, this arch monument is one of India’s prime and unique landmarks. Built in the 20th century, this site holds immense historical importance and is probably one of the most visited heritage sites in India. Its colossal structure along with its positioning by the Arabian Sea is of huge attraction to the tourists.
Its grand structure and regal architecture are unparalleled. A railway station holding such a historic essence just cannot go unnoticed when talking about the heritage sites of Maharashtra. Located in the heart of Maharashtra at Mumbai, this railway station has retained its splendour in spite of being one of the busiest railway stations in India.
If you’re looking for an exotic tinge in Maharashtra, nothing can be better than this collection of chateaus built in the imitation of the 19th- century Victorian Neo-Gothic style and architectural patterns of 20th century Art Deco. The Victorian Gothic styled buildings include the Bombay High Court, the University of Mumbai and the City Civil and Sessions Court.
Don’t limit yourself to history, remember to have some fun too!
So, if you’re in Maharashtra and you haven’t yet explored the shopping malls, what are you even waiting for? Phoenix Market City and High Street Phoenix malls in Mumbai and the Royal Heritage Mall in Pune are some of the best places where you can explore a huge collection of clothing, accessories, shoes and what not!
You can also feast on lip-smacking food at these shopping malls. If you’re looking for items at bargain prices, try the Lokhandwala Flea Market, Crawford Market and Chor Bazaar in Mumbai.
To make your trip a little more adventurous, you must visit at least one or two amusement parks in and around Mumbai. Essel World in Mumbai is India’s largest amusement theme park and will give you an adrenaline rush with its thrilling rides. The Imagica Theme Park in Lonavala is another hot favourite during summers.
Please go back to portrait mode for the best experience
April 15, 2024 
