Places to Visit in West India is an article through which we try to share with you the scenic western India.Salt marshes turning into a podium for colourful festive celebrations, hill stations promoting escapism into a serene world of tropical wonders, dense forests hosting dramatic wildlife concerts and rafting adventures, beaches promising adrenaline spikes with lively parties and thrilling sports and history, spirituality and culture in full swing to entertain the spectators – That’s only an attempt to paint the picture of Western India which welcomes flocks of global tourists every year.
Places to Visit in West India
But which place to visit during which part of the year remains a question unanswered mostly. Find out everything from the best time to visit West India to the best tourist places in West India from the experts of WaytoIndia.com, your trusted tour agency.
When to Visit West India?
Winter months from November to February (extended to March most of the times) comprise the peak tourist season and the most appropriate time to explore the region. It is during this time that the climate is extremely comfy and a number of outstanding fairs and festivals are organised. You may plan an itinerary to visit 4-5 or more destinations that are in close proximity to make the best out of your holidays in the Western part of India. Nonetheless, there are some places that attract tourists round the year too.
Best Places To Visit In West India
Ahmedabad
To experience the world-famous Gujarati hospitality, choose Ahmedabad which is known as ‘the Manchester of the East’ for its well-established textile industry. Architectural spectacles like Hathi Singh Jain Temple, Akshardham Temple and Jama Masjid shall leave you spellbound, while Gandhi Ashram allows you to soak in extraordinary peace. Kankaria Lake, Sabarmati Riverfront and Kamla Nehru Zoo are some great spots for recreation and Calico Textile Museum and Auto World Vintage Car Museum promise unique expeditions. Don’t miss the hand-embroidered and tied and dyed clothes and pottery items and scrumptious Gujarati thali. Visiting during Navratri (October) would introduce you to the grand scale festive celebrations.
How to Reach: Ahmedabad International Airport and Ahmedabad Railway Station.
Ajanta and Ellora
The World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra flaunt the unmatched rock-cut architecture at its best. While the former boasts of nearly 30 caves (built between 2nd century BCE and 7th century CE) displaying Buddhist religious art, the latter is a group of 34 Hindu, Buddhist and Jain caves (built between 6th and 9th centuries). The magnificent carvings illustrate the unparalleled craftsmanship of the highest degree. Lush green forests surrounding the caves add to the overall grandeur of these sites.
How to Reach: Aurangabad (about 98 km. from Ajanta and about 37 km. from Ellora) has the closest airport and railway station.
Waytoindia also organises Ajanta Ellora Tour which can be booked by sending an enquiry on info@waytoindia.com .It is a 3 Nights & 4 Days tour starting from Aurangabad in Maharashtra.
Amboli
Hidden in the Sahyadri Hills of Western Ghats, Amboli is a relatively less explored hill station of West India. Keeping away from a crowd, urbanisation and pollution, it is designated as one of the world’s Eco Hotspots due to soothing weather, comforting environs and adequate greenery spread all around. Waterfalls and vantage points are in plenty and one can also enjoy moderate-level trekking here. Don’t miss buying the attractive wooden toys that are handmade in the region.
How to Reach: Belgaum Airport (80 km.) and Sawantwadi Railway Station (32 km.).
Dandeli National Park
Though located in the state of Karnataka, this amazing tourist attraction can be easily counted in the list of West India tourist places for being close to the Maharashtra state border. Why not? Won’t you like to visit this paradise fed by River Kali which also arranges for activities like coracle riding, crocodile sighting, rafting, canoeing and kayaking. The exotic wildlife, including elephants, black panthers, giant Malabar squirrels and some splendid varieties of hornbills, too is an irresistible reason to be there. Trekking, rock climbing and mountain biking are other inspirations especially if you are an adventurer.
How to Reach: Belgaum Airport (111 km.) and Alnavar Junction (36 km.).
Diu
Despite being a small island, Diu offers entertainment big size. It allows holidaymakers to take a pleasant break from the neighbouring dry state of Gujarat and indulge into boozing and partying at the seafront. As it served as a Portuguese colony for more than 400 years, it is not surprising to find the place bearing European influence. Portuguese forts, churches and buildings continue to dominate the island while the lively beaches of Jalandhar, Ghoghla and Nagoa arrange some invigorating fun and moments. Don’t miss the mouth-watering seafood and visiting the Sea Shell Museum.
How to Reach: Diu Airport is well-connected to Mumbai while the closest railway station is at Veraval (88 km.).
Dwarka
What could be better than visiting the kingdom of Lord Krishna? Dwarka, counted among the four most sacred Hindu pilgrimage destinations collectively called Char Dham, hosts Dwarkadheesh Temple. Apart from being an architectural masterpiece, the temple is an epitome of immeasurable serenity. The holy town on the bank of River Gomti is also famous for Bet Dwarka (an island where Krishna resided), Rukmani Temple, Gopi Pond and Nageshwar Mahadev Temple. Take a holy dip in Gomti and attend the hypnotic morning prayers to connect with the almighty.
To plan our Dwarka Somnath tour, write to us on info@waytoindia.com.
How to Reach: Jamnagar Airport (127 km.) and Dwarka Railway Station.
Gir National Park
The powerful and royal Asiatic Lions that once ruled the Indian jungles are now sadly confined to Gir National Park, the last abode of the species on the planet. However, the experience of encountering this gorgeous specie in natural habitat is something beyond any description. Leopards, golden jackals, desert cats, sambar, four-horned antelope and many other animals, as well as more than 300 species of birds, add to the park’s treasures. You would be thrilled to the core during the open-jeep safari inside the park.
How to Reach: Diu Airport (73 km.) and Junagadh Railway Station (78 km.).
Goa
The Party Capital of India gives tough competition to the most celebrated beach resorts in the world. Thanks to the arrays of beaches, world-class beach resorts and seafood restaurants, the place parties hard day and night. Open-air night beach parties, exhilarating water sports and flea markets selling trendy clothes and fashion items would keep you excited throughout your stay at Goa. Wonders like Dudhasagar Falls and numerous wildlife sanctuaries with riches of flora, fauna and avifauna on one hand and forts, churches and cathedrals of Old Goa on the other, you actually have a lot to explore. Goa Carnival in February takes entertainment to another level altogether.
How to Reach: Goa’s Dabolim International Airport and a number of railway stations.
Junagadh
The former princely state of Junagadh in Gujarat continues to preserve its stateliness with its old forts, palaces and monuments retaining their eternal charm. The city is also famous for attractions like Junagadh Buddhist Cave Groups, Ashoka’s Rock Edicts and a number of step-wells and tombs. Girnar Hills host hundreds of Jain Temples that are enthrallingly carved and are accessible by an exciting trek route. Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden is home to many endangered species that are worth exploring.
How to Reach: Rajkot Airport (105 km.) and Junagadh Railway Station.
Khandala-Lonavala
The twin hill stations of Khandala-Lonavala (separated by 7 km.) are the popular places in West India to spend some unforgettable days close to the nature. Lavishly green hills and valleys and salubrious weather would tempt you to stay here for longer. In addition, the adventures like trekking and hiking disclose the stupendous beauty of Western Ghats. Tiger’s Leap and Duke’s Nose are the famous spots to be at while the rock-cut Bhaja and Karla Caves leave one awe-stuck. A number of forts like Tungi and Lohagad in the vicinity are the added highlights.
How to Reach: Pune International Airport (74 km.) and Lonavala Railway Station.
You may book your Lonavala Khandala Tour Package by calling us on 8527255995.
Kutch
The miraculous land of Kutch switches from limitless salt marshes to a white desert during winters, creating the opportunity for the grand-scale celebrations of Rann Mahotsav (December-February).Waytoindia.com organises Rann of Kutch Tour Packages from Bhuj each year which you may book by sending us an enquiry on info@waytoindia.com.
As a spectator, you have all the chances to get astonished by the exhibition of never-seen-before handicrafts and dance and music performances. Stay inside a desert camp, enjoy night camel safari and hot air ballooning and visit the lakes, palaces, wild ass sanctuary and avian sanctuaries of Bhuj, Kutch’s capital. Don’t miss the delicious local specialities like dabeli, Kharibhat and Chakrda Pakwan among others.
How to Reach: Bhuj Airport and Bhuj Railway Station.
Mahabaleshwar
Any mention about tourism in West India is incomplete without specifying the striking beauty of the Western Ghats and its hill stations. Mahabaleshwar, with its cool climate and pleasant walking trails as well as spectacular valley and forest views, is indeed among the most visited hill stations in the region. Top attractions include Wilson Point, Kate’s Point, 3 Monkey Point, Arthur’s Seat, Pratapgad Fort, Venna Lake and Lingmala Falls while the top activities are boating, horse riding and trekking. Don’t miss the marvellous sunrise and sunset views and eating the roasted chickpea nuts.
How to Reach: Pune International Airport (130 km.) and Satara Railway Station (62 km.).
Matheran
Matheran is India’s smallest hill station, but that’s not its only claim to fame. It is also the only automobile-free hill station in Asia. Another highlight of Matheran is the toy train ride which was started by the British way back in 1907 and reveals the unadulterated natural beauty on a memorable journey. The top attractions here include Charlotte Lake, Honeymoon Hill, Panorama Point, Luisa Point, Heart Point, Alexander Point, One Tree Hill and many more. Horse riding, valley crossing and nature walking are the best things to do here.
How to Reach: Mumbai Airport (90 km.) and Neral Railway Station (11 km.)
Mumbai
Tourists across the world eagerly wait for the arrival of Western India best time to visit specifically to visit the city of dreams, Mumbai. Home to the Hindi film industry Bollywood, the city proudly boasts of wondrous Victorian Architecture so gracefully elaborated by the Victoria Terminus and other colonial structures. Other iconic attractions include The Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Juhu Beach, Chowpati Beach, Siddhivinayak Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, Haji Ali Dargah and so on. You would find it hard to resist the street snacks like bhelpuri, panipuri, vada paav and paav bhaji at Chowpati Beach.
How to Reach: Mumbai International Airport and many railway stations.
Panchgani
The British not only discovered the picturesque hill station of Panchgani but also adorned with poinsettia, silver oak and other floral species in the 19th century. Today, apart from being a hub of premier educational institutes, it is also a place to enjoy nature’s incredible vistas and multiple shades of greenery. Table Land, Devil’s Kitchen, Sydney Point and Mapro Garden are among the top attractions while pleasant nature walks and caving would keep you engaged on a trip to Panchgani. If visiting in March, plan the trip around the famous Strawberry Festival.
How to Reach: Pune International Airport (111 km.) and Satara Railway Station (52 km.).
Pune
Hailed as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune may appear as a prospering industrial hub at the first sight, but it emerges as an extraordinary tourist destination as you begin to delve deeper. Flaunting unique architectural styles through sites like Aga Khan Palace, Pataleshwar Cave Temple, Sinhagad Fort and Lal Mahal, the city is also known for gardens, museums, temples, cultural centres, ashrams and zoological parks. Ganesh Mahotsav (September) and Pune International Film Festival (January) summons enthusiastic travellers from across the world.
How to Reach: Pune International Airport and Pune Railway Station.
Saputara
The only hill station in Gujarat, Saputara, has its name literally translating to ‘the abode of serpents’. You would be surprised to find the less-known destination offering the myriad of attractions like Saputara Lake, Vansda National Park, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunrise Point, Sunset Point and Gira Falls and adventure activities like paragliding, parasailing, zorbing, zip-lining and boating. Add to the list the beautiful Rose Garden, Step Garden and Lake Garden and ropeway ride and you have a perfect holiday hub. Not to forget the opportunity to visit tribal artist village and buy some exclusive handicrafts.
How to Reach: Surat Airport (164 km.) and Bilimora Junction (112 km.).
Shirdi
The spiritual guru Sai Baba chose the small town of Shirdi as his holy abode and blessed it with eternal mysticism which still echoes in the atmosphere. The Samadhi (tomb) of Sai Baba is among the world’s most visited pilgrimage sites with people from all religious faiths thronging the place in uncountable numbers. Other places in the town associated with Baba’s life include Chavadi and Dwarkamai Mosque where many items used by Baba are on display. If you happen to visit the place on a Thursday, you would be able to watch the grand procession in the honour of Sai Baba.
How to Reach: Aurangabad Airport (115 km.) and Kopargaon Railway Station (17 km.).
Somnath
Among the best tourist places West India boasts of, Somnath is where you discover a new dimension of peace and spirituality. Home to the foremost Jyotirlinga (where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of the pillar of light), Somnath Temple exemplifies the invincible religious power as it stands in full glory even after a log history of invasions. The Sound & Light Show in the evening and the early morning prayers are just not worth missing. Other attractions include Somnath Beach, Geeta Mandir, Triveni Sangam (confluence of three holy rivers) and Bhalka Tirtha (where Lord Krishna was hit by an arrow in his foot).
How to Reach: Diu Airport (about 82 km.) and Somnath Railway Station.
Tadoba
Tadoba is the largest as well as the oldest national park in Maharashtra and a popular tiger reserve under Project Tiger. The tropical dry deciduous forests of the park shelter the majestic wild species like Bengal tigers, gaur, leopards, sloth bear, spotted deer, honey badger, jungle cat and much more. Reptiles like Indian cobra, python and star tortoise along with the score of avian species like thrush, honey buzzard, eagles, pitta and many butterflies too form the highlight of Tadoba. A jungle safari trip inside the park is one of the best things to do in West India.
How to Reach: Nagpur International Airport (147 km.) and Chandrapur Railway Station (53 km.).
Full of pleasant surprises, Western India eagerly waits to unfold for you. Pick the places that have excited you the most and get ready for a fabulous holiday.