Maharashtra is one of those rare states in India where every kind of traveler finds something that excites them. It’s home to bustling metros, peaceful hill stations, sacred pilgrimages, ancient caves, national parks, pristine beaches, and even vineyards – Maharashtra is as diverse as it gets.

For culture lovers, cities like Mumbai and Pune offer a mix of colonial history, thriving art, and unbeatable street food. History enthusiasts can walk through centuries of heritage at Ajanta, Ellora, and the grand Maratha forts. Adventure seekers get their dose of trekking, rafting, and wildlife safaris. Those who just want to slow down can head to hill stations like Mahabaleshwar or sip wine in Nashik’s vineyards.

Maharashtra has experiences that feel authentic and rooted. To help you see the best of Maharashtra, here’s a list of 12 of the best things to do in Maharashtra that bring out the state’s diversity and charm.

1. Explore the Ajanta and Ellora Caves

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves near Aurangabad are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a must for history lovers. The Ajanta Caves date back to as early as the 2nd century BCE and are famous for their exquisite Buddhist rock-cut paintings and sculptures depicting the life of the Buddha and Jataka tales. Ellora, carved between the 6th and 10th centuries, is remarkable for its diversity—it houses Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain caves, with the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) standing out as the world’s largest monolithic rock-cut structure, carved top-down from a single rock. Ajanta is closed on Mondays and Ellora on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

Walking through these caves feels like stepping back into ancient India’s golden age of craftsmanship. Plan a full day to explore both sites and carry a guidebook or hire a local guide for better insights.

2. Go Trekking at Rajmachi Fort

Trekking in the Sahyadri hills is a popular activity, and Rajmachi Fort is one of the most rewarding spots. Located near Lonavala, the trail passes through lush forests, small streams, and green ridges, making it scenic and accessible. Rajmachi Fort was built during the Satavahana dynasty but gained prominence under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century. It served as a strategic watchpoint overlooking Bor Ghat, a vital trade route connecting Mumbai and Pune. Trekkers often camp overnight at the base village and enjoy the peaceful setting under a starlit sky. During monsoon, the trail comes alive with waterfalls and mist, while winter makes for cool, comfortable trekking. It’s beginner-friendly and perfect for both solo adventurers and groups.

3. Take a Heritage Walk in Mumbai

Mumbai is more than just Bollywood and business. Yes, it is a city that never slows down, but hidden among the chaos are colonial-era buildings, heritage landmarks, and quiet corners that tell the city’s story. A heritage walk through South Mumbai covers the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, and the art deco buildings along Marine Drive.

The neighborhoods of Colaba and Fort are best explored on foot, especially early in the morning. Along the way, stop for a chai and bun maska at an Irani café, an experience that feels timeless. It’s a great way to connect with the city beyond its Bollywood image and understand it’s history, it’s timeless charm and what makes it home to millions of people.

4. Experience Wildlife at Tadoba National Park

If spotting a tiger is on your bucket list, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve in Chandrapur should be on your itinerary. It is Maharashtra’s oldest national park. Named after the local deity “Taru” and the Andhari River that flows through it, the park is steeped in tribal legends and natural beauty. Spread over 1,700 square kilometers, Tadoba is home to tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, and over 200 species of birds, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

Jeep safaris run twice a day and give you a real shot at close encounters with wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is less commercialized compared to reserves in other states, which means quieter safaris and fewer vehicles. The best time to visit is between October and June, with summer offering higher chances of tiger sightings. A stay in eco-lodges around the park completes the experience. See the wild and biodiverse side of Maharashtra.

5. Spend a Weekend in Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a hill station famous for its cool climate, viewpoints, and strawberry farms – a very popular spot for families and couples living around Mumbai and Pune. A weekend here can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want. Venna Lake is a popular spot for boating and horse riding, while viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat, Elephant’s Head Point, and Wilson Point offer sweeping views of the valleys and hills. The old Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, adds a cultural touch to your visit.

Don’t miss the fresh strawberries with cream, a signature treat in Mapro Garden, also famous for jams, chocolates, and fruit products. Adventure seekers can trek through nearby forests or explore smaller, hidden waterfalls. The hill station is crisp and pleasant all through the year but during the monsoon months, it transforms into a misty wonderland.

6. Go White Water Rafting in Kolad

Kolad, a small village in Raigad district, has grown into Maharashtra’s adventure capital, thanks to the Kundalika River. The river originates from the Bhira Dam, built in the early 20th century for hydroelectric projects, and the controlled water release makes rafting possible throughout the year – something rare in India. The rafting stretch runs for about 12–14 kilometers, offering rapids of varying intensity that are thrilling yet manageable for beginners.

Beyond rafting, Kolad also has scenic waterfalls, lush green valleys, and camping spots that make it a great weekend escape from Mumbai and Pune. Travelers can also try kayaking, rappelling, and zip-lining offered by local operators. The best time for rafting is during monsoon (June–September) when the river is at its strongest, but it’s enjoyable year-round thanks to dam water release schedules. Staying overnight at riverside camps to experience the bonfires and starry skies.

7. Visit Shirdi – Land of Sai Baba

Shirdi is one of the most important pilgrimage towns in India and is closely associated with Sai Baba, who lived here during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his teachings of love, faith, and service, Sai Baba attracted followers from all religions, and today millions visit Shirdi to pay their respects. The main Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir is the heart of the town, where devotees line up daily for darshan. Apart from the shrine, other must-visit spots include Dwarkamai, the mosque where Sai Baba spent much of his life, Chavadi, where he used to sleep on alternate nights, and Khandoba Mandir, one of the first temples to recognize him.

For a quicker and smoother experience, it’s best to book online passes for darshan to avoid long queues. Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends and festival times. Don’t miss a trip to Sai Teerth Theme Park, India’s first devotional theme park, which combines 5D shows, temples, and cultural exhibits to narrate Sai Baba’s life in an engaging way. Wet’nJoy Water Park is a fun day out with slides, wave pools, and rides that families can enjoy.

8. Explore the Lonar Crater Lake

Lonar Crater Lake in Buldhana district is one of Maharashtra’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Formed nearly 50,000 years ago when a meteor struck the basalt plateau of the Deccan Traps, it is among the world’s only four known hyper-velocity impact crater lakes. What makes Lonar even more fascinating is its dual water chemistry—the outer lake is neutral, while the inner lake is alkaline and saline, a phenomenon that attracts geologists, scientists, and even NASA researchers.

The crater is about 1.8 km in diameter and 150 meters deep, surrounded by lush forests that make for a scenic trek down to the lake. Along the rim and nearby, you’ll also find ancient temples like the Daitya Sudan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and built in the Hemadpanti style of architecture. Other temples such as Kamalja Devi, Munglyacha Mandir, and Ram Mandir add historical and spiritual value to the area. Panoramic views of the lake from above are breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset.

While not as commercialized as other attractions, that’s exactly what makes it special, it feels untouched and mysterious.

9. Explore Sindhudurg Fort and Beaches

Sindhudurg, located in the Malvan region of the Konkan coast, is both a historic and scenic destination. The fort was built in the 17th century by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a naval base to strengthen his defense against foreign invaders. Spread across 48 acres on an island, the fort’s walls were constructed using a special limestone mixture that has helped them withstand centuries of strong waves. Inside, you can see temples dedicated to Shivaji and other deities, along with underground passages that once served as escape routes. The fort is accessible by a short boat ride from Malvan jetty.

The surrounding beaches are stunning and far less crowded than Goa. Tarkarli Beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, making it a hotspot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Chivla Beach offers a quieter experience, ideal for long walks and watching sunsets. Devbagh Beach is another gem where the Karli River meets the Arabian Sea, creating a beautiful backwater stretch perfect for boating and kayaking. You can also take a dolphin-watching trip in the early morning hours.

Food lovers shouldn’t miss the chance to try authentic Malvani cuisine, known for its fiery seafood curries, sol kadhi (kokum drink), and fried fish thalis. Avoid peak monsoon months (July–August) when boat rides to the fort are often suspended.

10. Take a Wine Tour in Nashik & Visit Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga

Nashik, often called the Wine Capital of India, is where the country’s modern wine industry first flourished. The region’s cool climate, fertile soil, and elevation make it ideal for growing grapes, which is why international and homegrown brands set up vineyards here in the 1990s. Today, Nashik produces over half of India’s wine, and a vineyard tour has become one of the city’s top experiences.

Start your journey at Sula Vineyards, the pioneer of Indian winemaking. The estate offers guided tours that walk you through the vineyard, the wine-making process, and cellars, followed by tastings of their best reds, whites, and sparkling wines. York Winery is another great stop, known for its boutique approach and scenic tasting rooms overlooking the Gangapur Dam. Smaller estates like Soma Vine Village and Grover Zampa provide more intimate tours and farm-to-table dining experiences. Book vineyard tours in advance, especially on weekends. Visit during SulaFest in February, a music and wine festival that attracts artists and travelers from across the globe.

But Nashik has a lot more to see and do. Don’t miss the famous Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, a sacred Shiva temple. Built in the 18th century by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao, the temple is constructed entirely out of black basalt stone and features beautiful Nagara-style architecture.  What makes Trimbakeshwar unique is its sacred Shiva Linga, which represents the Trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva)—all in one form.

Other places worth seeing are Pandav Leni Caves, a series of 2nd-century Buddhist caves with rock-cut sculptures and inscriptions. Godavari Ghats – Pilgrims come here to take holy dips, and it is also the site of the Kumbh Mela, held once every 12 years. Witness the Godavari Aarti in the evenings – a beautiful devotional experience.

11. Ride the Deccan Odyssey Luxury Train

For a unique travel experience, the Deccan Odyssey luxury train takes you through Maharashtra and beyond in style. This luxury train is designed like a royal palace on wheels, complete with plush cabins, gourmet dining, a spa, and curated excursions. Its routes cover heritage sites like Ajanta, Ellora, Rajasthan, and even Goa, depending on the itinerary. Passengers get to explore multiple destinations while enjoying the comfort of a moving hotel. The service is top-notch, and every stop is well-planned. While it’s one of the pricier experiences in Maharashtra, it remains unmatched for those who want to travel in style and not spend time worrying for planning for every day.

12. Attend the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival in Mumbai

No list of things to do in Maharashtra is complete without mentioning Ganesh Chaturthi. For ten days, Mumbai transforms into a city-wide celebration with music, dance, and elaborately decorated Ganesh idols in pandals. The tradition was popularized in the late 19th century by freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak, who turned it into a public celebration to unite people during the independence movement.

The most iconic pandal is Lalbaugcha Raja in Parel, where devotees queue for hours for darshan. Other famous ones include Siddhivinayak Temple in Prabhadevi, Andhericha Raja, and G.S.B. Seva Mandal in King’s Circle, known for its traditional grandeur. Smaller pandals in neighborhoods are equally fascinating and often less crowded. On the final day, the Visarjan (immersion) at Girgaon Chowpatty or Juhu Beach is a moving experience, with chants, drums, and thousands of devotees bidding farewell to the deity. It shows you the city at its most spirited and welcoming. If you want to see Mumbai’s soul, there’s no better time to visit.

Maharashtra will surprise you at every turn. Each visit adds a new layer of discovery, and that’s what makes Maharashtra worth coming back to.