Discover the Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in 2025

🚞 Discover the Best Places to Visit in Maharashtra in 2025 – Beyond Mumbai

When most people think of Maharashtra, Mumbai usually steals the spotlight. But after traveling around the state over the past few years, I realized there’s a whole different side to Maharashtra that often goes unnoticed. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a weekend explorer, or just someone looking to experience something new in 2025 — here’s a list of places I’ve personally loved that go way beyond the usual routes.

🏞️ 1. Matheran: A Hill Station Where Silence Still Exists

I’ll never forget my first trip to Matheran. I wasn’t even planning to go — it was a last-minute detour from Pune. The moment I stepped into the no-vehicle zone, I felt something rare: absolute quiet. No honking, no bikes, no distractions — just the sound of wind and your own thoughts.

Getting There: I took a train to Neral and then shared a cab up to Dasturi Point. From there, it’s a scenic 40-minute walk or horseback ride into town.

Budget Tip: Entry fee ₹50. Basic rooms go for ₹800-₹1500. Don’t miss the Parsi cafés — their berry pulao is worth every rupee.

Must-Do: Go early to Panorama Point for sunrise. I stood there with a cup of tea, just watching the clouds float below me.

🏰 2. Rajmachi Fort: Trekking Through History

This one’s for the hikers. Rajmachi isn’t just about the fort at the top — it’s about the journey there. I did the trek with two friends one monsoon weekend, and we barely spoke. The trail through dense greenery and mist kind of left us all in quiet awe.

Getting There: We started from Lonavala and hiked up via Udhewadi village. You can also begin from Karjat if you’re looking for a steeper challenge.

Budget Tip: Villagers offer simple home-cooked meals and beds for around ₹600. Worth every bit.

Must-Do: Camp at the top — the sunrise from there, with clouds wrapping around the hills, is honestly something I didn’t expect.

🌊 3. Tarkarli: Where the Sea Is Actually Blue

I didn’t expect Tarkarli to feel like a postcard, but it did. Unlike the more crowded Konkan beaches, this one felt… untouched. Crystal-clear water, soft sand, and the best part? Scuba diving without spending a fortune.

Getting There: Train to Kudal, then a 45-minute rickshaw ride. Or drive down from Goa for a peaceful weekend.

Budget Tip: Beachfront homestays are around ₹1000/night. Scuba diving with PADI-certified guides is ₹1500–₹2000.

Must-Do: Take a morning boat to Tsunami Island — a floating sandbank that appears only during low tide. Wild!

🌄 4. Bhandardara: The Place I Go to When I Need to Breathe

I stumbled on Bhandardara during a random solo trip from Nashik, and I’ve returned twice since. Something about its pace calms you down. Arthur Lake, with mountains around it and barely any people? Pure therapy.

Getting There: I usually take a train to Igatpuri, then hire a cab from there (about 40 km).

Budget Tip: Camping tents ₹1000. Simple lodges ₹1200. Meals in town ₹200–₹300.

Must-Do: Stargazing by the lake — I once counted 8 shooting stars in one night. No joke.

🏛️ 5. Aurangabad: Living History and Mouthwatering Street Food

Aurangabad is where history feels alive. The first time I saw the Kailasa Temple in Ellora — carved out of a single rock — I just stood there, silent. And the food here? Let’s just say, come hungry.

Getting There: Flights and trains from major cities are frequent and affordable.

Budget Tip: Caves entry ₹30 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners). Local thalis ₹180–₹250.

Must-Do: Spend time at Ajanta caves too — it’s less flashy than Ellora but more spiritual. Info: Archaeological Survey of India

🛕 6. Nanded: Underrated Spiritual Gem

I wasn’t planning to go to Nanded. I took a detour while traveling from Hyderabad and ended up staying a full day just sitting at the Hazur Sahib Gurudwara. The calm, the music, the langar — it stayed with me.

Getting There: Good rail connectivity and a domestic airport. It’s well connected but rarely explored.

Budget Tip: You can stay in the Gurudwara itself. Free meals, peaceful vibe. Or nearby hotels ₹1000–₹1500.

Must-Do: Attend the evening prayer. It’s one of those moments that feels deeply personal, even if you’re not religious.

🗺️ Location Map – Maharashtra Highlights

🎒 Final Thoughts: The Real Maharashtra Isn’t in the Brochures

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: the best parts of Maharashtra aren’t the ones you’ll see on a billboard. Whether it’s a cliff sunrise in Matheran or late-night chai in Bhandardara, this state has stories to offer — you just have to leave the city behind.

About the Author:
Hari is a travel blogger who has explored over 15 Indian states on a budget. His goal is to help others discover offbeat, affordable travel destinations through firsthand experience. When not writing or coding, you’ll find him on a local bus with a backpack, a camera, and a plate of hot samosas.

Photo by Zoshua Colah on Unsplash