Maharashtra
The state of Maharashtra, one of the largest in India in terms of both size and population, stands mostly on the high Deccan plateau which stretches east some 800 km. from the Western Ghats. It has the Arabian sea on the west, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh to the north, Madhya Pradesh on the east, and Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka to the south.
Cities - Mumbai:
Mumbai, India's western gateway, has donned many personas. It is an exhilarating city fuelled by entrepreneurial energy, determination and dreams. The economic powerhouse of the nation, it can seem like another country altogether. A magnet to migrants from all over India, rich and poor, ensures the city keeps one foot in its hinterland and the other in the global marketplace.
Cities - Pune:
Pune is fast growing into a center for software development.
Cities - Mahabaleshwar:
This hill station, situated at an altitude of 1372 metres, was the summer capital of Bombay Presidency during the British rule. It is famous for its scenic beauty, splendid views, Venna lake, and strawberries
Elephanta Island:
10 km northeast of Mumbai, lies the Elephanta Island, known for its great cave shrine excavated in the 6th century. The island was named by the Portuguese, after the majestic carved elephant on the island. A flight of 100 steps takes you to the top of the hill where the cave temple of Elephanta stands. The temple houses large pillars that seem to hold the ceiling which is made of cross beams. The sculptures display the changing moods of Lord Shiva, and reflect the immense faith of the unknown architects. In the month of February, the island hosts the Elephanta Festival
