Bordered by the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, Maharashtra is a beautiful Indian state which has many tourist attractions. It has something for every tourist. If you’re a sea-lover, the beaches in Mumbai and Ratnagiri are where you should be. If history and architecture are your passion, then head to Aurangabad.

With so many places to visit, you may need a list so that you do not miss them on your bucket list. This blog will help you by listing some of the most popular tourist places in Maharashtra. Read along.

1. Chorla Ghats

The Panjim-Belagavi’s two-lane highway is a paradise for those looking for gentler driving conditions. These hill-cut roads, which pave through the Western Ghats' thick trees, give off a sense of tranquillity and an intense adrenaline rush. But, of course, you can also take your baby for this trip around these picturesque lanes of Chorla if you have a convertible or sunroof car.

• Distance: 60 km.
• Route: Panjim to Chorla Ghats via Belgaum Highway.
• Activities: Photography and cycling.
• Best Time: September to November. 

2. Netravali Falls

Netravali is undoubtedly picturesque, with a nature reserve and a lovely waterfall. The distance may seem long, but the road is largely level with no elevation change. It crosses beautiful, verdant sugarcane fields and rubber plantations, as well as the Sanguem mining region.

• Distance: 41 km.
• Route: Assolna To Netravali.
• Activities: Visiting waterfall and green plantations. 
• Best Time: September to November.

3. Cabo De Rama

Cabo De Rama, a historic fort built by the Portuguese, is situated at the southernmost point of Goa and is a reminder of tradition and aristocracy. It's a terrific location for individuals who want to explore the forest on bikes with friends while seeking undiscovered pathways. When you get to your location, take in the breathtaking sight of the tall, evergreen coconut trees set against the enchanting blue-green waves.

• Distance: 63 km.
• Route: Panjim to Cabo De Rama.
• Activities: Forest exploration and photography.
• Best Time:  October to May.

4. Islands of Divar & Chorao

Despite being close to Panjim, travellers rarely visit the stunning islands of Chorao and Divar. However, thanks to this detour, you can take pleasure in the ferry boat journeys.

By boarding the ferry from Ribandar to Panjim, you can begin your adventure to Divar Island. Another brief ferry voyage is in store after touring the island and the strong Portuguese influence it exhibits. Finally, after travelling the bicholim roads, you will arrive at Chorao Island.

• Distance: 40 km.
• Route: Panjim to Divar - Divar to Chorao - Chorao to Panjim.
• Activities: Boat rides, sightseeing.
• Best Time: Throughout the year.

5. Parra

Experience the pure splendour of nature as you go through Parra's magnificent alleys, which have thick palm groves on either side. These straightforward, winding roads may make you feel alive. Also, you cannot resist pausing by the meadows famed for growing watermelons. You also stop at the well-known St. Anne's Church and the Ganesh Tollem Lake.

• Distance: 8 km.
• Route: Mapusa to Saligao.
• Activities: Visiting farms, photography.
• Best Time: Throughout the year (only in the daytime).

6. Ponta De Linhares

Travelling from the new capital to the old, or Goa Velha or Old Goa is exhilarating. The lovely Ribandar causeway, which links the two cities, was constructed in the 15th century and is still in use today. Driving alongside the tranquil waters of the River Mandovi, you pass by incredible artistic structures and centuries-old architectural wonders that are sure to astound you.

• Distance: 12 km.
• Route: Ponte Conde de Linhares Causeway.
• Activities: Sightseeing and photography.
• Best Time: June to September.

7. Dudhsagar Waterfall Base

The magnificent Dudhsagar Waterfall has four levels and is one of Goa's most popular tourist destinations. The roads leading up to the waterfall are just as picturesque as the waterfall. From here, you can travel to Mollem Village and then rent a bike. It is a 45-minute ride through uneven forest parts and even crosses streams. 

• Distance: 14 km. 
• Route: Mollem village to Dudhsagar or Netravali to Dudhsagar. 
• Activities: Trekking, swimming.
• Best Time: Throughout the year (Daytime).

8. Mandrem

This trail is a great fit if you want to ride, relax, and shop all at once. Starting in Candolim, the walk travels through crowded streets dotted with shops where you may shop endlessly. Moreover, you will finish the route in just over an hour.

• Distance: 30 km.
• Route: Candolim To Mandrem.
• Activities: Shopping, photography.
• Best Time: Throughout the year.

9. Old Goa Church

The best way to experience colonial Goa's history and culture is to embark on a riding adventure from Miramar. You can explore the Miramar Circle, the Fontainhas bylanes, and the magnificent old Goa churches as you stroll through Panjim's busy streets. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a spiritual place where you may experience a ride along the Mandovi River's banks. 

• Distance: 16 km.
• Route: Miramar To Old Goa Church.
• Activities: Witness architecture and photography.
• Best Time:  Throughout the year.

10. Sernabatim Beach

If you are attracted to sea coasts, this is a mesmerising cycling trail in Goa. Using the Colva-Cavelossim road, you can ride across the sea coast to the Sal river. The beach has stable hard sand, which is perfect for cycling here. This trail is stunning and the cold breeze from the sea will enhance the experience of cycling. 

• Distance: 31 km.
• Route: Sernabatim Beach to Sal River.
• Activities: Enjoying the beach and photography.
• Best Time: October to March.

11. Navelim Village

It is a small suburb of Margao located in Southern Goa. Taking the Carmona Bypass Road will help you travel to this village. The road is well-maintained, and the sights across it are gorgeous. Cycling here is usually a pleasant activity. You will find the Navelim Church and numerous Portuguese-styled structures in this village. 

• Distance: 32 km.
• Route: Carmona Bypass Road to Navelim Road.
• Activities: Photography and sightseeing.
• Best Time: Throughout the year.

12. Palolem Beach

This is another gorgeous beach located in South Goa. Its stunning visuals often attract tourists from across the globe. The journey on a cycle will be super impressive with the beauty and diversity of the roads. Moreover, you can also visit the Green Island in this area, where local shacks are always prepared to welcome tourists. 

• Distance: 36 km.
• Route: Margao Railway Station to Palolem.
• Activities: Photography, sightseeing and water sports. 
• Best Time: Throughout the year.

13. Calangute Beach

With stunning sea buckthorn bushes and palm trees, this is a suitable cycling route across Goa. The road is super comfortable, and safe for cycling. Moreover, there are cacti clusters all across the roads. The journey will be safe and comfortable, with a cold breeze coming from the sea beach. 

• Distance: 14 km. 
• Route: Panjim to Calangute Beach.
• Activities: Photography, sightseeing and water sports.
• Best Time: Throughout the year.

14. Anjuna Village

This traditional Goan village attracts tourists on electric bikes throughout the year. You can visit the nearby beaches, or go shopping around the bustling markets of Vagator and Benaulim. While cycling through the trail towards the Arabian sea, you might spot cashew groves and spice plantations. 

• Distance: 14 km.
• Route: Panaji to Anjuna.
• Activities: Photography and sightseeing.
• Best Time: October to February.

15. Cansaulim Village

If you have an interest in learning more about the Goan culture and their traditions around the villages, this cycling trail can be suitable for you. Cycling along this trial will not only bless your eyes with picturesque views, but also help you explore the village traditions in Goa. You can learn more about Goa’s history as well. 

• Distance: 12 km. 
• Route: Margai to Cansaulim.
• Activities: Photography and sightseeing. 
• Best Time: October to May.

Numerous cycling tours are available in Goa. You can choose to go on a short, one-day bike tour in 3 to 6 hours, or you can go on a more extended, multi-day cycling tour that gives you more time to see Goa. Also, for a more intense experience, you can combine two or three bicycle tours. Regardless of the trip, cycling in Goa is a serene experience and a way to enjoy its tranquil environment.