Top 19 Places to Visit in Winter in Maharashtra

source: indiatourism

Maharashtra is a place of great geographical diversity. From the vast Arabian Sea to lofty hill stations, you can enjoy everything here. Besides, the cities of Maharashtra are also great places to explore the authenticity of this state. In this article, you will learn about the top 19 places to visit in winter in Maharashtra. 

Keep scrolling to know more.

1. Lonavala

source: wikimedia

Lonavala is one of the most beautiful places and a perfect weekend getaway in Maharashtra. The region is popular as the “city of caves”. As many tourists visit this place regularly, you can find several luxurious hotels and resorts here. Besides, the place is full of nature’s abundance; thus, you can enjoy a relaxed and soothing vacation. 

Apart from this, there are also some historical attractions to explore.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹19000 to ₹20000 for 2 Nights/3 Days (Including Car, Stay, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Strolling at parks, nature walking, exploring ancient trails, doing picnics, camping, trekking
• Top Tourist Attractions: Tiger’s Leap, Lonavala Lake, Ryewood Park, Della Adventure Park, Valvan Dam, Aamby Valley, Duke’s Nose

2. Igatpuri

source: hotelashwin

Situated in Nashik district, Igatpuri is one of the best tourist places in Maharashtra in winter. The place is perfect for nature lovers as there are several viewpoints of the Western Ghats. In addition to lush greenery and panoramic views of nature, there are also some famous forts and historical places to visit. 

Further, you can also enjoy local Maharashtrian cuisine here.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹6000 to ₹7000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Car, Stay and Sightseeing)
• Things to Do: Trekking, sightseeing, visiting parks, visiting forts, visiting temples
• Top Tourist Attractions: Tringalwadi Fort, Vaitarna Dam, Vihigaon Waterfall, Kalsubai Peak, Ghatandevi Mandir, Camel Valley, Bhatsa River Valley, Amruteshwar Temple

3. Mahabaleshwar

source: tripadvisor

Mahabaleshwar is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Maharashtra, situated in the Western Ghat range. The hill station has a height of 1353 metres and is a paradise for trekkers. Besides, the soothing nature of this region is a perfect escape from city life. 

Further, the region is notable for panoramic views, so get ready with your cameras to click breathtaking pictures.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹12000 to ₹13000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Car, Stay, Meal, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Boat(shikara) riding, visiting waterfalls, exploring hill stations, birdwatching, picnic, trekking, horse riding
• Top Tourist Attractions: Pratapgarh Fort, Rajpuri, Town Bazaar, Lingamala Falls, Tapola, Venna Lake, Wilson Point, Connaught Peak, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Mapro Garden

4. Khandala

source: blogspot

Khandala is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Maharashtra. This is also a famous hill station that receives a huge number of tourists every winter. The reason for this popularity is the mesmerising beauty of the surrounding, with misty valleys, lush greenery, cascading waterfalls and adventure spots. 

Besides, you can also explore local temples and forts.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹19000 to ₹20000 for 3 Days/2 Nights (Including Stay, Meal, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Adventure sports, trekking, nature walking, exploring historical sites, visiting forts
• Top Tourist Attractions: Lohagad Fort, Kune Waterfalls, Shingroba Temple, Bhushi Lake, The Tiger’s Leap, The Bhaja and Carla Caves, Duke’s Nose, Shivlinga, Rajmachi Fort

5. Panchgani

source: jenjon

Surrounded by 5 enormous hills, Panchgani is a great tourist attraction in Maharashtra. The region is filled with serene valleys, dense forests and breathtaking views of lofty mountains. Therefore, you can enjoy plenty of adventure sports here, for example, paragliding, rock climbing, trekking, speed boating etc.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹19000 to ₹20000 for 2 Days/1 Nights (Including Stay, Meal, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Exploring tribal lifestyle, boating, trying authentic vegetarian dishes, enjoying nature, tasting strawberries
• Top Tourist Attractions: Devrai Art Village, Venna Lake, The Shivji Circle, Kaas Plateau, Kate’s Point, Table Land, Sydney Point, Sherbaug

6. Matheran

source: tripsavvy

Matheran is a small hill station located 800 metres above sea level in Maharashtra. The region is popular for its calm vibe, and people come here to seek relief from daily busy city life. In addition, due to its picturesque beauty, Matheran is very popular among photographers. Further, the place is also perfect for trekking lovers.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
  
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹9000 to ₹10000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Stay, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Trekking, seeing waterfalls, exploring nature, visiting temples, short day trips, visiting forts
• Top Tourist Attractions: Louisa Point, Charlotte Lake, Panorama Point, Porcupine Point, Irshalgad Fort, Prabal Fort, Lord Point

7. Pune

source: timeout

Pune is one of the largest cities in Maharashtra and one of the most famous places in Maharashtra to visit in December. From trekking in the mountains to strolling famous streets in the city, you can enjoy everything in Pune. Besides, you can also visit ancient forts here. Apart from these, there are several luxurious resorts to make your vacation more memorable.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹5000 to ₹6000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Stay, Breakfast, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Visiting ancient monuments, exploring historical places, visiting places, visiting nightclubs, strolling in gardens
• Top Tourist Attractions: Rajmachi Fort, Shaniwar Wada, Sinhagad Fort, ISKCON Temple, National Defence Academy, Sri Balaji Mandir, Visapur Fort, Rajgad Fort, Darshan Museum

8. Alibag

source: jannattrips

Maharashtra is a place of diversity. You can trek at famous hill stations and enjoy sunny winter days at beaches. Alibag is such a coastal town with beautiful sea views and different water sports activities to do. The golden-black sand and turquoise water create a mesmerising view here. 

Therefore, this is a perfect place for enjoying holidays with your friends and family.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹7000 to ₹8000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Stay, Breakfast, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Beach camping, camping, bumpy ride, day adventure, water sports, skiing, trekking, beach cycling, 
• Top Tourist Attractions: Nagaon Beach, Alibag Beach, Kanakeshwar Devasthan Temple, Mandwa Beach, Kolaba Fort, Varsoli Beach, Native Biodiversity Garden

9. Aurangabad

source: planetofhotels

Aurangabad is a major cultural epicentre of Maharashtra. The city has hills surrounding it, which has made it more attractive. Apart from this, this city has several forts and historical places that are major tourist attractions. Besides, here you can explore the famous rock paintings of Ajanta and Ellora caves. 

Therefore, if you are a history lover and want to experience the authenticity of India, you should visit Aurangabad.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹7000 to ₹8000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Stay, Breakfast, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Visiting caves, enjoying local food, visiting historical places, exploring Buddhist architecture, visiting the bird sanctuary
• Top Tourist Attractions: Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Aurangabad Caves, Bibi ka Maqbara, Bhadra Maruti, Siddharth Garden, Goga Baba Hill, Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
  

10. Shirdi

source: deccanherald

Shirdi in Maharashtra is a quaint place and a famous pilgrim spot. In addition, this place is noteworthy as the birthplace of the famous spiritual guru Sai Baba. In addition, this place is also notable for many Hindu temples. 

Further, you can also enjoy a calm outing here in the lap of nature and enjoy solitude at pristine lakesides.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹7000 to ₹8000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Stay, Breakfast, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Strolling in gardens, trekking, visiting heritage villages, enjoying waterparks, visiting temples, enjoying nature
• Top Tourist Attractions: Sai Heritage Village, Lendi Baug, Dixit Wada Museum, Khandoba Mandir,  Shri Shirdi Saibaba Temple, Dwarkamai Masjid, Shri Saibaba Sansthan Temple, Sai Tirth Theme Park Shirdi

11. Nashik

source: wikimedia

Nashik is another holy city in Maharashtra, home to different Hindu temples. It is one of those 4 places where Kumbh Mela takes place after every 12 years. Apart from this, Nashik is full of the natural beauty of the Sahyadri range. In addition, several vineyards are scattered throughout the city, which is the reason for abundant wine production. 

You can also enjoy different adventure sports here.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹6000 to ₹7000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Stay, Breakfast, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Wine tasting tour, visiting museums, trekking, adventure sports, picnic, visiting forts, visiting architectural monuments, visiting temples
• Top Tourist Attractions: Sula Vineyards, Trimbakeshwar Temple, Someshwar Temple, Anjaneri Hills, Kalsubai, Jain Temple, Harihar Fort, Pandavleni Caves, Navshya Ganapati Temple, Dudhsagar Falls, Brahmagiri Hill

12. Panhala

source: aroundpune

Situated in Kolhapur district, Panhala is also a famous hill station in Maharashtra. This beautiful city is home to some great ancient forts. Besides, the natural abundance of this place has made it a perfect destination for nature lovers. 

In addition, the scenic view of this place attracts photographers from all over the country.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹5000 to ₹6000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Stay, Breakfast, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Trekking, visiting temples, visiting forts, adventure sports, sightseeing, nature walking
• Top Tourist Attractions: Panhala Fort, Jyotiba Temple, Sajja Kothi, Mahalaxmi Temple, Parashar Caves, Sunset Point, Ambarkhana Fort, Empress Botanical Garden, Teen Darwaza,

13. Ganapatipule

source: maharashtratourism

Ganapatipule is a small tourist destination in the coastal area of Maharashtra. The town also has a Hindu mythological connection and is named after the famous Hindu god, Lord Ganesha. One of the main attractions of this region is the 400-year-old, self-created monolith of Lord Ganesha. 

In addition, this place is full of serenity and a weekend getaway for peace-seekers.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹5000 to ₹6000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Stay, Breakfast, Sightseeing and Transfer)
• Things to Do: Strolling at beaches, visiting temples, visiting forts, visiting museums, enjoying spas, water sports, adventure sports
• Top Tourist Attractions: Ganapatipule Beach, Ganpatipule Temple, Arey ware Beach, Magic Garden, Prachin Konkan Museum, Advika Beach, Shree Mahalakshmi House of Wax, Malgund Beach, Kavi Keshavsoot Smarak, Kaushal Scuba Diving

14. Murud Beach

source: tripoto

Murud beach is an offbeat tourist attraction in Maharashtra. Here you can enjoy the sight of flying seagulls. Besides, tourists also can see dolphins here. Apart from enjoying seascapes and aquatic life, some temples and forts are in the surrounding areas, which are also famous. You can also enjoy camel riding, horse cart riding, water scooter riding etc.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹6000 to ₹7000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Strolling at beaches, enjoying nature, boating, water sports, visiting forts, watching waterfalls, visiting places
• Top Tourist Attractions: Murud Janjira Fort, Garambi Falls, Ahmedganj Palace, Garambi Dam, Padmadurg Fort, Koteshwar Temple, Siddhivinayak Temple, Datta Mandir, Gol Gambuj

15. Bhandardara

source: munniofalltrades

Bhandardara is a beautiful hill station in Maharashtra and a famous tourist destination. The place is full of picturesque views of nature. You can spend some alone time at the side of pristine lakes. Besides, you can also enjoy trekking at Kalsubai Peak. Altogether, the place is a perfect paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹6000 to ₹7000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Lakeside camping, visiting forts, trekking, visiting waterfalls, boating, watching fireflies festival
• Top Tourist Attractions: Wilson Dam, Kalsubai Peak, Randha Falls, Ratanwadi Village, Arthur Lake, Agastya Rishi Ashram, Ratangarh Fort

16. Bhimashankar

source: travel

If you want to spend a calm vacation in Maharashtra, Bhimashankar can be a great choice. Surrounded by the mountains of the Sahyadri range, the place also has a religious vibe. Moreover, there are multiple temples, wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls etc., to attract tourists. Hence, if you are a trekking lover, this place can be a perfect destination for you.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹3000 to ₹4000 for 2 Days/1 Night (Including Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Lakeside camping, visiting forts, trekking, visiting waterfalls, boating, watching fireflies festival
• Top Tourist Attractions: Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple, Gupt Bhimshankar, Hanuman Lake, Ahupe Waterfalls, Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

17. Tadoba

source: wikimedia

Tadoba is one of the oldest national parks in Maharashtra, situated in the Chandrapur district. Here tourists can explore Indian wildlife, such as tigers, sloth bears, deer, Indian leopards and many more. Jeep safari and night safari are very popular here. Besides, people can also enjoy the local cuisine.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹10060 to ₹29000 per adult on twin sharing 
• Things to Do: Exploring wildlife, watching the landscape, exploring diverse flora and fauna, jeep safari, boat ride, bird watching, night safari, enjoying lip-smacking local cuisine
• Top Tourist Attractions: Butterfly Gardens, Irai Lake, Log Hut Stay, Ramdegi Temple

18. Tarkarli

source: aroundpune

Tarkarli is a coastal village and a great offbeat destination in Maharashtra. The region is famous as a weekend getaway near Mumbai. Here you can spend a whole day on the calm sandy beach and enjoy nature. Besides, adventure lovers also enjoy different water sports, such as scuba diving. Further, dolphin watching is another great attraction of this place.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹7000 to ₹8000 for 5 days (Including Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Snorkelling, staying in a houseboat, scuba diving, water sports, visiting beaches, watching the sunset, visiting forts 
  
• Top Tourist Attractions: Tarkarli Beach, Karli Backwaters, Deobagh, Dhamapur Lake, Sindhudurg Fort, Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Temple, Achara Beach, Tsunami Island

19. Chikhaldara

source: localguidesconnect

Chikhaldara is another interesting offbeat place and has a connection with the great epic, The Mahabharata. This is a hill station with diverse flora and fauna. In addition, this place is also an important coffee-growing region that tourists can explore. Trekking and exploring wildlife are the main attractions here.

• How to Reach: Air, Rail, Road
• Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 Days
• Average Expense Per Person: ₹11499 to ₹17499 (Including Car, Sightseeing and Meal)
• Things to Do: Trekking, adventure sports, visiting forts, exploring historical places, enjoying nature
• Top Tourist Attractions: Bhimkund, Melghat Tiger Project, Narnala Fort, Gawilgarh Fort, Muktagiri, Bir Lake, Kalapani Lake, Panchol Point, Amner Fort, Museums

Hope you have got a comprehensive idea about the famous places to visit in winter in Maharashtra. All of these places have a variety of attractions to offer. Additionally, you can also explore authentic Indian culture in these places. This article has also listed the expenses and the top tourist attractions of each place so that you can plan your itinerary accordingly.