Western Perspectives

The western state of Maharashtra, located on the Deccan Plateau, is the land where the valiant Marathas and their intrepid leader Shivaji once ruled. The dynamic city of Mumbai, Pune located in the cool of the plateau, the Mughal city of Aurangabad, the rock-cut caves of Ajanta and Ellora and hill resorts like Mahabaleshwar and Matheran, form a circuit that is full of variety and interest.

The financial capital of India Mumbai is a major port and entry point - a dynamic city that is also the centre of arts and the film industry.

Places Of Interest

Gateway of India, Elephanta Island, Prince of Wales Museum, Jehangir Art Gallery, Hanging Gardens, Kamla Nehru Park, Beaches at Juhu, Chowpatty, Gorai, Marve, Manori and Madh, St. Thomas Cathedral, Afghan Church, the Babulnath, Bhuleshwar and Mahalakshmi Temples, Jama Masjid, Mahim Shrine, the Tomb of Haji Ali, Kanheri Caves.

Access

It is connected by rail and road to all the major towns. Mumbai is linked to all parts of the country and to most parts of the world by air.

PUNE

Pune is a historic town upon the Deccan Plateau, in what was once the territory of Shivaji, the great Maratha ruler, whose hill forts dot the surroundings countryside.

Places Of Interest

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Shanwarwada Palace, Agha Khan Palace, Pataleshwar Temple, Parvati Temple, Saras Baug.

Around Pune

Simhagad (15Kms), Shivneri (95Kms), Raigad (126Kms), Purander and Torna, Lonavala (70Kms) and Khandala.

Access

Linked by rail and road to Mumbai and most major cities. Daily flights connect pune to Mumbai (192Kms).

MAHABALESHWAR

Not far from Pune and Mumbai is Mahabaleshwar, the most popular hill station in Maharashtra, located at an altitude of 1372 metres. A number of vantage points, excellent views, pretty waterfalls and a lake with boating and fishing facilities are some of its many attractions.

Places Of Interest

Walks and excursions to viewing points such as Elphinstone Point, Babington Point, Bombay Point, Kate’s Point and waterfalls like Chinaman’s Falls (2Kms) and Dhobi Falls (3Kms) are pleasant.

Other intresting spots are

Venna Lake, Panchganga Temple.

Around Mahabaleshwar

Pratapgarh Fort (24Kms), Panchgani.

Access

Pune (120Kms) is the nearest airport and railhead. Well connected by road to Pune and Mumbai.

MATHERAN

This tiny hill station set amongst wooded hills is very close to Mumbai. What is unusual about this peaceful retreat is, that it is out of bounds for vehicular traffic. A delightful toy train takes visitors up to Matheran from Neral Beautiful walks and dramatic vantage points are a part of its charm.

Access

Neral is just two hours away from Mumbai on the Mumbai - Pune railway route. The little hill train links Neral to Matheran.

AURANGABAD

Named after Emperor Aurangzeb, Aurangabad still has a number of interesting Mughal monuments. It is also the base for visits to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.

Places Of Interest

Bibi Ka Maqbara, Aurangabad Caves, Panchakki.

Arund Aurangabad

Ellora Caves (30Kms), Ajanta Caves (106Kms), Daulatabad

Access

The nearest broad guage railhead that is linked to both Mumbai and Delhi. Aurangabad is linked by air to major cities. Luxury coaches link the city to Mumbai, Pune, Ahmednagar, Nasik and Shirdi. Ajanta and Ellora are also accessible from Jalgaon.