First on our list is one of the popular tourist attractions in India which resembles an Elephant’s head; thus, the name. Other famous names of this attraction are “Needle Point” and “Elphinstone Point.” The jaw-dropping views from the top of the Pratapgarh Fort and Savitri Valley would enamor you. When you visit this location on your trip, make sure to reach here during sunrise or sunset as the views are absolutely breathtaking during that time. During monsoons, the lush greenery of this place enhances the experience even more, so do add this location to your list of places to visit in Mahabaleshwar.

Best time to visit: July to September

Timings: 9 A.M to 6 P.M

Distance from nearest airport: Approx. 135 km from Pune Airport

Distance from nearest railway station: Approx. 69 km from Wathar Station

Nearby attractions: Sydney Point, Mapro Garden, Pratapgarh Fort, Parsi Point

How to reach: You can reach the parking of this attraction via car and then trek for around 1 km to reach the top

2. Chinaman’s Falls: The Exquisitely Gorgeous Waterfall

This waterfall is among the most scenic waterfalls in this hill station and was named after a Chinese who looked after this attraction in the past. The highlight of this waterfall is that it’s made from the merging of 2 different streams, so the force with which they fall creates a thunderous sound. The Chinaman’s Falls cascade down from the pinnacle of Venna Valley and it’s a sight to behold. The verdant greenery around this place is also a factor in the alluring beauty of this attraction, making it one of the famous places to visit in Mahabaleshwar. A picnic in the vicinity of this waterfall sounds perfect. Places like these are what make this hill station a romantic destination for honeymoon in India.

Best time to visit: July to September

Timings: 6 A.M to 6 P.M

Distance from nearest airport: Approx. 131 km from Pune Airport

Distance from nearest railway station: Approx. 65 km from Wathar Station

Nearby attractions: Koyna Valley, Babington Point, Morarji Castle, Wilson Point

How to reach: You can take a bus to the waterfall or travel via cab or taxi

3. Tapola: Take a Tour to the Mini Kashmir of India

Tapola, or famously known as Mini Kashmir, is a village in Mahabaleshwar that is famous for its dense forests. The natural beauty here is astounding and offers a nature retreat for those looking to relax away from the bustling city life. You can indulge in trekking, kayaking, paragliding, and much more. It’s ideal for those looking for some peaceful downtime and also for the adventure junkies looking for some thrill. There’s a lot to explore here, such as the Shivsagar Lake, Eco Agro Tourism, Vaisota and Jaigad Forts, and many more such attractions. The pastoral aesthetic and the dense forests add a mystical element to this entire village, which is worth exploring.

Best time to visit: October to March

Distance from nearest airport: Approx. 130 km from Pune Airport

Distance from nearest railway station: Approx. 88 km from Wathar Station

Nearby attractions: Shivsagar Lake, Vasota and Jaigad Forts, Kas Pathar, Tapola Lake

How to reach: Hire a cab or drive to Araam Chowk in Mahabaleshwar and then travel down the hill to this village

4. Venna Lake: A Bewitching Trip to the Lake

Venna Lake is one of the best places to visit in Mahabaleshwar for couples because of the scenic beauty and panoramic vistas of greenery it offers. This manmade lake was earlier used to cater to the city’s water needs but has now become a tourist attraction with a few pilgrimage sites submerged in it as well. There’s also a garden on its banks, Chhatrapati Pratapsinh, where you can stroll around and admire the beauty of the surroundings. Boating in this lake is among the most famous things to do in Mahabaleshwar, so don’t miss out on that. Simply relaxing by the lakeside is also an excellent way to spend quality time with your loved ones.

Best time to visit: March to June

Timings: 8 A.M to 8 P.M

Distance from nearest airport: Approx. 131 km from Pune Airport

Distance from nearest railway station: Approx. 66 km from Wathar Station

Nearby attractions: Krishnabai Temple, Lingmala Waterfall, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Wilson Point

How to reach: You can either take a bus to ST Bus Stand or hire a cab or taxi to reach there

5. Mahabaleshwar Temple: Witness the Glory of the Maratha Heritage

Mahabaleshwar Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a testimony of the Maratha’s heritage. People from all over the world visit this temple to seek the blessings of the Lord and to marvel at the magnificent architecture. It’s among the spiritual things to do in India. There’s a five feet wall protecting the temple, which is divided into two sections: the inner part and the outer part. The inner part, which is the sanctum sanctorum is where the main deity resides and the outer part houses the things close to Lord Shiva, such as his damru, trishul, carvings of his beloved bull and Kalbhairav, his bodyguard. However, the primary attraction here is the 6 ft long shiva lingam, whose tip is the only thing visible to the tourists. So, soak in the serene and spiritual vibes of this place during your vacation.

Best time to visit: October to November

Timings: 5 A.M to 12 P.M and 4 P.M to 9 P.M

Distance from nearest airport: Approx. 130 km from Pune Airport

Distance from nearest railway station: Approx. 65 km from Wathar Station

Nearby attractions: Elphinstone Point, Pratapgad Fort, Lodwich Point, Mapro Garden

How to reach: You can reach here via a cab or taxi. Driving there on your own is also convenient

6. Lingmala Falls: Experience a Relaxing State of Mind

You’re in for an absolutely breathtaking view of this sparkling waterfall, which offers a sight of the Dhobi Waterfall and the Chinaman’s Waterfall. The water cascades down a height of 500 ft with gushing sounds that is the only sound in the tranquil and peaceful environment. Don’t get confused by the two waterfalls here. One is the mini waterfall, while the other is the main one. Watching this sight of milky white water falling would transport you into a trance-like state. It’s the perfect location for enjoying a picnic and for clicking aesthetic pictures. So, if you’re looking for places to visit in Maharashtra where you can experience such serenity, then visit this attraction.

Best time to visit: July to December

Timings: 8 A.M to 4:30 P.M

Distance from nearest airport: Approx. 123 km from Pune Airport

Distance from nearest railway station: Approx. 62 km from Wathar Station

Nearby attractions: Vintage Miles Motorcycle Museum, Wilson Point, Kate’s Point, Krishnabai Temple

How to reach: You can take a bus to Mahabaleshwar Bus Stand and then reach your destination or go via car to the waterfall

7. Mapro Garden: Delve into the Strawberry Plantations

Mapro Garden is among the best places to visit in Mahabaleshwar in one day because of the lush strawberry plantations here. Mapro is a famous brand for jams, preserves, squashes, marmalades, and much more. There’s a chocolate factory, small nursery, restaurant, and a play area for children, so you can rest assured that your day here will be a fulfilling one. You can even buy the Mapro products from the retail outlet here for an enriching experience. If you want a more immersive experience, then visit this place during the Easter Weekend in March/April when the strawberry festival is held. Farmers from nearby villages display their strawberry products to the tourists and even distribute them for free.

Best time to visit: December to February

Timings:

Weekdays – 8 A.M to 8:30 P.M

Weekends – 8 A.M to 9 P.M

Distance from nearest airport: Approx. 118 km from Pune Airport

Distance from nearest railway station: Approx. 57 km from Wathar Station

Nearby attractions: Gureghar Nature Trail, Kate’s Hill Point, Lingmala Waterfall, Krishnabai Temple

How to reach: You can take a bus to the Panchgani Bus Stop and then take a cab to the garden or directly take a cab or taxi

8. Tiger Spring: A Treat to the Eyes

Tiger Spring is one of the most gorgeous natural beauties of Mahabaleshwar, which is a small stream that provides water the entire year. This thermal spring near River Savitri is believed to have healing properties and spiritual powers. Therefore, people take a dip in the shallow waters here to cure their ailments. In addition to this, the glorious view from the top of the serene Venna Lake and the surrounding hills is a sight to behold. It’s one of the Mahabaleshwar places to visit in winter to relax and unwind here as you enjoy the most perfect view of greenery and clear blue skies.

Best time to visit: October to June

Timings: 7 A.M to 6 P.M

Distance from nearest airport: Approx. 12 km from Pune Airport

Distance from nearest railway station: Approx. 42 km from Wathar Station

Nearby attractions: Arthur’s Seat, Monkey Point, Krishnabai Temple, Elephant’s Head Point

How to reach: You can take a cab or taxi to the base of this point and then trek to the top

9. Bhimashankar at Pune in Maharashtra: Where Ardhanareshwar Killed Tripurasur

Nestled amidst the mesmerizing beauty of nature, lush green forests and captivating beauty, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra. Situated about 125 KM from Pune, Bhimashankar is located in the small village of Bhorgiri in the Ghat region of the Sahyadri Mountains. The temple was built around 13th century and depicts the touch of Maratha Empire, who later renovated the temple and added shikhara (spires). Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj also use to visit here to worship Lord Shiva. According to the Shiva Purana, there was a demon named Tripurasur and He did austerity to please Lord Shiva and asked for a boon to be immortal. Shiva granted him that on a condition that he will help the poor and the needy and follow the path of goodness. He followed that for some time but later he began to harass humans, animals and even Gods. Afterwards, everyone prayed to Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Both of them took the Ardhanareshwar appearance and saved the world by killing Tripurasur.

Things to do: 

• Participate in religious activities
• Go for trekking
• Do meditation
• Explore the wildlife sanctuary

Ideal Duration to Visit Bhimashankar Temple: 1 to 2 days

Other Attractions: Trimbakeshwar Temple, Khandala Lonavala

Distance Between Bhimashankar Temple and Trimbakeshwar Temple: 216 KM

Nearest Airport to Bhimashankar Temple: Pune Airport which is two and a half hours away from the main temple

How to reach: 

• By Air: The nearest airport to Bhimashankara Temple is Pune International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimashankar, which is approximately 115 kilometers away. The journey by road takes around 3-4 hours.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Bhimashankar is Pune Junction. From Pune, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimashankar. The distance between Pune and Bhimashankar is approximately 110 kilometers, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours by road.
• By Road: Bhimashankar is well-connected by road, and there are regular bus services from Pune and other nearby cities. You can also drive your own vehicle or hire a taxi to reach Bhimashankar.

Closest Hotels to Bhimashankar Temple, Maharashtra:

• Blue Mormon Jungle Holiday Resort
• Karjat Villa
• SaffronStays Sanvina Farm
• The Temple View Hotel

10. Trimbakeshwar at Nashik in Maharashtra: The Only Jyotirlinga with Three Faces

Located in Trimbak, which is about 28 Km from Nashik, Maharashtra, Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga is situated amidst scenic mountains and lush greenery.  The temple is situated between Brahmagiri, Nilagiri and Kalagiri hills and nearby the temple, Godavari River flows. Initially, the temple was built by the Pandavas and was later renovated by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao in the mid-18th century. The divine temple got its name from the three faced Shivalingam- honoring Bhrama, Vishnu and Mahesh (Shiva). The temple also has a well called Amritavarshini and a sacred pond.

The ancient story of Trimbakeshwar is related to Saint Gautama who used to live in Brahmagiri hills along with his wife, Ahalya. He was a devoted saint and was blessed by God with abundant foodgrains and rainfall even during the famine. He used to feed all the saints and locals who used to come to his ashram. Once Indra was jealous of him and sent a cow to his fields who started destroying the crops. The rishi started to stop her, but she did not listen. As he tried to send her out, the cow died. He was in guilt and thus he prayed to Shiva to forgive him and free him from the sins and Pleased by his prayers, the supreme deity appeared and flowed Ganga (now in form of Godavari) into his ashram and liberated him from the sins and he manifested himself here in form of a Jyotirligam and According to the Purans, those who worship Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga get freed from the sins and get blessings of all three Gods- Bhrama, Vishnu and Mahesh. This is the only Jyotirlinga with the powers of three Gods. The famous Kumbh Mela occurs here once every 12 years, making it one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra.

Location of Trimbakeshwar Temple, Nashik: 3PQ5+W8V, Siwaya-Jamalullapur, Uttar Pradesh 250110

Timings of Trimbakeshwar Temple, Nashik: 4:30 AM to 8 PM

Best Time to Visit Trimbakeshwar Temple, Nashik: Oct to March

Dress Code: Indian Wear

Places to visit: 

• Kalaram Temple
• Pandavleni Caves
• Ramkund
• Anjaneri
• Dugarwadi Waterfall

Things to do: 

• Unwind near the waterfalls
• Shop for the best souvenirs
• Meditate amidst the natural beauty
• Offer the prayers

Ideal Duration to Visit Trimbakeshwar: 2 to 3 days

Other Attractions: Mahabaleshwar, which is 366 Km from here

Nearest International Airport to Trimbakeshwar Temple, Nashik: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai

Nearest Domestic Airport to Trimbakeshwar Temple, Nashik: Gandhinagar Airport in Nashik

How to reach: 

By Air: The nearest airport to Trimbakeshwar is Gandhinagar Airport in Nashik. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Trimbakeshwar, which is located approximately 30 kilometers away. The journey takes around 1 hour.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Trimbakeshwar is Nashik Road Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Trimbakeshwar. The distance between Nashik Road Railway Station and Trimbakeshwar is about 36 kilometers, and the journey takes around 1 hour.

By Road: Trimbakeshwar is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by bus or private car. Nashik is the nearest major city, and from there, you can take a local bus or hire a taxi to Trimbakeshwar. The distance between Nashik and Trimbakeshwar is approximately 30 kilometers, and the journey takes around 1 hour.

Hotels Near Trimbakeshwar, Nashik:

• Hotel Krushna Inn
• Three Leaves Hotel
• Hotel Himalaya Inn
• Hotel Shivas Inn
• FabHotel Sitara Inn

11. Malvan: Famous Fishing Ports

Painting a beautiful canvas for you with its stunning beaches, sprawling backwater and ancient forts in the backdrop, Malvan is indeed one of the best places to visit in summer in Maharashtra. Renowned to be the most famous fishing ports in the state, Malvan is one of the places to visit in March in Maharashtra to enjoy some privacy, great sunsets, and adventurous watersports.

Best Time To Visit: End of October to mid-May
Major Attractions in Malvan: Tarkarli Beach, Malvan Beach, Nivti Beach, Rock Garden, Devbagh Beach, Sindhudurg Fort, Malvan Marine Sanctuary, and more.
Things To Do: Boating in Karli backwaters, scuba diving and dolphin safari in Tsunami island, snorkeling in Tarkarli, and more.
How To Reach: Malvan is located at a distance of about 35 kilometers from Kasal. The destination can be best reached from Pune via Kolhapur through NH 17
Places to Stay: Sunshine Homestay Malvan, Coastal Galaxy Wooden Homes, Athaang Beach Resort Cottages
Nearest airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest railway station: Kudal railway station

12. Amboli : For The Nature Lovers

Located at an altitude of 2260 ft., Amboli is one of the must-visit tourist places in Maharashtra in summer. Perched high on the Sahyadri Hills of Western Ghats, Amboli serves as one of the cool places in Maharashtra for all the nature lovers to unwind and rejuvenate.

Best Time To Visit: June to September
Major Attractions: Amboli Falls, Shirgaonkar Point, Madhavgad Fort, Nangarta Falls, and Sunset Point.
Things To Do: Trek the Durg Dhakoba, rock climbing, bird-watching, camping, and more.
How To Reach: Dabolim Airport of Goa is the nearest airport located about 113 kilometers from Amboli. Sawantwadi is the closest railway station located at a distance of 30 kilometers from Amboli.
Places to Stay: Dark Forest Retreat, Garawa resort, Vamoose Green Valley
Nearest airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest railway station: Madure Railway Station

13. Kashid : Quaint Little Beach Town

A quaint little beach town nestled along the North Konkan region of Maharashtra, Kashid is one of the coolest places to visit in Maharashtra during summer. Famous for its white sand beaches, clear blue seas, and dense-forested mountains, Kashid is an apt place where all the beach bums should be heading this summer. 

Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Kashid Beach, Murud Janjira Fort, Korlai Fort, Revdanda Beach & Fort, and Phansad Bird Sanctuary.
Things To Do: Camping at Kashid beach, trek to Phansad, scuba diving near Murud Janjira, banana boat rides in Kashid, and more.
How To Reach: The nearest airstrip is that of Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport which is about 140 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is that of Roha which is about 122 kilometers away from Kashid
Places to Stay: Cloud 9 Hills Resort, Zara’s Holiday Resort, Upper Deck Resort
Nearest airport: Chattrapati Shivaji International airport
Nearest railway station: Roha railway station

14. Lonavala : Best Picnic Spot

Lonavala not only serves as the best picnic spot in Maharashtra in summer but is also one of the best picnic spots near Mumbai for all those who want escape the clutter of city life. Known for its waterfalls and soothing greenery, get to Lonavala for a gala time during your summer vacations. This is one of the best cold places to visit in summer in Maharashtra.

Best Time To Visit: October to May
Major Attractions: Tiger’s Leap, Lonavala Lake, Rajmachi Wildlife Sanctuary, Koregad Fort, Amrutanjan Point, Bhaja Caves, and more.
Things To Do: Enjoy sightseeing and camping, trekking to Duke’s Nose, trek to Koregad, trek to Rajmachi and Kondane Caves, and more.
How To Reach: Lohegaon Airport is the nearest airport located at a distance of about 71 kilometers from Lonavala. Lonavala is well connected to other cities in India through regular trains
Places to Stay: Hotel Woodland, Fairfield By Marriott Pune Kharadi, Residency Sarovar Portico
Nearest airport: Pune airport
Nearest railway station: Lonavala railway station

15. Khandala : Admire The Natural Beauty

Located just 3 kilometers away from the above mentioned Lonavala, Khandala also is a stunner when it comes to places to visit in Maharashtra in May. Enjoying a pleasant climate during the summers, the natural beauty of Khandala makes it one of the best summer vacation places in Maharashtra and it will be worth spending your vacation in this nature’s marvel.

Best Time To Visit: October to May
Major Attractions: Rajmachi Fort, Lohagad Fort, Bedse Caves, Visapur Fort, Kune Waterfalls, Bushi Dam, and Shooting Point.
Things To Do: Enjoy the best of trekking, hiking, caving, and sightseeing in Khandala, paragliding in Kamshet, and more.
How To Reach: Located at a distance of about 66 kilometers, the domestic airport of Pune is the closest airport. The nearest railway station that connects Khandala to other cities is that of Lonavala railway station
Places to Stay: Treebo Trend IndraLok Inn, Treebo Trend Five Elements, FabHotel Lakme Executive FC Road
Nearest airport: Pune airport
Nearest railway station: Lonavala railway station

16. Mahabaleshwar : A Romantic Getaway 

Nestled in the Sahyadri Mountain ranges, Mahabaleshwar is yet another place to explore in summers which is also a romantic getaway for all the love birds. Once a summer capital of Bombay, quiet and enchanting places to visit in Mahabaleshwar are nothing less than magic.

Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Mahabaleshwar Temple, Morarji Castle, Venna Lake, Pratapgad, Mapro Garden, Tapola, Lingamala Falls, Lodwick Point, Elephant’s Head Point and many more.
Things To Do: Watch the magical sunrise at Wilson Point, mountain biking at Mahabaleshwar hill station, boating from Tapola to Bamnoli Island, rock climbing, horse riding, trekking & more.
How To Reach: The nearest airport is that of Pune located just 120 kilometers away. Wathar is the nearest railway station that is located just 60 kilometers away. Take local buses from Vashi, Dadar East or Sion and reach Mahabaleshwar in just 5 to 6 hours
Places to Stay: Miraya Hotel, Hotel Rainforest, Hotel Ashoka
Nearest airport: Pune airport
Nearest railway station: Pune Railway Station

17. Alibaug : A Peaceful Town

Get to Alibaug – one of the peaceful places to visit in April in Maharashtra, if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the metro cities in India, especially Mumbai. More of a quiet and peaceful town, Alibaug is home to some of the best beaches that makes it one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra in summer.

Best Time To Visit: October to May
Major Attractions in Alibaug: Alibaug beach, Nagaon Beach, Kolaba Fort, Akshi Beach, Kanakeshwar Forest, Varsoli Beach, Mandwa Beach, and more.
Things To Do: Enjoy camping at Revdanda beach, trek to Sagargad, Jet ski, bumpy rides, and banana boat rides at Nagaon, bird watching at Akshi beach, and more.
How To Reach: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is the nearest airport to Alibaug which is 140 kilometers away. One can also reach Alibaug in two hours via many local buses that run from Mumbai
Places to Stay: EkoStay Sea Breeze Villa, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Hotel Ravikiran
Nearest airport: Mumbai airport
Nearest railway station: Roha railway station

18. Matheran: Smallest Hill Station In India

Despite being the smallest hill station in India, Matheran has a lot to offer when it comes to places to visit in Maharashtra in summer. Located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, Matheran treats the adventure souls right with its lush green and forested routes that are rich in wildlife and best for trekking and hiking. It is one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra that you ought to visit on your next trip. 

Best Time To Visit: November to June
Major Attractions: Panorama Point, Echo Point, One Tree Hill Point, Charlotte Lake, Alexander Point, Prabal Fort, and Honeymoon Hill.
Things To Do: Trek through the Garbett Plateau, valley crossing from Honeymoon Point to Louisa Point, nature walking, and local shopping in Matheran, and more.
How To Reach: Take the toy train from Neral and enjoy a zigzag ride through which you can reach Matheran in just two hours. One can also drive to Matheran from Neral and reach within 30 minutes
Places to Stay: Fortune Park Lake City, The Byke Suraj Plaza, Royal Tulip Navi Mumbai
Nearest airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport
Nearest railway station: Neral railway station

19. Panchgani : The Ultimate Summer Resort

Last but not least, Panchgani is renowned as the headquarters for paragliding in the state of Maharashtra. Literally translating into the land of five hills, Panchgani is the ultimate summer resort that is much famed for its scenic beauty and untouched environs. This is surely one of the best places to visit in Maharashtra during summer which will sweep you off your feet.

Best Time To Visit: September to May
Major Attractions: Table Land, Mapro Farms, Sydney Point, Lingmala Falls, Kate’s Point, Arthur Seat, Dhom Dam, Bhilar Waterfalls, and Elephant’s Head Point.
Things To Do: Go sightseeing in Panchgani, hiking near the Rajpuri Caves, enjoy trekking and cycling, go shopping for handicrafts, and much more.
How To Reach: One can get to Panchgani by flight via Pune Airport which is located at a distance of 100 kilometers. The nearest railway head is also that of Pune
Places to Stay: Panchgani Cottages, Greenwood cottages, Silver Oak Villa
Nearest airport: Pune Airport
Nearest railway station: Jarandeshwar railway statio

20. Mumbai: Maharashtra

Mayanagri, the city of dreams, the one that never sleeps, India’s financial centre, Bollywood—Mumbai has many names and it lives up to each of them every day. Mumbai is among the most populated Maharashtra tourist places. Dotted with well-maintained architectural wonders from India’s colonial past, Mumbai offers a visual treat to Gothic architecture lovers. Meanwhile, for those who wish to experience the charm of a fast-moving city, a quick hop on the Mumbai local during the peak hours will be a story to tell. Or just embark on a 15-minute ferry ride from Gateway of India jetty to revisit a lost world at Elephanta Island.

Best Places to Visit: Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Elephanta Caves, Juhu Beach, Haji Ali Dargah, Siddhivinayak Temple
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to do: Visit Bollywood Studios and Film City, Explore the markets of Colaba Causeway and Crawford Market, Ferry to Elephanta Caves, Sunset at Marine Drive, Try street food and local delicacies
How to Reach:
By Air: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
By Train: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
Places to Stay: Hotels in Mumbai

21. Pune: Maharashtra

Cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune holds a place of pride in every Marathi’s heart. Once a political centre of the Indian sub-continent, Pune was the seat of Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. The district alone boasts 17 forts of which the most famous are Shaniwar Wada, Singhagad Fort, and Purandar Fort, closely followed by a remarkably different- looking Aga Khan Palace that served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi soon after he launched the Quit India movement. Pune is a heaven for an art, culture, and adventure lover.

Best Places to Visit: Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, Sinhagad Fort, Osho Ashram, Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to do: Visit the Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Explore the markets, Try the street food, Boating
How to Reach:
By Air: Pune International Airport
By Train: Pune Railway Junction
Places to Stay: Hotels in Pune

22. Pune – Emerging IT Hub

The second most popular city in Maharashtra, Pune is known for its leisurely vibes. This emerging IT hub is also a cultural centre and being the biggest city in the state, offers numerous interesting experiences.

Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
Major Attractions: Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, Sinhagad Fort
Things To Do: Go for sightseeing tour, visit prominent temples, plan refreshing getaway around city
How To Reach: Pune is well-connected by rail, road, and air, and can be easily reached.
Places To Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel Pune Kharadi, Novotel Pune Nagar Road, Four Points by Sheraton, Hyatt Pune
Nearest Airport: Pune Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pune Railway Station

23. Tadoba – For Animal Lovers

Another one on the list of top summer destinations in Maharashtra is Tadoba which is famous for its Andhari Tiger Reserve. The place is located in the Chandrapur District and it is one of the largest as well as oldest reserves. So, if you are an animal lover then you must visit Tadoba on your vacation. 

Best Time To Visit: April-May
Major Attractions: Tadoba National Park, Lake Khosla, and Erai Dam
Things To Do: Trekking, safari, and sightseeing
How To Reach: The nearest station located around Tadoba is Chandrapur which is about 59 kms away. From there, one can take a taxi and reach the destination. 
Places to Stay: Tadoba Homestay Cottage, Svasara Jungle Lodge, Tadoba Tiger King Resort
Nearest airport: Nagpur airport
Nearest railway station: Chandrapur railway station 

24. Shirdi: Sai Baba Maharashtra

Located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, Shirdi is a major pilgrimage site and The former home of revered spiritual leader Sai Baba, Shirdi attracts many devotees from all over the country. It is one of the most visited religious places in Maharashtra tourism, Shirdi also houses a devotional theme park called Saitheerth. Besides visiting the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, devotees can also seek blessings at Shani Shingnapur—one of the most famous Shani temples in India.

Best Places to Visit: Samadhi Mandir, Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple, Chavadi, Shani Shingnapur, Dwarkamai Mosque
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Things to do: Visit Temples, Mediation, Explore the spiritual significance
How to Reach:
By Air: Shirdi Airport and Aurangabad Airport
By Train: Shirdi Railway Station
By Bus: Shirdi Bus Stand
Places to Stay: Hotels in Shirdi

25. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

Located in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the most popular temples in Maharashtra. Being dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is home to one of the jyotirlingas mentioned in the Shiva Purana. Believed to be the 12th jyotirlinga, Shiva at this temple is known by different names such as Kusumeswarar, Ghushmeswara, Ghrushmeswara and Grishneswara. The temple went through several reconstructions during the reign of Maloji Raje Bhosale and Rani Ahilyabhai Holkar. Built with red volcanic rock and this temple is often recognized for its fine medieval architecture and 5-tier Shikara. Today the temple contains a garbhagriha, an antarala and a sabha mandapa. Many devotees visit this temple during the Maha Shivaratri which is a significantly important religious festival at this jyotirling temple in maharashtra.

Location: Verul, Maharashtra 431102

26. Yamai Devi Temple

Being one of the most visited temples in maharashtra, Yamai Devi Temple at Aundh is dedicated to Yamai Devi. The black stone-made statue of Devi Mahishasur Mardini at this temple is considered as the family deity by many in Maharashtra. The idol here stands adorned with arrow, trishul, paan patra, and gada. Associated with the Pant family, this temple also unravel the opportunity for you to experience the collections of Aundh prices at the Sri Bhavani Museum and Most of the devotees come here during the annual Yatra which happens during the Paush Purnima.

Location: Aundh, Maharashtra 415510

27. Moreshwar Temple

Being one of the ganesh temples in maharashtra, Moreshwar Temple in Pune is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Known for being the first temple among the Ashta Vinayak temples of Lord Ganesha, this temple is one of the most popular pilgrimages in Maharashtra. Ganapatya saint Morya Gosavi is known to have played a significant role in the construction of this temple. Made with black stone, this temple is adorned with four minarets and 50 feet tall wall. You will also find other deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Lord Rama and Lord Vignesha, etc. here. Containing 23 Lord Ganesha idols, this temple is a must visit during your trip to Maharashtra.

Location: Shree Moreshwar Temple, Morgaon, Pune, Maharashtra

28. Chintamani Temple

Located at Theur, Chintamani Temple is one of the most visited ganesh temples in maharashtra. After being constructed by Shri Dharanidhar Dev, some alterations have been made at times. Adorning itself with a 100-year old Ganesha idol, this temple is one of the Ashtavinayak temples. You will also find a number of temples here dedicated to deities such as Vishnu-Lakshmi and Mahadeva, and Hanuman. Being one of the best ganesha temples in maharashtra, this temple attracts thousands of visitors during occasions such as Mahotsav Festival, Rama-Madhav Punyostav, and Ganesh Prakatostav.

Location: Theur, Pune, Maharashtra 412110

FAQs

Q.1 Which are the famous places to visit near Maharashtra in summer?

Although all the places mentioned above are great escapes for summer, Lonavala and Alibaug are the most famous places to visit near Maharashtra in summer. Other summer destinations in Maharashtra are Igatpuri, Kolad, etc.

Q2. What is a special place in Mahabaleshwar?

There are several special places in Mahabaleshwar, such as

• Venna Lake
• Mapro Garden
• Tiger Spring
• Mahabaleshwar Temple

Q3. Which month is best for Mahabaleshwar?

October to November is the peak season in Mahabaleshwar because of the onset of winter season. The weather’s pleasant, which makes it ideal to explore the attractions here.

Q4. Which month is strawberry in Mahabaleshwar?

December to February is the time when strawberries are harvested in Mahabaleshwar. You’ll find several food items related to strawberries here, such as jams, marmalades, and so on that you can savor.

Q5. Is one day enough for Mahabaleshwar?

If you’re planning a trip to Mahabaleshwar, you must plan for at least 3 to 4 days. It’ll allow you to indulge in all the fun activities here and explore the gorgeous sightseeing locations.

Q6. Which is the best viewpoint in Mahabaleshwar?

Elephant Head Point, Lodwick Point, and Tiger Spring are the best viewpoints in Mahabaleshwar. The breathtaking view of lush green hills and valleys is a sight to behold.

Q7. What is the distance between Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani?

Panchgani is approximately 19 km away from Mahabaleshwar. So, it’ll take around 45 minutes to reach there.

Q8. Which God is revered in Mahabaleshwar?

Lord Shiva is the main deity in Mahabaleshwar, which is why it’s imperative that you visit the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple to seek blessings.

Q9. Which is the nearest station to Mahabaleshwar?

Wathar Station is the nearest station to Mahabaleshwar and It’s approximately 81 km away from this hill station.