Beautiful Destinations in Western India

Western India :

Western India consists of the states of Goa, Gujarat, and Maharashtra along with the Union territory of Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli of India. The region is highly industrialized, with a large urban population.[1] Roughly, Western India is bounded by the Thar Desert in the northwest, the Vindhya Range in the north and the Arabian Sea in the west. A major portion of Western India shares the Deccan Plateau with South India. Before the partition of India, the now-Pakistani territories of Sindh and Balochistan were also included in this region.

States and territories :
Goa
Gujarat
Maharashtra
Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Daman and Diu

Goa :

Dudhsagar Falls

If you thought Goa is all about sand, beaches and crazy nightlife, think again. For those who would like to see the other side of Goa, head to Dudhsagar Falls. The waterfalls are actually tiered falls about 60 km from the capital city of Panaji.

According to popular legend, a princess once lived in the forests nearby the falls. She used to bathe in the pond at the base of the falls. One fine day, during her bathing session, she caught a prince watching her. In order to protect her modesty, she poured a jug of sweet milk in front of her to form as a curtain.

It is believed that it is that sweet milk which pours down the falls, hence giving them a milky appearance. While you can believe that story at your peril, the fact remains that it is a gorgeous waterfall which deserves a visit.

Grand Island

Grand Island is true to its name. It is amongst the most offbeat yet adventurous tourist places in Goa. It offers a grand experience to the lovers of watersports as it is home to excellent Scuba Diving sites with Suzy’s Wreck, Shelter Cove and Bounty Bay are some of the Scuba Diving sites around Grand Island. Take a day trip to this island in Goa for great snorkeling experience.

North Goa

North Goa offers a complete holiday experience for every traveler. You can either lounge on a sun bed with a cool drink in hand or be a total party animal at the happening club parties. Those looking for an adrenaline rush will find plenty of action on the beaches. Home to many ornate churches, magnificent cathedrals and ancient temples, each with its own colorful history. A foodie haven for seafood lovers, Goan cuisine is an interesting blend of the Konkan and Portuguese cooking styles.

South Goa

The party capital of India, this little paradise on earth is a package full of surprises and contradictions. Apart from happening beaches and nightclubs in both north and south districts, South Goa has a number of unexplored beaches, obscure caves and other secrets spots waiting to be explored. Other highlights of Goa include its rich Portuguese history, amazing seafood and the friendly and vivacious locals. Welcome to the surreal beauty of a vast expanse of the clear blue sea and silver sandy beaches, the verdant lofty mountains and the imposing grand forts and cathedrals.

Gujarat :

Kutch

Imagine barren lands where you can push full throttle and have the thrill of your life? That’s Rann of Kutch for you, in Gujarat. Kutch is a shallow wetland, which means it gets submerged during the monsoon season because of rains.

However, during the summer months, the water recedes, giving way to salty land which is barren yet beautiful. The Rann of Kutch is known for road trips in India. It is also known as a habitat for exotic species of birds and animals. There are quite a few wildlife reserves in the region, the most prominent of which is the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary.

Gir Forest National Park, Kutch

A national park and wildlife sanctuary which is famous for dedicating a large space to preserve the pride symbols of India, Asiatic lion is the Gir Forest National Park in Kutch. The only place where these Asiatic lions can be spotted out as solely or as a family is Gir Park. Also, the amicable ecosystem it preserves is being considered as the major reason for the presence of these typical lions here. More than 400 species of flora can also be seen here letting the region appear like a complete forest. On top of that, seven perennial rivers flowing near the park play an important role in making the park a favourite place for migratory birds as well.

Maharashtra :

Mumbai

Mumbai  s the city of dreamers, stalwarts and the common man. A vibrant combination of seven islands on the Konkan coastline joins together to make for the blend that’s Mumbai (Bombay) tourism. Splendid Victorian architecture, urban lifestyle, business hullabaloo and the entertainment industry welcome you to this energetic abode.

Defined by brutal corporate culture, fast paced lifestyles, glittering film industry, scenic beaches and the largest slum dwelling in India, Mumbai is a surprising picture of contradictions. This city of dreams is the prime center of Hindi film industry. Film City in Mumbai is the favorite spot for most of the filmmakers.

Pune

Celebrated as Maharashtra’s cultural capital, Pune houses a plethora of educational institutes, museums and hill forts. Besides being a cultural and educational hub, the city has ample attractions to satiate most visitors. Pune, with its glorious sightseeing attractions, pleasant weather, and a largely dynamic crowd of students and young professionals, proves wonderful for a vacation. The list of not to be missed attractions is infinite here but a couple of most interesting hot spots are the Pataleshwar Rock-cut temple and the Sinhagad Fort.  Best famous for its Osho slippers, Shrewsbury biscuits, and world-class educational institutes, the city of Pune is no less than a foodie’s paradise with an array of dining options to choose from.

Lonavala

Nestled in the lap of the Sahyadri Hills, Lonavala offers scenic views of the Deccan Plateau on one side and the Konkan coast on the other.

The hilly landscape makes it an ideal destination for adventure sports such as trekking, fishing, and camping. Rajmachi Point provides an unparalleled view of Shivaji’s fort and consists of a beautiful trek. Lonavala Lake is another place where you can enjoy a day amidst natural scenery. Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, and Lohagad Fort are some of the highly recommended tourist spots. Once there, you can go further to Duke’s Nose, and also up till Ajanta and Ellora.

Kamshet

Surrounded by panoramic views of paddy and sunflower fields fringed by hills all around, Kamshet is a back-to-nature weekend par excellence. Its history has been shaped by the hills here. Once known for breeding fierce freedom-loving Maratha warriors, they now play host to bands of fearless paragliding pilots and adventure lovers. Kamshet is just the place to have a paragliding weekend.

Mahabaleshwar

A famous hill station in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is one of the few remaining evergreen forests of India. Apart from a popular holiday destination and a sought-after honeymoon spot, Mahabaleshwar is also an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. Surrounded by soaring peaks and picturesque valleys,  is truly heaven on earth.  A perfect trekking destination, it takes days to completely unravel the various mysteries of this hill station. The famous Panchaganga Temple in Old Mahabaleshwar  is an important pilgrimage site, said to be the origin of River Krishna and four other rivers. The Mahabaleshwar  Temple is famous for the swayambhu lingam of Lord Shiva. Needle Hole Point, Arthur’s Seat, Sunrise Point, Kate’s Point, 3 Monkey Point and Venna Lake are some of the popular attractions here.

Kolad

Amidst lush green grass and swift waters, this is an adventure island that will make you feel like a character straight out of Jungle Book. Adventure sports and fun games along the riverside will keep you occupied all through the day. To put it simply, Kolad is serene and picturesque. This is a scene most of you drew as kids, and well, it seems to be borrowed from Kolad. Here, the most striking feature is the fast paced Kundalika River that makes it a popular spot for adventure games. Kayaking, camping, trekking, river crossing – pick what you like and let loose the adventurer in you.

Panchgani

Surrounded by five hills of the Sahyadri hills, the hill station is favored for its undisputed beauty. Perfect for recovering and rejuvenating, the air in Panchgani is believed to have healing attributes.A summer retreat for the British, Panchgani owes its exotic array of fauna to its initial inhabitants. It is bestowed with both hilly terrains and coastal plains offering dynamic and scenic surroundings. The Rajpuri Caves hold immense religious importance and are highly visited by devotees and tourists alike.

Alibag

Alibag is known for its abundant greenery, lively atmosphere, and scenic landscape. The golden sand beach and crystal clear water make it a lovely beach getaway. Alibaug, once the home of one of Shivaji’s bravest admiral Kanhoji Angre, is now the chi-chi address of celebrities who want to escape corporate warfare. According to the Bombay Gazette, Alibaug was never an important town — till Angre came along and made it an important Maratha base. Till then, it was known for its gardens and wells built by a wealthy Muslim trader called Ali, hence the name Alibaug. As it embraced by sea from three sides, it is also referred to as “Goa of Maharashtra”.

Dadra and Nagar Haveli :

Situated on the foot hills of Western Ghats, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, the Union Territory, not only boasts of rich natural beauty but also of an interesting history. The land, which was ruled by Koli chiefs later came into the hands of Marathas who offered Portuguese the right to collect revenues from here to seal their support to fight Mughals. After Indian liberation the land was still under the control of Portuguese until it was freed in 1954. The Union Territory merged with India in 1961.

Dense forests, magnificent mountain ranges, serene valleys, stunning ranges of flora and fauna, breathtaking rivers – if this is the package you expect on your holiday, head for Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Your expectations will be more than adequately fulfilled.

Vanganga Lake Garden

Just 5 kms from the capital city Silvassa, Vanganga Lake Garden is heaven for nature lovers. The very sight of the sprawling 7.58 hectares of ‘picture perfect’ garden with its beautiful lake captivates your soul. The huge lake in the garden has an island at the center, which stands connected to the garden by a bridge reflecting the influence of Japanese architecture. The island gives the garden the name ‘Island Garden’ and more to appease your visual appetite with tall green trees lining the lake and small fountains with scenic lighting arrangements. You can jog, walk or unwind in one of the cottages here that provides you with seating arrangements.

Dudhni Lake

Located 40 kms away from Silvassa, Dudhni Lake is a vast expanse of water surrounded by small hills. Famously referred to as the ‘Kashmir of the West’, the lake is formed by the waters of Madhuban reservoir. The isolated Dudhni, which is home to the lake, calms your senses. Well, you have entertainments that can make your adrenalin flow. The water sports available here include rowing boats, speed boats, water scooters, kayaks, canoes, jet skis and shikara rides. Trekking through the dense forests and camping on the river side would be a memorable adventure. If you love to have a glimpse of the life of tribals, here is your chanch.

Swaminarayan Temple

Located on River Daman Ganga banks, Swaminarayan Temple is a perfect example for architectural splendor. If you have a keen eye for architecture, just a photograph of the temple would trigger your interest to plan a trip to the site regardless of your faith. You will be amazed to find that not a piece of the structure is left without carvings. The spacious garden and the magnificent construction mesmerize visitors.

Daman and Diu :

Ruled by the Portuguese for over 450 years, the union territory of Daman and Diu along with Goa were a part of a single union territory of India. In 1987, Goa gained its statehood leaving Daman and Diu as a single and distinct union territory. The union territory consists of two districts, namely Daman and Diu which are around 198 kilometers from each other. The place, being a former Portuguese colony, houses various no. of buildings and monuments evident with the Portuguese styled architecture and town planning.

Pondicherry

Also known as ‘The French Riviera of the East’, Pondicherry (Puducherry) (Puducherry) exhibits a heavy French influence, which is more evident at the destination’s old quarters. The place is pretty laid back and has some fine restaurants serving passably good French cuisine. A favorite visiting spot is Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which attracts scores of Indian as well as foreign tourists due to its highly sought after yoga and meditation courses. Amongst other attractions, some must visit places are the lovely beach front promenade, Auroville, Gingee Fort, Gokilambal Temple and the Government Museum.