Location : West India
Major Attractions : Mumbai, Pune
Best time to Visit : September to June


About Maharashtra
An erstwhile Maratha kingdom, Maharashtra lies in the western part of India. The third largest state in India, it spreads over an area of 307710 sq. km, encompassing in its folds the commercial capital of India, Mumbai as well as some of the other important cities of India. Maharashtra shares its boundaries with the states of Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Chattisgarh, Gujarat, Karnataka and Goa. The state also has a 720 km long coastline lying along the Arabian Sea, which consists of some of the most popular beaches of India.

Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra is one of the most modernised metros of India as also a major arrival point into the country, where most of the foreign visitors coming to India enter from. While Maharashtra is home to the most becharming tourist attractions such as historic monuments, mammoth forts, ancient temples, rich culture, sumptuous cuisine and captivating natural beauty, the neighbouring state of Goa with its mesmerising beaches is one of the most visited tourist places in the country.

Tourist Attractions in Maharashtra
Maharashtra besides being a prominent tourist destination is also an important commercial destination. The state therefore receives a regular influx of both business and leisure travellers, making it one of the most visited places in India. The diverse landscape of the state which houses the sahyadri mountain ranges, plains and a huge coastline, have given rise to such diverse tourist attractions that make Maharashtra a comprehensive dose of vacationing experience. From a rich culture, fascinating architecture and ancient temples to memsmerising beaches, you will find everything in Maharashtra. The state also has a number of wildlife parks and sanctuaries which attract a fair number of nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Amongst the most visited destinations of Maharashtra are Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune and Aurangabad.
Monuments & Temples in Maharashtra
With its thousands of years old history, Maharashtra houses some of the most magnificent monuments and temples. A lot many of these structures have been ruined with time, however, there are others which still stand in good condition and provide useful insights into the culture and architecture in the state during erstwhile times. Hundreds of these structures are dotted across the state, which you can witness on your trip to Maharashtra. Some of the most famous monuments and temples in Maharashtra are the Elephanta Caves, Ajanta & Ellora Caves, SiddhivinayakTemple, Mahalaxmi Temple, Daulatabad Fort, Gateway of India, Victoria Terminus, Bibi ka Maqbara and Flora Fountain.

Adventure in Maharashtra
Maharashtra with its long coastline, charming beaches, western ghats, sprawling wilderness and extensive wildlife provides opportunities for every kind of adventure sport. The thrilling sport of paragliding is best practiced in Maharashtra and provides the tourists with a bird's eye view of the states tourist attractions such as the forts and palaces, beaches, wildlife parks etc. Mountain climbing is another thrilling sport which lets you conquer the mighty mountains. Other adventure sports which can be experienced in the state are trekking, rock climbing, wind surfing, wildlife safari, kayaking and some other spine chilling adventures.

Beaches in Maharashtra
If you love sun and sand and like to spend a quite holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the busy cities in the lap of mother nature, then the beaches of Maharashtra, located along its 720 km long coastline are just what you need. The beaches of Maharashtra are replete with velvety sands, charming rock formations, swaying palm trees and immense opportunities of frolic. Take a walk down the silvery sands, enjoy a spicy snack of pani-puri, lay down with a cool glass of coconut water or try one of the available water sports, there is plenty to keep you engrossed. Some of the most popular beaches in Maharashtra are Chowpatty beach, Juhu beach, Ganapatipule beach, Daman-Silvasa-Vapi beach and Madh Island beach.

Climate in Maharashtra
The climate in Maharashtra remains pleasant throughout the year with little variations in conditions during the summer and winter months. Summer season in the state generally lasts from March to May when the temperatures can shoot up to a high of 40 degrees. Monsoon clouds arrive in Maharashtra in June and lash the state with torrential rainfall. By the end of October, monsoon season subsides and winter sets in. The temperature in winters rarely drops below 15 degrees. Though the state can be visited throughout the year, the best time to visit are the months from September to June.

Getting There
By Air : Sahar International Airport in Mumbai is one of the major entry points into India for most of the tourists coming from foreign countries. Santa Cruz Airport,

also in Mumbai connects the region with major cities in India through regular flights. Other airports in the state are located at Nagpur, Aurangabad and Pune.

By Rail : Railway stations are located in every major city and town of the state from where daily trains operate, connecting the state with other cities in India.

By Road : A maze of state and national highways runs throughout the state, connecting it with other neighbouring states. State transport buses provide regular services between various cities of Mumbai as well as other neighbouring states.