If you’re tired of the usual Lonavala chills and Alibaug thrills, this one’s for you. Maharashtra is full of lesser-known, jaw-droppingly beautiful places that are totally Insta-worthy and still refreshingly crowd-free.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior from Mumbai or Pune, or a traveler ticking off Indian states, here are 5 offbeat destinations in Maharashtra you should visit in 2025.

1. Amboli Ghat – The Misty Marvel of the Western Ghats

Tucked away in the Sahyadris near Sawantwadi, Amboli is a monsoon lover’s paradise. Picture foggy roads, waterfalls gushing like silver ribbons, and rare flora and fauna.

Why go?

  • Waterfalls like Nangartas and Mahadev Gad
  • Sunset Point with panoramic valley views
  • Rare species of frogs and butterflies for nature geeks

Best time: June–September
Closest city: Kolhapur / Belgaum

2. Lonar Crater Lake – Where Science Meets Myth

Created by a meteor 50,000 years ago (yep, actual space rock impact!), this emerald-green lake in Buldhana district is Maharashtra’s best-kept geological secret.

What’s cool?

  • One-of-a-kind alkaline + saline lake
  • Temples like Daitya Sudhan (with ancient carvings)
  • Local legends connecting it to the Ramayana

Best time: October–March
Tip: Carry binoculars – it’s a birdwatching hotspot!

3. Diveagar – Beach Bliss Without the Crowd

Tired of Alibaug traffic? Head a bit south to Diveagar. It’s a sleepy coastal village with golden sands, a chill vibe, and surprisingly great seafood.

 Don’t miss:

  • Suvarna Ganesh Temple (recently restored)
  • Parasailing and banana boat rides
  • Watching the sunset with Modak in hand

Distance from Mumbai: ~190 km

Local delight: Fish thali with sol kadhi

4. Kaas Plateau – Maharashtra’s Own Valley of Flowers

Every monsoon, this UNESCO Biodiversity site near Satara bursts into bloom with over 850 species of wildflowers. It’s surreal – like walking through a dream.

Pro traveler tip:

  • Book entry slots online (they fill fast!)
  • Carry rain gear – and don’t forget a macro lens for the tiny blooms

Peak bloom: Late August–Mid September
Easy day trip from Pune/Satara

5. Sandhan Valley – The Grand Canyon of Maharashtra

Ready for a little adrenaline? Sandhan Valley near Igatpuri is a narrow gorge carved by water and time, perfect for trekking, rappelling, and camping under the stars.

Adventurer’s checklist:

  • Guided trek through water-carved rocks
  • Stargazing night camps
  • Sunrise views that make you believe in magic

Base village: Samrad (near Bhandardara)
Best season: November–February