Maharashtra is a state rich in cultural diversity and historical significance. It is home to a multitude of religious sites that hold immense spiritual importance for millions of devotees. The several religious places in Maharashtra reflect the state’s deep-rooted heritage and religious harmony.
21 Sacred Places In Maharashtra To Make Your Soul Calm
In this article, we will explore the 21 religious places in Maharashtra that attract pilgrims and tourists alike with their architectural splendor and sacred aura.
Experience Peaceful Aura From These Religious Places In Maharashtra
Nashik
Nashik is one of the 5 holy places in Maharashtra. It lies along the banks of the sacred Godavari River. It is famous for its religious significance and historical charm. Known as the “City of Pilgrimage,” Nashik is a melting pot of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty.
The city is home to the famous Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, drawing millions of devotees for a holy dip in the river. Nashik also boasts ancient temples like the Trimbakeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Kalaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama devotees.
- How to reach Nashik? By Train: NASIK ROAD is the nearest Railway station for Nasik City. It is 8 Km away from Nasik City. By Bus: Nearest Bus Stand is Nashik Bus Stand which is 1.8 km away from the city.
- What is Nashik famous for? Nashik is widely recognised as India’s “Wine Capital”. Afterall, Nashik is famous for its prolific grape harvest. It is also famous for Heritage, Memorable Experiences, Pilgrimage, Food & Culture.
- Best time to visit Nashik: Winter Season is the perfect to visit Nashik. October to March are the best months to go to the city.
Shirdi
Shirdi is a small town located in the state of Maharashtra, India. It is famously known as the home of the late 19th-century saint Sai Baba, who is revered by millions of devotees around the world.
Shirdi is one of the ancient religious places in Maharashtra and attracts visitors from far and wide who come to pay their respects at the Sai Baba Temple.
- How to reach Shirdi? By Train: Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station is the closest Railway Station. It is located at about 3km from Shirdi. By bus: Shirdi Bus Depot, situated 220.0 m away
- What is Shirdi famous for? Shirdi is famously known as the home of the late 19th-century saint Shri Sai Baba. The Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust located in Shirdi is one of the richest temple organisations.
- Best time to visit Shirdi: The best time to visit Shirdi is between October and February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Bhimashankar
Bhimashankar is located in the Sahyadri range of Maharashtra. It is a popular destination for both pilgrims and nature lovers. The Bhimashankar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the famous religious places in Maharashtra and attracts devotees.
Apart from its religious importance, Bhimashankar is also popular for its lush greenery, diverse flora and fauna. The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species. It includes the Indian giant squirrel, the barking deer, and more.
- How to reach Bhimashankar? By Train: Neral Railway Station is the closest railway station. The distance between the Railway station and the city is just 23 kilometers. By Bus: Bhimashankar Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand, located 500.m from the city.
- What is Bhimashankar famous for? Bhimashankar is famous for the Bhimashankar Temple. It is also famous in the wildlife enthusiast circuit.
- Best time to visit Bhimashankar: October till March end, making these months an ideal time to explore the city.
Hedvi
Hedvi is a small village near Guhanagar in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. It is known as one of the ancient religious places in Maharashtra. The historical importance of the Lord Ganesha temple makes it a prominent attraction in the area.
Additionally, Hedvi Beach is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, with the striking 35-foot-high black monolith known as Bahman Ghal being a major highlight of the beach.
- How to reach Hedvi? The nearest railway station to Hedvi is Chiplun railway station which is around 46 Km away.
- What is Hedvi famous for? It is famous for its Dashbhuja Ganesh Temple and serene surroundings.
- Best time to visit Hedvi: The best time to visit Hedvi is between September and May, which includes the winter months and summers.
Kolhapur
Kolhapur is a city in southwestern Maharashtra state, western India. It lies on the eastern side of the Western Ghats on the Pancaganga River. Kolhapur is famous for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.
Kolhapur’s Temples Kolhapur is home to several important Hindu temples, including the Mahalakshmi Temple, which is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India. The city is also known for its many other temples, such as the Bhavani Temple, the Rankala Lake Temple, and more.
- How to reach Kolhapur? By Train: Traveling to Kolhapur is easy thanks to the railway connectivity. Shahu Maharaj Terminus Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Kolhapur, situated 3km away. By Bus: The Nearest Bus Stand is Aapradh Colony Bus Stand located 7.3 km away.
- What is Kolhapur famous for? Kolhapur is well known for its local arts and Handicraft market. Kolhapuri chappals a specialty is famous throughout India and abroad.
- Best time to visit Kolhapur: The best time to visit Kolhapur is between October and March
Aurangabad
Aurangabad was declared the Tourism Capital of Maharashtra in 2010. It is a famous tourist hub with rich historical attractions and one of the top 10 religious places in maharashtra. It served as the capital of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and is known for Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, Mausoleums of Aurangzeb, and more.
The city offers a blend of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bustling markets, and traditional charm. The Ajanta Caves showcase Buddhist artwork dating from 200 B.C. to 650 A.D, while the Ellora Caves feature sculptures and paintings from Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
- How to reach Aurangabad? The nearest railway station is the Aurangabad railway station and it is at about 4.9 km distance. By bus: The distance between Aurangabad Railway Station and Aurangabad Bus Stand is 2 km or 1.2 miles.
- What is Aurangabad famous for? Aurangabad is famous for the Grishneshwar Temple, Ajanta Ellora Caves, and more.
- Best time to visit Aurangabad: The best time to visit Aurangabad is during the winter months, from October to February when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.
Harihareshwar
Harihareshwar is surrounded by hills and with river Savitri flowing through the town. It is famous for its Lord Harihareshwar temple. It is a popular weekend beach destination, especially for people in Mumbai and Pune. The town offers peaceful and beautiful beaches along the Konkan Coast, with the nearby Pushpadri hill and dense woods adding to its charm.
The name Harihareshwar translates to the abode of Lord Shiva and holds spiritual and religious significance. The ancient temples in Harihareshwar showcase a unique blend of Indian and Maratha architecture. It is among the most famous hindu religious places in Maharashtra.
- How to reach Harihareshwar? By Train: Mangaon railway station is the railhead located near Harihareshwar. It is about 65 km from the holy town. By bus: The nearest bus stand is the Shrivardhan Bus Stand, which covers a distance of about 18.7 km from the city.
- What is Harihareshwar famous for? Harihareshwar is a renowned tourist spot in Konkan for its temples and beaches.
- Best time to visit Harihareshwar: October to March are the best months to visit Harihareshwar when the hot weather is a bit at rest.
Ozar
Ozar is a beautiful offbeat destination known for vineyards, forest-covered hills, and the Vigneshwara Temple. It is also famous for its grape, onion, and corn production. The place is home to indigenous tribes with a secluded lifestyle and offers a cultural showcase of food and traditions.
- How to reach Ozar? By Train: Pune Road Railway Station – 84.5 km from the city. By Bus: The nearest bus stop to Ozar in Lemsterland is Lemmer, Urkerstraat. It’s a 3 min walk away.
- What is Ozar famous for? The Swami Bhramanand Temple is a significant religious center in the town, and the Hal Museum and Pragati Aerospace Museum are popular tourist attractions.
- Best time to visit Ozar: Winter is considered the best time to visit Ozar since the weather remains pleasantly cool.
Ganpatipule
Ganpatipule, a small town on the Konkan coastline, is known for its Lord Ganesha temples and beautiful virgin beaches. The village is famous for its 400-year-old self-created monolith idol of Lord Ganesha.
It is a peaceful destination for beach lovers, pilgrims, and peace-seekers, with water sports available from November to May. Ganpatipule is often combined with Ratnagiri and other nearby villages for a 2-3 day trip.
- How to reach Ganapatipule? By Train: Ratnagiri, at a distance of 25 km, is the closest major railway station to Ganpatipule.By bus: At a distance of 1 km from Ganpatipule Bus Stand to the city.
- What is Ganapatipule famous for: It is known for its temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha and its white sand beach.
- Best time to visit Ganapatipule: January and February or October to November are the best months to visit Ganapatipule.
Panvel
Panvel is located in the Raigad District of Maharashtra. It is known as the gateway to the Konkan coast and is famous for its historical forts such as Raigad and Khopoli, which is a favored destination for trekking.
The area also attracts migratory birds like the Magpie Robin, Malabar whistling thrush, and Paradise flycatcher, making it an ideal location for bird watching. The city is renowned for its two prominent Ganesha temples – Ballaleshwar and Varadavinayak.
- How to reach Panvel? By Train: Panvel Junction Railway Station, the closest railway station, it covers 5 min. By bus: The nearest bus stop is the Panvel Bus Stand, and the distance between the Panvel Railway Station and Panvel Bus Stand is 3 km.
- What is Panvel famous for: Besides its sacred temples, Panvel is famous for bird watching and its fort.
- Best time to visit Panvel: The best time to visit Panvel is Monsoon (July – September).
Diveagar
Diveagar is a beautiful beachside village located on the Konkan coast of Maharashtra. It features gleaming white sand, pristine blue water, swaying coconut palms, and betel nut trees. The gentle breeze adds to the serene and calming effect. Tourists can also witness the rare Suru trees on the coast and enjoy the sight of thousands of migratory seagulls.
The fishing settlement and a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha are also notable attractions in Diveagar. It is a perfect destination to unwind and relax amidst the glory of nature with family and friends.
- How to reach Diveagar? The closest train station to reach Diveagar is Mangaon Railway Station, which is approximately 30 km away.
- What is Diveagar famous for? Besides its sacred temple, Diveagar is famous for its turtle festival and Velas Beach.
- Best time to visit Diveagar: The best time to visit Diveagar is from October to March.
Malvan
Malvan is a culturally and historically important town in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. It is well known historically for the Sindhudurg Fort, built by Chatrapati Shivaji.
A prominent religious shrine in Malvan is the Rameshwar temple. This sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features traditional Konkani architecture.
- How to reach Malvan? The nearest railway station to Malvan is Kudal, which is approximately 30 km away from Malvan
- What is Malvan famous for? Besides its sacred Rameshwar temple, it is famous for its mouth-watering Malvani seafood and sweets.
- Best time to visit Malvan: The best time to visit Malvan is from November to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
Nanded
Nanded is a historically significant place in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra State. It is located on the north bank of the Godavari River and is renowned for its Sikh Gurudwaras.
Nanded has a rich history, and it is believed that during the Puranic days, the Pandavas traveled through the Nanded district. The town has been ruled by the Nandas for generations.
- How to reach Nanded? By Train: Hazur Sahib Nanded railway station is the nearest railway station. It is around 2 Km away. By bus: The distance between Hazur Sahib Nanded Railway Station and the Bus Stand is 0.8 km.
- What is Nanded famous for? It is famous for Sikh Gurudwaras. The specialty dish or the special food of Nanded is “Tehri”, which is a rice dish cooked with lots of spices, vegetables, and more.
- Best time to visit Nanded: The best time to explore places in Nanded is during the winter season from October to February
Aundha Nagnath
Aundha Nagnath temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is a beautifully carved temple with sculptures of Lord Shiva on its walls. The main shivling is in the basement of the temple. It is located in the Hingoli District of Maharashtra and is considered to be the eighth of the 12 jyotirlingas.
According to belief, Dharmraj, the eldest of the Pandavs, constructed this temple while they were expelled for 14 years from Hastinapur.
- How to reach Aundha Nagnath? By Train: Chondi station, around 21 km away from the town serves as the nearest railway station. By Bus: Aundha Nagnath Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand of the city, situated 1 km away.
- What is Aundha Nagnath famous for? The town is well-known for the Aundha Nagnath Temple, it is the 8th Jyotirlinga out of 12 which is dedicated to Shiva.
- Best time to visit Aundha Nagnath: The best time to visit Aundha Nagnath is June to August.
Parli Vaijnath
The temples in Parli Vaijnath stand as a shelter for devotees who want comfort and a spiritual connection to God. These sacred spaces play a vital role in preserving and spreading old traditions.
The Lingam at Parli Vaijnath is revered as a powerful source of divine energy and a symbol of Shiva’s omnipresence. Devotees visit the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and to offer their prayers and offerings.
- How to reach Parli Vaijnath? By Train: Parli Railway Station is the closest railway station. It is located around 2 km away. By bus: Parli Vaijnath Bus Stop is the nearest bus stand in the city which is 900 m away from Parli Vaijnath.
- What is Parli Vaijnath famous for? Parli is known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, which is a blend of Marathi and South Indian flavors.
- Best time to visit Parli Vaijnath: The best time to visit this city is from October to February.
Amruteshwar Temple
Amruteshwar Temple is made of black stones and is mainly sacred to Lord Shiva. It was built around 1000 years ago. The temple has a sanctum, a labyrinthine structure dominated by sculptures, and a pond within its complex.
It is one of 12 temples built in 900 AD by King Jhang and is located in Ratanwadi on the banks of the river Parvana. The temple is visited by local devotees.
- How to visit Amruteshwar Temple? By Train: Igatpuri Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Amruteshwar Temple in Ratanwadi, located about 45 km away. By Bus: The Igatpuri Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand.
- What is Amruteshwar Temple famous for? The Temple is very famous for its beautiful stone carvings. It is a very sacred place for the worship of Lord Shiva.
- Best time to visit Amruteshwar Temple: From June to February is the best time to visit this temple.
Pandavleni Spiritual Caves
The Pandavleni caves are named after the Pandavas, the heroes of the Mahabharata epic. The Pandavas spent some time here during their exile and carved out these caves. The caves were built by various Buddhist sects and dynasties over more than 1000 years.
The earliest caves belong to the Hinayana sect, while the later ones belong to the Mahayana sect. The caves were patronized by several rulers, such as the Satavahana, the Kshatrapa, the Vakataka, and the Chalukya.
- How to reach Pandavleni caves? By Train: The nearest railway station is Nashik, approximately 10 kilometers away. By bus: Nashik CBS Bus Station is the closest bus station, located 9 km away.
- What is Pandavleni caves famous for? The Pandavleni caves are very famous for their beautiful sculptures, unique Water Structures, and stone ladders.
- Best time to visit Pandavleni caves: July to February is the best time to visit Pandavleni caves.
Vithoba Temple
Vithoba Temple is a historical temple in Pandharpur, Maharashtra. It is the main center of worship for Vithoba, a form of Lord Vishnu, and his consort Rakhumai. The temple was built by King Vishnuvardhana of the Hoysala Empire between 1108 and 1152 CE.
It is classified as one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams of the Vaishnavate tradition and is the most visited temple in Maharashtra. The Warkaris start marching from their homes to the temple of Pandharpur in groups called Dindi to reach Aashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi.
- How to reach Vithoba Temple? By Train: Pandharpur Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the Temple which is located around 2.1 km away. By Bus: Pandharpur Bus Stand is the closest bus stand to the temple, situated around 1.6 km away.
- What is Vithoba Temple famous for? This Temple is famous because of Lord Vitthal or Vithoba also known as Pandurang. Because of his love for his devotees, this temple is very famous.
- Best time to visit Vithoba temple: The months of October through February are the best months to visit this historical Temple.
St. Thomas Cathedral
St. Thomas Cathedral is a 300-year-old Anglican cathedral named after Saint Thomas the Apostle. It is located in Horniman Circle which is close to landmarks such as Flora Fountain and Bombay House. The Cathedral and John Connon School are run by the cathedral.
Recently, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) named a crossroad, St. Thomas’ Cathedral Chowk, after it to commemorate its 300th Christmas.
- How to reach St Thomas Cathedral? By Train: Churchgate railway station is the closest railway station, located around 1.7 km away. By bus: The nearest bus stop to St. Thomas Cathedral Mumbai in Colaba is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (C.S.M.T.).
- What is St Thomas Cathedral famous for? St Thomas Cathedral is famous for its beautiful building. It is also very famous because it is the oldest British House of worship in India.
- Best time to visit St Thomas Cathedral: Every Month is best to visit St Thomas Cathedral.
Kasba Ganpati Temple
This particular idol was the first to be immersed in the river at the end of the Ganesha festival on the 10th day; the festival is celebrated with great energy in the city. In 1630 AD, the queen Jijabai Bhosale arrived in Pune with her son Shivaji, who was only 12 years old.
Shivaji was disturbed by the plight of the Mavals and vowed to liberate them from the Mughals. Around the same time, an idol of Lord Ganesh was found near the house of Vinayak Thakar, close to the queen’s residence. Jijabai considered it an auspicious moment and promptly built a temple, which is now known as the famous Shri Kasba Ganpati Mandir.
- How to reach the Kasba Ganpati? By Train: Pune Railway Station, located 3 km away. It is the nearest railway station to the temple. By Bus: Pune Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand, situated 2.5 km from the temple.
- What is Kasba Ganpati famous for? This Temple is famous for the beautiful Murti of the Lord Ganesha.
- Best time to visit Kasba Ganapati: The best time to visit this temple is during the 10-day Ganesha Chaturthi Festival.
Siddhivinayak Temple
The Siddhivinayak Temple, located in Mumbai’s Prabhadevi neighborhood, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Built-in 1801 by Laxman Vithu and Deubai Patil, it is one of the most popular temples in Mumbai.
The temple features a small mandap with a shrine for Siddhi Vinayak, known as the Ganesha who grants wishes. Managed by the Shri Siddhi Vinayak Ganpati Temple Trust, the temple receives significant donations annually, making it one of Mumbai’s wealthiest temple trusts.
- How to reach Siddhivinayak Temple? By Train: To reach Siddhivinayak Temple by train, one can take a train to Dadar Railway Station, which is the nearest station to the temple. It is around 2.5 km away from the temple. By Bus: Juhu Nagar Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand, located around 12 Km away.
- What is Siddhivinayak Temple famous for? Siddhivinayak Temple is famous for being a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, attracting devotees seeking blessings
- Best time to visit Siddhivinayak Temple: The best time to visit Siddhivinayak Temple is from November to February.
In summary, Maharashtra is known for its diversity and cultural wealth, boasting numerous religious sites that draw both pilgrims and tourists. From the famous Shirdi Sai Baba Temple to the ancient Vithoba Temple in Pandharpur, the state’s religious heritage combines spirituality, history, and impressive architecture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Some famous religious places in Maharashtra include Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai, Trimbakeshwar Temple in Nashik, and Bhimashankar Temple.
Trimbakeshwar Temple in Nashik is known for housing one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it a significant pilgrimage site.
Devotees of Saint Sai Baba can visit the famous Shirdi Sai Baba Temple located in Shirdi, Maharashtra.
The Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai is one of the most religious places in Maharashtra, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees.
Pandharpur is a significant pilgrimage site in Maharashtra known for the Vithoba Temple, attracting devotees who come to seek blessings of Lord Vithoba and Goddess Rukmini.
