Historical places play an essential role in Maharashtra’s culture and traditions. Our forts, caves and heritage sites stand as monuments to our glorious past and can tell many a tale.
Shinde Chhatri in Mumbai serves as a memorial to Maratha leader Mahadji Shinde and features intricate carvings as well as a Shiva temple within its premises.
Daulatabad Fort
Daulatabad Fort, or Deogiri, dates back to 12th-century India and stands on top of a conical hill. Due to its ingenious design and strategic position during medieval periods, Daulatabad was considered among the most powerful fortresses.
Chand Minar, built as part of Ala-ud-din Bahmani’s architectural masterpiece and inspired by Delhi’s Qutb Minar. Featuring 24 chambers for visitors to enjoy breathtaking city views from its height.
Other attractions at the fort include a temple, tomb of Rajaram and hand/foot prints of Shivaji as well as its own unique mosque, making this site one of Maharashtra’s important historical landmarks.
Lenyadri Caves
Lenyadri Caves are a series of 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves located near Junnar in Maharashtra state and date back to between 1st and 3rd century AD. One particular cave (Cave 7) stands out as it contains Girijatmaj Ganesha Temple which is unique because of being carved into a cave.
Legend has it that Lord Ganesha took form at this site after Goddess Parvati meditated for 12 years in hopes of being granted a son from him, whom then later manifested at Lenyadri Hills as Ganesha himself.
Caves are breathtaking sights to behold, offering visitors an entrancing tranquil environment which draws photographers from all around the country. Monsoon and Winter months offer optimal conditions for visiting these caves as temperatures become mild. Tourists can easily travel there via bus from Pune railway station or Kalyan Station in Mumbai.
Fort Jadhavgarh
Maharashtra’s hill fort of Alibaug is well-known for its history, making it one of the top tourist spots in India. This spectacular structure contains ancient temple buildings, sculptures and even cannons which remain in working order – not forgetting its stunning lakes that fill during monsoon season making this fortress an enthralling site to visit!
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, once known as Victoria Terminus, is a magnificent railway station and one of Maharashtra’s premier historic sites. Boasting stunning architecture that seamlessly marries Victorian and Gothic influences, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus should not be missed by tourists and also serves as the headquarters for Central Railways.
Alibaug Fort was constructed by Shivaji Maharaj as an important naval station and is now listed on UNESCO World Heritage List, drawing visitors from around the globe. Offering breathtaking views of Satpura Mountains, Alibaug Fortress offers visitors an experience they won’t soon forget!
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Built for the British colonial government in late 19th century, this grand structure is one of the signature sights in Mumbai. A mix of Victorian features and traditional Indian styles, it includes features like squinches, domes and turrets that recall architectural features found on Indian palaces.
Central Railways Headquarters and Busiest Train Station. An iconic landmark and symbol of India’s rich mercantile history. Comprised of multiple wings that connect via spiral staircases – making for an incredible sight when lit up at night!
This station is a living monument used daily by thousands of people and was recognized by UNESCO in 2004 as a World Heritage Site. Formerly known as Victoria Terminus, in 1996 it was officially renamed in honor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj; CST or CSMT remains a popular way of referring to it today.
