Bordering
on the Indian Ocean in the west, Maharashtra occupies the western
and central areas of the subcontinent and extends over the Sahyadri
Mountains. The to-and-fro of people caused the state's present cosmopolitan
character. At the same time, however, it has been able to keep up its
typical Maharashtrian spirit -not in the least because of the various
Marathi tribes that still prevail in the region.
Thriving Mumbai
(formerly known as Bombay) is the state's capital and one of India's
biggest cities. It's a dynamic metropolitan city that has a lot to offer to
its visitors. There are plenty of museums to visit, interesting sights to
see, such as the Gateway of India, and a lovely promenade along the sea to
take a stroll and a sparkling nightlife. Mumbai, or Bollywood, is also the
cradle of the Indian film industry. Better known as "Bollywood", it
produces nearly as many films as its American equivalent. Don?t forget to
pay a visit to the Elephanta Island with its impressive Hindu caves.
When you?ve had it with the crowded big city, its might be an idea to
set off for Mahabaleshwar. This hill station offers fresh air, impressive
views of the surroundings and some excellent walking trails, not only to
travellers from around the world but also to the inhabitants of Mumbai and
Pune, a young and
cosmopolitan city.
Aurangabad is a pleasant town to spend some time. It is known for its
mausoleum of Aurangazeb?s wife, Bibi ka Maqbara. Besides that, it serves as
a good operation-base for exploration of the Daytrips. The Ajanta caves are
even older than the ones at Ellora and one can see astonishing carvings and
the predecessors of the frescoes.
The Konkan region is indeed one of the most exciting parts of the state
of Maharashtra. The serene natural character of the region along with a
large number of unexplored beaches offer a wonderful travelling experience.
If you enjoy the landscape, you are in for an exciting trip.
The Puneite is definitely much more relaxed and friendly than the
average Bombayite. A warm greeting about his wellbeing will do him in and
mind you, he’s very touchy about
Pune.
The most outstanding aspect of Pune and its people is the sound balance
they have maintained between modernity and their age-old rich culture and
tradition. No wonder, it’s called the ‘Cultural Capital of Maharashtra’ as
well as ‘The Oxford of the East’. |