1. Adlabs Imagica

Adlaba Imagica is all that you have been ever looking for. Often called the best theme park in Pune, it has a wide range of entertainment and rides. The family rides include boating, various movies, tea cup rides and detective activities. The kids can have a gala time as they ride with their favourite cartoons like Tubby or have fun falling with Humpty Dumpty. For all you adventure lovers, there are rides like Dare to Drop, Roller Coasters, Deep space and the very exciting Scream machine. Get your adrenalines gushing through the body as you enjoy your time with family and friends.  This park also has in store some of the most popular cultural programmes staged. It includes hip hop dancing, magic shows and bikers too. Not for one moment will you get bored in here. Adlabs also has offers for specific days of the week. You can check their website for detailed information.

2. Diamond Water Park

Glide your way in to this wonderful water park for a chilled day. It is a great place to visit with your family and friends and the atmosphere in here is sure to brighten your mood. Apart from the family and kids pool the Diamond Water Park has a lot of interesting options. Don’t be surprised to find yourself sliding through a tunnel and landing in a pool of water- rides like Cyclone and octopus are great options. If you are in the mood for some party and dancing, run to the rain dance floor. For all the romantics, there are couple rides too. Diamond Water Park shall disappoint none. Don’t miss out on all the fun.

3. Appu Ghar

If you are looking forward to having a nice brunch or picnic with your loved ones, visiting Appu Ghar can be the best option for you.  Situated in the foot of hills, it is a nice area to spend some pleasant time in the company of both family and friends. Also, Appu Ghar is the oldest amusement park in the heart of Pune standing strong since 1992. If the group is large you can opt for packages that cater to groups of various kinds including schools and colleges. Rides like stricking cars, appu Columbus, bhoot bangla and merry go rounds keep the fun quotient high. A new and interesting touch that has been added by the management society is a documentary that features the forts of Maharashtra and explains the history of each to the audience. Informative and fun, what more could you possibly ask for?

4. Panshet Water Park

Visitors have loved this love. The Panshet Water Park is most loved by folks who are fond of water and swimming. A variety of water-activities take place here including swimming, water kayaking, speed boats and even water bikes. This is a great place to hangout with a bunch of friends. The food and accommodation facilities in the park are also pretty good. Overall, the picturesque view and the company of loved ones never fail to make a good pair, isn’t it?

5. Sentosa Water Park

You can expect a luxurious stay in Sentosa Water Park which is accommodated with a beautiful resort. The experience is one that you shall never forget. Located on the Mumbai-Pune Highway, Sentosa has high water rides to give you a great time and the best arrangements to make your stay worth it. The wave pools, rain dance along with slides are all a part of this beauty. The rides are very safe too. Enjoy sumptuous food and make some best memories in your next visit here.

1. Panchgani

Panchgani is a renowned hilly attraction and is replete with pretty vistas and thrilling landscapes. You can try trekking and hiking or endeavor for sports here, you will never get tired of being here in an amazing scenic atmosphere. Its soothing quality is what tempts adventurers and travelers to it, no matter where you are looking for serenity or thrill; Panchgani blends both of these and presents you a cocktail of sports and relaxing ecstasies. Opt for resorts and spas here or just plan an adventure itinerary, mutually the landscape will welcome you with open arms.

2. Kamshet

Being a hub for hiking and paragliding endeavors, Kamshet is a notable picnic spot bordered with an enthralling aura that consists within this destination. It is more of a flying temptation to be in as you will not be able to resist yourself for taking part in some paragliding and flying adventures. There’s a rustic allure to this place which is an endearing characteristic of Kamshet and gives it more of a pastoral appeal. Go for cave explorations, discover the divine shrines or take up any course of the adventures, all this will lure you to take away your best experiences from Kamshet.

3. Ganpatipule

Ganpatipule is more of a religious town which is remarked for the revered Lord Ganesha Temple situated here dating back some 400 years back. There are also calm beaches all around the town which are quite tranquil and quaint to be at. So, you can visit the known temples here and then just sit back at the serene beaches and let yourself be carried away by the divinity and tranquility, the air of this picturesque spot is composed of.

4. Lonavala

Lonavala is a famed breakaway of the state and is the most preferred and alluring one to plan your trip to. There are many places to discover around here and a charming quaintness that will take your heart away. Bhaja and Karla Caves, the battle monument of Lohagad, and its proximity to the main territories of Mumbai and Pune are what make it more visited and explored in Maharashtra. Venture at hiking or just take strolls around this city, Lonavala will just charm you with its plush ambience and a mind-blowing setting.

5. Mahabaleshwar

Being the most knighted of all the hill-stations, Mahabaleshwar has picturesque peaks and lush greenery to attract you with. There are villages and hamlets within this stunning town and is full of waterfalls, sacred shrines, and sunset and sunrise points where you can trek to and spend the rest of the day pondering over the coming together of mountains and clouds. Picnic spots are just all around Mahabaleshwar and driving to this town is the best way to get oneself spellbound by its awe-inspiring backdrop!

6. Alibaug

Alibaug has the scenic beaches to tempt travelers with and the azure seashores will refresh you like nothing else. It is just a few kilometers away from the capital city and has been a known destination for weekend trips and beach tours. Its exquisiteness is the best part with the blend of a soothing atmosphere composed of refreshing breezes to help you distress and awed by its pristine allure.

7. Dapoli

Dapoli is another amazing coastal endeavor to be a part of! There are scenic sunsets and gorgeous seashores to astonish you with and for history bugs, the ancient monuments are an extra treat to discover. Also, if you want to see dolphins, Dapoli beaches are the ideal getaway into spotting dolphins jumbling their way out in the sea waters. So, Dapoli provides you with an idyllic adventure and an energizing travel expedition with its cooling beaches and spectacular sunsets!

8. Kaas Plateau

Kaas Plateau boasts of an astonishing flower ecstasy and has around hundreds of wild flowers to be awestruck with! If you are a nature lover, visit this place around August when these flowers are at their best beauty and then travel to the Kaas Lake to spend a day just unwinding and making the most of your quality time with your trippers at this flower dreamland which will leave you euphoric!

9. Rajmachi Fort

Rajmachi Fort is a hiking attraction as you have to trek to the altitude and reach this place with its dream-like exclusive scenery is what will tempt you to visit it again next time! It’s far away from the teeming streets of Maharashtra and assures you with a lush atmosphere and lovely scenes that you will probably not want to leave this beautiful adventure! Situated in the Rajmachi village, this fort is more of a laid-back destination that allures those in search of adrenaline rush and eye treat of plush landscapes.

10. Tarkarli Beach

Tarkarli Beach is a perfect location to immerse oneself in water sports. There are scuba-diving, rafting and snorkeling activities available, and trained experts that will teach you to try these aqua adventures. If you are not much into sports activities, then this beach will make you go wow over its immaculateness and impeccability that guarantees a distressing journey!

These are the best and unique spots for tripping and weekend getaways in Maharashtra and to let oneself unwind from the stress and anxieties of work routines. Maharashtra is a vivid state to travel around and there are tons of things to explore but in case you get tired, these attractions will give you a relaxing break from the crowded streets and bringing you into the lap of nature, happy journey!

1. Kamshet

Perhaps the most ideal point for paragliding not only in Mumbai but also in the country, Kamshet Is renowned for her numerous peaks and mystic greenery, providing the perfect vantage point for take-off. The Shinde-Wadi Hills is perhaps the most preferred site in Kamshet, being perfect for a novice as well as an experienced glider.

2. Lonavala

The skies of Lonavala look colourful with flying kites and Paragliders. It is in itself a picturesque sight. Cradles by the Western Ghats, Lonavala is a hill station near Mumbai famed for her lush green valleys and historical rock-cut caves. Beauty is unparalleled here and you can catch a glimpse of the Lonavla Lake, Valvan Dam, Duke’s Nose and many more. The Tiger’s Leap located over 650 metres, gives you the vantage point of taking a giant leap into the air, perfect for enjoying the full paragliding experience.

3. Pavana

This lush village bordering the Eastern Ghats is truly a beauty of Mother Nature with all her abundant glory. Glide over the Pavana Lake and encapsulating mountains ranges and enjoy a ride of a lifetime. Pavana also offers you peak points ideal for the perfect take off.

4. Panchgani

Panchgani is a table top land which is quite a long distance from the city of Mumbai. Moreover, did you know that the Panchgani Table Land offers the best scenic view of all, in the country? Experience this for yourself, and stroll down the paths of the Plateau to catch a glimpse of that setting sun. And best of all it also gives you the best vantage point for a take-off.

5. Matheran

Matheran is a picturesque landscape, abundantly blessed with numerous peaks serving as perfect vantage points for take-off. The opulent green valley is blessed with pine trees and shrubs. You can catch a glimpse of the Charlotte Lake and the Prabal Fort. You can also glide into the find from echo point, honeymoon point and Sunset point all just a few kilometres apart.

Take a break from that mundane life of yours and chase the winds for a change. Glide over lakes and mountains and waterfalls and fly into the adventure of a life time.

Let us take a walk down the memory lanes of Mumbai and try to rekindle the magic it is famous for.

1. The Gateway of India

Standing tall on the shores of the Arabian Sea, Gateway of India is the most iconic landmark of Mumbai. In the colonial times this was where the Viceroys and governors would enter the country and hence the name. This beautiful monument is one of the finest examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture. This entire structure is made out of yellow basalt stone. There is a lot of intricate carvings and plenty of latticework that catch the eye. There is a lot to be appreciated in its artistic arches and curved domes. It is one of the most visited tourist spot in Mumbai. This monument holds a special place in people’s hearts. This is definitely the first place that any tourist should start his journey from.

2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

The next iconic monument in Mumbai would definitely be the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. This world heritage site was originally called Victoria Terminus. It is the most stunning and scintillating railway station in the country! It is widely acclaimed to be one of the most impressively designed railway station. Like a lot of buildings in Mumbai, CST combines the best of Gothic architecture and the traditional Indian style. It has a very innovative floor plan that makes it even more unique. One look at it and you will find yourself getting lost in its towering turrets and curved pillars. This form of fusion architecture has allowed it to stand out among the crowd of buildings.

3. Haji Ali Dargah

Haji Ali Dargah is one of the most impressive religious monuments in Mumbai. Firstly, its location is just beautiful. It sits on top of a small island off the coast of Worli, joined to the mainland by a narrow pathway. Thousands of people visit this place every day. Especially on special occasions the dargah almost seems to be drowning in a sea of humans. Though it is a mosque people of all religions come here to experience some part of divinity. The dargah has been designed in a typical Mughal architecture style. It is all a very picturesque sight to see the tall minarets, globular domes and curving arches. It is a very calm place, just right for some peaceful time alone.

4. Elephanta Caves

Another one of the world heritage sites, these caves have their unique stories to tell. They are a gift from the past to us. They are a part of our rich heritage and culture that need to be preserved for all of our posterity to witness. These rock-cut cave have a very simple design and exemplify the Indian style of architecture. Elephanta caves are a giant network of temples containing various idols of gods and goddesses especially Lord Shiva. Many scenes from the Indian mythological tales have been painted on the walls. Even though it might just seem like a pile of rocks with drawings on them, there is actually an artistic elegance to this place. It is an enchanting sight to see and one should definitely spare some moments for this historic site.

5. Town Hall

This neo-classical style monument is one of the last remaining crumbs of Victorian Bombay. It is one of the most majestic looking buildings in Mumbai. This hall has taken a lot of inspiration from Greek and Roman styles. The welcoming sight of 8 Greek Doric styled pillars at the entrance is enough to put you in a magical trance. The town hall is quite popular among the masses and often visited. The town hall houses a library and a museum. The museum contains many valuables like ancient manuscripts and coins from different timelines of Indian history.

Mumbai is the pulse of the country. There is much more to explore and discover in its concrete jungles than what is mentioned above. Mumbai is like a mixed pot in terms of tourist places. The city is always ready to welcome you in its folds, ready to showcase its multi-faceted beauty.

1. Diveagar Beach

Diveagar beach can undoubtedly be called the best place if you are looking to visit with your family. The beach is the abode of a Ganesh temple that has history entwined in all corners. Previously, a golden statue of Lord Ganesha had been robbed in 2012. Since then, a silver one has made its replacement. The mouth-watering cuisine and the accommodation facilities are perfectly built for a family outing. You would not want to miss out on this one.

2. Kashid Beach

This beach is almost like a still snap from one of those cinemas. Kashid beach is popular for the clear water, white soft sand and the pristine surroundings. To avoid the jostling crowd in metropolitan cities, you can arrange for a stay here. This beach is best to visit if you have time crunch. With the serene surroundings and the cool winds, Kashid beach is an ideal place to relax yourself and release your stress.

3. Dapoli Beach

If you are looking for some alone time with Mother Nature, Dapoli beach is the best option. Very few tourists and locals visit. There are very few things in life that are as mesmerising as watching the sun go down deep into the blue sea as you sit relaxed on the beach. There are some amazing resorts around the area that will guarantee your safe stay. Apart from the calm, you can opt for dolphin watching or taking a quick dip into the sea.

4. Murud Beach

Need a quick break from work? Visit the Murud beach with your loved ones. The greenery and soothing atmosphere is all you need to give your life a fresh start. Food joints serving delicious dishes and the sound of the rolling sea will make a great stay here. You can also spend the nights collecting sea shells or just relax by walking along the shoreline. If you are more on the adventurous side, go for the water sport facilities that are available.

5. Kunkeshwar Beach

In Kunkeshwar beach you will have the luxury to visit a magnificent temple and also enjoy your time at the beach. The Kunkeshwar temple is famous among both locals and tourists and is popularly referred to as the “Kashi of South India”. The beach area is very clean and safe. A great option if you are planning a family holiday. The place has important historical significance owing to the temple and is a must visit if you are in the area.

6. Alibag Beach

Alibag is one of the most popular beaches to visit for dwellers of both Mumbai and Pune. If you are looking for a place to visit with your friends, you might not find a better place than this. This beach has it all. From beautiful sceneries to water sports. The place caters to the needs of all in a group. The fun lovers can go for water bike rides, speed boats or water scooters. The kids in the family can enjoy a horseback ride. All others can walk along the beach or enjoy a good swim. The food served in the area is to die for. Your trip to Alibag beach can hardly go wrong.

7. Harne Beach

Do you want to spend some time amidst the greenery, the sea and the least amount of distractions to bother you? Harne beach is perfect for such travellers. It is never crowded and not very well known too. The best idea is to enjoy a long drive and calm down. Very few locals and some fishermen come to the beach. Photographers can visit this beach too as the views are breathtaking and splendid.

8. Mandwa Beach

There are so many sight-seeing spots in and around Mandwa beach that your beach and seaside experience will be an overwhelming one. You can zone out or decide to explore the surrounding. A close look at the shores will take you through loads of different rock and their formations. The RCF jetty is near the beach. It is not in use now and makes for a cool place to visit in Pune.

9. Harihareshwar Beach

A hardcore foodie? Well, there is nowhere better for you to visit and explore. The Harihareshwar beach is famous for the sumptuous food and dishes. The chance of spending a great holiday amongst great friends is a steal. You can go all crazy here or calm your soul and soothe your nerves. The choice is yours to make.

10. Tarkali Beach

Looking for some great times and unadulterated fun? Tarkali is a very popular beach where most tourists opt for scuba diving lessons. Scuba diving is a must do if you are planning to visit Tarkali in the near future. Apart from scuba diving, there are arrangements for other water sports too. The photos and videos taken underwater will make memories that are worth a lifetime.

1. The Shaniwarwada Fort

Shaniwarwada Fort is nothing less than your worst nightmare. The eerie walls of this fort only deepen the mystery behind the continuous paranormal activity witnessed here. After the horrific death of a prince in this very fort, it is said that on full moon nights, one can clearly hear the last phrase of the dying prince- “uncle, save me.”

2. Holkar Bridge

Bridges can be a source of scenic beauty, or deadly experiences. Holkar Bridge in Pune is surely the latter. It has witnessed a number of unexplained mishaps and accidents- often ending in death that leave any passerby on extra alert whenever they cross this bridge. However, at night, the crossing becomes even more perilous due to the multiple ghost sightings on this bridge.

3. The Victory Theatre

An archaic theatre, still remains alive through the horrific laughs of spirits and ghosts. As per reports of locals, Victory Theatre is full of giggles that seem to emanate from this place late into the night. The old theatre is surely possessed with some supernatural spirits that put up their show every night for the locals, to make it the most memorable one they ever see.

4. Chandan Nagar

Little girls frolicking around seem like harmless creatures, until you see one in the dead of a night. It is said that a young girl died a tragic death in this place a few years ago. Every midnight, one can still see the spirit of the girl, holding a creepy doll, as she runs after you screaming in a horrific tone! Chandan Nagar is bound to give you some sleepless nights if the legend comes out to be true.

5. The Haunted House, M.G.Road

A murder of a girl in this very house, is a source of terror even till date for the mighty who dare to explore this haunted house of MG road. It is said that this abandoned house contains the spirit of the girl, whose chilling shrieks and gut wrenching cries can make anyone freeze in fear. The untouched house, still contains the same furniture that is often thrown at those who dare enter the possessed premises.

6. The Mansion, Residency Road

Just the sight of this quiet, dark and still place should be enough o give you the creeps and repel you from venturing any further. It is said to be under the control of the spirit of an old lady. Her laughter can make you second guess your decision to enter the Mansion of Residency road at night.

7. Sinhagad Fort

Sinhagad Fort is a storehouse of haunted stories and legends. Witnessing a number of killings due to its involvement in the war has made this place the hub of frightening spirits and chilling cries. People believe that the cries and sounds at night are of the many soldiers who died horrific deaths during the war. These stone walls house a number of mysteries for those who wish to uncover them.

8. Khadki War Cemetry

Cemeteries itself are extremely scary, even without reports of horror stories. But Khadki War Cemetry in Pune will surely grip you in terror if you decide to visit it at night. Locals warn of many dangerous incidents that have taken place in this cemetery. Venture carefully in this deadly cemetery as the spirits should not be disturbed, or angered.

9. Choice Hostel, Karve Road

This Choice Hostel is haunted by the spirit of an evil spirit, who makes the hostlers stand on alert every night as they hear unnerving voices and unexplained horrors. Many people have spotted a woman in a red sari, whose anklet sounds and even sobbing can be heard in the wee hours of the night.

10. Sinhgad College of Engineering

An unfortunate incident has made Sinhgad College of Engineering a living nightmare for some students. It is said that a student committed suicide from a building of this college, and has haunted the place ever since. Students report unusual sightings at night and some even avoid going out at night.

Have some memorable experiences with your friends as you try to escape or endure the alleged horrors of these haunted places. Discover another side of Pune, by having a rendezvous with the supernatural at these top 10 haunted places.

1. Lonavala

Lonavala is a very popular tourism and honeymoon destination in its own right, featured regularly in media. The reasons also are not terribly hard to uncover. It has scenery to kill for, being nestled in the hills and a cloudy backdrop. It is great for photography. It also has points on hills where you can watch the sunset and specific points for honeymooners. There is also the notable Lohadgad Fort, and shrines to Buddhist gods. This is a very approachable place and you can make short tours to it to move on to other places as well later if you so want.

2. Mumbai

Ah, Mumbai Meri Jaan! This is possibly the best-known city of India for all things good in life. Mumbai is a very prominent place both historically and from modern viewpoints. It has architecture like the Gateway, which is very famous, and also other sorts of colonial architecture. Not to mention the flourishing Indian film industry and its stars, the houses of whom you can visit. There is also the iconic Juhu Beach and Queen’s necklace you can look at any time of the day, and evenings are breath-taking here. Mumbai also has first class shopping sites.

3. Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a historic city that is also a remarkable tourist spot on its own. There is the colourful Venna Lake, where you could go cruising either on water or on air. There is the Lingmala Waterfall, a major tourist attraction. There are also hills all around and vantage points up above the world very high, like Arthur’s Seat. There is also the Pratapgad Fort, used in old wars.

4. Tarkali

If neither Bollywood nor history is your thing, you have literally come to the right place. The neon blue waters are a speciality here, and all the tourism attractions are centred on it. Tarkali has a number of beaches, the speciality of Maharashtra, where you can sit back, feel the breeze and have a good time. Or if you venture further into the water, maybe you can watch dolphins and immerse in the fun? Let’s take it to the last step. How about you yourself enter the water? Yes, you heard that right. You can indulge in global extreme sports here, like scuba diving or snorkelling, and have a honeymoon with your better half you’ll never forget.

5. Panchgani

This is another very famous tourist spot that takes modern and extreme to the next level. You’ve had adventures in the water, how about in the sky now? Yes, you can comfortably paraglide at Panchgani. Next, there are other adrenaline sports lined up. Are you tired of closed up man-made residences and want to live out in the open? Panchgani has green backpacking pastures for you. Lastly, if you want to relax and have a very good time, there are a lot of amusement parks here. No place better than here to get to know the significant other on honeymoon.

Maharashtra is very fertile ground for honeymooning purposes. There are shopping sites, history places, glamour towns and lakes or skies you can glide through all packed together. Chances are, if you went on honeymoon here, it will be the beginning to an equally perfect life. Go on now, yes, you can thank us later.

1. Shivaji Jayanti

Chhatrapati Shivaji- undoubtedly the most able ruler of Maharashtra and it is impossible to talk about the rich cultural legacy of the land without his name. Shivaji Jayanti generally falls in the 3^rd week of February but the dates can vary depending on the star signs. With colourful processions, banners and slogans people take to the streets chanting the name of Chhatrapati Shivaji and honouring his stories, now a vital part of the legend of the State.

2. Jivati Pooja

This is solemn festival dedicated to the women folk- and they celebrate the auspicious day of the Jivati Pooja by honouring their sacred thread and praying for the stability of their marriage. The date of Jivati Pooja generally falls in the month of August. It is calculated according to the star signs that fall in the month of Shravan and is a grave venue where women spend the day fasting and chanting the sacred names of Goddess Parvati for the long life of their marriage and for the well-being of their family.

3. Ganesh Chaturthi

A tradition which rose to prominence with Bal Gangadhar Tilak during the Freedom struggle, the Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra is a festival conducted in honour of Lord Ganesh. Though it is celebrated throughout the country it has particular significance in Maharashtra, and is celebrated with great colours and banners. A major ritual of the festival is the immersion of Ganesh idols in water. This act signifies the prominence of Ganesha as the God that ‘alleviates all hindrances’. It is believed that with the immersion of Ganesh idols in the water, one is washing away all the obstacles he will have to face in his future journey.

4. Maharashtra Day

The first day of May is honoured as Maharashtra Day with much festivity. Maharashtra attained statehood on 1 May 1960 and every year the day is a state holiday and is celebrated with many colours, organized by the Government of Maharashtra. On this solemn occasion the State Governor address the people which commences with the customary State Parade. Colourful processions, bands and marches organized by the Government are a wonderful sight to behold.

5. Ajanta Ellora Festival

As the name itself hints, the Ajanta Ellora festival is conducted in the Ellora Caves which demands a rich cultural antiquity. The Festival portrays the traditional antiquity of the land and it goes without saying that the festival is held in the Ellora caves and is undoubtedly the perfect venue which roars the rich legacy of the state. Different art forms and performances take place during this 3 to 4 day festival. People flock to Maharashtra from all over the world to take part in this gala which is undoubtedly a source of pride to Maharashtra.

6. Elephanta Festival

The Tourism Department of Maharashtra never fails and always rises to its reputation and organizes the Elephanta festival every year. Usually held in the month of February or March, the festival can extend up to 2 or 3 days. The fact that it encourages classical artists and traditional performances is a distinguishing feature of the festival. The festival also pays homage to the legendary Indian classical artists who come to the festival from different parts of the world to showcase their talents. The festival is celebrated with great fervour all over. Together with the Ellora Festival, these two form a vital part of Maharashtra Tourism.

7. Narali Poornima

Narali Poornima is known throughout the country as the Sravana Poornima and is celebrated in different colours. But the people of Maharashtra celebrate the day with great colours and music. It signifies the arrival of the full moon in the month of Sravana- indicating the harvest season in the region. Different communities celebrate the festival according to their local customs and are a wondrous affair and a day of great joy.

The region of Maharashtra is famed for its fun and fervour. The festivals in Maharashtra are unique and roar the cultural legacy and the rich antiquity of the region and have attracted people from all over the country.

1. Dewdrops Boutique Retreat

Dewdrops Boutique Resort is one of the most sought after holiday resorts in Igatpuri. It is also visited for one day picnics by people of nearby cities like Mumbai and Nashik. It offers both rooms and villas. It has an equipped garden, table tennis court, a huge lawn, conference halls and provisions for a corporate retreat. The management also organizes Ghazal nights, rangoli competitions, painting workshops, pool parties etc.

2. Mystic Valley Spa and Resort

Picturesque view of the Camel Valley and the beautiful view of the Wilson Dam ahead, Mystic Valley Spa and Resort is the ideal place for a restful vacation. They offer deluxe, luxury and penthouse suites, all with respectful tariffs. Modern amenities and facilities like a spa and Sauna, swimming pool, multi cuisine restaurants, indoor board games, library and gymnasium are provided.

3. Manas Resort

Luxury and hospitality is redefined in Manas Resort. Revered for its 5 star treatment and facilities, Manas is considered a Jewel in the hotel business. It is an ideal wedding, one day picnic and corporate outings destination. The rooms and villas overlook the central lawn and are equipped with all modern amenities. One day picnic offers are also provided, with the charge as INR 1500 per person.

4. Rain Forest

True to its name, this 40-acre property is the greenest resort in all of Igatpuri. Rain Forest Resort has cottages, villas and rooms, with facilities like swimming pool, buffets, conference halls and outdoor and indoor activities. The décor is beautifully done up, giving it a heritage and vintage look. Cycling enthusiasts love this place for its vast cycling routes.

5. Anandvan Resorts

An hour’s drive from Igatpuri will take you to Bhandarara, an undiscovered treasure, tucked between mountain slopes. Anandvan resort is located here. This vintage resort is perfect for luxury travelling and a comfortable stay. It is Indie inspired in many ways, like its architecture and surroundings. The Ayurvedic and recreational treatments are renowned all over the state. It overlooks Lake Arthur.

6. Golden Resorts

Managed under Margaj Holidays, this is a reasonable place to lodge and board. Golden Resorts has all basic modern facilities to make your holiday better. They also specialize in the Hotel Management and Consultancy business. They have three related projects undergoing currently.

7. Soma Vine Village Resort

A paradise of wine lovers, Soma Vine Village resort is a promoter of the Indian wine development. It stands on the banks of the Gangapur Dam, with the Sahyadri Ranges as the backdrop. The rooms and suites have all amenities. It also has an amphitheatre, conference rooms, spa, gymnasium, swimming pool, adventure activities and indoor game room. The management also organizes a wine tasting tour, on all days of the week. The demonstration of the cultivation, making and techniques of wine sipping are shown.

8. Jenjon Holiday Resort

Located near the Lake Vaitarna, with a panoramic view of the Sahyadri Ranges, Jenjon holiday resort is the creation of comfort and genuity. Spread over 3 acres of green lands, the Glass Mansion, Swiss Chalet and Java Plum Cottage are the accommodations available here. The vintage mango tree, a 100 years old tree, is an ideal place to spend a quiet day mediating or reading.

9. E & G Green Valley Spa Resort

Located in the city of Nashik, E & G Green Valley Spa Resort is a beautiful place to spend the night. It will reconnect you to the nature and her charm. It was the original product of people who fell in love with nature and wanted others to see the same beauty from their own eyes. It is set in probably the most pollution free zone around. They have studio rooms and huge villas.

10. Savana Lake Resort

Eco farming is the motto here, and a much needed one of its time. Savana Lake resort will give you a full time countryside experience. A picturesque setup, it has all modern facilities blended with down to earth living. It is called one of the best in Maharashtra, a no normal feat. It offers activities like on ground farming, trekking in Sahyadris and swimming. It also has a snooker and pool table.

These are some of the best and most recommended resorts for a memorable time and vacation when visiting Igatpuri.

• Famous For: Cave paintings, Indian architecture and art form, Basalt rock caves, Buddhist sculptures, Kailasa Temple
• Entrance Fee: The entry fees are quite nominal. They are used by ASI for the maintenance of the caves. They are as follows: Children below 15 years: Free of cost, Indians above 15 years: Rs. 30, For individuals from SAARC (Bangladesh/Myanmar/Sri Lanka/Pakistan/Maldives/Nepal/Bhutan): Rs. 30, For individuals from countries other than SAARC: Rs. 500, For still camera/video camera: Rs. 25
• Visiting Time: The caves are open all round the year for visits. The cave tour timings are limited to 0900 – 1730 hours. Mondays are the weekly holidays for the authorities.
• Visiting Duration: Once you enter the caves you will notice there is a lot to explore there. Because of its vast size, it easily takes 2-3 hours for a visitor to tour the caves. It is better to plan the rest of your day accordingly.

Ajanta Caves are a peephole into our rich and varied past. These caves are one of the most oldest and exquisite display of cave paintings in India. The caves are filled with colorful paintings and art works all related to Buddhism. This place is an amazing display of Indian craftsmanship and architecture.
Apart from its historic appeal, the caves are placed in a very picturesque location of green lush hills. It is all very scenic to take in.

Traveler Tips

• The caves are a very ancient and important historical site and protected under various government laws. Do not litter around the place.
• The cave paintings are very fragile and need careful restoration. Do not touch them or deface any part of the caves. It is punishable by law.
• Photography is restricted in the caves. The harsh flash from the cameras damage the paintings.
• Wear comfortable shoes. You will have to walk long distances and trek some parts.
• Have a heavy brunch before visiting the caves. The eating places are very limited in the area.

Things to Do

• Spend some moments in the ancient monasteries in the caves.
• Marvel at the age-old paintings wrapped in a myriad of colors.
• Discover the amazing architecture that has shaped this monolithic site.
• Be awe struck at the spectacular scenery that surrounds these caves.
• Check out the viewpoint near the river. It gives a panoramic view of the amazing Ajanta caves.

Availability of Guides

Guides are available to take you along the tour. It is better to book one from reputed government tourism agencies. It is also a greet supplement if you carry a tourism book of the Ajanta caves, giving you all the extra details.

Best Time to Visit

The weather is quite acceptable throughout the year, except in the summers. The most ideal time to visit the cave would be between July – March. The months of April, May and June can get unbearably hot and are unsuitable for travel.

How to Reach

Aurangabad is 99 km away from Ajanta caves. It is very easy to reach Aurangabad as it is well connected by airways and railways to the nearby cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Jaipur.

For commute inside Aurangabad, one can use either the bus services or the cabs to reach Ajanta caves. It is easy to book your own cab from various local operators.

Interesting Facts and Trivia about Ajanta Caves

• First phase of the caves was built in the period 100 BCE to 100 CE, under the care of the Hindu Satavahana dynasty representing Hinayana tradition of Budhism. The second phase was built under the Hindu emperor Harishena of the Vinayaka dynasty during 460 – 480 CE. He represented the Mahayana tradition.
• The caves were discovered back in 1819 and from that time till today, the Ajanta caves have only attracted historians, archaeologists and tourists to explore its vibrant mysteries.
• Ajanta caves are a huge network of 29 caves made from basalt, an igneous rock. The workers carved out the cave structure, bit by bit over many years.
• The caves are an important part of Buddhism. They are a combination of both the traditions of Buddhism. There are many viharas, monasteries and prayer halls carved in these caves.
• The paintings are made on dry plaster surface. The murals depict various parts of Lord Buddha’s life. They have very distinguishable features and depict expert artisan work.

Nearby Attractions

• Bibi Ka Maqbara
• Daulatbad Fort
• Aurangabad Cavs
• Kailasanath Temple
• Bhadra Maruti Temple
• Panchakki
• Siddharth Garden and Zoo
• Chand Minar
• Soneri Mahal
• Supari Hanuman temple

Nearby Places to Eat

• Tandoor Restaurant and Bar
• Kailash Restaurant
• Bhoj Restaurant
• Green Leaf Vegetarian Cuisine
• Madhuban Exclusive Garden restaurants
• That Baat
• Kream N Krunch
• Siddhi Restaurant

Ajanta Caves are one of the most exciting and scintillating places to visit. There is much to learn from the paintings that depict a beautiful religion.
Next time you find yourself in Aurangabad, make sure to give these caves a visit. You will never regret it.