Maharashtra

A large state in western India, with the urban energy of Mumbai and world-class monuments such as the Ajanta and Ellora caves.

Maharashtra lies in western India on the Arabian Sea, with the Western Ghats running along the coast and the Deccan Plateau inland. The capital, Mumbai, is India's financial center and the home of Bollywood; the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Elephanta Caves are representative sights. The Ajanta Caves near Aurangabad are known for their Buddhist murals, and the Ellora Caves bring together Buddhist, Hindu and Jain sculpture; both are World Heritage Sites. Pune, Nashik and the hill stations of the Western Ghats each have their own character. The best season is October to March, and in the rainy season the hills are lush and green. The main gateway is Mumbai International Airport.

Destinations

• Mumbai
• Aurangabad, Ajanta & Ellora
• Central Pune
• Nashik
• Mahabaleshwar
• Matheran
• Dapoli
• Lonavla & Khandala
• Shirdi
• Alibag
• Ganpatipule & Ratnagiri
• Malvan & Tarkarli
• Pench Tiger Reserve

Itineraries

• Mumbai to Goa Konkan Coast – Drive south along the Konkan Coast, connecting sea forts, ferries, fishing harbors, and quiet beaches, ending in Goa.
• Western Ghats Caves, Forts & Hill Stations – Climb up the Western Ghats from Mumbai to connect Buddhist caves, Maratha hill forts, Pune's heritage sites, and highla…
• Mumbai & Ajanta & Ellora Caves – See colonial architecture and Elephanta Caves in Mumbai, then take a train to Aurangabad to explore two world-heritage…
• Nashik & Shirdi Pilgrimage – Depart from Mumbai and cover Trimbakeshwar, Panchavati, Shirdi, and the doorless village in three days.