10 Magical Destinations In Maharashtra To Celebrate Christmas And New Year
As the holiday season draws close, most people start looking for that little place to relax, be merry, and recharge. Whether you are a Maharashtrian or a tourist planning to explore this full-fledged state to get a quick getaway from all the hustle and bustle of your professional and personal lives, be it its rich cultural heritage, serene beaches, or enchanting hill stations–Maharashtra has something for everyone.
If you are wondering what this Christmas and New Year destinations offer the most away from the busy sceneries of life in daily routine, read this ultimate guide towards the top 10 destinations in Maharashtra worth checking out. Let’s dive right into the list for the adventurer and peace-seeker alike.
Lonavala and Khandala – Hill Stations of Tranquility
Just a couple of hours from Pune and Mumbai, the twin hill stations offer a retreat amid greenery, waterfalls, and misty hills. With cozy resorts, festive feasts, and Christmas events, Lonavala and Khandala prove to be the perfect short-trip holiday destinations you can ever have. And never forget to take away sweet treats like Lonavala chikki.
Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani – The Perfect Twin Getaway
Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani, together, offer the perfect combination of an isolated, quiet nature retreat and a hill station with history and local immersion. Mahabaleshwar, which has been appropriately called Maharashtra's Winter wonderland, wins visitors over with its panoramic views, strawberry farm, cool climate, and colonial-style architecture. A visit to the famous Mapro Garden, well-known for its delightful fruit-based treats, which will add a unique flavor to the experience, and don’t miss out on the Shankara Temple, an architectural and spiritual gem. Meanwhile, Panchgani takes your breath away with serene tablelands, pretty valleys, and boutique stays to rejuvenate and be silent. Whether trekking to iconic viewpoints or strolling through scenic trails, these twin destinations promise to be the holiday experience of a lifetime.
Alibaug – Beach Bliss Close To The City
Sun, sand, and sea: the holiday escape would be Alibaug, as near as possible to the city. It is just south of Mumbai. Go beach hopping, water activities, and quaint beach bungalows in this coastal town. Prepare for that Christmas dinner under the stars or into the New Year with a view of the entire Arabian Sea.
Chiplun and Ratnagiri – Coastal Charms of the Konkan Belt
Nestled along the Konkan coast, Chiplun and Ratnagiri offer a serene escape with their breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Chiplun is perfect for those in search of some calm and panoramic beauty, as its landscape is surrounded by lush greenery along with a serene Vashishti River, while Ratnagiri abounds with delights such as beaches like Ganpatipule to historical marvels such as Ratnadurga Fort. All of these destinations together create a peaceful blend of relaxation, exploration, and a taste of authentic Konkani cuisine, which would be ideal for your holiday getaway.
Matheran – A No-Vehicle Hill Station
One of the few eco-friendly tourist destinations in India, Matheran, a hill station near Mumbai, boasts an expanse of pollution-free air and pristine beauty. Walk along shaded forest trails, soak in the charm of colonial life, and enjoy a ride on the toy train. This will be the best place for an easygoing holiday with the family.
Tarkarli – A Beach Lover’s Paradise
Tarkarli is the perfect destination for beach lovers who want adventure with tranquility. It is well-known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. It is a hub for snorkeling and scuba diving, providing an unparalleled underwater experience. If you are interested in sunbathing on its pristine beaches or indulging in the delectable flavors of Malvani seafood, Tarkarli promises to be a fulfilling holiday. Other than these, it offers Sindhudurg Fort, built by Maratha rulers in the 17th century, and on the south, palm-lined backwaters are to be seen with dolphins here in the Karli River.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves – A UNESCO World Heritage Experience
If you are looking for a mix of history and spirituality in your travel itinerary, then a visit to the Ajanta and Ellora caves located in Aurangabad should really be on your list of places to go. Known as the "City of Gates," Aurangabad also features the breathtaking Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the 'Taj of the Deccan.' The city also houses the highly revered Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, and is a must-visit for those seeking spiritual experiences. The ancient rock-cut caves are exquisitely carved to provide a serene yet breathtaking experience, thus making your holiday a journey through India's finest architectural and spiritual treasures.
Bhandardara – A Quiet Lakeside Retreat
At the heart of the Sahyadri hills is Bhandardara, a most peaceful place for nature lovers. Spend Christmas beside the peaceful Arthur Lake or plan for camping under a starry sky. Never miss the cascading wonder called Randha Falls and the bewitchment of trekking up Mount Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra. Also, don’t miss out on trekking and exploring the 200-year-old Ratangad Fort.
Chikhaldara – The Coffee Lover’s Hill Station
Chikhaldara, a hill station in Amravati district, does not need an introduction for being the paradise of coffee lovers and is also known for its dense forests, and is home to various exotic wildlife species. Thus, this hill station contains a contrast of nature and wildlife. Wildlife lovers can either see the Melghat Tiger Reserve or take a scenic nature hike to sight the most amazing viewpoints. It is ideal for the unknown, the offbeat Christmas and New Year getaway.
Nashik and Shirdi – A Blend of Spirituality and Leisure
Located side-by-side, Nashik and Shirdi are perfect representations of soulful experiences and languid indulgence. As Nashik is famous for its wine culture and spiritual background, it welcomes you to engage in wine-tasting tours at the famous Sula Vineyards or to walk through the sacred precincts of Trimbakeshwar Temple for a sojourn of peace. Meanwhile, the peaceful abode of Shirdi, the sacred dwelling of Sai Baba, has the power to attract people from all over the world, bringing peace and devotion. So, these destinations make a very well-rounded holiday, with joy meeting tranquility.
Don’t Forget Goa – The Timeless Party Hub!
While it’s not in Maharashtra, Goa deserves a special mention. An average drive transforms from here to that tropical paradise, still known for all its beautiful destinations for Christmas and New Year revelry. Beach parties, culture parties, or peaceful retreat days in Goa promise an extraordinary vacation experience.
Pack Your Bags For An Unforgettable Holiday!
The best and common thing about these destinations is that they are well-connected by road transport, with just a few hours of travel from the main cities of Maharashtra, like Pune and Mumbai. We also have our services available in some of these destinations. You can check out our website for route checking. So, what have you planned for this year-end now?
This list offers something for everyone–from historical landmarks and wildlife reserves to beaches and hill stations. There are many more destinations on our list, and we would love to cover them in the next top 10 destinations for you. Stay tuned!
Happy holidays and safe traveling in the new world!