Maharashtra, one of India’s most culturally rich and spiritually vibrant states, is home to an array of religious destinations that draw millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. From ancient rock-cut temples and sacred jyotirlingas to serene Buddhist caves and historic churches, the state offers a unique blend of religious diversity. Whether you’re a devout pilgrim or a spiritual seeker, the religious tourist places in Maharashtra offer not only divine peace but also glimpses into architectural grandeur and cultural heritage.

In this guide by Adotrip, we’ll take you on a soul-stirring journey through the most significant Tourist Places in Maharashtra with deep religious importance. Let’s uncover the sacred secrets and spiritual gems of this fascinating land.

1. Shirdi – The Abode of Sai Baba

No list of spiritual places in Maharashtra is complete without Shirdi. The shrine of Sai Baba, a revered saint known for his teachings of love, peace, and equality, attracts over 60,000 devotees daily.

• Main Attractions: Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai Mosque, Chavadi, and Lendi Baug.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.

• Nearest City: Ahmednagar (83 km), Nashik (90 km)

Adotrip Tip: Use Adotrip’s Route Planner to book your Shirdi pilgrimage seamlessly, with hotel options and darshan timings.

2. Trimbakeshwar – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas

Located near Nashik, Trimbakeshwar Temple is one of the holiest jyotirlingas in India. Nestled in the Brahmagiri hills, the temple represents Lord Shiva and the Holy Trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.

• Special Rituals: Narayan-Nagbali Pooja and Kalsarpa Dosha Puja.

• Architecture: Built with black stone in the Hemadpanthi style.

• Spiritual Significance: Source of the Godavari River.

3. Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai

In the heart of Mumbai lies the iconic Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Celebrities, politicians, and locals flock to this divine spot seeking blessings.

• Highlights: Gold-plated inner sanctum, Tuesday special aartis.

• Timings: Open daily from 5:30 am to 10:00 pm.

• Best Time to Visit: Ganesh Chaturthi.

4. Pandharpur – Lord Vithoba’s Land

On the banks of the Bhima River, Pandharpur is considered the spiritual capital of Maharashtra. The Vitthal-Rukmini Temple is the focal point for the famous Ashadhi Ekadashi pilgrimage.

• Devotees: Known as Warkaris, they walk hundreds of kilometers singing devotional songs.

• Cultural Relevance: Celebrates Bhakti movement traditions.

5. Bhimashankar – The Jungle Jyotirlinga

Nestled amidst lush Sahyadri forests, Bhimashankar Temple is not just a jyotirlinga but also a biodiversity hotspot. This divine place is where Lord Shiva is believed to have defeated demon Tripurasura.

• Best Season: Monsoon and winter (June–February).

• Nearby Attractions: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Hanuman Lake.

• Access: 110 km from Pune.

6. Jejuri – The Khandoba Temple

Located near Pune, Jejuri is the seat of Khandoba, a deity revered by farming communities. Known for the Bhandara Festival, where devotees smear turmeric, the temple offers a vibrant spiritual experience.

• Key Highlight: Spectacular views from temple hilltop.

• Cultural Blend: Fusion of folk traditions and Vedic worship.

7. Ellora and Ajanta Caves – Buddhist Marvels

Though primarily Buddhist, Ajanta and Ellora Caves also feature Jain and Hindu elements, making them UNESCO World Heritage Sites and exceptional religious destinations.

• Ellora: Houses the grand Kailasa Temple—an architectural miracle.

• Ajanta: Famous for rock-cut monasteries and mural paintings.

• Spiritual Experience: Meditation halls and monastic cells echo tranquility.

8. Hazur Sahib, Nanded

One of the five Takhts (seats of authority) in Sikhism, Hazur Sahib is the final resting place of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Located on the banks of Godavari, the gurudwara exudes divine grace.

• Major Events: Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, Baisakhi.

• Facilities: Langar, free stay options for pilgrims.

9. Mount Mary Church, Mumbai

A beacon of faith for Christians and people of all religions, the Mount Mary Basilica in Bandra is famous for the week-long Bandra Fair.

• Built: Originally in the 16th century by Portuguese Jesuits.

• Devotion: People offer wax figures symbolizing their wishes—like houses, limbs, or children.

• Open To: People of all faiths.

10. Parli Vaijnath Temple

Another jyotirlinga, Parli Vaijnath, is believed to be the place where Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva. It’s situated in Beed district and holds immense spiritual and mythological significance.

• Features: Wooden carvings, peaceful ambience.

• Ideal Time: Mahashivratri for night-long prayers.

11. Shegaon – Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan

A rapidly emerging religious destination, Shegaon in Buldhana is known for the Samadhi of Shri Gajanan Maharaj, a 19th-century saint.

• Pilgrim Facilities: Bhakt Nivas, gardens, meditation halls.

• Daily Activities: Aartis, community kitchens, satsangs.

12. Tuljapur – Goddess Tulja Bhavani Temple

One of the Shakti Peethas, Tuljapur is dedicated to Tulja Bhavani, the family deity of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

• Special Rituals: Navratri celebrations attract lakhs.

• Belief: Goddess blesses devotees with strength and valor.

13. Mumbra Devi Temple, Thane

Perched on Parsik Hills, Mumbra Devi Temple offers divine blessings and panoramic views. It is especially popular during Navratri.

• Deity: Mumbra Devi, a form of Goddess Durga.

• Visitors: Local trekkers, families, and spiritual tourists.

14. Kunkeshwar – Konkan’s Kedarnath

A coastal Shiva temple in Sindhudurg, Kunkeshwar Temple is believed to have been built by a shipwrecked Arab who saw Lord Shiva in a dream.

• Unique Feature: Overlooks the Arabian Sea.

• Spiritual Experience: Offers peace, solitude, and divine vibes.

15. Ganpatipule – Coastal Pilgrimage Paradise

Home to a 400-year-old swayambhu (self-originated) idol of Lord Ganesha, Ganpatipule is both a beach and pilgrimage site.

• Combo: Spirituality + Scenic Beauty.

• Activities: Prayers, beach walks, boat rides.

Why Visit Religious Tourist Places in Maharashtra?

Maharashtra’s religious spots are more than places of worship—they are centers of heritage, history, and humanity. These destinations offer:

• A blend of Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, Christian, and Sikh spiritual traditions.

• Insight into India’s deep-rooted cultural fabric.

• An escape from daily chaos into the lap of serenity.

For every seeker—be it a pilgrim, history buff, or casual tourist—religious tourist places in Maharashtra offer experiences that are enlightening and everlasting.

Plan Your Spiritual Getaway with Adotrip

Adotrip makes your spiritual journey smoother with:

• Curated travel itineraries

• Online darshan bookings

• Route planners and nearby attractions

• Authentic travel content and recommendations

Let your inner compass guide you—and let Adotrip be your travel partner in discovering the sacred secrets of tourist places in Maharashtra.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Which are the top religious tourist places in Maharashtra?
A1. Shirdi, Trimbakeshwar, Siddhivinayak Temple, and Pandharpur are among the most popular.

Q2. How many jyotirlingas are located in Maharashtra?
A2. Maharashtra is home to five jyotirlingas: Trimbakeshwar, Bhimashankar, Grishneshwar, Aundha Nagnath, and Parli Vaijnath.

Q3. Is it safe to travel to these religious sites solo?
A3. Yes, most places are safe, especially with well-planned routes and accommodations available via platforms like Adotrip.

Q4. Are there any Christian pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra?
A4. Yes, Mount Mary Church in Mumbai is a key Christian pilgrimage site.

Q5. What’s the best time to visit religious destinations in Maharashtra?
A5. October to March is ideal for spiritual tourism due to pleasant weather.

Q6. Can I combine beach and temple travel in Maharashtra?
A6. Absolutely! Places like Ganpatipule and Kunkeshwar offer both.

Q7. Is there Buddhist heritage in Maharashtra?
A7. Yes, Ajanta and Ellora Caves are iconic Buddhist spiritual and historical sites.

Q8. Are there any Sikh religious places in Maharashtra?
A8. Hazur Sahib in Nanded is a major Sikh Takht and pilgrimage center.

Q9. Do I need to book darshan in advance?
A9. It depends on the temple; popular sites like Shirdi and Siddhivinayak may require prior booking during peak seasons.

Q10. Are local festivals good times to visit these temples?
A10. Yes, festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Navratri amplify the spiritual energy of these places.

Q11. How accessible are these places from Mumbai or Pune?
A11. Many sites like Jejuri, Bhimashankar, and Siddhivinayak are within 100–200 km from Mumbai or Pune.

Q12. What are some unique rituals I can witness?
A12. Rituals like the turmeric Bhandara at Jejuri and walking yatras at Pandharpur are fascinating experiences.

Q13. Are there family-friendly facilities at these destinations?
A13. Yes, most temples offer clean lodging, food, and basic amenities for families.

Q14. Are women allowed at all the temples?
A14. Most religious sites welcome all, although some rituals may have restrictions.

Q15. Can I use Adotrip to plan my full pilgrimage?
A15. Yes, Adotrip offers travel guides, route planners, hotel bookings, and temple insights for a seamless journey.

Conclusion

From sacred jyotirlingas and divine shrines to tranquil Buddhist caves and vibrant church fairs, religious tourist places in Maharashtra present a kaleidoscope of faiths, stories, and soul-stirring experiences. Whether you seek divine blessings, historical marvels, or peaceful reflection, these spiritual trails promise fulfillment.

Let Adotrip help you plan a journey that goes beyond sightseeing—to something deeply spiritual and unforgettable.