Often called the ‘Gateway to the guts of India’, Maharashtra is the third-largest state and the second most populous state in the country.
Apart from the mesmerizing views of the Western Ghats or the traditional ruins and historic forts and palaces, Maharashtra has a lot to offer.
Here are the top 5 lesser-known places in Maharashtra that you simply should visit-
1. Kundalika River
Originating from the small hamlet of Bhira, about 160 km from Mumbai, ‘Kundalika’ is a small yet pristine river that winds its way through thick forests and rice fields situated amidst the majestic Sahyadri Ranges.
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The river goes all the way to the Arabian Sea, where it eventually ends. It’s fed by the overflowing waters of various dams and hydroelectric projects of the region that make it ideal for varied adventure sports, attracting many adventure freaks from the nearby towns, especially over weekends.
This place is a mecca for adventure junkies.
2. Chikhaldara
This gorgeous hill station perched in the northwest of Maharashtra is linked with history because it appears in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, where Bheema killed the villainous Keechaka and then threw him into the valley.
It thus came to be referred to as Keechakadara, or is now referred to as Chikhaldara. Chikhaldara is bestowed with deep valleys, and these valleys are filled with surreal mist and majestic trees, making it a heavenly place for a summer retreat.
Don’t forget to visit the Melghat Tiger Project, which is home to 80 tigers, amongst other animals like panthers, sloths, and sambars.
3. Bhandardara
A serene resort village nestled on the banks of the Pravara River within the Western Ghats, ‘Bhandardara’ is one of the best-kept secrets of Maharashtra.
Gifted with a wealth of cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes, and splendid hills, the place makes for an ideal nature retreat for people searching for a peaceful holiday amidst tranquility, far away from the maddening crowds of the other more popular and touristy places in Maharashtra. Pack a basket of snacks and head for a pleasant picnic with friends and family here.
4. Kalavantin Durg
Between the plateaus of Panvel and the high-rising forests of Matheran lies a fort that’s rumored to be one of the most dangerous to urge across and conquer. Built during the rule of the Bahmani Sultanate, it was a fortress guarded by the character itself.
The rock-cut stairs leading up to the highest point provide trekkers with the joys of a lifetime! On a transparent day, views as far as Mumbai fill the eyes with wonder, making it one of the simplest, unexplored places in Maharashtra.
5. Karla and Bhaja Caves
For all those who love going off the common path, exploring destinations that don’t fall on a standard travel map, the ‘Karla and Bhaja Caves’ located near the famous hill station of Lonavala are an ideal sightseeing destination for your upcoming weekend getaway.
Dating from around the 2nd century BC, these caves boast superb Buddhist rock-cut cave architecture in India. Enjoy some panoramic views of the terraced hills and ‘Pavana Dam’ backwaters snuggled within the lap of the mighty Sahyadri Ranges.
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