The historical and cultural heritage of a place is what makes it stand out on the map. It is this heritage that imparts a unique character to each city and town. On 18^th of April, the nations come together to celebrate the World Heritage Day, a day to respect the historical splendor and traditional roots of different regions of the world. Although this spirit of conservation of culture is something that needs to be inculcated in the daily lifestyle, the World Heritage Day is an opportunity to take a step in the right direction. Visiting the ancient monuments and understanding the customs of rural India is a great way to contribute towards this initiative.

The state of Maharashtra boasts of several mighty civilizations that have left an indelible mark on the culture of this region. The powerful rulers, creative artists, and skilled craftsmen have all played a role in developing a cultural heritage that is exceptionally rich and diverse. There are a number of World Heritage Sites in Maharashtra that depict the different chapters of this region’s history in an intriguing manner. Here are some of the magnificent sites that you must visit this World Heritage Day to gain an insight regarding the fascinating rural culture of Maharashtra.

1. Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves in the Aurangabad district are famous worldwide for the series of 30 Buddhist cave monuments that display some of the oldest surviving art forms of India. There are two groups of caves, the first one dates back to the 2^nd BC while the other was constructed around 480 AD. These caves contain some extremely expressive paintings and intricate rock sculptures that narrate the stories of the lives and rebirths of Gautama Buddha. The vivid murals of this medieval resting place of the monks are a priceless cultural treasure.

2. Ellora Caves

Ellora is home to one of the most expansive complexes of rock-cut temples in the world. The site contains around 100 caves, out of which 34 are accessible to tourists. These caves are a combination of Hindu and Jain temples as well as Buddhist monasteries. One of the cave features the world’s largest monolithic rock building, the Kailasha Temple, a structure in the shape of a chariot, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The detailed carvings of the Ajanta & Ellora Caves attract tourists from around the world. Words cannot do justice to the exemplary architecture of these sites.

3. Lonar Lake

The Lonar Lake in Buldhana district is a rare geographical wonder. It is a sparkling lake formed by a meteor impact, during the Pleistocene era. The world’s largest crater in basaltic rock, the lake is both saline and alkaline in nature. An almost circular water body with a diameter of more than 1 km, this lake is surrounded by a serene landscape of pristine forests. This turquoise blue pearl that decorates the hilly terrain is one of the finest gems of Maharashtra heritage.

4. Kaas Plateau

Located in the Sahyadri belt of the Western Ghats, the Kaas Plateau is internationally recognized as a biodiversity hotspot. The first droplets of the Monsoon showers transform this plateau into a valley of flowers. More than 800 different species of flowers bloom in this region, forming a colorful carpet over the soil. Beautiful butterflies hover over the blossoms, creating ethereal scenery. The Kaas Plateau is one of the many gems of the Western Ghats that possesses an unparalleled allure and a mystical charm.

5. Kopeshwar Temple

Yet another shining star of Maharashtra culture is the Kopeshwar temple, Khidrapur near the city of Kolhapur. This breathtaking monument is not just a temple but also the symbol of the exceptional architectural prowess of the forefathers. Despite being constructed in the 12^th century, the fine carvings of the pillars and the sculptures of the deities still remain intact. Each arch, corner, and crevice is decorated with immaculately designed religious figures. The roof of the vestibule has a circular opening that brightens up the stunning interiors of this enchanting complex.

Where to Stay:

These World Heritage Sites in Maharashtra not just unravel the glorious history of this region but also help the tourists to develop an appreciation for their own heritage and cultural values. Among the places to stay around Ellora caves, the farmstays are the best options to enjoy the rural life, culture, and food. The Agritourism Centers & farmstays in Maharashtra are well-equipped with all the necessary amenities and ensure a comfortable experience while visiting these marvelous locations.