Alibag: Escape to the Beaches & Forts

Known as ‘Mini Goa’, Alibag flaunts beautiful beaches, fun aquatic activities, and unforgettable views. Get ready to be mesmerised by the postcard-worthy Kihim Beach, Mandwa Beach, and the Kolaba Fort, surrounded by the Arabian Sea from all four sides.

Take a stroll in the fruit orchards of the Vrindavan Farm, spend a few days in a beach resort, discover the enchanting Murud-Janjira Fort, try the lip-smacking sea food served in the shacks at Nagaon Beach, and whisper a prayer at Someshwar Temple. 

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Lonavala & Khandala: Enjoy Bollywood-style Romance

Reminds you of the popular song, ‘Aati Kya Khandala?’ Imagine chilling beside the mesmerising Kune Waterfalls, surrounded by the refreshing lush greenery. Feel the rush of adrenaline at India’s largest extreme adventure park, Della Adventure Park. Get awe-struck at the ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves of Karla & Bhaja, or go for a stimulating trek at Duke’s Nose. Be it shopping for the yummy Chikki or spending some tranquil time at a lake like Shirota – these getaways will not disappoint you.

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Shirdi: Soak in Divine Peace

Find peace in temples like Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple and Shani Shignapur, ancient sites like Chavadi, spiritual activities, and mystical chants. Revered by people from every faith, Shirdi is home to the tomb of Sai Baba – Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir and his former home – Dwarkamai. Don’t forget to try the ladoo served at the Prasadalaya, a mega kitchen.

Shirdi is well-known for fruits like grapes and delightful fruit juices made from pomegranate and guava too. Also, have some fun at Sai Teerth Theme Park, with value-for-money shows on Sai Baba’s life. 

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Lavasa: Explore India’s First Planned Hill Station

A private city, planned on the model of Portofino in Italy, Lavasa boasts an urban infrastructure spread over 7 lush green hills. Close to Pune, Lavasa offers a picturesque scenery of the Western Ghats along with modern resorts, malls and a 65-kilometer long lakefront. Don’t forget to take a walk through the well-planned city alongside the multi-coloured buildings, admire the wonderful Temghar Dam, and try out the recreational water sports. You can also watch a street play that is carried out on the first Saturday of each month.

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Matheran: Treat Yourself with Scenic Views

Get ready to be bowled over by the beauty of the Western Ghats and the charm of the colonial architecture that Matheran has to offer! You’ll forget the noisy life of a metro city like Mumbai in this quiet and calm town.

Check out Shivaji’s Ladder, the unique ladder-like hiking and climbing route. Visit Louisa Point, where tourists indulge in horse-riding, hiking and photography. Catch sweeping views from the Echo Point, Khandala Point or Alexander Point. And, explore the rejuvenating Matheran Waterfall, which looks the best during monsoon.

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Nashik: Chill at the Wine Capital of India

The city with links to the Ramayana, Nashik has it all! Be it the Ramayana-fame town of Panchvati, the 16-year old grape winery – Sula Vineyards, or the refreshing panoramic views from Dudsagar Falls.

Climb the 510 steps or use the fun ropeway to reach the two-storied temple of goddess Saptashrungi. Explore the architectural marvel – Trimbakeshwar Temple, mentioned in the holy Mrityunjaya Mantra, nestled among the hills of Brahmagiri, Nilagiri and Kalagiri. Get a glimpse into the glorious past when you trek to the 24 mystical Pandavleni Caves, former home to prominent Jain saints.

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Ganpatipule: Discover this Konkan Paradise

Sun, sea and sand, all at the best beaches in Maharashtra – that’s Ganpatipule for you! A white sand beach in Maharashtra? Yes, Ganpatipule is one of the only two white beaches in the state. The 4 centuries old Swayambhu Ganapati Temple is a magnet to a thousand tourists, annually.

Know the local way of Konkan life at Prachin Konkan Museum, and have the long stretch of the virgin Aare Ware Beach, all to yourself! Seeking solitude? Head to Bhandarpule Beach, the one with picture-worthy vistas. The giant Jaigad Fort & Lighthouse here is a protected archaeological gem.

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Ajanta & Ellora: Explore the UNESCO-listed Caves

Are you into history and architecture? If yes, then you must visit the wonderful historic caves of Ajanta and Ellora. Apart from the 34 overwhelming caves in Ellora, you can pay a visit to the ancient Grineshwar Temple, home to one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The largest monolithic rock-cut temple in the world, Kailash Temple, is also a gem in Ellora.

More than 20-centuries-old rock-cut Buddhist monuments, thirty in number, are there in the Ajanta Caves. Known as the Taj of the Deccan, 5 km from Aurangabad, is Bibi Ka Maqbara too, a monument that resembles the Taj Mahal. 

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