Maharashtra is the third largest state, located in the western part of India. It is one of the most populous states and its capital Mumbai is the most populous city in India. It had civilizations as back as 1300 BC and has had multiple rulers ruling the region along the years. The famous empires were that of Mauryas, Guptas, Chalukyas, Kadambas and Yadavas. Alauddin Khaliji, Muhammad Bin Tughlaq and a few other rulers ruled the region over a period of time. By the early 17th century, Shivaji Maharaj succeeded in establishing the Maratha Empire, which was further expanded by the Peshwas, Bhonsles, Gaekwads, Holkars and Scindias. The Marathas are one of the major reasons of ending the Mughal rule and hence shaping present day Maharashtra. The British too had a big influence in the region, as it was one of the major presidencies under them.
Maharashtra has lot of tourist attractions because of its colonial architecture, beaches, hill stations, movie industry and an active nightlife. Mumbai, the biggest cosmopolitan city of India, draws many tourists with wonderful monuments spread all around the city. Victoria terminus, The Gateway of India, Taj Palace Hotel and Juhu beach are a few of the attractions that the city has to offer. The area in and around Aurangabad have many medieval sites such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ajanta and Ellora Caves and Bibi ka Maqbara. Kailasa temple carved out of a single rock draws a lot of tourists and scientists to understand the secrets and history of it. The famous hill stations in Maharashtra are Mahabaleshwar, Matheran and Chikhaldara. The state also has many religious shrines drawing in millions of worshipers. The shrine of Saibaba at Shirdi, Sikh Gurudwara of hazur Sahib at Nanded, Khandoba temple at Jejuri are a few examples. The state also has a rich variety of flora and fauna. It has six tiger reserves various wildlife and bird sanctuaries preserving the incredible species of animals and plants. The state is well connected by all modes of transports.
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