Maharashtra destinations for budget-conscious travellers

Maharashtra, beyond the glitzy-glamorous Mumbai, is a pretty budget-friendly state. And luckily for us, a lot of these places are pretty to look at too. Some of them are in the hills and some, in the quiet coastal areas. When visiting these places on a budget, consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations like guesthouses, hostels, or government-run tourist lodges. Here are some places in Maharashtra that are perfect for the budget travellers.

One can explore its many historical sites, parks, and vibrant street markets without spending much. Famous tourist attractions like the Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace, or the Pune Okayama Friendship Garden have minimal entry fees.

This city is famous for its historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Entrance fees to these caves are reasonable. You can also visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, a replica of the Taj Mahal.

Known for its vineyards and temples, Nashik (surprisingly) is a budget-friendly destination. If you don’t mind spending INR 200 for the entry fee, and INR 500 for the vineyard tour, a visit to Sula Vineyards can be a beautiful addition to your stay in Nashik.

This hill station offers natural beauty and pleasant weather. You can go hiking, visit viewpoints like Arthur's Seat and Wilson Point, and enjoy strawberry picking at local farms.

These twin hill stations are easily accessible from Mumbai and Pune. Enjoy the lush green landscapes, and trek to forts like Lohagad and Rajmachi. If you are not doing the guided trek,then these two treks will not cost you a dime. Camping at Rajmachi is quite affordable too at INR 1300.

Ratnagiri is a budget-friendly coastal destination, and is known for its beautiful beaches and Alphonso mangoes. Visit beaches like Ganpatipule and explore historic sites like Ratnadurg Fort.

This car-free hill station offers beautiful viewpoints, lush forests, and a serene atmosphere. The cost for the toy train ride is minimal, and it is a must-do activity here.

Located along the Konkan coast, Tarkarli is known for its pristine beaches and water sports. Scuba diving and snorkelling will cost you approx INR 1100 and INR 800 respectively. Reasonably priced, right?

A great destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, Igatpuri offers scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and trekking trails like Kalsubai Peak and Ratangad