the land of saints
Even though the legend of Shivaji---and the fervour of the Ganpati revelry override most things, the spirit of Maharashtra is cosmopolitan, forward-thinking, tolerant and vibrant.While 80 per cent of Maharashtrians follow Hinduism, the state has a treasure trove of heritage sites that bespeak its multi-hued heritage.
Shahaji's son, Shivaji, born at the Shivneri fort on February 19, 1630, was the creator of the Maratha nation. He united the Maratha chiefs from Maval, Konkan and Desh regions and carved out a small kingdom by defeating the alien powers. He stabilised the state with effective civil and military administration and adopted a policy of religious tolerance to accommodate all religions and sects in his state.
Shivaji was the first Maratha Chhatrapati (ruler) to start the Raj Shaka (royal era) and issue the gold coin, shivarai hon - on the occasion of his coronation (1674). His premature death at the age of 50 (April 5, 1680) created a vacuum.
VIA AIR : The Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport lies about 30 kilometres from the city. The Mumbai airport is the gateway to India for a large number of travellers from around the world. The Santa Cruz Domestic Airport is about 4.5 kilometres from the international airport. There are regular direct flights to Mumbai easily available from other airports. Buses and cabs are easily available from the airport to reach desired destinations.
VIA TRAIN : Mumbai is very well connected to rest of India by trains. The rail system is known as the backbone of the city transportation system. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is the most popular station in Mumbai. Trains to Mumbai are available from all major railway stations in India. Some important Mumbai trains to note are the Mumbai Rajdhani, Mumbai Duronto, Konkan Kanya Express and Borivali-Churchgate Ladies Special Slow Local. Mumbai train timetable details can be checked if unfamiliar with the train routes and timing.
VIA ROAD : Mumbai is well-connected with national highways and expressways – if you’re wondering how to reach Mumbai, this is a good way. Mumbai visit by bus is the most economical for individual tourists. Government, as well as private buses, operate daily services to this route. Mumbai bus stand is situated at the centre of the city. Going for a Mumbai trip by bus always gives wonderful experiences.
Painting a beautiful canvas for you with its stunning beaches, sprawling backwater and ancient forts in the backdrop, Malvan is indeed one of the best places to visit in summer in Maharashtra.
Located at an altitude of 2260 ft.and perched high on the Sahyadri Hills of Western Ghats, Amboli serves as the best site in Maharashtra for all the nature lovers.
A quaint little beach town nestled along the North Konkan region of Maharashtra, Kashid is one of the coolest places to visit in Maharashtra during summer.
