Aurangabad laid low through most of the tumultuous history of medieval India and only hit the spotlight when the last Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb, made the city his capital from 1653 to 1707. With the emperor’s death came the city’s rapid decline, but the brief period of glory saw the building of some fascinating monuments, including Bibi-qa-Maqbara, a Taj Mahal replica, and these continue to draw a steady trickle of visitors. Alongside other historic relics, such as a group of ancient Buddhist caves, these Mughal relics make Aurangabad a good choice for a weekend excursion from Mumbai. But the real reason for traipsing here is because the town is an excellent base for exploring the World Heritage Sites of Ellora and Ajanta.
One of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Maharashtra, Ellora dates back to the Rashtrakuta dynasty, about 1,500 years ago, and is the epitome of Indian rock-cut architecture. The 34 caves are actually structures excavated out of the vertical face of the hills of Charanandriand you will find here evidence of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain ‘viharas’ and ‘mathas’ which tell the story of how social and economic order was often represented through religion. The caves of Ellora are located 31 kilometers from Aurangabad. The closest government guesthouse near Ellora is in Khuladabad on the way from Aurangabad.

Mumbai is in all ways a mega-city driven by power, wealth, glamour and fame which attracts people to give shape to their dreams and aspirations. But it is also a city with strong historical links, wonderful British architecture, museums, beaches, places of worship, and above all, a true galaxy of stars where Bollywood reigns supreme.
It is said that every train that comes to Mumbai brings on it hundreds of people from across India who are not only drawn to ‘experience’ the city’s mesmerising attractions but would also like to make it their home. A city of diverse cultures and a melting pot of commerce, industry, entertainment, enterprise, and politics, Mumbai’s trysts with wealth and fame have, however, been recent. It wasn’t a cosmopolitan finance centre to begin with. Its history has witnessed several shifts in power, and the seven islands changed hands frequently.

Mumbai undeniably is the business capital of India and one of the major port cities in the country. Mumbai has a diverse nature and multi-cultural lifestyle. On one hand, this city is the hometown of Bollywood, and on the other, this city has India's largest slum population. With the huge inflow of migrants, this city welcomes all with open arms. The city developed its identity from these communities that are settled in here. The culture here is a fine amalgamation of festivities, religions, music, food, music and theatres. Mumbai is said to have most active nightlife in comparison to other cities.

This city celebrates the festivals of every religion with grandeur and fervour. The popular festivals celebrated in Mumbai are Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas, Navratri, Good Friday, Dussehra, Moharram, Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga Puja and Maha Shivratri. Fairs and fests add on to the glitter of the city; Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is an exhibition that displays works of various renowned artists in the fields of music, dance, theatre, and films. Also, Bandra fair is an annual fair that begins on the next Sunday after September 8 each year. This festival commemorates the nativity of Mother Mary on September 8. This city has a lot to offer in terms of attractions, for those who want to explore this vividly colourful place.

Pune is in Maharashtra, India. It is second largest city in the state and is considered the state's cultural capital. The city contains the headquarters of an administrative division officially known as the Pune division. The large student population in the city makes for a lively nightlife and vibrant atmosphere. Pune also houses fantastic restaurants, good museums and is well known for its surrounding hill forts which offer panoramic bird's-eye views. 
The city of Pune, located about 170 km from Mumbai, is the second largest city of the State of Maharashtra and is regarded as the cultural capital of the state. The city has witnessed some important historical events like the Anglo-Maratha War, Battle of Khadki etc., and was home to some great people like Shivaji and Tilak. Residing in a realm of picturesque milieus, it also offers a fantastic view of vibrant nature. It has often been called the "Queen of the Deccan" and provides an entryway to the famous hill stations of Maharashtra. It was a land of many historical dynasties, which left their imprints in the form of tombs and monuments that stand as architectural wonders even today.
Pune is also recognized for its educational institutions and has been considered "The Oxford of the East". Now, this city is in a fast-pace growth phase, turning into one of the major IT hubs. Many MNCs and big automobile units have burgeoned throughout the city within a short span of time. Moreover, Pune is among the top most expensive cities in India.

Nagpur city is the winter capital of the state of Maharashtra, with a population of 46,53,570. It has also recently been ranked as the cleanest city and the second greenest city of India.In addition to being the seat of annual winter session of Maharashtra state assembly “Vidhan Sabha”, Nagpur is also a major commercial and political center of the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. ”
Nagpur is also famous throughout the country as “Orange City” for being a major trade center of oranges that are cultivated in the region. Nagpur city was established by prince of Gond tribe “Bhakt Buland” in first half of 18th century. Nagpur lies precisely at the center of the country with the “Zero Mile Marker” indicating the geographical center of India. It has 14 Talukas and 12 Assembly Segment Constituencies.

Lonavla and the adjacent Khandala are twin hill stations 622 metres (2,041 ft) above sea level, in the Sahyadri ranges that demarcate the Deccan Plateau and the Konkan coast. The hill stations sprawl over an approximate area of 38 square kilometres (15 sq mi). Tourism peaks during the monsoon season. The name Lonavla is derived from the Sanskrit lonavli, which refers to the many caves like Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves and Bedsa that are close to Lonavla. A trip to Lonavla and Khandala can be combined with sight-seeing visits of Karla, Bhaja and Bedsa caves and also the two fortresses, Lohagad and Visapur.
Lonavala and Khandala have magnificent waterfalls that give a heart catching view during monsoon. Tourists can plan their trip together with Karla, Bhaja, and Bedsa caves, which are very near from Lonavala. This hill station is also known as the 'Jewel of Sahydri', because of its nature's gifted of beautiful valleys, hills, milky waterfalls, lush greenery, and pleasant cool winds.
Khandala is smaller than Lonavala and relatively calmer. It is known to be the pride of the Sahyadri Mountains. Beautiful waterfall amidst green environment is really splendid to see. The place refreshes the exhausted tourists. Tugauli, Lonavala, Bhushi and Valvan Lake are the important lakes of this hill station. Nearest airport is situated at Pune (64 km). Lonavala and Khandala are 104 km from Mumbai and 64 km from Pune on the Mumbai-Pune highway.

Shirdi is a holy place where the revered saint Sai Baba lived and performed numerous miracles. The very name Shirdi symbolizes the power of faith in the almighty that resides in the hearts of human beings. The town of Shiridi is located in Rahata Tahasil in Ahmednagar District of Maharashtra. The town also houses a temple dedicated to Sai Baba. The temple has a beautiful idol and the samadhi of Sai Baba, which is visited by devotees in great numbers. The temple was built by Shreemant Gopalrao who had unwavering faith in Sai Baba. Shiridi is an important pilgrimage center of the Hindus and is visited by tourists from across the world.

Located in front of the samadhi of Sai Baba are the two silver pillars, which are beautifully decorated with amazing designs. The life-sized idol of Sai Baba is carved out of Italian marble, which was enshrined inside the temple in 1954. There is an assembly hall in front of the temple that houses numerous articles, which were once used by Sai Baba. The beautiful pictures hung on the walls of the first floor of the temple depict the life of Baba.
The best time of the year to visit Shirdi is January through March. April to June is summer, followed by the monsoon. Pilgrim arrival peaks between September and November when many Hindu festivals occur. Baba's death anniversary is commemorated in the month of October, the exact date depending on the Hindu calendar. Some of the most important festivals in Shirdi are Dussera, Guru Poornima and Baba's death anniversary. During this time lakhs of devotees come to Shirdi.

Nashik is one of the world's holiest Hindu cities. Kumbhmela is held here once in 12 years along with four other cities in India. Lord Rama along with Lakshmana and Sita spent 14 years of his exile at Tapovan near Nashik. The city came under the rule of Mughal in 16th century and was renamed Gulshanabad. Then it comes under Peshwa of Maratha Empire in 1818. City is also noted for its participation in freedom struggle. Freedom fighters like Veer Savarkar and Anant Laxman Kanhere were born in Nashik. 
Nashik is famous for its numerous temples constructed during the reigns of different rulers. These include the magnificent ones at Sinnar, Anjaneri, Trimbakeshwar and those in the city itself. Out of these, the temples at Sinnar and Anjaneri were constructed in around 11th – 12th century CE by the Yadava kings and their feudatories. Out of these the Aishwaryeshwar Mandir and the Gondeshwar Mandir at Sinnar are the most impressive with their beautiful sculptures. The temple complex at Anjaneri consists of Jain and a few Hindu temples at the foot of the fort and the legends identify the hill as the birthplace of Hanuman.
The small town of Anjaneri is also famous for the internationally acclaimed Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies. It has a very informative money museum explaining the development of currency in India through the ages. The temple at Trimbakeshwar, one of the 12 ‘Jyotirlingas’ (the phallic emblem of Shiva with fire), is considered the most sacred of all such places. The town of Trimbakeshwar is located at the origin of the river Godavari, considered the Ganga of the Deccan.
The archives of the Brahmin priests in this town are remarkable for preserving the records of the families for whom they have been conducting the rituals for generations together. The Kumbh Mela is celebrated here during Simhastha (i.e. when Jupiter and Sun are in the zodiac sign Leo) which comes after every 12 years. At this time, millions of Hindus - both ascetics and other devotees - gather and bathe in the river. Trimbakeshwar is also associated with Nivruttinath, brother of Sant Jnaneshwar and is therefore considered a special seat of the Naath Sampradaya.

Khandala is a hill station in Maharashtra which has been very popular among tourists for a long time. It is popular for its lakes, waterfalls and lush green hills. It is a popular destination for tourists from Mumbai and Pune as it can be visited throughout the year.
During monsoon Khandala provides feast to the eyes with its cool and appealing weather. The water-falls amidst the lush greenery is mind-blowing.The caves such as Karla, Bhaja, and Bedsa near Lonvala are worth visiting. Bhushi, Valvan, Tugauli are the important lakes. Khandala is attracting huge crowds from the near by Pune and Mumbai. Adventurous trekkers can explore the surrounding places. Duke’s nose is an amazing trekking point. This places is famous for different varieties of Chikki (sweet prepared from groundnut). It is proudly called “The Gem of Sahyadri” . This place refreshes the people from the tiresome city-life. The mesmerizing beauty of Khandala will bring any tourist back here for another visit. 

Located barely 5 km from Khandala is the other famous hill station of Lonavala which also has the similar picturesque landscape as that of Khandala. There are plenty of lakes around Khandala like the Tugauli Lake, Lonavala Lake and Bhushi Lake. Also the Walvan Dam located here is worth visiting. Karla and Bhaja Caves, situated amid the hills 16 km away from Khandala, are fine places to visit. These rock-cut cave temples which date back to as early as 2nd century BC and are amongst the oldest and excellent instances of Buddhist rock-cut temple art in India adhere to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. Amruntanjan point is another tourist interest that impresses its visitors to the core. Log on to www.touristplacesinindia.com which gives online information on Khandala on your tour to Khandala in India.

Kolhapur, known as 'Dakshin Kashi' is one of the most prosperous and joyous city of India in Southern Maharashtra in western Ghats. Kolhapur, the town of goddess Mahalakshmi is gifted with an incredible archeological & cultural heritage, magnificent temples, monuments, forts, lakes and gardens. Kolhapur is world famous for “Kolhapuri Chappals” & Jaggery. Flushed with tourists all around the year ,city is equally famous for special Kolhapuri Misal and Kolhapur Tambda Pandhara Rassa and many more mouth watering delicacies.
Kolhapur is the religious trophy of the state of Maharashtra. Ancient, rustic temples, serenic gardens, historic forts and palaces – this prosperous city is a national pride. Located on the bank of Panchganga, the history of Kolhapur is seeped deep into the Maratha reign that lasted in our country. The name Kolhapur is interestingly inspired by the demon Kolhasur who the great Goddess Mahalakshmi allegedly killed.

Solapur, a wonderful city of Maharashtra state in India, is now an excellent tourist destination preferred by many. And there are many reasons for it, such as it's historical importance, natural beauty like rivers and hills, decent weather, thrilling entertainment and nightlife options, easy accessibility from various places, options for shopping and marvelous architecture of old worship centers like temples, churches and mosques revealing the greatness of Indian ancestry.
Solapur is a city located in the south-western region of the Indian state of Maharashtra. Solapur is located on major road and rail routes between Mumbai and Hyderabad, with a branch line to the cities of Bijapur and Gadag in the neighbouring state of Karnataka. It is classified as a 2 Tier and B-2 class city by House Rent Allowance (HRA) classification by the Government of India. It is the 49th most populous city in India and the 43rd largest urban agglomeration.
Solapur district has the highest number of sugar factories (total 33) in Maharashtra state as well as in India. Solapur leads Maharashtra in production of Indian cigarettes or beedi. Solapuri Chadars and towels are famous in India and also at a global level, however there has been a significant decline in their exports due to quality reasons. "Solapuri chadars" are the famous and first product in Maharashtra to get a Geographical Indication tag It has been a leading centre for cotton mills and power looms in Maharashtra. Solapur had the world's second-largest and Asia's largest spinning mill. The National Research Centre on Pomegranate (NRCP) of India is located in Solapur. and pomegranate farming is done on a large scale in Solapur District. The Science Centre in Kegaon (Solapur) is the third largest and prominent scientific association in Maharashtra. The Raichur-Solapur Power Transmission line of 765 kV power capacity suffices the power grid accessing need of the southern states of Karanataka and Andhra Pradesh. The first waste-to-energy electricity plant in Maharashtra is situated in Solapur.

Nashik is one of the world's holiest Hindu cities. Kumbhmela is held here once in 12 years along with four other cities in India. Lord Rama along with Lakshmana and Sita spent 14 years of his exile at Tapovan near Nashik. The city came under the rule of Mughal in 16th century and was renamed Gulshanabad. Then it comes under Peshwa of Maratha Empire in 1818. City is also noted for its participation in freedom struggle. Freedom fighters like Veer Savarkar and Anant Laxman Kanhere were born in Nashik. 
Nashik is famous for its numerous temples constructed during the reigns of different rulers. These include the magnificent ones at Sinnar, Anjaneri, Trimbakeshwar and those in the city itself. Out of these, the temples at Sinnar and Anjaneri were constructed in around 11th – 12th century CE by the Yadava kings and their feudatories. Out of these the Aishwaryeshwar Mandir and the Gondeshwar Mandir at Sinnar are the most impressive with their beautiful sculptures. The temple complex at Anjaneri consists of Jain and a few Hindu temples at the foot of the fort and the legends identify the hill as the birthplace of Hanuman.
The small town of Anjaneri is also famous for the internationally acclaimed Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies. It has a very informative money museum explaining the development of currency in India through the ages. The temple at Trimbakeshwar, one of the 12 ‘Jyotirlingas’ (the phallic emblem of Shiva with fire), is considered the most sacred of all such places. The town of Trimbakeshwar is located at the origin of the river Godavari, considered the Ganga of the Deccan.
The archives of the Brahmin priests in this town are remarkable for preserving the records of the families for whom they have been conducting the rituals for generations together. The Kumbh Mela is celebrated here during Simhastha (i.e. when Jupiter and Sun are in the zodiac sign Leo) which comes after every 12 years. At this time, millions of Hindus - both ascetics and other devotees - gather and bathe in the river. Trimbakeshwar is also associated with Nivruttinath, brother of Sant Jnaneshwar and is therefore considered a special seat of the Naath Sampradaya.