Maharashtra is like a big canvas painted with distinct colours and patterns to offer a likable picture for the world to see. Enriched with multi-hued culture and glorious history, Maharashtra adds indelible charm in a country that is as diverse as India. From its jovial folk dances and music to its palatable cuisine, from its enchanting architecture to its resplendent art and craft, Maharashtra has a created a world full ofna opportunity for travel enthusiasts to explore. This incredible state that houses part of the Western Ghats; a district that makes famed Kolhapuri Chappals; a populace that welcomes Lord Ganesha like no other Indian state can; AND a land that is home to one of the largest film industries in the world, BOLLYWOOD, it has something for everyone! So without further ado, let us delve deeper into this land and find the elements that makes it such a magnetic place for explorers!
The state of Maharashtra is an ideal place for leisure tourists. There are a number of exotic destinations in the state many of which are situated in serene and peaceful environments, offering travellers the perfect ambience to relax and unwind. Here are some places that a leisure seeker would love to visit:
# Bhatye
Bhatye is a rural area on the suburbs of Ratnagiri town. However, due to Bhatye’s serene location and its distance from the hustle and bustle of the city, several resorts have been established here for the leisure seekers. One can camp across the bridge in MTDC’s tent resort, amidst whispering casuarinas and enjoy water sports. Also, one can choose to go on an excursion to Pawas to see the famed Swaroopanand Swami Ashram from here.
# Igatpuri
Tucked in the Western Ghats, Igatpuri is a small village that is far from the bustling cities and managed to maintain its tranquility. Needless to say that Igatpuri is a beautiful place that is still untouched and this fact has instigated the leisure seekers to spend time here. There are dozens of resorts that come up here for providing travelers a comfortable and convenient stay. At Igatpuri, the tourists also have the opportunity to practice age-old form of meditation called Vipassana, which certainly has the potential to change your outlook towards life. Igatpuri is a perfect place to relax and submit to luxury.
# Lonar
On one’s leisure trip, it is highly likely that one may bump into something exclusive. Lonar, a small town on the outskirts is known for its large crater (world’s third largest crater), which was formed from the impact of a meteorite that fell here. Today, this crater is filled water and its surrounding area has developed into a rich forest that shelters several species of flora and fauna. Thus, Lonar is now a popular tourist destination and is perfect for those seeking an experience that has lasting impression. One can book in the MTDC resorts here; however, advance booking is mandatory.
# Tadoba National Park
Often referred to as “The Jewel of Vidharba”, the Tadoba National Park is the largest wildlife reserve in Maharashtra. The park lies in the district of Chandrapur in the north-eastern part of Maharashtra and is spread over an area of 624 sq km. Tadoba is the treasure trove of innumerable species of flora and fauna and is home to some endangered species like tigers, wild dogs, and sloth bear. Panther, hyena, jackal, bison, barking deer, sambar, and cheatal are some other animals found in Tadoba National Park.
# Chikhaldara
Chikhaldara is a small village situated in the Amravati district of Maharashtra. Reckoned to be the place where Bheema (one of the Pandavas from the epic Maharashtra) killed Keechaka. Chikhaldara is a beautiful hill station and due to its proximity to Melghat Tiger Project, it abounds in wildlife as well. Along with several species of flora, a large number of animal species such as Tiger, Leopard, Sloth bear, Wild dog, Jackal, Sambar, Indian Bison, Barking Deer, Blue Bull, Spotted Deer, Chausingha, Ratel, Flying Squirrel, Wild Boar, Langur, Rhesus Monkey, Porcupine, Pangolin and Mouse deer can be found here.
# Bor Wildlife Sanctuary
Located near Mangi in Wardha district of Maharashtra, Bor Wildlife Sanctuary is yet another place for flora and fauna in the state. The sanctuary is also famed for its dam, which is popularly known as Bor Dam. The area around the dam is a great picnic spot and, where one may also be able to spot a wide spectrum of wildlife. Bor Wildlife Sanctuary is home to species like sambhar, cheetal, barking deer, nilgai, tigers, leopards, and wild dogs. Also, the sanctuary is home to 160 species of avifauna and is indeed the birdwatchers paradise.
# Dajipur
The jungle resort of Dajipur is situated on the border of Kolhapur and Sindhudurg districts in Maharashtra. The resort is nestled amidst rugged mountains and dense forests; this secluded little place is completely cut-off from human habitat. Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the Indian bison, deer, chital, gawa and couple of more species of wild animals and birds. At a short distance from the resort is the Gagangiri Maharaj’s Math which makes for a pleasant outing. This scenic resort is near the backwaters of the Radhanagari Dam and is a perfect place for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts.
# Nawegaon Badh
Nawegaon is Vidarbha’s most popular forest resort. There is a picturesque lake in the midst of hill ranges with watchtowers that enable visitors to view wildlife. Also, Nawegaon has about 60% of the bird species found in Maharashtra. Every winter, large flocks of migratory ducks visit the lake. One can also enjoy jungle safaris and get an opportunity to sight leopard, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, chital or langoor. The unique tree-top retreat and power or sail boating are the added assets of this place.
