Enthusing Activities You Can’t Miss in Maharashtra
Maharashtra is a vibrant and diverse state on India’s western coast, primarily famous for its capital city Mumbai. Also known as the city that never sleeps, there are so many rising stars in Mumbai, who flock to the city to fulfill their dream career in Bollywood. However, apart from this bustling city, there is a lot more that Maharashtra can offer to its visitors. From ancient forts to serene beaches and verdant forests to lush hill stations, Maharashtra is full of places and experiences that captivate the senses. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, history buff, adventure seeker, or culture lover, this state has something gift-wrapped for everyone.
Imagine trekking through the Western Ghats’ misty mountains, exploring ancient cave temples carved centuries ago, or savouring spicy local delicacies in a lively market. Maharashtra’s mix of modern and traditional, urban and rural, creates a unique landscape where heritage meets contemporary energy. The thrilling wildlife safaris in Tadoba, Pench, Nagzira, etc., beautiful coastal getaways, and lively festivals add to the richness of the experience. Not to be missed are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, where history comes alive in magnificent rock carvings.
Let’s dive into the enthralling activities that cannot be missed at any cost while in Maharashtra.
Trekking in the Western Ghats - Maharashtra boasts breathtaking landscapes, especially within the UNESCO-listed Western Ghats. For trekking enthusiasts, the Sahyadri mountain range offers thrilling trails that reveal stunning vistas of green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. Among the top trekking spots are Harishchandragad, the scenic Andharban Trek, and Kalsubai Peak - the highest point in Maharashtra. These trails present an unforgettable adventure, inviting nature lovers to immerse themselves in the state’s captivating natural beauty.
Asia’s Sole Automobile Free Hill Station, Matheran - Matheran, meaning "forest on the forehead," is a distinctive eco-sensitive region recognized by the Ministry of Environment and Forests of India. As Asia’s only hill station without automobiles, Matheran provides a peaceful, pollution-free retreat where visitors travel exclusively by horseback or hand-pulled rickshaws. Known for its remarkable viewpoints, Matheran offers stunning, panoramic scenes from spots like Panorama Point, Echo Point, and Louisa Point. These vantage points reveal breathtaking landscapes of surrounding valleys, lush forests, and distant hills. Watching the sunrise or sunset from these spots is an unforgettable experience, showcasing the natural beauty of this charming hill station.
Wildlife Safari in Tadoba National Park - Maharashtra houses several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, but Tadoba deserves a special mention above all. When it comes to the top national parks in India, Tadoba is listed as one among them. Sprawled over a huge area of 623 sq km, Tadoba houses a remarkable tiger population, which is the star attraction f any wildlife destination. This is the reason, Tadoba safari tickets are in high demand, almost throughout the year. Even in the monsoon season, when other national parks are closed due to heavy rain, the buffer zones of Tadoba continue with their safari activities. Jeep and canter safaris in Tadoba National Park take tourists and wildlife enthusiasts deep inside the forest through various zones. Safaris are only allowed in morning and late afternoon shifts and the time slots vary between different seasons, as regulated by the forest department.
Fly High with Paragliding in Kamshet - Kamshet is a popular spot for paragliding in Maharashtra and one of the top destinations for this adventure in India. Nestled close to Lonavala, Kamshet is a haven for paragliders, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Sahyadri hills and the tranquil Pawna Lake below. With skilled instructors and ideal wind conditions, Kamshet provides safe and thrilling tandem paragliding experiences, making it suitable for both beginners and skilled flyers.
Explore the Ajanta and Ellora Caves - Aurangabad, situated on Maharashtra's Deccan Plateau, is renowned for its rich historical heritage, featuring landmarks such as Bibi Ka Maqbara and the Daulatabad Fort. Most notably, it is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Though often mentioned together, these are distinct sites located over 100 km apart. Ajanta houses 29 Buddhist caves, dating from the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE, showcasing stunning artwork. In contrast, Ellora is a complex of 34 caves representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain faiths, with structures built between the 6th and 11th centuries CE.
Visit the Land of Warli Paintings - Located in Maharashtra's Palghar district, Jawhar is often called the "mini" or "second" Mahabaleshwar of the state. This charming destination captivates visitors with its scenic views of the Ghats and a deep-rooted cultural heritage. As one of the rare tribal kingdoms in Maharashtra, Jawhar is especially renowned for its iconic Warli paintings, which have become a distinctive symbol of the area’s artistic legacy.