Wildlife & Eco Destinations in Maharashtra
-
Ellora
Ellora, also known as Verul, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. It is one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world, featuring Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments, and artwork dating from the 600-1000 CE period. The Ellora Caves represent a remarkable blend of architectural styles and religious harmony, showcasing the religious tolerance of ancient India.
-
Jalna
Jalna, a city in Maharashtra, India, is known for its agricultural produce, seed industry, and flourishing steel industry. Historically a trading center, it has developed into an industrial hub in the Marathwada region.
-
Jejuri
Jejuri is a city and a municipal council in Pune district in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is known as the holy seat of Khandoba, also known as Martanda Bhairava, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The main feature of Jejuri is the Khandoba temple situated on a hill, which attracts devotees from across Maharashtra and other parts of India. The temple is renowned for its Bhandara festival (Turmeric festival) where devotees shower the deity and each other with turmeric powder, creating a vibrant and unforgettable spectacle.
-
Trimbak
Trimbak, also known as Trimbakeshwar, is a religiously significant town located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India. It is renowned for being one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. The town is nestled amidst the picturesque Brahmagiri hills, the source of the holy Godavari River. Its ancient temples, serene atmosphere, and lush green surroundings make it a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
-
Nerul
Nerul is a well-planned residential and commercial node in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Known for its well-maintained infrastructure, green spaces, and connectivity, Nerul offers a blend of urban living and suburban tranquility. It is a popular choice for families and professionals seeking a comfortable and convenient lifestyle.
-
Aurangabad
Aurangabad, named after the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, is a city steeped in history and culture in the state of Maharashtra, India. It is a major tourist hub, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Ajanta and Ellora caves. The city also boasts historical monuments like the Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the 'Taj of the Deccan', and the Daulatabad Fort. Aurangabad serves as a significant economic and educational center in the Marathwada region, blending its rich past with modern development.
-
Dombivli
Dombivli is a bustling city located in the Thane district of Maharashtra, India. It is a major residential and industrial hub within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), known for its blend of traditional Maharashtrian culture and modern urban lifestyle. Dombivli is divided into two parts - Dombivli East and Dombivli West, both well-connected by rail and road. The city has experienced rapid development in recent years, becoming a preferred destination for families and young professionals seeking affordable housing and a good quality of life near Mumbai.
-
Bhor
Bhor is a historically significant town and a tehsil in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range, it's known for its scenic beauty, ancient temples, and rich cultural heritage. Bhor was once the capital of the Bhor State, a princely state during the British Raj. The town offers a blend of historical importance, natural landscapes, and spiritual experiences.
-
Sinnar
Sinnar is a historic town located in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India. Known for its ancient temples, particularly the Gondeshwar temple, Sinnar offers a blend of religious significance and historical charm. It is also an emerging industrial hub. The town sits amidst scenic landscapes, making it a worthwhile destination for history buffs, pilgrims, and those seeking a peaceful getaway.
-
Dapoli
Dapoli, often referred to as 'Mini-Mahabaleshwar' of Konkan, is a scenic coastal town in Maharashtra, India. Known for its serene beaches, lush greenery, historic forts, and delicious Alphonso mangoes, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Dapoli blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and beach enthusiasts.
-
Bhandara
Bhandara, also known as the 'Rice Bowl of Maharashtra', is a city and a municipal council in Bhandara district in the state of Maharashtra, India. The region is characterized by its lush green paddy fields, dense forests, and rich cultural heritage. It's a relatively quiet and less-touristed destination, offering a glimpse into rural Maharashtrian life and natural beauty. Bhandara is also emerging as an industrial hub with significant developments in the power and steel sectors.
-
Ajanta
The Ajanta Caves are a series of 30 rock-cut cave monuments that date from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE. These caves, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983, are renowned for their Buddhist cave paintings and sculptures, which are some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art. The caves depict the Jataka tales, stories of the Buddha's previous lives, as well as scenes from daily life and mythological narratives. They offer a unique insight into ancient Indian society, culture, and religious beliefs.
-
Titwala
Titwala, located in Maharashtra, India, is known for the Siddhivinayak Mahaganapati Temple. It provides a tranquil escape from city life, offering lush surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere.
-
Shahapur
Shahapur, a scenic taluka in the Thane district of Maharashtra, India, is known for its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and historical significance. It's a blend of rural charm and developing infrastructure, attracting nature lovers, trekkers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.
-
Satara
Satara is a picturesque city located in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage, it serves as a gateway to the Sahyadri mountain range. The city is famous for its historical forts, beautiful lakes, and vibrant local markets, making it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
-
Bhiwandi
Bhiwandi is a bustling city in the Thane district of Maharashtra, India, primarily known for its textile industry. It's a major logistics and warehousing hub, contributing significantly to the state's economy. While not a typical tourist destination, Bhiwandi offers a glimpse into the industrial heartland of India and its vibrant local culture.
-
Revdanda
Revdanda is a coastal village in Maharashtra, India, known for its serene beaches, historical significance, and Portuguese influence. It offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, with its swaying coconut and betel nut trees, ancient fort ruins, and a laid-back atmosphere. Revdanda is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, appealing to history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation.
-
Khopoli
Khopoli, a bustling industrial town nestled in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India, serves as a gateway to the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats. Historically significant and modernly vibrant, it offers a blend of cultural experiences, adventure opportunities, and spiritual retreats. Known for its pleasant climate and accessibility from Mumbai and Pune, Khopoli is a popular weekend getaway destination for those seeking respite from the city's hustle.
-
Neral
Neral is a town in Raigad district, Maharashtra, India, located near the foothills of the Western Ghats. It is a popular getaway destination, particularly known for its proximity to Matheran, a vehicle-free hill station. Neral serves as a crucial railway junction, connecting Mumbai and Pune to Matheran via the narrow-gauge Matheran Hill Railway. The surrounding area is characterized by lush greenery, making it a pleasant escape from the bustling city life.
-
Parbhani
Parbhani is a city in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra, India, known for its rich agricultural land, especially cotton, jowar, and pulses. It's a key trading center and home to Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Agricultural University. Offering a glimpse into rural Maharashtra, Parbhani holds historical and religious significance with temples and dargahs.
-
Chandrapur
Chandrapur, located in the state of Maharashtra, is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The city is surrounded by lush forests and is home to the famous Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can explore ancient temples, vibrant markets, and enjoy the local cuisine, making it a perfect blend of adventure and culture.
-
Karnala
Karnala is a charming village and a popular weekend getaway in Maharashtra, India, renowned for its lush greenery, historical fort, and bird sanctuary. It offers a refreshing escape from city life, with opportunities for trekking, birdwatching, and exploring historical ruins.
-
Melghat tiger reserve
Melghat Tiger Reserve is a stunning wildlife sanctuary located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra, India. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the majestic Bengal tiger. The reserve offers breathtaking landscapes, dense forests, and a chance to experience the beauty of nature up close.
-
Melghat
Melghat is a stunning wildlife sanctuary located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra, India. Known for its rich biodiversity, it is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the majestic Bengal tiger. The sanctuary offers breathtaking landscapes, lush forests, and a serene environment, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
-
Malvan marine sanctuary
Malvan Marine Sanctuary is a stunning coastal destination located in Maharashtra, India, known for its rich marine biodiversity and vibrant coral reefs. This sanctuary offers an array of water sports and activities, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
-
Tadkalas
Tadkalas is a serene village located in the state of Maharashtra, India. Known for its lush green landscapes and tranquil environment, it offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers and those seeking peace away from the bustling city life. The village is surrounded by scenic hills and is rich in local culture and traditions.
-
Pench national park
Pench National Park, located in the state of Maharashtra, is a stunning wildlife sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes. The park is named after the Pench River, which flows through it, and is famous for its population of Bengal tigers, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris, bird watching, and nature walks amidst the lush forests and diverse flora and fauna.