What Are The Best Spiritual Tourism Destinations in Maharashtra?

‘We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience.’

Why is spirituality an essential part of our lives? It inspires, motivates and calms the mind and soul. It leads to empathy, sympathy and finding goodness in all things. Though spirituality is an internal process, it helps if one visits spiritual destinations. The external ambience and related spiritual elements enhance the experience. Spiritual tourism is, hence, a unique form of tourism, where travellers visit destinations that have a spiritual connection. Each state has several spiritual and religious attractions where devotees and tourists go out of reverence and sometimes, even curiosity. Maharashtra, too, has many spiritual tourism destinations which are popular across the world.

What are the best spiritual tourism destinations in Maharashtra?

Here are a few spiritual destinations of Maharashtra:

• Shirdi – Home of Sai Baba, Sai Baba Temple, Sai Teerth Theme Park
• Bhimashankar – The Bhimashankar Temple in the village of Bhimashankar
• Trimbakeshwar – Trimbakeshwar Temple is located in the town of Trimbakeshwar
• Nashik – Panchvati Temple, Shree Kapaleshwar Temple, Ram Kund and many other temples are found in Nashik
• Ganapati Temples – Lord Ganesha is revered across Maharashtra. Several temples dedicated to him are found in many parts of the state.

Shirdi – The Land of Sai Baba

Why is Shirdi considered one of the topmost spiritual tourism destinations in Maharashtra? The respected saint, Sai Baba, lived in Shirdi for more than five decades. He passed away in this town, exalting it forever, to become a spiritual hub. His mortal remains are placed at the Shri Sai Baba Temple, which is visited by thousands of devotees each day. People come to the mandir for aarti, darshan, and to seek blessings from Sai. Besides, there are several spiritual places in Shirdi, such as Gurusthan, Dwarkamai, Lendi Baug and others that are connected to the life of Sai Baba.

Can a Spiritual Experience Be Outside a Place of Worship?

Very often, we think that visiting a religious site or temple is the only way to experience spirituality. Though this is not incorrect, many times, a spiritual experience can also be sought in other places. A perfect example of this Sai Teerth Theme Park. India’s first devotional theme park has 6-plus shows that mesmerise, educate and entertain visitors. By blending technology and spirituality, this theme park connects instantly with audiences of all age groups. Dwarakamai, for instance, has a humanoid avatar of Sai, and in Sab Ka Malik Ek, the teachings of the saint are shown through a giant screen that captivates the attention of the visitors. Similarly, Lanka Dahan and Kaliya Mardan are 5D shows that bring to life mythological tales in a splendid visual treat. The Laser Show highlights the journey of Sai, whereas Mushak Maharaj is a fun and mischievously light experience. Visitors can also pay their respects at 10 major devotional temples of the country in Teerth Yatra.

So, yes, Sai Teerth Theme Park is a spiritual destination, but it is not unnecessarily preachy. In fact, it is fun, interactive and engaging. Using technology, it educates and informs visitors about spiritual saints, locations and myths, but it also showcases fun and evokes wonder.

What are some of the other spiritual destinations of Maharashtra? 

Bhimashankar

Bhimashankar Temple is located in Bhimashankar village in Pune district. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it contains one Jyotirlinga out of 12. Located on a mountain, the temple is surrounded by the growth of rare animal and plant species. The architecture of the temple is also a notable feature, along with the stunning sculptures and carvings.

Trimbakeshwar

Trimbakeshwar Temple also has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple is located in the village of Trimbak and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The lingam is unique as it is three-faced, signifying Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The temple is usually always crowded, and one can expect to wait half an hour for Darshan. However, the queues and crowds are much larger during festivals and weekends.

Nashik

Nashik can be considered a spiritual destination of Maharashtra. However, it has many other tourist attractions and natural beauty. But it also has several important temples and places of worship. Panchvati is a religious site on the River Godavari and is believed to be the place where Lord Ram spent time during his exile. Kalaram Temple, Saptashrungi Devi Temple, Muktidham Temple and Someshwar Temple are some of the temples found in and around Nashik. Besides, Ram Kund and Ganga Ghat are sacred bathing tanks.

Ganapati Temples

Which popular festival do you associate with Maharashtra? Ganesh Chaturthi, of course! Lord Ganesh is a revered deity, and many temples dedicated to Ganpati are spread across the state. Also, spiritual tourism in Maharashtra is not limited to any one religious site. There are several Jain temples, Buddhist temples, mosques, churches, gurudwars, etc. that are found across the state. Hence, spiritual tourism destinations in Maharashtra cut across religion, age, gender, class or caste. Some, such as Sai Teerth Theme Park, are educational and also fun, while others require a more serious state of emotions. Either way, depending on how you view spirituality and what you gain out of it, you can choose to visit any spiritual destination in the state.