Maharashtra
The sheer size and diversity of this land will stun you. The mountains stretching out into the mists as far as the eye can see, the silver, white beaches that stretch out for miles inviting you to the entire coast & the innumerous forts that stand proud and strong and the scores of temples, sculpted into and out of basalt rock make Maharashtra a land untouched, unsullied and unlimited.
The name Maharashtra first appeared in a 7th century inscription and in a Chinese traveler's account. Its name may have originated from rathi , which means, "chariot driver". From the early fourteenth century to the next 900 years no historical information in this region is available. Shivaji Bhosle, founder of the Maratha Empire, was born in 1627. He took the oath to make the land free at the fort Torna at the age of sixteen. This was the start of his lifelong struggle against Mughals and other Muslim powers. By 1680, the year of Shivaji's death, nearly whole of the Deccan belonged to his kingdom.
The sheer size and diversity of this land will stun you. The mountains stretching out into the mists as far as the eye can see, the silver, white beaches that stretch out for miles inviting you to the entire coast & the innumerous forts that stand proud and strong and the scores of temples, sculpted into and out of basalt rock make Maharashtra a land untouched, unsullied and unlimited.
The name Maharashtra first appeared in a 7th century inscription and in a Chinese traveler's account. Its name may have originated from rathi , which means, "chariot driver". From the early fourteenth century to the next 900 years no historical information in this region is available. Shivaji Bhosle, founder of the Maratha Empire, was born in 1627. He took the oath to make the land free at the fort Torna at the age of sixteen. This was the start of his lifelong struggle against Mughals and other Muslim powers. By 1680, the year of Shivaji's death, nearly whole of the Deccan belonged to his kingdom.
Location - Located in the northern center of peninsular India, Maharashtra is surrounded by the Arabian sea in the west, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh on the north, Madhya Pradesh in the east and Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh Goa and the Union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli on the south. The Arabian Sea makes up the state's western coast. It is India 's third largest state in terms of area and second largest in terms of population. Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra , which derives its name from the Goddess Mumba Devi.
Language - The main language spoken is Marathi although almost all the people can speak Hindi. Spoken English is a rarity in Chiplun although quite a few people can read the language.
| What to See | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alibagh | Amravati | Aurangabad | Chiplun | Mahabaleshwar | Mumbai |
| Pune | Shirdi | Kolhapur | Nagpur | Nanded (The Holy City) | Nashik |
Alibag is a place for a vacation. Enjoy the unhurried pace of life in a small town with a beautiful beach on one side and the green hills on the other side.
It is about 300 year's old city and was developed in the 17th century by Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre, the naval chief of King Shivaji's kingdom. Alibag is an idyllic town on the western coast of India . By road it is a three-hour drive from Mumbai. Alibag has a lovely beach that is unspoiled. There is a historic fort that is now in ruins just off the beach. The Western Ghats line the one side of the city giving it a unique character of greenery. It's a wonderful place to take a relaxed vacation with nothing on your mind.
HOW TO REACH
By Rail - The nearest rail railway station is Pen.
By Road - One can reach Alibag through Pen (124 km away), which is well connected with Mumbai and Pune. From Mumbai, one can reach Alibag by going straight on Mumbai-Goa highway till Wadkhal (or Vadkhal) and then taking right turn. The distance is approximately 130 km.
Catamaran/Ferry - The nearest jetty is Mandawa, from where catamaran/ferry services are available to Gateway of India, Mumbai. From Mandawa, one can take a bus to Alibagh. These services are not operational in the monsoons, due to heavy rains.
WHEN TO GO
Alibagh can be travel round the year the best time between November to January.
WHAT TO SEE
Alibag beach - It is the main beach of the town. Alibag beach is totally pollution free. Trees move through and fro giving fresh air which a fresh feeling. Walking on the sandy beach is quite pheasant, the waves bring the water close to your feet and because of this one can't resist himself from entering the water.
Fresh air, Sandy beach,sight of the Colaba fort are the major attractions. In addition to that you may enjoy Bhel-puri, Coconut water, Ice-cream, Sea Food, Alu Bonda etc. Alibagh other beaches are Akshi Beach, Nagaon beach, Kihim Beach, Mandwa Beach & Kashid Beach .
Colaba Fort - It is situated in the sea at a distance of 1-2 km from the Alibag shores. At the time of fall, one can walk to the fort in waist-deep water. However, during the tide, boats need to be used. Colaba fort, major water fort in Konkan, Shivaji Maharaj built this fort in 1680.
Kanakeshwar temple - It is old temple of Lord Shiva. It is situated on a hill near Mapgaon village, about 12 km away from Alibag and falls on the way to Mandawa. The temple of Kanakeshwar is very beautiful, it is a 'Hoysal' style structure built in 1764. Kanakeshwar is a place to feel the jungle and silence of the jungle and hills. If you want to see the beauty of Arabian Sea and fort of Khandevi as well as the entire hilly region, then Kanakeshwar is the place to visit and rest for 2-3 days.
Vikram Vinayak Temple (Birla Mandir) - It is situated about 20 km away from Alibag, on the way to Janjira. The surroundings of the temple are made up of a well-planned garden and colourful fountains. The prayer hall is open on all sides and the roof is made of transparent Polycorp sheet.
Tomb of Kainhoji Angre - It is Just five-minute walk from Alibag ST Stand, on way to market, is this tomb. The structure has 8 faces and the pillars are exquisitely sculpted. It stands in sacred memory of the great Maratha Admiral Konhoji Angre.
`Janjira Fort - The fort is built in the sea 2 km inside of Murud. This is one of the vital sea-forts in Maharashtra . It has strong walls 40 ft high and standing intact even after being battered by the sea waves from all four sides. The fort was never conquered by any enemy for over 350 years. Shivaji, Sambhaji and the Peshwas tried to take over the fort. But the Marathas, British or Portuguese could never capture Janjira.
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many restaurants all around alibagh. Sanman restaurant, specialises in sea food. They have different thalis with different fishes like Pomfret, Surmai etc. Each thali will have one fried piece and one curry piece of the fish. The rest of the items are also speciality of that area like bhakri (chapati) of rice powder, solkadhi (a concoction of coconut water with certain things).
TopAmravati is a city in the state of Maharashtra in India. It is believed to be the city of lord Indra, the king of all gods. It has very historical temples of Goddess Ambadevi and Mahanubhava's Lord Shri Krishna Temple .
Since the bifurcation of Bombay state into Maharashtra and Gujrat in 1960, Amravati, along with other districts of Vidharbha formed one of the districts of Maharashtra.
HOW TO REACH
By Rail - The nearest railhead is Amravati on Central Railway Branch line, 100 km from Chikhaldara.
By air - The nearest airport to Amravati is at Vijayawada at a distance of 65 km.
By Road - bus services connect Chikhaldara to Amravati.
WHEN TO GO
amravati can be travel round the year the best time between November to January.
WHAT TO SEE
Chikaldara - Situated in the Vidarbha region, this pretty little hill station offers you an abundance of wildlife, view-points, lakes and waterfalls. In fact, the Dhakana-Kolkaz National Park is famous for its tigers. The Melghat Tiger Project is located here. What's more, the cool, breezy climate of Chikhaldara makes it an excellent place to repose in summer. The Semadoh Forest Lodge is a comfortable place to stay.
Lonar - Here's a chance to see India's magnificent hypervelocity meterorite-impact crater. Lonar ranks 3rd amongst the worlds's five largest craters. Investigations reveal it to be around 40,000 Years old. Within the depression lies a saline lake. See the ruins of Temples constructed in Hemadpanti style, where Lord Narsimah, Ganesh, Renukadevi and Shiva were once worshipped. At the Villages around the cratem one can Listen to Many lagends about Lonar. A fascination sight is the presence of hundreds of peafowls which live inside the crater. Besides other resident and migratory birds, you can spot menitor lizards. Hanuman langoors, chinkaras and gazelles, if you're lucky.
Ridhpur - Ridhpur is situated in the Morshi Taluka in Amravati District on the Chandur Bazar- Morshi Road . Ridhpur is the pilgrimage center for the Mahanubhav cult. Thousands of pilgrims visit Ridhpur. Besides this, the holy place is visited by pilgrims in great numbers daily.
Shegaon - Shegaon is famous for the Samadhi of Shri Gajanan Maharaja mystic saint. Youll see a large number of pilgrims here. Thousands of devotees pay their respects at the Samadhi every Thursday, which is regarded as a special day. See the temple of Shri Ram , also constructed in the premises of the shrine. If you visit Shegaon on Ram Navami in and on Rushi Panchmi, you can also attend the fairs held here on these occasions.
Sindkhed Raja - Sindkhed Raja, a small Taluka Place in Buldana district is known as the birthplace of Rajmata Jijabai, the mother of the great Maratha warrior and king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja. There are a number of monuments in this small township, which owe their existence to Rajmata Jijabai and her father Lakhuji Jadhav. These monuments like Kalkat, Rang Mahal, Tomb of Lakhuji Jadhav, Place of Lakhuji Jadhav, ancient temple of Neekjantheshwar and Rameshwar have great heritage and architectural value.
Washim - Washim is a District head quarter and an ancient town. The town is connected with classical deities. The most striking feature in the town in the Deo tank, on its one side it has the temple of Venkateshwara Balaji and on the another a temple of Ramchandra .
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many restaurants and hotels all around amravati .
TopThe gateway to the World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora, Aurangabad is named after the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb. Lying along the right bank of the Kham River , the city is the district headquarters, which offers visitors all the modern comforts and amenities. There are several luxury and budget hotels, shopping centres and banks. In the city, there are three museums housing the art treasures of the region. You can also while away the hours in the pleasant confines of the Bani Begum Gardens.
HOW TO REACH
By Air - Aurangabad is the gateway to the region, and is generally where you would arrive or depart from. Aurangabad airport is conveniently located, around 10 kms east of the town, and is directly air-linked to Mumbai, Delhi , Jaipur and Udaipur .
By Rail - Aurangabad is well connected to Mumbai and other cities.There are two trains that depart daily from Mumbai. The Tapovan Express leaves Mumbai early morning arriving in Aurangabad by late afternoon, while the Devgiri Express is an overnight train.
By Road - There are several luxury and state run bus services that ply between Mumbai and Aurangabad and the Ajanta/Ellora Caves.
WHEN TO GO
Best time to visit Aurangabad is September to April.
WHAT TO SEE
Aurangabad Caves - Aurangabad, too, has a group of Caves which are quite beautiful. These Buddhist Caves were carved out of the hillside in the 6 th or 7 th century AD.
Bibi ka Maqbara - Built by Azam Shah in 1678, the Bibi ka Maqbara is a son's loving tribute to his mother, Begum Rabia Durrani, the Queen of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Standing spectacularly on the lawns of the landscaped garden with ponds, fountains and water channels, the white marbled monument rises majestically in an intentional bid to copy and rival the world famous Taj Mahal of Agra. The central tomb, distinguished by elaborate surface ornamentation and intricately perforated marble screens, is framed by four towering minarets.
Panchakki - An engineering feat of the time is the Panchakki, or the water mill built by Malik Ambar in 1695. The water, channeled from a spring on a distant hill was used to power the flour mill and grind grain for the pilgrims.
Darwazas - Most of the monuments in Aurangabad are of the Nizam Shahi, Mughal and Maratha period. There are four main darwazas , or gates leading into the city, which along with nine secondary darwazas formed part of the defense systems of the city.
PLACES AROUND AURANGABAD
Daulatabad - Rising dramatically over 600 ft above the Deccan plain is the arresting sight of Daulatabad. Once known as Devgiri, this fort served as the head quarters of the powerful Yadava rulers. In the 13 th century, Mohammed bin Tughlak, the Sultan of Delhi, made it his capital and renamed it Daulatabad, or City of Fortune
Khuldabad - In the 14 th century, several Sufi saints of the Chishti order chose to reside in Khuldabad or the Abode of Eternity. The dargah , or tomb of Moinuddin Chishti, the spiritual guide of the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb, is within this sacred complex. The austere emperor himself rests nearby, in a grave as simple as that of a common man's, in striking contrast to the grand mausoleums of his predecessors. Eloquent testimony to Aurangzeb's simplicity is the inscription on his plain tombstone: "No marble sheets should shield me from the sky as I lie there one with the earth."
Anwa Temple - A Shiva temple, with beautifully carved sculptures and decorated pillars stands in the village of Anwa , 10 kms east of Golegaon, on the main road leading from Aurangabad to the Ajanta Caves . It was built in the 12 th century, and consists of a sanctuary, a mandapa or open hall with decorated pillars. The niches have exquisitely sculpted images of Vishnu, Ganesha and other divinities.
Getting there - Close by to Ajanta, Anwa Temple can be reached by taking a well-marked diversion at Golegaon. Private car or taxi is probably the best mode of transport.
Pitalkhora Caves - Thirteen Buddhist excavations, dating from the 2 nd century BC to the 1 st century AD lie about 40 km northwest of Ellora, cut into the side of the a secluded ravine. Comprising mainly viharas , they form the largest group of Hinayana Buddhist structures.
Getting there - Pitalkhora is best accessed by private car or taxi and can be reached from Aurangabad by motoring on the MSH1 and taking the diversion after Satkunda
Lonar Crater - 170 kms from Aurangabad , is the village of Lonar . Over 30,000 years ago, a falling meteorite struck the area creating the world's largest impact crater in basaltic rock. Botanists have recently discovered vegetation life forms not found anywhere else on this planet, in the stunning lake of the crater
Paithan - 51 kms south of Aurangabad , the looms of Paithan still weave the beautiful Paithani saris that are prized by all Indian women. The town is also famous for the Dnyaneshwar Udyan, which is the largest garden in Maharashtra , and a museum which treasures a fascinating collection of art. The Jaikwadi Dam nearby is a bird-watchers delight
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many good restaurants with different delicacies, and all the major hotels has their own specialty restaurant and bar.
TopThe name Chiplun means "The abode of Lord Parshuram". Chiplun is an industrial town catering to mostly the top pharmaceutical and chemical industries. It is a major stop on the Konkan Railway.
Chiplun is a peaceful little town on the banks of the Vashisthi River . It is located on the Mumbai-Goa highway. The city is about 320 km south of Mumbai in the Konkan region of Maharashtra . It is ideal for conferences that require peace and quiet but are still relatively close to Mumbai. A ride in the Vashisti River or a trek in the nearby hills around Chiplun is the perfect way to unwind.
Climate - Konkan region is hilly and Chiplun is situated in a valley. Region has extreme climate, cold in winter, very hot in summer and very wet. The city is located at 10.76 m above sea level. The city is surrounded on all four sides by hills.
HOW TO REACH
By Road - The drive to Chiplun along the Mumbai-Goa national highway 17 is a great one-with smooth roads all the way.
WHEN TO GO
Best time to visit Chiplun is September To April.
WHAT TO SEE
Guhagar Beach - Guhagar beach is a virgin and unspoilt beach lapped by the waters of the Arabian Sea.
Parashuam Temple - It is a religious place in Chiplun. He was one of the Dashavtar of Shree Vishnu.
Koyna Dam - Koyna Dam is one of the largest dams in Maharashtra. It is located in Koyna Nagar nestled in the Western Ghats on the state highway between Chiplun and Karad. The dam supplies water to western Maharashtra as well as cheap hydroelectric power to the neighbouring areas.
Sawatsada Waterfall - Sawatsada Waterfall is a monsoon attraction that is situated in chiplun.
Ganapati Phule - Ganapati Phule in chiplun is an ancient pilgrim center having a naturally formed idol of lord Ganesha. The temple is located on a beach with glittering white sand.
Haydavi - Haydavi is the natures blessings to chiplun situated in between mountains. The temple was constructed at the time of Peshwai period.
Vashisiti River Jetty - Vashisti River Jetty in chiplun offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy motorboat rides in the river provided that the water level is high enough.
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many good restaurants with different delicacies, and all the major hotels has their own specialty restaurant and bar.
TopMahabaleshwar is a hill station located in the Satara District in the Western Ghats range of Maharashtra. It is located about 120 km from Pune and 285 km from Mumbai. It is bound by valleys on all sides. After the construction of a new highway, it is only a 5 hour drive from Mumbai.
Mahabaleshwar in Sanskrit means God of Great Power. It was summer capital of Governor of the old Bombay Presidency covering 10 sq km. Mahabaleshwar at an altitude of 1372 meters opens up a whole world of picturesque delight. There are 30 valley viewpoints with panoramic vistas scattered around the hill station. The area has strong historical connections with Shivaji, the heroic Maratha warrior king.
The British built various mansions, cottages and bungalows around Mahabaleshwar lending it a charming sophistication. The hill-station is very crowded during vacations like christmas & Diwali and in summers.
With an air of unspoilt beauty, it is a paradise for nature explorers and peace lovers as also for filmmakers and producers. It is also an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and is the site of the Mahabaleshwar Temple. Mahabaleshwar comprises of three villages Malcolm Peth, Old Kshetra Mahabaleshwar and part of the Shindola village.
HOW TO REACH
By Air - The airport at Pune is the nearest to the hill resort of Mahabaleshwar. At a distance of 120 km the Pune airport caters to the needs of the tourists to Mahabaleshwar.
By Rail - In case if tourist settle for rail transport to Mahabaleshwar, Pune makes a convenient railhead, 120 km away. Though the railhead nearest to Mahabaleshwar is that of Wathar at a distance of 62 km.
By Road - Maharashtra State Road Transport plies Buses to all important places in Maharashtra. They have Ordinary buses:- Asiad Buses and Luxury Coaches to Bombay - Pune - Satara - Nasik - Nagar - Sangli - Kolhapur - Goa and Surat etc.
WHEN TO GO
Best time to visit Mahabaleshwar is October To June.
WHAT TO SEE
Pratapgad Fort - Pratapgad Fort is 24 Kms. away from Mahabaleshwar. The fort was built in 1656 by Moropant Trimak Pingle under the command of the Maratha ruler shivaji. The fort has a great view.
Wilson Point - Wilson Point is also called as Sunrise point. It is the highest point of 4710 ft above sea level. It is a vast plateau. There are three masonary round platforms to see the sunrise.
Connaught peak - It is situated off the Old Mahabaleshwar Road. Connaught Peak is the second highest peak of these hills. It offers a panoramic view of the Vena Lake and Krishna Valley. It was first known as Mount Olympia, and was a favorite spot for riders.
Arthur's Seat - Arthur's seat is the only place showing geographical distinction of kokan & Deccan, two territories of Mahabaleshwar, so clear & so near. If you go by the steps you come across a spring known as Tiger's spring which is supposed to be the source of the river Savtri. Immidiately below the seat is window point.
Elphiston point - Elphiston point is the first point of mahabaleshwar overlooking two valleys, koyna on the left & savitri on the right.'
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many good restaurants with different delicacies, and all the major hotels has their own specialty restaurant and bar.
TopMumabi is the most happening cosmopolitan city of India. Here you can find people of every religion, from every part of world. This city is lively, young and it never sleeps. It is also know the Manhattan of India due to the large number of skyscrapers located by the Arabian Sea.
Initially a few Parsis and Gujarati came but soon a sizeable population began to thrive here. This was way back in the 17th century. Today also Mumbai is a city of migrants. People from all over the country have come and settled here. This gives the society of Mumbai a multi-lingual and multi-cultural colour.
The city of Mumbai formerly Bombay owes its name to the stone goddess Mumbadevi, worshipped by the Kolis, who incidentally are the original inhabitants of this city. Made up of a collection of seven islands, which include Colaba, Old Woman's Island, Bombay , Mazagaon, Worli, Parel and Mahim, Mumbai is the hub of the Indian financial and corporate sectors. Also famous as "Bollywood", it has earned itself the reputation of being the "city where dreams come true". Many youngsters from all over India and also from abroad, flock to this thriving "Mecca of Stardom" with the hopes of becoming the next big movie star. Mumbai provides the corporate visitor as well as the holidaying tourist the right ambience and all the accompanying facilities, to make a visit they will always cherish.
HOW TO REACH
By Air - Mumbai has both domestic and international airport, it is well connected to all the major cities like Ahmedabad, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhopla, Bhubaneswar, Calcutta, Calicut, Chennai, Cochin, Delhi, Goa, Gwalior, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kathmandu, Lucknow, Madurai, Patna, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Varanasi, Vishakapatnam etc. & also connected to the major international cities.
By Rail - Mumabi Central is Main Railway Station, it the hub for express & regular tains to & from all across India including Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Madras, Cochin, Delhi, Gwalior, Jhansi, Calcutta, Trivandrum, Varanasi.
By Road - The main bus stand is the VT Station, You can get Maharashtra State Transport Buses or private luxury buses to & from the other major cities of India . Mumbai roads are in good condition and well connected to the state cites & the other sates cites.
WHEN TO GO
Mumbai can be travel round the year the best time between October and April.
WHAT TO SEE
The Gateway of India - The ceremonial arch was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Complete with four turrets and intricate latticework carved into the yellow basalt stone, Gateway of India is the most famous monument and starting point for most tourists who want to explore the city. It is situated on the Apollo Bunder.
Elephanta Island - Elephanta Cave Island - 10 Kms across Bombay harbour is a small island called Elephanta or Gharpure. It contains a fine cluster of 6th-8th century rock cut caves. The sculptures are beatifully executed and the most outstanding of these is the Mahesmurthy or Trimurthi, a five metre (18 ft) high three headed bust hewn from a single rock representing the three aspects of Shiva, viz. The creator, The preserver and the destroyer.
Prince of Wales Museum - Built in 1914, the Prince of Wales Museum is surrounded by a beautiful landscape making an ideal getaway from the busy lifestyle of the city. One of the best museums in the country, it is a treasure house of art, sculpture, china, rare coins, and old firearms. It also houses priceless collection of miniature paintings.
Marine Drive - Overlooking the Marine Drive are the beautiful Kamala Nehru Park and the Hanging Gardens . This is one most ideal place to hangout in the evening.
Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus - Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus is an imposing structure formerly known as Victoria Terminus. Built in 1888, designed by Frederick William Stevenson, the entire façade is covered by sculpture of animals and birds.
Juhu Beach - Juhu Situated 30 km from the city, it is a crowded beach with residential apartments and bungalows surrounding it. It seems as if the entire population of the area descends on the beach for a breath of fresh air!
Haji Ali Mosque - This early 18th century shrine contains the tomb of HAZRATH HAJI ALI, a Muslim Sufi saint. There are two local legends which claim to trace the hazrath's antecedents.
Town Hall - With its columns and tall Grecian porticos, this structure has been the foundation of the Library Society of Mumbai which moved into the Town Hall in 1830, soon after which a union was affected with the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
University Buildings - Founded by Sir Cowasjee Jehangir Ready, after who is named the earlier of the two structures, was designed by Sir Gilbert Scott.
Bombay High Court - This blue-basalt building in early English Gothic style was designed by Col. J. A. Fuller. It has central tower standing almost 180 ft.
Chowpatty Beach (GIRGAUM) - Situated at the northern end of Marine Drive , it is a stretch of sandy beach and attracts hordes of people during the weekends and on holidays.
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many restaurants and bars all around Mumbai. You will find all the famous restaurants of National and International chains
TopPune was early home of great Maratha warrior Shivaji and became the Maratha capital in 1750. Located in the Sahayadri Hills, near the west coast of India , Pune is a fascinating city with a healthy climate all year round and is called "Queen of the Deccan ". As a city, it has grown manifolds over the past few decades.
Pune is one of the biggest industrial towns of Maharashtra and India and is called the automobile city as many big auto mobile companies have their head Quarters here. It is also famous for Osho Communes in the Rajnesh Ashram located here. This city is among the greenest urban areas in the country with more than 40 per cent of its area under green cover.
Fondly called as the Oxford of the East and the cultural capital of Maharashtra , Pune is famous for the fantastic education opportunities it offers. It is the home of Armed Force Medical College , College of Military Engineering and Artificial Limb Centre.
It is a very modern city with its share of pubs, cafes, discotheques and restaurants. The charm of this quaint city of Pune is around in the forts, the caves and the other adventurous treks around the little mountains and hillocks!
HOW TO REACH
By Air - Flights available to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Calcutta, Madras, Bangalore and Ahmedabad from Pune Airport itself. Mumbai is the nearest International Airport to Pune.
By Rail - Pune is linked with Mumbai (170 km), Nasik (209 km), Aurangabad (230 km), Chennai (1,088 km), Delhi and other major cities of India . From Mumbai there are regular trains. The Shatabdi Express also operates from Mumbai to Pune. Another convenient train is the Deccan Queen. Other trains from Mumbai to Pune are Pragati Express and Indrayani Express.
By Road - The excellent road network connects Pune with most of the important cities in Maharashtra and India . The Mumbai-Pune Express Highway offers a safe and fast access between Mumbai and Pune. Pune is also well connected with Goa, Ahmedabad, Nagpur , Shirdi, Bangalore , Indore , Hyderabad and Aurangabad through road.
WHEN TO GO
Pune Can be traveled Between June To March.
WHAT TO SEE
Shaniwar Wada - Open 8 am to 6.30 pm Shaniwarwada, the royal residence of the Peshwas was built in the 18th century by the second Peshwa, Bajirao-I. It was built in wood with charming carvings and paintings. It became the seat of political power and achieved tremendous importance. It is said to have been the finest palace in the Deccan in its times.
Aga Khan Palace Or Gandhi National Memorial - Situated on Nagar Road , Aga Khan Palace is also known as Kasturba Samadhi. This palace boasts of Italianate arches, a gracious building having salons and suites and spacious lawns. A special cenotaph honours Kasturba who died here. A shop attached sells khadi or cotton handloomed garments and textiles.
Parvati Hill - Parvati hill is located in Southern Pune is visible from many parts of Pune. This famous landmark consists of a group of beautiful temples dedicated to Parvati Shiva, Ganesh, Vishnu and Kartikey. A relatively easy climb up to the top via a set of wide stone stairs rewards one with a panoramic view of the city and an invigorating draft of cool, fresh air.
Vishrambaug Wada - This is a three-storied mansion, known for its enchanting entrance and balcony with carved woodwork typical of the Peshwa period. The 260 ft long and 815 ft broad Teen-Chowki Wada was built by the last Peshwa, Bajirao II as his residence at a cost of Rs. 2 lakhs. Now serving as a post office, this place is located on Bajirao Road .
Osho Ashram Or Osho Commune International - The Osho Ashram attracts thousands of foreigners wishing to take part in the meditation courses organized by the Ashram. Osho Rajneesh whose samadhi is situated in the Ashram founded it. The commune also has beautiful gardens open to the public in the mornings and evenings. The Ashram offers a variety of courses on meditation.
University Buildings - The University Buildings of the University of Pune at Ganeshkhind, once comprised the official residence of the Governor of Bombay Presidency during the fierce annual monsoons of the coasts. A large building in the Italian Gothic style, it has a 30 m high square tower, a swimming pool and manicured lawns.
Pataleshwar Cave Temples - Pataleshwar Cave Temples lies in the heart of the city. This 8th century rock-cut temple, has huge pillars, a Shiva shrine and a Nandi bull. Nearby is the Jangali Maharaj Temple dedicated to a Hindu ascetic.
Shinde Chhatri - This beautiful architectural creation is located just a few km from the Pune racecourse. The building built in the memory of Mahadji Scindia who was great Maratha noble man. Shinde's Chhatri is considered as the best architectural sights in Pune. It is an imposing edifice, which exudes an air of serenity and austerity, coupled with architectural beauty.
Saras Baug - Sarasbaug is a popular place for evening strolls where people throng every evening, for their share of fresh air among green surroundings. Adjoining Sarasbaug, across a small narrow road is another garden, Peshwe Park .
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many good restaurants with different delicacies, and all the major hotels has their own specialty restaurant and bar.
TopThe abode of the great saint of the 20th century Sai Baba who lived in Shirdi for more than 50 years of his life, is a town in the Ahmednagar district of the state Maharashtra in India. The small place which is barely a 100 km from Nashik today is a bustling pilgrimage centre of India . It has acquired fame as a place of pilgrimage because the Shirdi Sai Baba lived there and is buried there. Some Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs consider him a saint with miraculous powers.
Throughout his life the saint stayed in the Mosque of Shirdi but was a regular visitor of few of the temples in Shirdi. He believed in God and asked people of different religions and casts to keep faith in the almighty and taught them the true meaning of brother hood, harmony and cleanliness. People from all castes, creeds and religions come to Shirdi to take the blessings of the great saint from all around the world.
Even today the last few surviving elders of the village vividly recall the miraculous wonders of the sage. Sai Baba left for the heavenly abode in 1918 and his Samadhi is visited by thousands daily.
Climate - winters are the best season to visit the town, the months from September to April being the ideal period. The summers can get very hot causing unpleasantness. Cotton clothing is apt for summers and light woolens suffice for the winter season.
HOW TO REACH
By Air - The nearest airports are Mumbai (260 kms), Pune (185 kms) and Aurangabad (125 kms). Flights for all the major cities in India and abroad can be taken from Mumbai.
By Rail - The nearest railway station is Manmad (60 kms) on the Central Railway which is connected to many parts of the country with Express trains. The nearest railway station is Manmad (60 km) on the Central Railway, which is connected to many parts of the country with express trains. Most of the trains touching Nasik Road railway station also touch Manmad. Shirdi has railway reservation office for trains from Manmad. Taxis and buses are easily available at Manmad railway station for transfer to Shirdi. Regular taxi service also operates between Manmad railway station and bus stand.
By Road - Shirdi is very well connected by a network of roads and road transport to all major towns of Maharashtra and surrounding areas.
WHEN TO GOThe best time to visit Shirdi is October To May.
WHAT TO SEE
Shri Saibaba's Samadhi Mandir - This is the place where sacred body of Baba is resting in Samadhi. Shri Gopalrao Butty of Nagpur constructed this building and thus giving this place another name 'Butty Wada'. It consists of Shrine and of a beautiful idol of Shri Saibaba. The articles handled by Baba are preserved and displayed here in a special show room. All rituals consisting of Pooja, Abhishek and Daily four Artis are performed here.
Shri Gurusthan Mandir - This is the place where Baba first appeared to the world as boy of 16 years and this place is supposed to be Baba's Gurusthan. The famous Margosa tree is here which has a reference in "Sai Sat-Charitra". It is an experience of devotees that there aliments are cured by burning incense hear.
Dwarkamai - Baba stayed at this place continuously for 60 years. Innumerable devotees got blessings of Shri Saibaba at this place. The Shila on which Baba used to sit is located near by. Also Sacred fire lit by Baba is still kept burning here. Udi distributed to the devotees now is only from this Dhuni. Baba used to prepare food with his own hands here for distribution to devotees
Chawadi - On every alternate day Baba used to proceed in procession from Dwarkamai to this place at night and halt and sleep here. Now also on every Thursday Palanquin procession of Baba's Photo Holy Padukas and Satka is taken to this place.
Lendi Baug - This is the place where Shri Sai Baba used to go for stroll. Nandadeep is kept constantly burning near the Pimple tree planted by Shri Sai Baba himself. There is also Datta Mandir in this garden and Shri Sai Baba's beloved horse 'Shamkarna' is taking Eternal rest here. There is also a well here called as 'Baba's Shivdi'.
Maruti Temple - Baba was having a splendid place in his heart for the Maruti temple. Baba used to regularly visit this temple.
Shri Khandoba Mandir - This place is near Shri Sainath Hospital . Baba stepped here in Shirdi at the foot of banyan tree near Khandoba Temple along with Chand Patil's wife's Nephew's Marriage party. Pujari Mhalsapati welcomed Him by calling "Aao Sai."
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many good restaurants with different delicacies, and all the major hotels has their own specialty restaurant and bar.
TopKolhapur with its myriad images emerges as a city with a multi-faceted persona and a rich cultural, historical and mythical past. Ancient texts such as the Padmapurana and the Skandapurana speak in glowing terms of Karveer or Dakshin Kashi which is, in fact modern-day Kolhapur on the banks of river Panchaganga nestling among the Sahyadri ranges. A journey through the past reveals that Kolhapur has lived through the regimes of various rulers from the mythical past to the modern age.
Chhatrapati Sahu Maharaj the ruler of kohlapur reign lent a progressive spirit to the city and he extended his patronage to theatre, films, music, painting, sculpture, wrestling and crafts. As result, the city has a rich cultural ethos. In 1945, archaeological excavations close to a hill named Brahmagiri on the banks of the river Panchaganga revealed the existence of an ancient town dating back to the Roman times. Today, Kolhapur combines its artistic past with a dynamic present and is a modern, industrial city.
HOW TO REACH
By Air - Kolhapur is well connected to the rest of the state and country. By air, you can reach Kolhapur from Mumbai by a one-hour plane journey. Ujalaiwadi Airport is 10 kms from the main city of Kolhapur.
By Rail - it is a 10 to 11 hour journey from Mumbai or Bangalore . There are several day and night trains that leave Dadar or Chhtrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai for Kolhapur.
By Road - By road, Kolhapur can be reached easily from Mumbai, Pune and other places. There are regular State and private buses that ply between Kolhapur and Mumbai/Pune. Kolhapur is 395 kms from Mumbai and 225 kms from Pune.
WHEN TO GO
The best time to visit Kolhapur is October To May.
WHAT TO SEE
Mahalaxmi Temple - This exquisitely carved temple draws millions of pilgrims from all over India and is an important spiritual centre. The temple complex has artistically sculpted structures and houses the temples of many deities.
The temple also holds music concerts wherein renowned artistes perform during festivals. Devotees can stay at the nearby dharamshala (boarding house) for a nominal fee.
The New Palace ( Chhatrapati Sahu Museum ) - A royal palace partly converted into an unforgettable museum, the New Palace has lush green parks, a zoo and a picturesque lake to soothe tired souls. The museum houses rare paintings and artifacts used by the royal family.
The Town Hall Museum - Antiques found during the excavations at Brahmagiri, old sculptures, filigree work in sandal wood and ivory, old coins and paintings of master artists of the region are all displayed here.
The Old Palace - Located behind the temple of Mahalaxmi , this magnificent structure has an impressive marqee with filigree work in stone. It also houses a temple of the goddess Bhawani
Binkhambi Ganesh Mandir - Students of architecture will enjoy visiting this place as this unique temple does not have any pillars.
Rankala Lake - This wide and spacious lake is so called because at its centre lies the temple of Rankabhairav . Legend has it that a golden temple is submerged under the temple of Rankabhairav . The Shalini Palace stands on the west bank of the lake. It is built of intricately carved black stone and Italian marble. Recently, the palace was converted into a hotel.
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many good restaurants with different delicacies, and all the major hotels has their own specialty restaurant and bar.
TopThe vast region of Vidarbha stretches across north-eastern Maharashtra, with Nagpur as its main city. This verdant land with its undulating hills and lazy winding rivers, has many wildlife sanctuaries, forts, temples and geological sites.
Nagpur City has many distinctions. Popularly called the Orange City , it is the second largest city in Maharashtra . It is also the second greenest in India and is located at the very center of the heartland, almost equidistant from Kolkata, Chennai and New Delhi and Mumbai. Nagpur is a sprawling, seemingly infinite metropolis and is India 's primary transport hub with all the nation's main highways intersecting there.
This city of wide, lush gardens and religious sites is culturally alive, and regularly hosts handicrafts exhibitions, tribal dances, and folk-art programmes. Many festivals are celebrated here, including the Kalidas Mahotsav, the Ganesh Utsav and Dhamma Chakra Pravartan Din. Indeed, there's no better springboard to the wonders of Vidarbha.
Nanded is one of the historical places in Marathwada region of Maharashtra State . It is situated on the north bank of Godavari River . It is famous for Sikh Gurudwaras. Nanded is a town of great antiquity. It is said that during the Puranic days, Pandavas traveled through Nanded district. In 1708, Guru Govind Singh the tenth spiritual leader of the Sikhs came over to Nanded, his permanent abode. It was he who preached amongst the Sikhs that there need not be any spiritual leader for them and they should take Granth Sahib as their leader. A monument has been constructed at the place where he breathed his last. A Gurudwara has also been constructed there. It is known as Shri Huzur Abchalnagar Sachkhand Gurudwara.
TopProximity to holy temples and sites including the famous pilgrimage centre of Shirdi and a long tryst with India 's sacred past has made Nashik a confluence for the spiritually enlightened. Mythology has it that Rama, the king of Ayodhya, made Nashik his temporary abode during the 14 years of his exile. Nashik has always been the epicentre of commerce and trade.
Today, Nashik is a bustling township with a blend of the ancient and the modern. Scattered across the city are numerous forts and majestic temples. But it is also the home to many industries. The Security Printing Press of the government, which prints the nation's currency, is located here. It is part of the green belt and is renowned for the various fruits and vegetables it produces. In fact the yield of grapes, strawberries and onions in Nashik is amongst the highest in the country.
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| Lakshadweep | Delhi | Pondicherry | |