Tourist Interests
Tourists seek diverse experiences catering to cultural immersion, adventure, culinary delights, and relaxation. From exploring historical landmarks to indulging in local cuisine, there’s something for every interest. Whether hiking through nature or lounging on serene beaches, travelers cherish unforgettable moments.
Hill Stations
Hill stations are tranquil mountain retreats, offering cool climates, lush landscapes, and a peaceful escape from bustling city life.
View moreMuseum / Palaces
Museum palaces combine historical grandeur with cultural treasures, offering immersive experiences that showcase art, history, and architecture in majestic settings.
View moreAdventure Tourism
Trekking sites are nature's playgrounds, offering rugged trails, stunning vistas, and immersive experiences for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and exploration.
View moreWaterfalls
Water parks are aquatic wonderlands, featuring thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones, providing endless fun and refreshment for all ages.
View moreForts
Forts stand as enduring symbols of history and defense, each with its own tales of valor, intrigue, and architectural marvels.
View moreForest / Wildlife
Forests are nature's sanctuaries, teeming with diverse flora and fauna, offering serene retreats and opportunities for exploration and discovery.
View moreCaves
Caves are ancient realms of mystery, carved by time, housing stunning geological formations and harboring secrets waiting to be unearthed.
View moreBeaches
Beaches are nature's playgrounds, where sun-kissed sands meet the azure sea, inviting relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable moments under the coastal sun.
View moreTemples
Temples, sacred to diverse faiths, host worship, rituals, and prayers, fostering community and devotion while seeking divine blessings.
View moreExplore Districts
Things to do
Nature Walk
Pathways through dense forests, suddenly offers a breathtaking view of the distant mountain or the meandering ...
Street Food
Though our love for food hasn’t been prolifically proclaimed nor advertised, fact is we love our food and our...
Handloom
Handlooms in Maharashtra today have ushered in exquisite fabrics, breathtaking in their range. Yet they are durable...
Folk Dance
The sublime medley of movements, gestures and expressions connecting the human spirit...
Cave Exploration
Explore ancient cave complexes like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, known for their magnificent rock-cut architecture and intricate carvings.
Art & Craft
Maharashtra boasts a rich tradition of art and craft, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage. From the intricate Warli paintings to the vibrant Paithani sarees, each craft tells a unique story of the region's history and craftsmanship.
Fort Exploration
Discover the historical forts of Maharashtra, such as Sinhagad, Raigad, and Pratapgad, and learn about their rich history and architectural marvels.
Heritage Train Rides
Experience a scenic journey on Maharashtra's heritage trains, like the Matheran Hill Railway, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.
Tribal Villages
Visit tribal villages in Maharashtra to understand the indigenous cultures, traditional practices, and unique lifestyles of the tribal communities.
Temple Trails
Embark on a spiritual journey to prominent religious sites like Shirdi, Siddhivinayak Temple, and Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, experiencing the spiritual essence of the region.
Coastal Adventures
Explore the pristine beaches and coastal areas of Maharashtra, including water sports, dolphin watching, and visits to coastal forts like Janjira.
Wine Tours
Take a tour of the famous vineyards in Nashik, known as the Wine Capital of India, and indulge in wine tasting sessions and vineyard walks.
Historical City Walks
Explore the historical cities of Maharashtra, such as Pune and Aurangabad, through guided city walks that highlight their architectural and cultural heritage.
Trekking Trails
Engage in adventure activities like trekking in the Sahyadri ranges, paragliding in Kamshet, and rock climbing in Sandhan Valley, for adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Fishing Villages
Visit traditional fishing villages along the Konkan coast to learn about the lives of local fishermen, their techniques, and enjoy fresh seafood.
Wildlife Safaris
Go on wildlife safaris in renowned sanctuaries and national parks such as Tadoba-Andhari, Pench, and Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
Nature Walk
Street Food
Handloom
Folk Dance
Cave Exploration
Art & Craft
Fort Exploration
Heritage Train Rides
Tribal Villages
Temple Trails
Coastal Adventures
Wine Tours
Historical City Walks
Trekking Trails
Fishing Villages
Wildlife Safaris
Cuisine
CHICKEN CURRY
Chicken curry or curry/curried chicken is a South Asian dish originating from India. It is common in the Indian subcontinent, Caribbean, Arabian Peninsula, Southeast Asia, Great Britain, and Japan. A typical curry from the Indian subcontinent consists of chicken stewed in an onion- and tomato-based sauce, flavoured with ginger, garlic, tomato puree, chilli peppers and a variety of spices, often including turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cardamom. Outside of South Asia, chicken curry is often made with a pre-made spice mixture known as curry powder.
FISH FRY
Seafood is a staple for many Konkan coastal communities and is popular in other parts of the state too. Most of the recipes are based on marine fish, prawns and crab. A distinct Malvani cuisine of mainly seafood dishes is popular. Popular fish varieties include Bombay duck, pomfret, bangda, Rawas, and surmai (kingfish). Seafood recipes are prepared in different ways such as curried, Pan frying, or steaming in banana leaves.
MISAL PAV
Misal is a very popular spicy dish in the Western Indian state of Maharashtra. The dish is mostly eaten for breakfast or as a midday snack or sometimes as a one-dish meal, often as part of misal pav. It remains a favourite snack since it is easy to make with affordable ingredients and has a good nutritional value. The taste of misal ranges from mildly to extremely spicy. And there are a lot of varieties as well (like Kolhapuri Misal, Puneri Misal,...etc). Misal is also a popular traditional food of Maharashtra. The dish is always served hot.
Mutton Biryani
Biryani is a mixed rice dish, mainly popular in South Asia. It is made with rice, some type of meat (chicken, goat, lamb, beef, prawn, or fish) and spices. To cater to vegetarians, in some cases, it is prepared by substituting vegetables for the meat. Sometimes eggs and/or potatoes are also added. Biryani is one of the most popular dishes in South Asia and among the South Asian diaspora,
Similar dishes are also prepared in other Biryani is the single most-ordered dish on Indian online food ordering and delivery services, and has been labelled as the most popular dish overall in India
PURAN POLI
It is the special dish of Maharashtra which is prepared on every occasion at every house, especially during festivals such as Gudhi Padwa, Akshaya Tritiya, Ganesh Chaturthi and Holi. It is eaten with Basundi, Aamras, Kadhi, Amti, etc. In Maharashtra, Puran Poli is eaten with a variant of Amti (flavored sour curry) known as Katachi Amti which is prepared with the remaining water of cooked Chana Dal used to make Puran Poli. Mainly jaggery is used in puran poli for sweetness. In some regions of Maharashtra, Puran Poli is served with a dollop of ghee on top, which enhances its flavor and richness. The process of making Puran Poli can also differ slightly .
THALI PITH
Thalipeeth is a food of Maharashtra. The types of Thalipeeth are as follows - Bhajani Thalipeeth, Shingada Thalipeeth, Sabudane Thalipeeth, Rice Thalipeeth, Cucumber Thalipeeth, Wheat Thalipeeth. Thalipeeth can also be made by combining all the different pithas. This Thalipeeth dish introduces the Marathi people.
VEG THALI
Maharashtrian or Marathi cuisine is the cuisine of the Marathi people from the Indian state of Maharashtra. It has distinctive attributes, while sharing much with other Indian cuisines. Traditionally, Maharashtrians have considered their food to be more austere than others. Maharashtrian cuisine includes mild and spicy dishes. Wheat, rice, jowar, bajri, vegetables, lentils and fruit are dietary staples. Peanuts and cashews are often served with vegetables.
VADA PAV
Vada pav is a vegetarian fast food dish native to the state of Maharashtra.
The dish consists of a deep fried potato dumpling placed inside a bread bun (pav) sliced almost in half through the middle. It is generally accompanied with one or more chutneys and a green chilli pepper.
Modak
Sweet dumplings made from rice flour dough filled with a mixture of freshly grated coconut and jaggery, flavoured with cardamom. Modaks are traditionally steamed, known as
Ukadiche Modak, and are offered to Lord Ganesha during festivals, symbolizing the deity's favorite
treat.
Sol Kadhi
A refreshing and tangy drink made from kokum fruit and coconut milk, seasoned with crushed garlic, green chilies, and fresh coriander. Often served as an appetizer or a digestive, Sol Kadhi is known for its cooling properties and unique blend of flavors.
Bharli Vangi
Baby eggplants stuffed with a delicious mixture of coconut, peanuts, and a blend of aromatic spices, cooked until tender. This dish is a staple in Maharashtrian households and
is usually served with bhakri (millet flatbread) or chapati, highlighting the region's rich use of spices and flavours.
Shrikhand
A creamy and sweet yogurt dessert, Shrikhand is made by straining yogurt to remove the whey and then mixing it with sugar, cardamom, and saffron. Often garnished with nuts
and dried fruits, this dessert is rich and indulgent, commonly served during festivals and celebrations.
Culture
Vasudev
Kadak Lakshmi
Pandharichi vari
Mahashivratri
Gudhi Padwa
Ganesh Chaturthi
Festivals
Makar Sankranti
15, jan 2024
Makar Sankranti, celebrated in mid-January, marks the transition of the sun into the Capricorn zodiac sign, signifying the end of winter solstice and the onset of longer days. It is a festival of harvest, joy, and cultural festivities, marked by kite flying, bonfires, and feasting across India with vibrant traditions and rituals.
Chh. Shivaji maharaj jayanti
19, Feb 2024
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti celebrates the birth anniversary of the legendary Maratha warrior king, Shivaji Maharaj. Honored as a symbol of courage, valor, and visionary leadership, his legacy inspires generations. The day is marked with processions, cultural events, and tributes, reminding people of his indomitable spirit and contributions to Indian history.
Mahashivratri
8, March 2024
Mahashivratri, meaning “the Great Night of Shiva,” is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in reverence of Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasts, offer prayers, and engage in rituals like bathing the Shiva lingam with milk and water. It symbolizes overcoming darkness and ignorance, seeking blessings for spiritual growth and inner peace.
Gudi Padwa
9, April 2024
Gudi Padwa, also known as Marathi New Year, marks the beginning of the traditional Hindu lunar calendar in Maharashtra and other parts of India. It signifies the onset of spring and the harvest season, celebrated with the hoisting of the Gudi flag, rangoli decorations, and feasting on festive delicacies. Families come together to usher in the new year with hope, prosperity, and cultural fervor.
Maharashtra Din
1, May 2024
Maharashtra Kamgar Din, or Maharashtra Workers’ Day, is observed to honor the contributions and rights of laborers and workers in the state. It commemorates the struggles and achievements of the labor movement, advocating for fair wages, labor rights, and improved working conditions. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of social justice and solidarity in building a just society.
Bendur
Bendur, a quaint town nestled between rolling hills and serene rivers, captivates with its tranquil charm. Its cobblestone streets wind through lush forests, leading to hidden waterfalls and cozy cafes. History whispers through ancient ruins, while vibrant markets burst with local flavors. Bendur: where every corner whispers enchantment.
Raksha Bandhan
19, Aug 2024
Raksha Bandhan, a Hindu festival, celebrates sibling love. Sisters tie Rakhi, a sacred thread, on brothers’ wrists, symbolizing protection. Brothers pledge to safeguard sisters. Rituals include applying vermilion, performing aarti, and exchanging sweets. It fosters bonds beyond blood relations, uniting in love, tradition, and mutual care.
Ganesh Chaturthi
7, Sep 2024
Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival honoring Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and beginnings. Celebrated with great fervor, it typically involves elaborate decorations, prayers, and the installation of Ganesha idols in homes and public pandals. The festival concludes with the immersion of the idols in water bodies.
Dussehra
12, Oct 2024
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival celebrated at the end of Navaratri every year. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, marking the day when Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana. It’s observed with various rituals, including the burning of effigies of Ravana, cultural performances, and processions.
Diwali
1, Nov 2024
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, signifies the victory of light over darkness. Celebrated with diyas, rangoli, and fireworks, it honors the goddess Lakshmi and promotes unity and prosperity. Families exchange gifts, share meals, and seek blessings. It’s a time for joy, reconciliation, and hope, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.
Christmas
25, Dec 2024
Christmas, celebrated on December 25th, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ in Christian tradition. It’s marked by festive decorations, gift-giving, family gatherings, and special meals. Symbols like Christmas trees, Santa Claus, and nativity scenes adorn homes and public spaces, fostering a spirit of love, peace, and goodwill.
Events
Hindavi Swarajya Mahotsav 2024
Celebrate the spirit of Maratha valor and heritage at the Hindavi Swarajya Mahotsav 2024. This grand festival commemorates the establishment of Shivaji Maharaj's Hindavi Swarajya, featuring vibrant cultural performances, historical reenactments, and traditional art forms, bringing history to life.
Ganesh Festival 2023
Immerse yourself in the joyous celebrations of Ganesh Festival 2023, a time when Maharashtra comes alive with devotion and festivities. Witness the grand processions, intricate idols, and elaborate decorations as the state pays homage to Lord Ganesha, symbolizing wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.
Monsoon Festival in Amboli 2023
Last year, the Monsoon Festival in Amboli, Maharashtra, celebrated the magic of the monsoon season like never before. From mid-June to September, Amboli transformed into a lush paradise, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The festival united tourists, travel agents, tour operators, and local communities in a vibrant celebration of the rains. It showcased Amboli's culture, heritage, local cuisine, and biodiversity through various events and activities, including treks through mist-covered forests, explorations of ancient forts, and indulgence in local delicacies. The Monsoon Festival truly captured the essence of Maharashtra's monsoon – a season of renewal, adventure, and celebration.
Mumbai Festival 2024
The Mumbai Festival, organized by the Directorate of Tourism (DoT), Government of Maharashtra, was a grand celebration showcasing the vibrant spirit of Mumbai. This annual event reflected the city's cosmopolitan nature, uniting diverse communities through music, dance, art, and cuisine. It featured a mix of traditional and contemporary performances, highlighting Mumbai's rich cultural heritage and modern pulse. The festival included interactive workshops, a beach fest, cricket fest, celebrity performances, and an expo, providing a platform for local artisans and chefs. By organizing this festival, the DoT aimed to promote Mumbai as a must-visit destination, emphasizing its unique blend of tradition and modernity, and fostering community pride.
Hindavi Swarajya Mahotsav 2024
Ganesh Festival 2023
Monsoon Festival in Amboli 2023
Mumbai Festival 2024
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Contact Us
Directorate of Tourism,
Government of Maharashtra
Sakhar Bhavan, 4th Floor,
Plot No. 230,
Nariman Point,
Mumbai – 400021