Maharashtra is a land of diversity-bustling cities, sprawling coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, dotted with famous landmarks like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves and iconic forts. Yet, beyond these celebrated sites, there exists a world of unexplored places in Maharashtra that remain largely untouched by mainstream tourism. These unknown places in Maharashtra offer quiet retreats, immersive natural beauty, and fascinating history without the crowds. For travelers seeking offbeat experiences, exploring these hidden gems can be deeply rewarding.
Are you wondering where to find these underrated places in Maharashtra? Perhaps you want to escape the usual routes and discover the state’s lesser-known treasures. This article presents ten compelling destinations-some serene landscapes, others full of ancient tales-to help you uncover Maharashtra’s untapped beauty and heritage.
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Unexplored Places in Maharashtra : Quick Overview
Touches on some of the top haunted places in Maharashtra and historical places to visit in Maharashtra, blending mystery, history, and natural charm into one compelling journey.
| Place | Type | Why Visit Highlights | Location |
| Amboli | Hill Station | Waterfalls, trekking, cool climate | Sindhudurg District |
| Jawhar | Tribal Culture & Fort | Palaces, tribal festivals, rural peace | Palghar District |
| Lonar Crater Lake | Geological & Historical | Meteor impact lake, ancient temples | Buldhana District |
| Patan | Historical Heritage | Mahalaxmi Temple, step wells | Satara District |
| Kuldhara (Pune) | Haunted Site | Abandoned structures, ghost stories | Pune |
| Bhangarh Fort | Haunted Fort | Haunted ruins near Mumbai | Raigad District |
| Toranmal | Hill Station & Temple | Trekking, hilltop temple, tranquility | Nandurbar District |
| Harihareshwar | Coastal Temple & Beach | Ancient Shiva Temple, quiet beaches | Raigad District |
| Varandha Ghat | Natural Escape & Village | Waterfalls, remote roads, rural experience | Pune District |
| Naneghat | Historical Mountain Pass | Ancient inscriptions, trekking, beautiful vistas | Pune District |
You can also explore our affordable Rajasthan Tour Package designed for Budget Travellers.
1. Amboli
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Amboli is one of the most refreshing unexplored places in Maharashtra. Known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and cool climate, this hill station is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers. Misty mornings and dense forests here create a magical, tranquil atmosphere far from urban rush.
Why visit Amboli?
- Discover beautiful cascades like Hiranyakeshi and Kavalshet waterfalls.
- Enjoy trekking trails amid rich biodiversity.
- Experience a peaceful climate rarely crowded by tourists.
2. Jawhar
Jawhar retains its tribal essence while offering scenic beauty and historic forts. It is known for its quaint palaces, prismatic viewpoints, and colorful festivals. Jawhar is an excellent example of unknown places in Maharashtra where tribal culture blends with natural wonders.
Why visit Jawhar?
- Explore Hill Fort and Jai Vilas Palace with panoramic views.
- Participate in vibrant local tribal festivals.
- Relish peaceful rural surroundings away from commercial tourism.
3. Lonar Crater Lake
Created by a meteor impact thousands of years ago, Lonar Crater Lake is a unique geological and ecological site in Maharashtra. This saltwater lake’s volcanic origin and rare flora make it a fascinating underrated place in Maharashtra. The surrounding temples add historical depth to the visit.
Why visit Lonar Crater Lake?
- Witness one of the world’s only meteorite impact lakes on basaltic rock.
- Visit ancient temples like Daitya Sudan and Haran.
- Experience biodiversity, including migratory birds and unique aquatic life.
4. Patan
Patan boasts the Mahalaxmi Temple and several old step wells, showcasing medieval architectural brilliance. As one of the lesser-known historical places to visit in Maharashtra, it holds stories of dynasties past and is relatively quiet, perfect for thoughtful exploration.
Why visit Patan?
- Explore the intricately carved Mahalaxmi Temple and step wells.
- Understand local folklore entwined with architectural heritage.
- Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere amidst historical surroundings.
5. Kuldhara Village (Pune)
Though often overshadowed by Rajasthan’s Kuldhara, Maharashtra has its share of top haunted places in Maharashtra with abandoned sites like villages and bungalows enveloped in eerie silence and ghost stories. Pune’s old Kuldhara area draws ghost enthusiasts and curious travelers.
Why visit Kuldhara Village?
- Explore abandoned structures with chilling legends.
- Experience the thrills of paranormal tales in local folklore.
- Perfect for adventurous travelers seeking mysteries.
6. Bhangarh Fort of Maharashtra (Adlabs Imagica Area)
Known for its reputed haunting, Bhangarh Fort is one of the top haunted places in Maharashtra attracting thrill-seekers and history buffs alike. Though small, it offers an eerie insight into Maharashtra’s lesser-known haunted heritage.
Why visit Bhangarh Fort?
- Encounter a reputedly haunted heritage site close to Mumbai.
- Combine history and thrill in a single visit.
- Enjoy the historical ruins in a uniquely spooky setting.
7. Toranmal
Toranmal is an untouched hill station offering breathtaking views, waterfalls, and trekking trails. It is often considered an underrated place in Maharashtra where calmness meets scenic beauty. The religious temple atop the hill attracts pilgrims, blending spirituality with nature.
Why visit Toranmal?
- Enjoy serene trekking paths and panoramic viewpoints.
- Visit the famous Toranmal Temple at the hilltop.
- Escape to a less commercialized retreat in the Sahyadri range.
8. Harihareshwar
This coastal town offers beaches and a legendary Shiva temple, marking it as one of the most peaceful historical places to visit in Maharashtra. Yet it remains a lesser-known destination, perfect for those seeking spiritual calm and scenic tranquility.
Why visit Harihareshwar?
- Explore the ancient Harihareshwar Temple with unique coastal architecture.
- Relax on quiet beaches largely untouched by crowds.
- Experience a mix of devotion and nature by the Arabian Sea.
9. Varandha Ghat
The remote Varandha Ghat features winding roads flanked by dense forests and lush valleys. This area is an unexplored place in Maharashtra offering waterfalls, traditional villages, and rejuvenating natural retreats, ideal for travelers seeking serenity.
Why visit Varandha Ghat?
- Drive or trek through scenic routes with little tourist influx.
- Discover hidden waterfalls and local culture.
- Connect with Maharashtra’s rural heartland undisturbed for decades.
10. Naneghat
Naneghat is an ancient mountain pass with historical significance dating back to the Satavahana dynasty. This unknown place in Maharashtra features old inscriptions, caves, and breathtaking mountain vistas. It’s a treat for history enthusiasts and trekkers.
Why visit Naneghat?
- Explore historical trade route inscriptions and ancient caves.
- Experience the thrill of trekking through the Western Ghats.
- Marvel at serene mountain landscapes combined with rich history.
Best Times to Visit Maharashtra’s Unexplored Gems
Timing your trip can greatly elevate the experience when visiting hidden treasures. Most of the unexplored places in Maharashtra are best visited during the cooler months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for trekking, sightseeing, and festivals.
- The monsoon season (June to September) breathes life into waterfalls like those in Amboli and Varandha Ghat but can also make roads slippery and treks risky.
- Coastal spots like Harihareshwar are ideal throughout the year, with mild winters and temperate summers.
Planning trips around local festivals, such as the Warli Festival in Jawhar or Diwali celebrations in small towns, can further enrich the cultural experience.
Practical Travel Tips for Unexplored Places in Maharashtra
Exploring unknown places in Maharashtra can pose some challenges due to limited infrastructure but can be managed with preparation:
- Transport: Public transport is limited; hiring private taxis or self-driving offers more flexibility to remote locations like Varandha Ghat or Toranmal.
- Accommodation: Stay options range from basic guesthouses and homestays in Jawhar or Amboli to eco-resorts near Harihareshwar. Booking in advance is advisable during peak seasons.
- Connectivity: Mobile network and internet may be weak or absent in remote areas like Naneghat or Jawhar; plan accordingly for offline maps and essentials.
- Safety: Carry sufficient water and medical supplies, especially when trekking or visiting isolated sites. Inform local authorities or lodge hosts about your plans.
- Respect Local Customs: Many of these places are home to tribal communities and religious sites; respectful behavior and seeking permission before photography is recommended.
Also you can check out our blog about the best place to visit in December outside India so that it can help you find the best time on your next trip.
Conclusion
Discovering the unexplored places in Maharashtra reveals a side of the state that combines nature, mystery, and heritage, far from the well-trodden paths. From serene hill stations and sacred temples to eerie abandoned sites, these unknown places in Maharashtra provide unique and memorable experiences. Adding underrated places in Maharashtra to your travel list enriches your journey with authenticity and tranquility. Whether intrigued by top haunted places in Maharashtra or fascinated by hidden historical treasures, Maharashtra’s diverse unexplored corners await your discovery.
Frenzy Holidays ensures a smooth and enriching travel experience from start to finish. You can visit us at Haware Centurion, S07/34, Nerul East, Sector 19A, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400706. For bookings or more information, call +91 7400453140, email [email protected], or visit www.frenzyholidays.com. So pack up and explore INDIA with frenzy holidays to have an unforgettable journey.
Unexplored Places in Maharashtra : FAQs
What are some unexplored places in Maharashtra?
Unexplored places in Maharashtra include Amboli, Jawhar, Lonar Crater Lake, Varandha Ghat, and Naneghat, offering natural beauty, history, and rural tranquility.
Which are the unknown places in Maharashtra worth visiting?
Unknown places include Patan, Toranmal, Harihareshwar, and abandoned haunted sites near Pune and Raigad, blending history, religion, and mystery.
Where can I find underrated places in Maharashtra?
Underrated places include Jawhar for tribal culture, Toranmal hill station, and Varandha Ghat’s secluded valleys, away from typical tourist routes.
What are the top haunted places in Maharashtra?
Top haunted places in Maharashtra are the Kuldhara Village in Pune and Bhangarh Fort near Mumbai, famed for ghost stories and eerie atmospheres.
Which historical places should one visit in Maharashtra?
Historical places to visit in Maharashtra include Lonar Crater Lake’s temples, Patan’s Mahalaxmi Temple, and Naneghat’s ancient mountain pass with inscriptions.
How can I reach Amboli?
Amboli is accessible by road from major cities like Mumbai and Pune; the nearest airport is Dabolim in Goa, about 80 km away.
Is Toranmal good for trekking and nature lovers?
Yes, Toranmal offers serene trekking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a peaceful hilltop temple, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Are there haunted sites near Mumbai?
Yes, Bhangarh Fort near Mumbai is well-known for its haunted reputation and ruins that attract thrill seekers.
What makes Lonar Crater Lake unique?
Lonar Crater Lake is a rare meteor impact crater on basaltic rock with unique ecology and ancient temples on its shores.
Are these unexplored places suitable for family trips?
Many, like Amboli and Harihareshwar, offer family-friendly environments, while haunted sites are suited to thrill-seeking adults.
