As someone who has always been captivated by the stories etched into stone and whispered through ancient corridors, Maharashtra’s heritage sites have never failed to stir my imagination. From the moment I first stood before the majestic facade of the Ajanta Caves, to the time I trekked up the rugged path to Raigad Fort, I knew this state held a special kind of magic — one that connects the past to the present in the most vivid ways.
Caves that whisper ancient stories
Maharashtra has over 800 rock-cut caves spread across the state. My journey began when I started travelling in my initial years in the 1980s and started with Aurangabad, where the Ajanta and Ellora Caves left me awestruck. Ajanta’s Buddhist murals, painted over two millennia ago, still radiate serenity and grace. At Ellora, I wandered through cave temples dedicated to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism — each one a testament to India’s spiritual diversity and artistic brilliance. Even today after so many years, the paintings and sculptures have withstood the test of time.
In my tenure as a collector of Gadchiroli district, I used to admire the architectural marvel of the Markandeshwar temples. The Markanda temple complex is an eighth to 12th-century structure named after the sage Markandeya, a devotee of Shiva, who is said to have received immortality at the site after Shiva saved him from Yama. Although once a larger complex, time and damage have reduced it to six remaining temples. The temple complex is situated on the banks of the Wainganga River and is noted for its exquisite Nagara architectural style and intricate stonework known as Khajuraho of Vidarbha.
In my services, when I was transferred to Mumbai as the CEO of Maharashtra Maritime Board, a short ferry ride from Mumbai took me to Elephanta Island, where the Elephanta Caves revealed colossal sculptures of Lord Shiva. Standing before the Trimurti, I felt a quiet reverence — like I was in the presence of something eternal. Onwards to Pune nestled in the hills of Lonavala are the Karla and Bhaja caves, which transported me back to my childhood when we used to visit with relatives as our favourite picnic spot. Now in the role of principal secretary, tourism, this unique opportunity to explore Maharashtra’s untapped potential gives me immense satisfaction.
Forts of the fearless
Recently, 12 of Maharashtra’s majestic forts made their way into the UNESCO Heritage list as Forts of the Maratha Valour. This was indeed a moment of pride for Maharashtra Tourism. The forts of Salher, Shivneri, Lohagad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, and Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu — they carry stories.
Raigad Fort, once the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s empire, offers sweeping views and a palpable sense of pride. Sinhagad, Pratapgad, and Shivneri forts each have their own tales of valour. The sea forts of Maharashtra like Vijaydurg, Murud-Janjira, Sindhudurg are the guardians of the beautiful Konkan coastline. It’s amazing that these were built to ward off foreign invasions. The Dutch, French, and British could not invade Maharashtra.
Colonial charms and modern dynamism of Mumbai
Mumbai’s heritage is a fascinating blend of colonial elegance and Indian resilience. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), with its Gothic spires and stained glass, is more than a railway station — it’s a living museum. The Gateway of India, once a symbol of imperial pomp, now welcomes travellers from every corner of the globe. Exploring Ballard Estate and the Fort area, I found myself enchanted by Victorian Art ensemble, Edwardian buildings, art deco facades, and cosy cafés tucked into heritage structures.
Offbeat heritage trails
For those who love the road less travelled, Maharashtra offers hidden gems:
Lonar Crater Lake: A meteorite impact site surrounded by ancient temples.
Paithan: A town steeped in history and famed for its silk saris.
Chandrapur: Where tribal heritage and forts await curious explorers.
Lesser-known traditions and cultural heritage...
Tamasha: A traditional folk theatre form with dance, music, and satire.
Lavani: A powerful and expressive dance form, often accompanied by dholki beats.
Dashavatar (Konkan): Folk theatre depicting the 10 avatars of Lord Vishnu.
Gondhal: A ritualistic performance dedicated to deities, often linked with family ceremonies.
Powada: Ballads narrating heroic tales, especially of Shivaji Maharaj and Maratha warriors.
Our fairs and traditions
Wari Pilgrimage (Pandharpur): This walk of humanity and spirituality like no other, every year inspires thousands to join in. This is the oldest living tradition in Maharashtra, an annual journey of Varkaris going to Pandharpur since the 13th century, celebrating devotion through abhangs and kirtans.
Khandoba Festival (Jejuri): This festival paints the whole town yellow by the throwing of sacred turmeric powder (bhandara) for the revered Khandoba, an incarnation of Lord Shiva.
Ganpati Festival: A festival of devotion and unity, it’s not just a religious event but a cultural phenomenon that brings together millions across the state.
Chitra Rath Yatra (Nagpur): Procession of beautifully decorated chariots and tableaux.
Crafts and handlooms
Paithani saris (Aurangabad): Luxurious silk saris with zari work.
Mashru and Himroo (Aurangabad): Unique handwoven textiles blending cotton and silk.
Bidriware (Aurangabad): Metal craft with silver inlay work.
Sawantwadi Ganjifa cards and wooden Toys (Sindhudurg): Traditional hand-painted playing cards and toys.
Warli painting (Palghar/Thane district): Tribal art using geometric figures to depict daily life and rituals.
These hidden gems of Maharashtra’s heritage show the state’s diverse layers of culture — spiritual, artistic, and folk traditions — that go far beyond the well-known sites.
Why I keep exploring...
Every time I explore a new heritage site in Maharashtra, I feel like I’m peeling back another layer of India’s rich history. These places aren’t just monuments — they’re storytellers. They invite us to listen, reflect, and connect with the generations that came before us. So if you’re a heritage lover like me, pack your bags and let Maharashtra take you on a journey through time. I invite you to experience Maharashtra’s heritage!
Atul Patne
Pictures courtesy: maharashtratourism.gov.in and iStock
The writer is an IAS officer, and the principal secretary at Maharashtra Tourism
