Maharashtra

The Oxford of the Eastern region of India, the city of Pune (पुणे) is one among the largest city of the country in terms of its vast empire and also the people it houses. One can’t resist getting a youthful vibe here. 

This metropolitan city has its roots sprouted from the old Poona. Poona had witnessed the glory of the Maratha Empire, which helped India being an independent country. The city shows the perfect amalgamation of modernity with tradition, which adds to the adoration of this beautiful city.

In the due course of time, the city of Pune witnessed many cultures and civilizations. But still it hasn’t gone far from its typical Maharashtrian conduct.

The best thing about Pune is its weather! Yes, it is surrounded by beautiful ghats and mountains and you can enjoy all different seasons here. Especially monsoon! you can go for trek to various ghats and fort, enjoy waterfall and can do various activities in and near to Pune.

Places to visit in / near Pune:

Apart from the culture and history, the city of Pune is also blessed with a rich heritage sites, pilgrimage sites and natural sightseeing places. The climate of Pune is so pleasant that it keeps calling visitors from all over the country, all year round. Now let’s explore the places to visit in Pune.

You must include following places in your Itinerary to Pune -

• Rajgad Fort - This Palace is a perk for the trekkers and the explorers. Go trekking till you reach an altitude of 1400 meters to discover this majestic Palace. The place had witnessed many historic events of the past and thus has always been an important spot in the maps of the country.
• Neelkantheshwar Temple - This sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Do visit this place to unreveal many mythological stories the temple says through its stunning statues.
• Lavasa - If you are looking for comfort, modernization, scenic views all at one place, still being in the lap of Mother Nature, then this is the ultimate Stop for you. The newest hill city of India is equipped with all the modern amenities and provides the chance to enjoy the nature from the closest.
• Aga Khan Palace - Visit this place to look for some mesmerizing architecture of the past and to explore the place of much historical significance. The Palace also holds a museum showcasing the collectibles related to the Indian war of Independence.

These are only few to mentions of Pune but, there is lot more to explore in Pune and the city is truly a piece of heaven for the travel enthusiasts. You can visit this page which will cover more of such places to visit in and near to Pune.

Things to do in Pune

Once you are in Pune, apart from visiting tourists places of the city, there are many more activities and fun awaiting for you. One can get chance to choose among the many options like -

• Paragliding at Kamshet - The flying enthusiasts have very adventurous option of paragliding at Kamset. The certified pilots will take you to the breathtaking tour of the Sahyadri Ranges and valleys.
• Exploring the Korigad Fort - The real power packed journey for the adrenaline junkies will start here. Trekking to the fort offers lots of mesmerizing spots to visit into.
• Trekking at Rajmachi - The treat for the trekkers are the thrilling trails to Rajmachi. One may choose the trail of their comfort to reach the 2 popular forts of Rajmachi- Shirvardhan Fort and Manoranjan Fort.

Not your choice?? Wait…. Pune is having much more options. You can go for-

• Hot air balloon safari and a quite escape at Lonavala - The place tucked at Sahyadris gives enough reasons to call the tourists. Go for a lifetime experience of flying high in the sky witnessing the vast horizon of greenery, deep fading valleys, mighty hillocks, and luscious lakes.
• Rajivgandhi zoological park - The zoology lovers can run to explore this place. Spreaded across 130 acres of land, the zoo has four important sections as - the Katraj Lake, the Zoo, an Animal Orphanage and the Snake Park. 

But the fun is still not over!! The city of Pune is party lover. It parties a lot. You can experience the nightlife here in its exotic resorts and Pubs spread all over the city.

Best time to visit Pune

I would suggest you to Plan your trip in the months between October and March, as the city sees most pleasant and predictable weather this time. Other months can be looking to scorching Sun or the rainfall. If you wanted to get the experience of romantic part of Pune, you should visit here in the month of May to June at this time there is little rain over here and you can the best monsoon experience in the Maharashtrian cities like Lavasa, Mahabaleshwar and Matheran.

Food to try in Pune

The city never sleeps, nor does it’s eat streets. The streets of Pune are laden with delicious spicy tangy foods. One cannot resist themselves from tasting the mouth watering delicacies of the city. Not just the typical Maharashtrian dish, but you can find dishes traveling from across the country making their place in the vivid stalls. 

You will regret later if you don’t taste the servings of -

• Kayani Bakery - Ah! The real treat for the sweet lovers awaits here. Rush here before the servings are gone. Don’t forget tasting some shrew berry biscuits and Mawa cake, the signature dishes of the place.
• Misal Pav - The unique dish of Pune that does not allow sharing. The hundreds of varieties of misal pav here will make you go wao and you will end up filling the tummy to the top.
• Sujata Mastani - as the name stands, this drink is sure to keep you “Mastt” all day. It's a perfect blend of milk with ice-cream with lots of mouth watering inclusions hidden inside. The relishing drink is available in a variety of flavors to choose from. 

I am sure you are going to thank me after tasting these.

Pune is a beautiful city to stay and to explore the nature, if you are from Pune and want us to cover any specific part of the city, please write here by comment and we will do our best to cover it.

Mumbai is one of the most popular spots and is a must-visit city if you want to enjoy the glitz and glamour. It is home to the Hindi Film Industry or Bollywood and is a cosmopolitan city with modern culture. You can enjoy a lot here including shopping, sightseeing, and great food too. The popular spots like Gateway of India, Bandra Worli Sea Link, Hanging Gardens Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, and Malabar Hill are a must-visit. You can also enjoy looking at the home of popular Actors and celebrities who all reside here. The Juhu seashore and Marine Drive give a stunning view of the sea here. Mumbai has a great nightlife too that should be explored. 

The city of Celebrities and The city of dreams is named Mumbai. It has seen its habitation and seen the Stone Age. Earlier Bombay or Bambai as popularly known as witnessed many dynasties ruling over its land. The capital city of the state of Maharastra got its new name Mumbai in March 1996.

Mumbai Culture

This culture-rich city has gained much popularity because of its Cinema famed as Bollywood, which is the dream destination of each musician, actor, and dancer.

Places to visit in Mumbai

Mumbai holds very significant tourist places in the country and that’s why is always flooded with thousands of tourists, making their way in the crowd of the city. The top tourist attraction of Mumbai that should not be missed

1. Gateway of India:

It was actually a permanent gateway built in 1924 to welcome King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay from Britain. The grand structure is now a typical icon of the city.

2. Haji Ali:

Haji Ali is the perfect blend of architecture and religion, the mosque of Haji Ali stands in the Arabian Sea. It sees people beyond the boundaries religion, and thus welcomes the devotees of every religion.

3. Ajanta Elora Caves:

These ancient rock-cut caves have lots of artistic works to display. The place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sees visitors from across the world.

4. Ratangad Fort:

Ratangad Fort 2000-year-old fort calls the tourists as well as the trekkers to offer the scenic view of Nedhe. The place provides a chance to peep into India’s rich past and heritage.

5. Garbett Point:

• Garbett Point less popular tourist spot, tucked in the Matheran hill, gives a panoramic view of the mountains and waterfalls around.

Things to Do in Mumbai

Apart from looking for your favorite Celebs in Mumbai, one can do a variety of activities here.

1. Ferry Ride off The Gateway of India:

The breathtaking view of the city amidst the Arabian Sea is truly a treat. Do not miss the ride once you are here.

2. Shopping at Chor Bazar:

For all the shopping buffs, the place is a must-visit. Pack your packs with a variety of goodies at stealing prices.

3. Wildlife at Sanjay Gandhi National Park:

Don’t be confused if someone calls it Borivali National Park. The place offers wildlife exploration, safaris, mini train rides, boating, and trekking, what else one can ask for?

Also read: Top 23 Must-Visit National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Gujarat in 2023

4. Sunset at Bandstand:

The shores of Mumbai give the unique sunset experience to be remembered lifelong.

5. Trekking at Various Places:

There are many places for trekking in Mumbai. These are perfect for adventure lovers.

Best time to visit Mumbai

Mumbai looks its best in the Months of November till February. You can enjoy the pleasant winter here. Because in summer you will have too much humidity and in monsoon you will not be able to find a road to walk.

Things to Eat in Mumbai

The Mumbaikars are the most foodie people in the country. Their taste of food is surely going to amuse you. Do try some of these signature dishes of the city:

1. Vada Pao:

You cannot imagine Mumbai without vada pao. The tasty combination of bun with cutlet serves as a daily breakfast for thousands of on-rush people of Mumbai.

2. Pao Bhaji:

The tangy spicy blend of vegetables served with the popular pav bread is the Mumbai’s specialty. The dish sees its place one in every 3 stalls.

3. The Bombay sandwich:

The authentic dish of the Mumbai deriving its name from its parent city, The Bombay sandwich gives perfectly shaped bread layers stuffed with lots of vegetables and cheese.

4. Modak:

As the city of Lord Ganesha, Mumbai promoted Ganesha’s fav sweet dish too. Prepared in a lot of styles around the country, Mumbai serves you the perfect Modak.

5. Puranpoli:

The perfect amalgamation of yellow gram with jiggery sizzled with some cardmon and nutmegs, rolled into the wheat dough to form a shape of paratha, and are one of the tempting dishes of this region. Ah!! I am salivating reading this.

This is a popular city in Maharashtra that has many places to enjoy and is a great place for travelers. It is also associated with mythology and is a great weekend spot. It has many temples and beautiful ancient attractions. Nashik is a great destination for wine lovers and has many wineries.

Places to visit

Anjaneri Hills, Muktidham Temple, Sula Vineyard, Coin Museum, Someshwar Temple, Artillery Centre Museum, Shree Kapaleshwar Mahadev Mandir, Dadasaheb Phalke Memorial

The scenic hill station Lonavala in Maharashtra is famous for having lush valleys and for its historical sites like Karla and Bhaja Caves that demonstrate ancient Buddhist carvings. The place is known for Lohagad Fort and Bhushi Dam, giving it a great mix of nature and old history.

The history of Lonavala stretches from the time of the Yadava kingdoms to turning into an important region under the Mughal rulers. It was an important aspect of Maratha and Peshwa history because of its strong forts and the brave Mavala fighters. Later, in 1871, it was developed as a hill station by Lord Elphinstone during British rule.

Places to Visit in Lonavala:

Lonavala is one of the most popular hill station in Maharashtra attract tourist from all around India especially during monsoon season. Here are few of the most popular places you can visit in and around Lonavala.

Sunil's Celebrity Wax Museum:

You can enjoy seeing famous Indian and foreign celebrities represented in wax in this museum. You can get pictures with stars such as Amitabh Bachchan, Sachin Tendulkar and Michael Jackson. It’s the right place for those traveling with families and kids.

Pawna Lake:

Pawna Lake is in a peaceful area surrounded by hills and lush nature. A lot of individuals visit here to go camping, have fun on the lake and relax from the waterfront. Overnight stays or weekend camping trips are ideal in a campervan.

Bhushi Dam:

Bhushi Dam is especially popular in Lonavala for its scenic beauty during the rains. Water streams over the steps and visitors are seen having fun, relaxing and playing around in the water. It offers lots of fun activities for those going with friends and family.

Kune Falls:

Kune Falls is found between Lonavala and Khandala and it stands tall and looks amazing. The sight and sound of water make the place extremely recreational and soothing. The waterfall is most attractive during the rainy season, when it is filled with water.

Della Adventure Park:

If you are an adventure fan, Della is the place for you. Exciting activities like zip lining, riding ATV bikes, bungee jumping and others are available. Even if you do not want to do any of the activities, you have the option of just sitting back and having fun at the cafes.

Karla Caves:

Karla Caves date back many years and feature many beautiful Buddhist sculptures and columns. More than 2,000 years ago, skilled people created these caves. The area is calming for history buffs and adventurers.

Shree Narayani Dham Temple:

The temple is light and clean, constructed in white marble, to honor Goddess Narayani. The temple is large and also features both a garden and an animal shelter. The place attracts many people who want to pray and be in a peaceful place.

Bhaja Caves:

Bhaja Caves were built before Karla Caves and people admire their wood-style decorations and the large prayer rooms. You have to climb a little bit, since the caves are up on a small hill. Monsoon is the best time to enjoy the beautiful view from the top.

Aadishakti Aai Ekvira Devi Temple:

Ekvira Temple which is close to Karla Caves, is dedicated to the Goddess Ekvira, who is worshipped both by locals and fishermen. There are many steps to reach the temple, but the peaceful experience and the great view make it worthwhile.

Lion’s Point:

Lion’s Point attracts a lot of people for its beautiful views of valleys, waterfalls, and mountains. The most beautiful time to see is at sunrise or sunset. Monsoon weather brings cool winds, mist and clouds that make everything more special.

Lohagad Fort:

Lohagad Fort is popular among those who are new to trekking. It’s not hard to climb up and once at the top you will experience spectacular views. People visit the fort mainly because of its history and it is a fun place to visit with others.

Foods to Try at Lonavala:

Lonavala is not just about nature – it also has delicious local food! Don’t forget to try:

1. Chikki – The most famous sweet snack made of jaggery and nuts.
2. Misal Pav – A spicy Maharashtrian dish served with pav bread.
3. Pav Bhaji – A tasty vegetable curry served with buttered pav.
4. Vada Pav – A local burger with a spicy potato filling.
5. Bhajiyas – Deep-fried snacks, perfect during rainy weather.
6. Aamti – A tangy dal (lentil curry) usually eaten with rice.
7. Sabudana Khichdi – A light and healthy dish made from sago, usually during fasting.
8. Puran Poli – A sweet flatbread stuffed with jaggery and lentils.
9. Bhakri – A traditional flatbread made of jowar or bajra.
10. Kande Pohe – A light and tasty breakfast made from flattened rice and onions.

Nearby Tourist Places

If you are staying in Lonavala, you can also explore these nearby destinations:

1. Pune – A modern city with a rich history, about 70 km away.
2. Imagicaa – A big amusement park perfect for families and kids.
3. Mumbai – The bustling city of dreams, around 89 km away.
4. Khandala – A twin hill station, just next to Lonavala.
5. Matheran – A peaceful hill station where vehicles are not allowed.
6. Mulshi – A quiet place near a dam, good for relaxing and nature walks.

Where to Stay in Lonavala:

Lonavala has many stay options for every type of budget:

1. Luxury Hotels: Della Resorts, Fariyas Resort Lonavala
2. Mid-range: The Hosteller Lonavala, Citrus Hotel
3. Budget: Guest houses, homestays, and small hotels near the market and railway station

Best Time to Visit Lonavala:

The best time to visit Lonavala is from July to February.

1. Monsoon Season (July to September): The entire region comes alive during the monsoon with lush greenery, flowing waterfalls, and misty hills. It’s the most scenic time but also crowded.
2. Winter Season (October to February): The weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities.
3. Summer Season (March to June): Summers can be warm, but evenings are pleasant. It's a less crowded time to explore the town.

Travel Tips for Lonavala Visitors:

1. Best time to visit is during the monsoon (June to September) or winter (October to February).
2. Carry rainwear or an umbrella during the monsoon season.
3. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to trek or explore forts and caves.
4. Book your stay in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
5. Try local food and sweets, especially chikki!
6. Carry cash as some local shops may not accept digital payments.

Khandala is situated among the Sahyadri mountain ranges attracting visitors with its green valleys, waterfalls, and stunning views. Famous as one of Maharashtra's top tourist destinations, Khandala offers a perfect combination of natural beauty & adventure with attractions like Tiger's Leap, Duke's Nose, and the historic Karla and Bhaja Caves.