Maharashtra is a land of faith, culture, and devotion. From ancient temples to peaceful Dargahs, the state is home to some of India’s most sacred places. Every year, millions of devotees travel to these holy sites to pray, celebrate festivals, and seek peace. Whether you believe in Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, or Buddhism, Maharashtra welcomes everyone with open arms. Here are the Top 10 Pilgrimage Destinations in Maharashtra that every spiritual traveler should visit.
1. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple – Ahmednagar
Shirdi is one of the most famous pilgrimage centers in India. It is the resting place of Sai Baba of Shirdi, a saint who taught love, kindness, and unity among all religions. The main temple complex includes the Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai Mosque, and Chavadi. Devotees from across the world visit Shirdi to seek Sai Baba’s blessings. The temple trust offers free meals and stay facilities for visitors. Shirdi is well connected by road, rail, and the nearby Shirdi Airport.
2. Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple – Nashik
Located near Nashik, Trimbakeshwar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India. The temple stands on the banks of the Godavari River, surrounded by green hills. Its black stone architecture and spiritual energy attract pilgrims throughout the year. The temple also hosts the Kumbh Mela every 12 years, one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world. Mondays and Shivratri are considered most auspicious for darshan.
3. Siddhivinayak Temple – Mumbai
The Siddhivinayak Temple in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. It is one of the richest temples in India and visited daily by thousands of devotees, including film stars and politicians. The small idol of Ganesha is believed to grant wishes when prayed to sincerely. Tuesdays are the busiest days, and online booking is available for smooth darshan. The temple’s modern facilities and divine atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone coming to Mumbai.
4. Pandharpur Vitthal Temple – Solapur
Pandharpur is known as the spiritual heart of Maharashtra. The main deity here is Lord Vitthal (Vithoba), a form of Lord Krishna, along with Goddess Rukmini. The temple stands on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River. Every year during Ashadhi Ekadashi and Kartik Ekadashi, lakhs of devotees walk barefoot from their villages in a grand pilgrimage called the Wari. The sight of these pilgrims singing and dancing in devotion makes Pandharpur one of the most emotional and inspiring places in the state.
5. Haji Ali Dargah – Mumbai
Built in the middle of the Arabian Sea, Haji Ali Dargah is one of India’s most iconic Sufi shrines. It houses the tomb of Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a saint known for his teachings of love and equality. The Dargah can be reached by a narrow causeway from the Mumbai coast. People of all faiths visit to offer prayers and enjoy the beautiful sea view. Thursday evenings are special with qawwali performances that fill the air with devotion and peace.
6. Bhimashankar Temple – Pune District
Located in the Sahyadri hills, Bhimashankar is another Jyotirlinga temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is surrounded by thick forests and waterfalls, making it both a natural and spiritual retreat. The temple’s unique Nagara-style architecture and peaceful surroundings attract both pilgrims and trekkers. During the month of Shravan, thousands of devotees climb the hill to offer water to the Shiva Lingam. The area is also a wildlife sanctuary rich in flora and fauna.
7. Hazrat Sailani Baba Dargah – Buldhana
Sailani Baba Dargah, located in Pimpalgaon Sarai near Chikhli, is one of the most respected Sufi shrines in central Maharashtra. The saint Hazrat Sailani Baba is known for helping people in distress and spreading harmony among all communities. The Dargah attracts thousands of devotees from Maharashtra, Telangana, and Madhya Pradesh. The annual Urs festival is celebrated with prayers, qawwali, and free langar. The peaceful atmosphere and simple rural beauty make it a hidden spiritual gem.
8. Gajanan Maharaj Temple – Shegaon
Located in Buldhana district, Shegaon is home to the famous saint Shri Gajanan Maharaj, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. The temple complex is well maintained with gardens, accommodation facilities, and the beautiful Anand Sagar Lake Project. Devotees visit to seek blessings for peace, prosperity, and wisdom. The management provides free food and rest areas for visitors. Shegaon can be reached easily by train from Nagpur and Mumbai.
9. Haji Malang Dargah – Kalyan
Haji Malang Dargah, also called Malang Gad Dargah, is a unique hilltop shrine near Kalyan in Thane district. Dedicated to Haji Malang Baba, a saint who preached courage and unity, the Dargah is located on a mountain around 2,600 feet high. Devotees climb for nearly two hours to reach the top, where the shrine offers breathtaking views. The annual Urs festival attracts thousands of devotees from across India. It is one of the few shrines visited by both Hindus and Muslims together.
10. Grishneshwar Temple – Ellora
Near the world-famous Ellora Caves, the Grishneshwar Temple is the twelfth Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The temple is built in red stone and features beautiful carvings and tall spires. It is believed that a sincere darshan here completes the journey of all 12 Jyotirlingas in India. The temple remains open throughout the year, and nearby attractions include Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad.
Bonus: Other Notable Pilgrimage Sites
- Shani Shingnapur Temple (Ahmednagar) – Known for houses without doors.
- Nashik Panchavati – A sacred site from the Ramayana.
- Banda Nawaz Dargah, Gulbarga (near border) – A famous Sufi center close to Maharashtra.
- Parli Vaijnath Temple (Beed) – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
Travel Tips for Devotees
- Plan visits between October and February for pleasant weather.
- Carry a scarf or handkerchief for head covering when visiting Dargahs or temples.
- Avoid plastic items and maintain cleanliness around holy sites.
- Book train or bus tickets early during festival seasons.
- Respect local customs and maintain silence inside prayer halls.
Conclusion
Maharashtra is a state where spirituality meets culture. From Sai Baba’s miracles in Shirdi to the sea-facing calm of Haji Ali, and from Pandharpur’s chants to the blessings of Sailani Baba, every place has a story of faith and unity. Visiting these ten pilgrimage destinations fills the heart with peace and reminds us that all paths of worship lead to the same truth — love, kindness, and harmony among all people.
