Maharashtra is proudly home to
5 World Heritage Sites, each of which brings out the splendid art
and architecture of a bygone era.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai
A magnificent building completed in 1888, the Chhatrapati Shivaji
Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) is an outstanding example
of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in India, blended
with themes deriving from Indian traditional architecture.
The railway station was opened to the public on New Year's
Day, 1882. It is now the starting point of the Central Railways.
Ajanta (District Aurangabad)
The rock-cut caves of Ajanta are world famous and illustrate
the degree of skill and artistry that Indian craftsmen had
achieved several hundred years ago. Ajanta dates from 100 B.C.
Many of the caves have the most exquisite detailed carvings
on the walls, pillars and entrances as well as magnificent
wall paintings.
Ellora (District Aurangabad)
The cave temples and monasteries at Ellora, excavated out of
the vertical face of an escarpment, are situated 26 km north
of Aurangabad. Extending in a linear arrangement, the 34 caves
contain Buddhist Chaityas or halls of worship, and Viharas,
or monasteries, Hindu and Jain temples. The most imposing excavation
is, without doubt, that of the magnificent Kailasa Temple (Cave
16) which is the largest monolithic structure in the world.
Elephanta Caves (Mumbai)
Nine nautical miles across the sea from the Gateway of India
lies Elephanta Caves, a green island that is home to the painstakingly
hewn rock-cut cave temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this imposing
structure dates back to the 7th century.
Kas Plateau
Located in the Sahyadri ranges near Satara, the Kas Plateau is
well known for its unique biosphere, high hill plateaus and
grasslands. During the monsoon season, especially in the month
of August, the plateau comes to life, with a picturesque view
of various types of flowers that carpet the floor of the plateau.
As per the Forest Department's Board the Kas Plateau is home
to more than 150 or more types of flowers, shrubs and grasses!
