Western India Travel Guide

Western India shares a border with Pakistan (in the north) and faces the Arabian sea (in the south). Two of the most developed and most famous tourist states in India are in the Western Region. Also, two Indian union territories are part of Western India. 

The Indian States that make Western India (from north to south) are as follows:

• Rajasthan
• Gujarat
• Maharashtra
• Goa
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli (union territories)
• Daman and Diu (union territories)

Each western states differ drastically from one another in language, culture, and geography. It can range from the famous sand dunes of Thar desert in Rajasthan to a white desert in Gujarat, not to forget green hill stations of Maharashtra, to some of the best beaches and party spots in Goa.

The delicious dhokla of Gujrat, proud palaces of Jaisalmer, artsy theaters in Mumbai, and white sandy beaches of Goa all come together to create the magic of Western India.

Notable Places to Visit

Below you’ll find 16 of the most notable cities and tourist destinations to visit in Western India:

• Mumbai — the financial capital and a major port city of India as well as the home of Bollywood
• Jaipur — the Pink City, famous for Rajput architecture and its forts
• Ahmedabad — the commercial and business capital of Gujarat and one of the fastest developing cities in Asia
• Pune — Maharashtra’s cultural capital, a historic city and home to many educational institutions
• Jodhpur — the Sun City, also known as the Blue City
• Nagpur — the geographical center of India
• Panaji — the capital of Goa state, with laidback lifestyle and lots of Portuguese heritage
• Mount Abu — Rajasthan’s only hill station and home to a group of five Jain temples
• Aurangabad — a few miles from the famous Ajanta and Ellora caves, a sacred site for Hindus, Jains and Buddhists
• Pushkar — home to the country’s only Brahma temple; the camel festival in November is an added bonus
• Kutch — white desert, Harrapan city of Dholavira, a wild ass sanctuary also host of Kutch Mahotsav
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli — a small territory wedged between the larger states of Maharashtra and Gujarat
• Diu — Beautiful island at the south of Saurashtra Gujarat
• Kumbhalgarh — a gigantic red fort located amongst the rugged Aravali Hills
• Matheran — between Mumbai and Pune, this is Asia’s only pedestrian resort
• Shekhavati — comprising of Sikar and Jhunjhunu districts, has towns with well-preserved havelis, forts, and temples

Rajasthan

Rajasthan (the land of kings), is a deserts land of warriors tradition, historic forts, and religious temples. Jaipur is the bright, cheery capital city of Rajasthan that attracts visitors from around the world. It is home to several “mahals” or palaces.

Furthermore, you will travel through the desert sands on the back of a camel just to visit these exquisite palaces. Jodhpur is home to many historical monuments.

If the heat of Rajasthan turns out to be unbearable for you, take a trip to Mount Abu (hill station). Hidden amidst the breathtaking scenery of the lush green forests of Kumbhalgarh on the windward side of the Aravalli hills, lies a gorgeous fort.

Gujarat

Home to Asiatic lions and fine textiles, developing fast especially around Ahmedabad and Surat. It is home to some of the finest institutes of education in India be it for business, art or architecture.

It also is home to numerous beautiful world heritage structures which are sure to leave you breathless at their scale and details of construction. 

Maharashtra

India’s third-largest state is home to two of its most fascinating cities, Mumbai and Pune. These are the two gems of Maharashtra. Mumbai is the dream city for the people who want to be actors just like Los Angeles in the US. Pune is an educational hub, whereas Nashik is a popular religious site.

The world famous Ajanta Ellora caves are located in this state and it is a place you cannot afford to miss. 

Goa

Home to the country’s best beaches, Goa is the beach paradise in India. Young people from around the world flock here to have bachelor parties or just to have a refreshing trip.

From amazing streets laden with Portuguese houses in their bright colors to mouth-watering seafood cuisine, this state has it all. Don’t forget to try their local drink feni, beware of its high alcohol content though. 

Getting Around

Different states speak different languages. Gujratis speak Gujarati; Maharashtrians speak Marathi, and Marwari is the lingua franca in Rajasthan. However, you should not worry. If you know Hindi then you can communicate with locals. Also, English can come in handy in urban cities, but not in rural areas.

Roads are extensive throughout Western India. They connect all the major cities in Maharashtra, Gujrat, and Rajasthan. Also, flights are available between the cities. If you want to save some time for sightseeing you can hop on a plane.

Trains can be relied upon to take you from one state to the other overnight thus saving you time and money. You can choose an overnight bus too as many private and government buses are available in all the states making connectivity very easy.

November 30, 2016 10:46 am Published by Staff Writer