1. Caves at Ellora and AjantaAmong the most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves are located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. Fine carvings, paintings, and architectural styles that reflect India's rich religious and cultural heritage adorn these ancient rock-cut caves. The memorials of Ellora combine Jain, Hindu, and Buddhist; Ajanta is mostly Buddhist.History of Ajanta's Caves & Ellora CavesAjanta's Caves: Built in two phases from the second century BCE to approximately 480 CE, the Ajanta Caves provided a sanctuary for Buddhist monks. Known for their great murals and frescoes depicting the life of the Buddha and Jataka narratives, the cavesEllora Caves: Between the 6th and 10th centuries CE, the Ellora Caves were constructed. Their 34 caverns, 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu, and 5 Jain, reflect religious harmony. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is the most well-known gigantic monolithic rock-cut temple.Nearby Places: Ajanta's Caves & Ellora CavesAurangabad City: Daulatabad Fort, Bibi Ka Maqbara, a small Taj Mahal, Aurangabad City, is well known.Grishneshwar Temple: A Jyotirlinga temple next to Ellora, the Grishneshwar Temple.Panchakki: A historic engineering show in a water mill is Panchakki.Daultabad Fort: A historical fort known for its defensive techniques and exquisite construction.Lonar Crater Lake: About 140 kilometres away, Lonar Crater Lake is a rare meteor impact lake.Best Time to Visit Ajanta's Caves & Ellora CavesJune–September: rich but slick. This time sees moderate to heavy rain in the region. The lovely surroundings add charm to the experience. Rain could affect travel plans, and cave floors might be slick.April to June: The summer should be avoided if at all possible. With temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius, Aurangabad summers are extremely warm. Visiting is not advisable since the heat might make sightseeing exhausting and uncomfortable.How to reach Ajanta's Caves & Ellora CavesBy Airport: The nearest one is Aurangabad Airport, about 30 kilometres from Ellora and 100 km from Ajanta. Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad are rather well linked.By Railway Station: The closest railhead, Aurangabad Railway Station, is well connected to major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad.By Road: From Aurangabad, common buses, taxis, and personal vehicles go to both Ellora, about 30 kilometres away, and Ajanta, about 100 kilometres. Additionally available are Maharashtra State Road Transport buses.2. Raigad FortApproximately 25 kilometres from Mahad in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, the majestic mountain fort Raigad Fort is situated in the Sahyadri range. Known for its historical significance and panoramic vistas, it lies roughly 2,700 feet above sea level. The fort served as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Maratha Empire's capital and is still a source of pride for Maharashtra's people.History of Rajgad FortShivaji Maharaj grabbed Raigad Fort from the More dynasty in 1656 and eventually designated the Maratha kingdom's capital in 1674 when he was crowned Chhatrapati. Strategically positioned and reinforced, the fort was almost invulnerable. During Shivaji's rule, it was a centre of defence, administration, and politics; it has seen several historical events.Nearby Places of Rajgad FortJijamata Palace: The Residence of the Queen Mother inside the fort is known as Jijamata Palace.Samadhi of Shivaji Maharaj: Samadhi of Shivaji Maharaj, the ultimate resting site of the mighty Maratha monarch.Takmak Tok (Execution Point): Takmak Tok, or the Execution Point, is a cliff of great historical relevance and breathtaking views.Raigad Museum: Raigad Museum: Presents historical items and historical relevance to Shivaji Maharaj and the fort.Torna Fort & Rajgad Fort: Often, the residenceed together on hiking paths nearby are Torna Fort and Rajgad Fort.Best Time to Visit Raigad FortNovember to February: This is the best moment to examine the fort in terms of comfort. Hiking or riding the ropeway becomes fun in the cool weather, between 15°C and 25°C. Perfect for hikers, photographers, and history buffs.Monsoon (June to September): The fort bursts with green during the monsoon, waterfalls, and misty vistas. For those who enjoy nature, this is a magical season, but it may be dangerous because of slick paths.Summer (March through May): Temperatures of up to 38 degrees Celsius mean the weather can be severe. The heat prevents it from being advised for protracted hikes or day-long tours.How to reach Raigad FortBy Airport: Pune International Airport, some 130 km away, or Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, around 170 km away, are the closest airports.By Train: About 40 kilometres from the fort, the closest railway station is Veer Railway Station. Additionally, serving the area are large railheads such as Mangaon and Mahad.By Road: Roads allow a good connection to Raigad. You can travel from Pune, Mumbai, or Mahad by bus or taxi. Vehicle access to the fort foundation (Pachad Village).3. Wada Shaniwar ( Pune)A historical defence in Maharashtra's Pune is Shaniwar Wada. Constructed in 1732, it served as the seat of the Maratha Empire's Peshwas. Though much of the fort burned in a fire in 1828, the remains nevertheless reveal the grandeur and architectural genius of its era. It ranks among the most visited heritage sites in Pune today.History of Wada ShaniwarThe first Peshwa under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, Bajirao I, constructed Shaniwar Wada. It became the heart of Maratha politics and governance. Originally, the fort featured gates, fountains, halls, and gardens as well as large stone walls. Most of the building was burnt in a strange fire in 1828; only the remains, conserved for public viewing, survived. Its legacy is given a magical appeal by legends and ghost stories.Nearby Places of Wada ShaniwarDagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple: Popular Ganesh temple, just a short walk away, is Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple.Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum: A Unique museum with Indian items at the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum.Lal Mahal: A historical palace where Shivaji Maharaj grew up, partly at Lal Mahal.Parvati Hill: Parvati Hill offers sweeping Pune views from a mountaintop temple complex.Fergusson College Road & FC Road Market: Popular destinations for shopping and local cuisine are Fergusson College Road and FC Road Market.Best Time to Visit Shaniwar WadaOctober to February: October through February is make best season for winter. Cool and perfect for visiting the fort and the surrounding sights. This is the best period to go visiting.June to September: monsoon; lovely yet humid. During the rains, Pune is lovely; Shaniwar Wada gets a rich backdrop, though interiors can get a little slick.Summer (March to May): Less than perfect and very hot. During these months, it may be quite hot, with temperatures frequently above 35°C, therefore making outside exploration exhausting.How to reach Shaniwar WadaBy Airport: About 12 km from Shaniwar Wada, Pune International Airport is the closest airport.By Railway Station: At only about 3 kilometres distant, Pune Junction Railway Station is the closest major railway station.By Road: From any corner of Pune, city buses, autorickshaws, and taxis make Shaniwar Wada really easy to reach. It has great connectivity and a central location.4. Konkan Coast's Fort SindhudurgSituated on an Arabian Sea island just outside Malvan in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg region, Sindhudurg Fort is a beautiful sea fort. Constructed in the 17th century by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, this fort was meant to shield the Konkan coastline against growing foreign influence. Though surrounded by turquoise waters and steep walls, it is still a tribute to ancient naval construction.History of the Konkan Coast's FortOver three years, Shivaji Maharaj built the fort employing thousands of expert labourers in 1664. Its name means “Fort in the Sea,” Sindhu referring to the sea and Durg to the fort. Sindhudurg was meant with strategic naval defence in mind, unlike most land forts. The fort continues to house a rare Shivaji Temple, thought to be the only one where the Maratha monarch is revered. Formerly a potent Maratha naval base, this is now a famous symbol of coastal protection.Nearby Places of the Konkan Coast's FortMalvan Beach: Malvan Beach is great for swimming, seafood, and unwinding.Tarkarli Beach: Renowned for its scuba diving and pristine seas, Tarkarli BeachRock Garden, Malvan: Malvan's Rock Garden is a beautiful coastal garden with sea views.Padmagad Fort: Close to another modest fort historically linked to Sindhudurg, Padmagad Fort.Vijaydurg Fort: Far northward, Shivaji Maharaj also built Vijaydurg Fort, a huge sea fort.Best Time to Visit Sindhudurg FortNovember to February: With temperatures of 18°C to 30°C, cool and pleasant weather is ideal for investigating the fortification and the sands. Great for outdoor excursions and sightseeing.Monsoon (June to September): A beautiful but hazardous phenomenon, the Konkan coast gets strong rain. Although the fort is verdant and lovely, the sea can be rough, and ferry services might be stopped.Summer (March–May): Hot but manageable. Although coastal winds and beach access help to keep temperatures at 35°C, exploring mornings and evenings would be appropriate.How to go to Sindhudurg FortBy Airport: Approximately 12 km from Chipi Airport (Malvan) is the closest airport. You may also fly to Goa International Airport (about 130 kilometres) or Kolhapur Airport ( roughly 130 kilometres).By Train: About 30 kilometres distant, Kudal is the nearest railway station. It is well linked by the Konkan Railway to Mumbai, Goa, and Mangalore.By Road: From Mumbai (approximately 500 km), Goa, or Kolhapur, you can reach Malvan via road. Frequent buses and taxis are available.5. Elephanta Caves (Mumbai)On Elephanta Island, also called as Gharapuri Island, roughly 11 kilometres from Mumbai, Maharashtra, the Elephanta Caves are a series of old rock-cut caves. Mostly honouring Lord Shiva, the caverns are a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for their astounding rock architecture and carvings. Mumbai visitors find a significant historical and cultural attraction in these caves.History of Elephanta CavesSupposedly built from the 5th to 7th centuries CE, the Elephanta Caves' Hindu rulers of the Konkan region may have been of the Kalachuri or Chalukya Dynasty. Later, the Portuguese came to identify and name Elephanta when they saw an enormous stone elephant monument near the pier (present in Mumbai's Jijamata Udyan). The primary draw is the massive Trimurti sculpture, a 20-foot rendering of Lord Shiva in three guises: Creator, Preserver, and Destroyer.Nearby places to the Elephanta CavesGateway of India: Beginning of the ferry trip from Elephanta Island to the Gateway of India.Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya: Among India's most important historical and cultural institutions is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya.Colaba Causeway: Colaba Causeway offers a vivid marketplace for eateries and street shopping.Marine Drive: For evening walks, Marine Drive is a stunning coastal road.Kanheri Caves: More old Buddhist caves known as Kanheri Caves may be found in Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai.Best Time to visit the elephant cavesNovember to February: Considering the lovely cool temperature of 20°C to 30°C, now is a great time for travel. The sea is placid, boat tours are easy, and island hikes are delightful.June to September: Monsoon, Ferry operations get sporadic during strong gusts and intense downpours. Looking into the caverns is risky and difficult.March to May: Hot and humid; High humidity can cause temperatures to exceed 35°C. Come early in the morning if you are travelling to beat the heat.How to reach Elephanta CavesBy Railway Station: By rail to get to India's gateway. For a trip to either Churchgate Station or Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST) in South Mumbai, you may take a local train. From there, the India Gateway is only a quick taxi ride or a 15–20 minute stroll.By Airport: By flight for guests arriving from outstations, about 25 kilometres separates Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, the closest airport to the Gateway of India. From the airport to the boarding pier for the ferry can be you either by hiring a cab or by public transportation.By Road: By road, toward the Gateway of India, from any Mumbai location, taking local taxis, autorickshaws, buses, or app-based cabs like Uber/Ola will get you to the Gateway of India. Colaba is a well-known monument in South Mumbai.6. Bibi Ka Maqbara (Aurangabad)Situated in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, Bibi Ka Maqbara is a stunning Mughal-era structure. Usually called the Taj of the Deccan, it is a scaled-down reproduction of the Taj Mahal in Agra. Erected in 1668 by their son Azam Shah to serve as a mausoleum for Dilras Banu Begum, the wife of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Among gardens and against a mountain backdrop, one of the major draws in the metropolis.History of Bibi Ka MaqbaraTo honour Dilras Banu Begum, his mother, Prince Azam Shah had the Bibi Ka Maqbara constructed. This is viewed among the few examples of Mughal architecture in the Deccan region, as Aurangzeb was more famous for his conservative rule and little support for the arts. Though resources are limited compared to the Taj Mahal, the design has magnificent marble domes, complex carvings, and symmetrical gardens inspired by Mughal architecture.Nearby destinations of Aurangabad's Bibi Ka MaqbaraAurangabad Caves: Buddhist rock-cut caverns are some kilometres away.Panchakki: Panchakki is an old water mill and a spiritual site.Daulatabad Fort: A massive mountaintop fortification only 15 kilometres from the city, Daulatabad Fort.Ellora Caves: Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are around 30 kilometres from Aurangabad.Grishneshwar Temple: Grishneshwar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas close to Ellora.Best Time to Visit Bibi Ka MaqbaraNovember to February: November to February is the perfect season. Cool and comfortable is the ideal temperature for sightseeing and photography: 15°C to 28°C. Now is the perfect opportunity to travel.June– September: Monsoon, green and stimulating. By means of its vegetation, rain gives attractiveness to the surroundings. Unanticipated storms, however, could upset trip schedules.March to May: Hot and Dry in Summer (March to May). Early mornings or evenings are preferable currently, as daytime trips are exhausting given temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius.How to reach Bibi Ka MaqbaraBy Airport: The kilometres from the monument is the nearest airport, Aurangabad Airport. It flies often from Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.By Railway Station: Around six kilometres distant from cities like Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Pune, Aurangabad Railway Station is quite connected.By Road: Roads connect Aurangabad to significant cities in Maharashtra. One can quickly locate private cabs, state transportation buses, and cars inside the city.7. Daulatabad FortLocated approximately 15 kilometres from Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Daulatabad Fort, also known as Devagiri Fort, is a 14th-century hilltop fort. Renowned for its imaginative design and military engineering, it is regarded as among India's most formidable and well-defended castles, perched atop a pyramidal mountain. The fort boasts vast gates, steep hiking routes, sweeping views, and a special defence plan.History of Daulatabad FortBuilt in the 12th century by the Yadava dynasty, the fort was first called Devagiri. Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq renamed it Daulatabad in the 14th century and moved his capital from Delhi to this fort; nevertheless, the relocation proved unsuccessful. The Bahmani, Mughal, and Nizam dynasties later captured the fort. Its inventive design uses moats, dark passages, false doors, and steep stairs to perplex attackers.Nearby Places of Daulatabad FortEllora Caves: The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora Caves, is only fourteen kilometres from here.Grishneshwar Temple: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the Grishneshwar Temple, is close to Ellora.Bibi Ka Maqbara: About 17 kilometres distant, Bibi Ka Maqbara is sometimes known as the 'Taj of the Deccan'.Aurangabad Caves: Buddhist caverns with views and history: Aurangabad CavesPanchakki: An old water mill and religious complex in Aurangabad.Best Time to Visit Daulatabad FortNovember to February: Winter (November to February), Cool temps (15°C–25°C) are perfect for climbing and seeing the fort. Good for walking and photographing.June to September: Monsoon (June to September) Green and Scenic, though the stairs may be slick, the vistas and refreshing breeze are quite enjoyable. The fort and neighbouring hills develop to be bright green.March to May: Summer (March to May) - hot and gruelling. The heat can be great up to 40 degrees C. Visiting early morning or evening is recommended if travelling during summer.How to Reach Fort DaulatabadBy Airport: Aurangabad Airport, the closest, well-connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Pune, is located about 22 kilometres from the fort.By train: The Aurangabad Railway Station, which has trains from Mumbai, Pune, and other cities, is roughly 15 kilometers away.By Road: From Aurangabad, Daulatabad Fort is readily reachable by road. Local cabs, autorickshaws, or a bus can be hired; the base of the fort includes a parking area then starts a climb.8. Kolhapur's Mahalaxmi TempleThe prominent Hindu pilgrimage site Kolhapur, Maharashtra, is the Mahalaxmi Temple, sometimes known as the Ambabai Temple. Being among the Shakti Peethas, it is a very spiritual location paying respect to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and affluence. Built in the seventh century CE, this temple attracts thousands of visitors daily, particularly for festivals like Navratri and Lalit Panchami.History of Kolhapur's Mahalaxmi TempleOriginally built by the Chalukya dynasty around the seventh century and later expanded by the Yadavas and Marathas, the temple has been restored. Made of black basalt stone, it is an unusual example of the Hemadpanthi architectural style. Legends contend that her eyes settled here, transforming Sati's body into a sacred Shakti Peeth, after it was severed. Goddess Mahalaxmi's idol is said to be older than 2,000 years.Nearby Places of Kolhapur's Mahalaxmi TempleRankala Lake: Tranquil Rankala Lake, only 1.5 kilometres away, is great for nighttime walks and boating.Jyotiba Temple: Jyotiba Temple, a vibrant hilltop temple, is roughly 18 kilometres away from Kolhapur.Panhala Fort: Panhala Fort is a historical fort with amazing vistas located approximately 20 kilometres from the city.New Palace Museum: The New Palace Museum displays remnants of Kolhapur and the history of the previous royal family.Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Museum: Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Museum: A gallery with regal artefacts and paintings.Best Time to Visit Mahalaxmi TempleOctober to February: winter, Darshan and sightseeing are best done now since lovely and pleasant weather, 15°C to 28°C, is available.September to November: While it might be quite busy, Navratri and Diwali bring the temple a distinctive vitality.June to September: Monsoon: Verdant Greenery. Though heavy rain might hamper travel, the environment looks immaculate and bright.March to May: March to May is summer; it is hot yet manageable. Early morning or evening visits are advised as it may get rather warm (up to 38°C).How to reach the Mahalaxmi TempleBy Airport: Flights from Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore take the shortest route to Kolhapur Airport (Ujlaiwadi), roughly 10 kilometres from the temple.By Railway Station: Some three kilometres from the temple, Kolhapur Railway Station (Shahu Maharaj Terminus) is well linked to major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru.By Road: Connecting Kolhapur, NH48 (Mumbai– Bangalore Highway) has buses and taxis from Pune, Satara, Belgaum, and Goa. Located centrally in the city, the temple is very accessible by car and local transit.Why Book with escape2exploreWhen exploring Maharashtra's Rich Cultural Heritage & Traditions from Bengaluru and beyond, escape2explore stands out as a trusted name in adventure and experiential travel. Here’s why hundreds of travellers choose us for their getaways:Trusted, Well-Reviewed Local Operator: escape2explore has gained the trust of thousands of content tourists all over India. With persistent positive feedback and an unblemished reputation for delivering quality experiences, we assure you that your experience will be hassle-free, memorable, and value-packed. Our insider local knowledge guarantees that you will always be in safe hands.Seasoned Guides: Our trips are led by friendly, trained, and professional guides who are passionate about the outdoors and your safety. Whether it's a beach trek, a cultural tour, or a spiritual walk through temples, our team knows the terrain, the stories, and how to make each moment count.Safe & Curated Itineraries: Your safety is our number one priority. Our tour packages are thoughtfully crafted with safety measures, researched accommodations, and easy travel arrangements. We take care of the details so you can have the experience hassle-free and worry-free.Unique Experience That You Won't Find Anywhere Else: With escape2explore, you discover more than the tourist attractions. We go off the beaten track with hidden beaches, unusual treks, offbeat cultural destinations, and true interactions.Read: Himalayan Dreams |Safety tips & Top Routes Guide |Top 7 Himalayan Treks |Himalayan Treks Begginers Guide |2- Day Packing Trek Guide