Each state in India boasts of several destinations worth travelling to. While some states are rich in history, some are steeped in natural beauty. Very few states offer a mix of monuments, culture, culinary delights and beautiful landscapes. Maharashtra is one such state; it offers something to every kind of traveller. Since it has a great mixture of cities with laidback towns, you can plan a holiday to the state depending on your style. While places like Lonavala,Panchgani, Nasik, Aurangabad are quite famous, there are so many offbeat places to visit in Maharashtra
The state has lots of offbeat destinations for those who want to explore the unexplored!
Here are 15 offbeat places in Maharashtra you must visit:
1. Lonar
Lonar is one of the most beautiful places in Maharashtra. While the temples are fascinating enough, it is the natural lake formed as a result of a meteor hit that is the main highlight. There’s a Maharashtra tourism property right by the lake. You can enjoy the gorgeous view or embark on hikes all around the lake.
Image source: wikimedia
2. Kolhapur
Kolhapur is one of the best offbeat places in Maharashtra for architecture and culture lovers. From the majestic palace to the gorgeous Panhala fort on the outskirts and from the spicy Kolhapuri food to the beautiful Kolhapuri chappals, this town has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday. While you’re there, do not forget to unwind at the Rankala Lake in the evening.
Image source: wikimedia
3. Nanded
While the Golden Temple in Amritsar is extremely famous, did you know that the Hazur Sahib in Nanded is an important centre of Sikhism in India? The small town is a must-visit for those who want to soak in the calmness and beauty offered by Gurudwaras. A trip to Hazur Sahib along with an experience of the langar is a must-do for experience addicts!
Image source: wikimedia
4. Dahanu
If you’re tired of the crowded beaches in Alibaug and Mumbai, Dahanu is the place for you! It is around 100 kms from Mumbai and perfect for a weekend getaway. The laidback seaside town offers clean, beautiful beaches that are unexplored. With palm trees and gorgeous sunsets, this is a classic that cannot go wrong!
Image source: wikimedia
5. Kalsubai Peak trek
Calling all adventure enthusiasts! If you’re someone who enjoys a good trek, Kalsubai is where you must head to! While there are a lot of offbeat places in Maharashtra, the beauty of Kalsubai at sunrise is unique. The trek to Kalsubai is a steep one that starts at midnight. The hike is strenous but the views you witness at the top are beautiful. There’s also a small temple at the peak. For adrenaline junkies, Kalsubai is a must-visit!
6. Chikhaldhara
Chikhaldhara is a pristine town situated near Saputara. If you’re looking to unwind in a peaceful destination amidst natural beauty, this is the place for you. From the beautiful Bhimkund waterfall and Melghat Tiger Reserve to the hike to Gavilgad fort, this town has a lot to offer. You could choose to explore or just relax and enjoy the mesmerizing views and greenery.
Image source : wikimedia
7. Tadoba and Andhari Tiger Reserve
If you love exploring wildlife, Tadoba and Andhari Tiger Reserves are ideal for a holiday. They are spread over an area of 625 sq km in Central Maharashtra. There are around 43 tigers present in the area and you are most likely to experience a sighting on your visit.
Image source: wikimedia
8. Tarkarli
Tarkarli is truly one of the most offbeat places in Maharashtra. Since it boasts of an 8km long uninterrupted coastline, it is a must-visit for beach bums. If you want to try your hand at water sports, this is the place to visit! Be sure to get some Instagrammable shots when you’re here!
9. Kaas Plateau
Who needs to go to the Himalayas when you can visit the Valley of Flowers in Maharashtra? Kaas Plateau boasts of the valley of flowers, which has almost 150 varieties of flowers that make for a brilliant sight! If you love being surrounded by nature, head to Kaas Plateau.
Image source: wikimedia
10. Ganpatipule
While a lot of tourists head to the port city of Ratnagiri, it is Ganpatipule, a town nearby, that is worth exploring. If you’re the kind of traveller who enjoys relaxing in a quiet destination with few tourists around and more locals to interact with, Ganpatipule’s beaches might just be calling out to you. Since a lot of boutique home stays have opened here, now is the perfect time to visit Ganpatipule.
11. Diveagar
If you wish to explore the rural part of Maharashtra, there’s no better place to start than Diveagar. The quiet seaside town is located 170 kms south of Mumbai and is perfect for a family getaway. With its beautiful temples, rural culture and majestic beaches, Diveagar is truly a hidden gem!
12. Satara
While Satara was a significant part of the Maratha empire, it is not a forgotten treasure. However, for those who love treading the offbeat path, Satara is the place to visit. From the famous Kandi Pethe to the hills of Yavteshwar to the beautiful views offered by Ajinkyatare, Satara has a lot to offer to those who are willing to explore.
Image source: wikimedia
13. Malvan
If you want a beach holiday but do not want to head to Goa, Malvan is the answer to your problems! Apart from the clean beaches and scuba diving programmes offered, the mighty Sindhudurg Fort is enough to entice you!
Image source: wikimedia
14. Water sports near the Kundalika River
If you’re planning on heading to Aamby Valley or Mulshi, you might want to reconsider your decision and head to the Kundalika river instead! Just as beautiful with much lesser crowds, this is perfect for white water rafting. It offers different water sports programmes depending on your time and budget. If you’re travelling in a group and want to explore offbeat places in Maharashtra, this is where you must go.
15. Morachi Chincholi
All those who enjoy bird-watching must absolutely check out Morachi Chincholi- a bird sanctuary near Pune. You get to witness peacocks in their natural habitat while also enjoying elements of village life. With local food, puppet shows, bullock-cart rides, this is an adventure any traveller will love!
Image source: Flickr
If you’re looking to visit offbeat places in Maharashtra, this is the time to start planning that holiday! If you need help planning your trip, Hire A Scout and travel without a worry.
3 comments
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Maharashtra is no doubt a fascinating destination in India. That is a fine selection of places you have composed in your post. Some of the places are new to me and I am glad I came across them in your post. Thank You for sharing.