Maharashtra is a state in western India with diverse geography and culture. Some key facts: - Area of 307,713 sq km with a population of over 112 million people and Marathi as the official language. - Major cities include Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur which have many historical sites, beaches, forts, and places for adventure. - The state has a long history with rule by various dynasties until becoming part of the British empire and now modern India. - Maharashtrian culture is vibrant and celebrates many festivals through dance, music, art, crafts, costumes, and cuisine.

1. MAHRASHTRA

2. Unspoilt
Unhurried
Untouched
Unexpected
Unconfined
Unparalleled
UNLIMITED!!!

4. Area 307,713 kmsq
Capital Mumbai
Population 112,372,972
Official language Marathi, Hindi, English
Climate
Summer
Monsoon
Post Monsoon
Winter
Spring
BEST TIME TO VISIT
March-may(22-39 degree)
June-Sept(20-27 degree)
Oct-Nov(23-33 degree)
Nov-Feb (12-14 degree)
Jan-March
Sept-Feb
Facts about Maharashtra

5. HISTORY
Dating back to as far as Asokan reign in 246 BC, the name of
Maharashtra State existed. It was believed that the emperor had
sent an embassy to this rich land during his kingship. During the
3rd century BC emperor Asoka ruled the region of Mahrashtra.
The state had undergone several changes of hands in regard to
its administration. The celebrated Islamic rulers of Delhi
captured a significant portion of Deccan during the 13th century
BC. The possession of the state went in hands of Sultanate of
Bijapur and remained under this Sultanate for 150 years.
The emergence Marathas was noted during the beginning of 17th
century. The political prominence of Martha was gained during
the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Bhosale..The Marathas
continued to show their gallantry even during the time of British
colonization in India.

6. CITIES FAMOUS FOR
ROMANCE
Raigad(Matheran)
Mumbai(Elephanta
caves)
Pune(Konkan
Beaches)
Nashik(Igatpuri)
Mahabaleshwar
ADVENTURE
Lonavala(Rajmachi
Fort)
Sayahadri Hills
Nagpur(Waki Woods)
Nagpir(Tadoba
National Park)
SPIRITUALITY
Pune(Osho Ashram)
Pune(Shirdi)
Mumbai(Haji Ali)
Mumbai(Mahalaxmi
temple)
WELLNESS
Thane(Shahapur)
Vishwanand
HERITAGE
Aurangabad(Ajanta)
Aurangabad(Ellora)
Mumbai(Elephanta)
Mumbai(Kanheri
Caves)

7. PLACES
TO
VISIT

8. MUMBAI

9. History Of Mumbai
Bombay or Mumbai as it is now called, is the capital of the state of
Maharashtra, and the largest and most populous city of India.
Historically acquired as a colonial exchange, Bombay formed a part of
the dowry of Catherine of Braganza, a Portuguese princess who
married Charles II of England in the 17th century. Originally, Mumbai
was a cluster of seven islands, namely Colaba, Little Colaba or Old
Woman’s Island, Worli, Parel, Mazgaon, Mumbadevi and Mahim. The
islands created a natural harbour and offered an ideal place for
maintaining Britain’s trade links with India. This realisation was chiefly
responsible for linking the seven islands, massive land reclamation and
creating the city as we know it today.
The city has changed several hands through the centuries. First it was
the Aryans from North India. Then came the Mouryas and the
Satvahanas followed by the Silaharas and the Yadavas. The Sultans of
Gujarat and the Portuguese invaders came next. Finally, in the 17th
century, it became a part of the British accession.

10. Mumbai Excursions:
Elephanta Caves
Elephanta caves are in the magnificent Elephanta Island, which is 11 km from
Mumbai. It has beautiful carvings, sculptures, and a temple of the Hindu God, Lord
Shiva.
How to reach the place
Kanheri Caves
The location of the Kanheri caves is so green
with wooded hills and valleys, and it is at a
distance of 42 km from Mumbai.
How to reach the place
Marve, Manori and Gorai
These three beaches are the villages very close to
Mumbai. Now this place has become quite
industrialized, but its beauty remains the same.
Tourists can reach Marve within an hour, as it is just 40 km from Mumbai.
How to reach the place

11. Mandwa and Kihim
Kihim and Mandawa is nearly 10 km away from Mumbai. Kihim has dense coconut
trees that give a pollution free green environment.One can also enjoy perfect tent stay
and a wonderful surfing.
how to reach
Bassein
Bassein is in the peaceful location, which is 77 km away from Mumbai. It is closely
similar with the India's sultry beach state of Goa.The Portuguese cuisines served by
the locals are really delicious.
How to reach
Khandala, Lonavala and Karla
Locating at an altitude of 625m,
these hill stations for its beautiful hills,
deep green valleys, huge lakes,
historic forts waterfalls etc.
How to reach

12. Mumbai Tourists Attractions:
Gateway of India
Gateway of India is regarded to be the starting point for most tourists who want to
travel around the Mumbai city. This 26m-high structure has four turrets and
intricate latticework carved into the yellow basalt stone. How to reach
Marine Drive
Marine Drive is the place where Mumbaites hang out to cool down a while from
the steamy hurried and busied life. The beach, it is also known as called Queen's
Necklace.How to reach

13. Juhu Beach
Juhu is one of the most popular
and posh beaches of India.
This fizzing beach on the shores of
Arabian Sea is the place where one
can find the bungalows of Bollywood
stars. Tourists can enjoy horse and
donkey rides, dancing monkeys,
acrobats, cricketmatches, toy sellers etc. here.How to reach
Essel World
Essel World offers over 40 exciting rides, games, and attractions. The Water Kingdom is
said to be the largest of its kind in Asia. It is a perfect destination for a one-day holiday.
How to reach

14. PUNE

15. History Of Pune
Down the centuries, Pune has been ruled by several dynasties. The earliest evidence
found (copper plates of 758 A. D. and of 768 A. D.) reveals that the Rashtrakootas
ruled this region then. At that time, Pune was referred to as Punaka Vishaya and
Punya Vishaya. Later on, the city has been mentioned as Kasabe Pune. After the
Rashtrakootas, Pune was ruled by the Yadava dynasty.
After the fall of this dynasty, it came under Muslim dominance till the middle of the
seventeenth century. With the emergence of Chhatrapati Shivaji, who founded the
Maratha empire, Pune became known to the Delhi Sultanate. Shivaji, spent his
early childhood in Pune at Lal Mahal, a palace built by his father Shahaji, where
Shivaji's mother Jijabai lived for a decade. Dadaji Konddev, Shivaji's
mentor, developed Pune city.
After the death of Shivaji in 1680 and the cold blooded murder of his son
Sambhaji, Aurangazeb named Pune as Muhiyabad. Pune gained importance during
the period of the second Peshwa Thorala (senior) Bajirao who ruled from 1720 to
1740. He was instrumental in urbanising Pune city and encouraged the setting up of
Peths or wards in Pune. He constructed the famous Parvati Temple complex, a
pride of Pune city.

16. Pune Excursions:
Panshet Dam
Tourists can visit Panset Dam for water sports. Here one can try kayaking or wind
surfing at the newly developed water sports complex. Special facilities for
speedboats and water scooters too are available. How to reach
Bhatghar Dam
It is only 40 km from Pune. Bhatgar Dam is the highest river dam wall in
India, which is built on river Velvandi, Bhatgar Dam. Fun lovers often visit the
dam. Government buses are available between Pune and Bhatgar Dam.how to
reach
Pimpri Chinchwad
Chinchwad is about 15 km away from Pune, Maharashtra. The Ganesh Temple in
Chinchwad is very famous place, and a Yatra takes place in the month of
'Shravan'.How to reach

17. Pune Tourist Attractions:
Osho Ashram
Osho Ashram, also known as the
Osho Communal Centre is located at
the greenery area of 17 Koregoan Park of the city.
The Ashram offers a variety of expensive courses on
meditation. Osho Ashram attracts a number of devotees each
year. how to reach
Tribal Museum
It is near the railway line, which is just east to the railway station. Maharashtra is a
vast country and there are uncountable numbers of tribal in this country. Having
different languages, these tribes have their own food habits, taboos, and beliefs - in
short distinct cultures. How to reach

18. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
The museum has nearly 20,000 collections
of objects paintings, handicrafts, armour-suits,
musical instruments and many other objects of
art and artifacts collected from all over the world.
How to reach
Kasturba Gandhi Memorial
It is located within the serene locality of Aga Khan Palace in Pune. It is
widely known as Kasturba Gandhi Memorial and is built in memory of
Mahatama Gandhi's wife Kasturba Gandhi who breathed her last in this
palace.The exquisite white marble memorial or Kasturba Samadhi is
designed by the noted architect Charles Correa. Kasturba Gandhi's ashes
are kept here and a statue of Mahatma Gandhi has been built near by the
memorial. Kasturba Samadhi is accompanied by a National museum in
memory of Kasturba Gandhi.

19. NAGPUR

20. History Of Nagpur
The present city was founded in the early 18th century by Bhakt Buland, a Gond
prince of the kingdom of Deogad in the Chhindwara district. Seeing the advantage
of civilized life in Delhi, he started to build Nagpur as his new capital. His successor
Chand Sultan continued the work. Eventually the control of Nagpur slowly passed
on from the Gonds to the Marathas. It became the capital of the Bhonsles. In 1811
Pindaris attacked Nagpur. Bhonsles again lost to the British in 1817 and Nagpur
came under British influence. In 1853 Raghuji III died without an heir to his
kingdom. As a result, the city lapsed into British control under Lord Dalhousie's
Doctrine of Lapse.
In 1861, Nagpur became the capital of the Central Provinces. The advent of the
Great Indian Peninsula Railway (GIP) in 1867 spurred its development as a trade
centre.
After Indian independence, Nagpur became the capital of Madhya Bharat state
(C.P. and Berar). In 1960, the marathi majority Vidarbha region was merged with
the new state of Maharashtra and Nagpur was designated the second capital of
Maharashtra state, alternating with Bombay as the seat of the Maharashtra state
legislature.

21. Nagpur Excursions:
 Aadasa
Aadasa is located at a distance of 45 km from Nagpur. This small village has a
plethora of ancient and magnificent temples. There is also a Ganapati Temple
here, which is worth to be visited. This place is easily accessible from Nagpur
with many buses are plying from Nagpur, Kamleshwar and Saoner.
How to reach
 Khekranala
Khekranala is situated at a distance of 55 km from Nagpur. There is a
beautiful dam at this place. The location of the site is green and beautiful.
How to reach

22. Markanda
Markanda is a cluster of nearly 24 temples,
which resembles the architecture of the Khajuraho
temples. This small town is located on the left bank
of Vainganga River, which is famous as a religious site.
how to reach
Dhapewada
Dhapewada Lake is 8 km from Ramtek and 60 km from
Nagpur. This place has a small temple of Vithoba lies
peacefully on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River.
It has a variety of water sports to offer as well.
how to reach
Nagardhan
Nagardhan too has a fort, which is believed to be constructed by the Bhonsles.
Gifted with an abundance of wild life, Nagzira has a wildlife
sanctuary resting in natural domains that are a harmonious
combination of lush greens and water bodies. how to reach

23. Nagpur Tourist Attractions:
Gavilgad Fort
It is located near the hill station of Chikhaldara in Amravati district. The
Hindu rulers originally constructed Gavilgad fort. It is located at a height of
about 370 ft above sea level (MSL). Historians believe that it is 200-300 years
old. how to reach
Magnificent Forts of Balapur
The forts of Balapur are named after goddess Baladevi. Balapur has turned
into a seat of pilgrimage and a tourist spot over the years. It is located between
the two rivers of Mana and Mhais. This place is at a distance of 6 km from the
railway station. how to reach

24. Lonar Lake
Lonar Lake is the third largest natural
salt-water lake in the world. The lake
also has a dam of 1800 m.
how to reach
Vidarbha Pandhari Kundinpur
It is located on the banks of Wardha River in Tiwsa Tehsil of Nagpur. It is
about 120 km from Nagpur. There organize an annual ten-day fair during
Karthik Purnima that attracts not less than 50000 devotees

25. For Adventure Lovers
Trekking:
Trekking in Maharashtra might not be that adventurous
and risky like any Himalayan trekking. It is calm and easy;
till it is enjoying and thrilling giving a lifetime experience.
Sahydris is the most important trekking region in the state.
Trekking In Rajmachi Fort
Rajmachi Fort is famous for trekking. The beautiful place is has exotic natural
locations as well as it is a historic site. Rajmachi can be reached via the town of
Lonavla along the Khandala plateau.
how to reach

26. Trekking In The Sahyadris
In Maharashtra, Western Ghats is called Sahyadri in local Marathi language.
Sahyadri is known to be a trekker's paradise with green hills, dotted lakes
and forests all around. how to reach
Trekking In Waki Woods
Waki Woods is just 30 km
away from Nagpur on Saoner
Road near Warki Dargha.
This resort offers activities like
bird watching, boating, archery,

27. Safari Trips:
Safaris in Maharashtra can be done mainly at Tadoba National Park, Sanjay Gandhi
National Park and Navegoan National Park. Spreading over an area of 135 sq km, it
consists of a deer park, an aviary and three beautifully landscaped gardens. One can
also enjoy staying in a unique treetop house and riding a power or sailboat on lake.
So, safari in this park is really a thrilling experience.
Navegaon National Park
The Navegaon National Park is located in Navegoan in Gondia, Maharashtra. It is one
of the most popular forest resorts in the Vidarbha region. Spreading over an area of
135 sq km,

28. Doba National Park
Tadoba National Park spreads over 120 sq
km, which is at an altitude of 200m. It is
located 100 km south of Nagpur and
45 km north of Chandrapur. It
is the oldest national park in
Maharashtra.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park, also known as Borivali National Park is
located at the suburb of Borivali, Mumbai. The main attraction of the park is
its lion and tiger safari. One of the main attractions to the National Park is
the lion safari.

29. Maharashtrian Culture: The life and soul
The culture of Maharashtra is an amalgamation of festivals, dances, music, art
and crafts, foods and costumes. The Maharashtrians are vibrant, down to earth
people for whom life itself is a celebration. During festival seasons it would be
a great time to absorb Maharashtrian culture, with all its colourful
costumes, cuisines, rituals and traditions. The song, music and dance that
accompany almost every festive occasion, add joy and excitement to the lives of
the people from every walk of life. These festivals attract world-renowned
artistes - musicians, dancers, painters, sculptors, weavers - who come together
to pay tribute to Maharashtra's rich culture and legacy.

30. Cuisines
Maharashtrian cuisine is packed
with the subtly flavoured vegetarian delicacies and hot
aromatic meat and fish curries, while the crunchy, crisp sweets
are made mostly from rice and jiggery are also their favourite.
Maharashtrian cuisine: Maharashtrian cuisine is of two
kinds - Konkani and Varadi. Despite its difference in
style of preparation, both the style use lot of seafood and
coconut.
•Konkan Cuisine: Konkan cuisine is strong in spice, red chillie
powder, corianders, and prepared with coconut oil. It is
prepared using a deep purple berry, kokum and raw mango.
The Konkan food has a lot of coconut in it and strong in
masalas, red chillies and coriander.
•Varadi Cuisine: The cuisine has a good balance of spices with
generous use of powdered coconut and besan
(gram flour) – the latter used more for vegetarian dishes.

31. Dances
Gifted with its rich culture and
traditions, Maharashtra has different types of dance forms.
 Povada is the dance form that showcases the lifetime achievements of
the Maratha ruler Shivaji Maharaj.
 Lavani and Koli dance forms entertains maharashtrians.
 Dhangri gaja, Dindi and Kala
are the religious folk dances.

32. Costumes
As Maharashtra is a vast state, the people of this colourful
state wears different types of costumes, take different
cuisines, different forms of dances and music according to
the physical features of their locality.
Generally, men wear dhoti and pheta in olden days, while
women wear choli and saree.

33. Handicrafts
Maharashtra has a wide variety of handicrafts available. These art and
craft showcases the true spirit of Maharashtrian culture. Different
categories of Maharashtra handicrafts are:
Sawantwadi Crafts
Bidri Works
Leather Works

34. Mashru and Himroo
Weaving
Ajanta Paintings,Warli Paintings
Jewellery

35. Festivals
The Maharashtrians are a vibrant, earthy people for whom life
itself is a celebration. Small wonder then that all festivals in
Maharashtra are celebrated with abundant fervor and enthusiasm.
These times provide a unique opportunity to absorb Maharashtrian culture,
with all its colorful customs, rituals and traditions.
The various festivals celebrated here are:
 Nag Panchmi
 Narali Pournima
 Gokul Ashtami
 Gudhi Padwa
 Pola
 Makar Sankrant

36. Fairs
Maharashtrians celebrate every fair with great fervour and enthusiasm.
The sacred Kumb Mela at Nashik that comes after every twelve years is
regarded to be the most important religious fair in Maharashtra. Tha
various fairs that are held all over the state of maharashtra are:
Nashik Kumbh Mela Ganesh Chaturthi

37. Pune Festival Navaratri Mahalaxmi Fair
Rath Yatra

38. Travel Tips: Things to remember
Maharastrian people are friendly and cooperative. The Maharashtra
government in collaboration with the central government has instituted
many tourist guide centres all over the state in major cities and towns.
But still foreign tourists have to know a few costumes and traditions of
this state.
Customs to keep in Mind
Not only in Maharsahtra but also in whole India, tourists have to remove
shoes before entering any shrine.
Tourists are prohibited from using alcoholic beverages or speaking in a
raised voice on the premises of any shrine.
Women are advised to dress properly, and should cover their head before
entering a Sikh Gurudwara or a mosque.

39. Visitors are supposed to step the right foot first into the courtyard when
anybody enters any religious place
All leather products like shoes, belts, handbags, camera cases etc. are
prohibited in some Hindu and Jain temples.
Visitors are to wash their hands and feet under a tap or tank available on
the premises before entering the shrines.
No visitor in a gurudwara should keep his feet pointing towards the Holy
Book or step over any one sitting in prayer or meditation.
While spinning a prayer wheel of any Buddhist monastery, one must always
remember to follow the clockwise direction.
Cushions and chairs inside the monastery are reserved for lamas (monks).
Visitors may sit on the steps outside or on the floor.
Incase one gets the opportunity to meet a Rimpoche (head lama) or a
respected monk, it's polite not to turn one's back on him while leaving.

40. By Air
There is basically one major international airport in Maharashtra i.e. the
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport of Mumbai. Apart from that, the
city also has a domestic airport - Santa Cruz Domestic Airport. The
airports at Nagpur and Pune also operate a few international flights, apart
from the usual domestic ones. The cities of Kolhapur and Aurangabad also
have a domestic airport of their own.
By Rail
The largest as well as the most important railway station of Maharashtra is
situated in Mumbai and is known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. From
there, you can get trains to almost every part of India. Apart from
that, there are railway stations in
Pune, Nashik, Nagpur, Kolhapur, Aurangabad, AMravati, etc. In
short, Maharashtra is well connected with the other states via railways.
HOW TO REACH

41. By Road
There are a number of National Highways and State Highways crisscrossing
Maharashtra, which make it easier for any visitor to visit the state by road.
Infact, through these highways, you can easily approach the state from any and
every part of the country. Apart from that, you can easily get buses and taxis
from the numerous cities in Maharashtra to travel within as well as outside the
state.
By Sea
Since a number of cities in Maharashtra are situated on sea banks, you can also
go there via ship from the neighboring countries. Apart from the international
naval port at Mumbai, there are a number of other minor ports in the state.
Thus, reaching Maharashtra by presents no problems for the tourists.

42. THANK YOU
Submitted by:
SWADHA AGARWAL
042, SECTION-AB