While Mumbai and Pune are prime attractions for many reasons, Maharashtra's magnificent forts, culturally vibrant places, the Konkan coast, and the Sahyadri mountains make it a heaven of the Western India!
From the picturesque attractions by the coasts of the Arabian Sea to the paradisiacal lushes of the Sahyadris, you will get stupefied and utterly captivated by the verdant charm of Maharashtra. Visiting some of these magnificent places in Maharashtra will give you all the feels of travelling abroad, given their resemblance to foreign destinations. Sounds exciting, right?
So without further ado, let's look at a list of some places in Maharashtra that resemble world-famous destinations. You can comfortably explore these places by booking an affordable car rental in Mumbai with an expert driver.
Did you know that the Grand Canyon of Arizona has a twin brother in India, known as the Sandhan Valley in Igatpuri? Bet you didn't!
A perfect scenic destination, Sandhan Valley undoubtedly fascinates and draws the grandeur charm of the Grand Canyon in Arizona, U.S.A. With a narrow valley surrounded by high mountain ranges, this place is popularly known as the Valley of Shadows as the sun's rays rarely touch the grounds here.
The valley spreads wide and offers adventurous experiences like none other. The mountain range extends an enthralling trek experience to enjoy bonfires and camping under the starry night.
Getting here: Igatpuri is around 200 km away from Mumbai, and it's a drive of approximately five to six hours.
You might have seen multiple enchanting videos of colourful hot-air balloon rides filling the sky of Cappadocia in Turkey. While visiting Turkey has its own allure, what if we tell you that you can get this experience in Lonavala, Maharashtra!
Hot air ballooning in the picturesque Lonavala is undoubtedly a once in a lifetime adventure. Here you will find yourself engrossed in nature, floating away in the expanse of the sky, making delightful memories with your family and friends!
Here you will get to experience breathtaking glimpses of the spectacular valleys, cliffs and regional areas in Lonavala while soaring 4000 feet above in the air.
Getting here: Lonavala is around 120 km away from Mumbai. You can reach by booking a convenient taxi from Mumbai to Lonavala, enjoying a scenic road trip to your destination.
You've probably heard of the Tulip garden in Amsterdam that blooms out of its buds in March every year. You can experience the beauty of the Tulip garden right here at Kaas Plateau too!
Snuggled amidst the Western Ghats near the beautiful city of Satara, this place is an embodiment of out-worldly bloom carpeted under the shades of lively hues spattered over by hundreds of endemic varieties of wildflowers that thrive in the region.
Popularly known as Maharashtra's own Valley of Flowers, Kaas Plateau holds a prominent position in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites. Because of its vibrant and unparalleled biodiversity, it caters to approximately 70% of all flora found in Maharashtra.
As you walk through the picturesque paths appreciating nature's vivid painting, look for a wide diversity of butterflies, bees, and birds that add an enchanting feeling, completing the perfect landscape. You can also visit the magnificent 'Kaas Lake' that rests downhill from the Kaas plateau and makes for a fabulous spot to take rest after a tiring day full of hiking and walking.
Getting here: Kaas Plateau is a three-hour drive (135 km) from Pune and a five-hour drive (278 km) from Mumbai.
A lively blend of creativity and craftsmanship, the Moghul Masjid in Dongri, Mumbai, will surely remind you of the beautiful Shah Mosque of Iran. With its elaborate geometric patterns, sky-blue mosaic floorings, dazzling painted glasses and thick Persian rugs, it'll capture your heart.
Being one of the few surviving remains of the 19th Century Shia Iranian impact on Mumbai city, this heritage site is an absolute treat to the eyes.
Getting here: Situated in Mumbai, this place is a three-hour drive, approximately 159 km from Pune.
You can spend limitless nights in Bhandardara stargazing as it's so mesmerizing out there! One of the most desirable spots in India to appease your eyes with shimmering stars, Bhandardara will surely give you the feel of stargazing getaways in Norway. Just close your eyes for a minute and envision the stars peeking from behind the picture-perfect mountain peaks and the sweet aroma of hot coffee in your hand filling your nose!
Getting here: Bhandardara is a 4-hour drive from Pune and 3-hour-drive from Mumbai.
While Lonavala, Panchgani, and Khandala are all-time preferred weekend escapades for people in Maharashtra, it is time to adventure on a less travelled path this holiday season. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to these soul-soothing places now.
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