The name Maharashtra signifies "Great Nation" or "Great State". The word originated from the term rathi i.e. a chariot driver. It refers to all the chariot drivers and chariot builders, who were called "Maharathis" or the "Fighting Force". The other reason behind the use of word Maharashtra is that with an area of 308000 Square Kilometer, it is one of the largest states in India. It has a huge population of about 78,937,000, with Marathi being the State language.

Capital:  Mumbai.

Languages:  Marathi, Hindi, English & Gujarati.

Area:  307690 Square Kms.

Population:  96752247.

Best Time to Visit:  October to March.

Tamperature:  16°C to 35°C.

History of Maharashtra:  The first human existence in the state of Maharashtra dates backs to lower Paleolithic age. During this period, early men used to wander in the areas near river basins of Bhima, Godavari, Ghod, Pravara and Wainganga. All these people were mostly hunters and thus used to live a nomadic life. In the Mesolithic age, these people settled at a certain place and shifted towards the practice of agriculture so as for survival.

Around 1700 BC, these people started moving from Tapi towards various other river valleys. The megalithic culture developed in the region between 1000 BC-500 BC. The process towards urbanization initiated in the region during the Iron Age period i.e. 500BC. Various trade routes were discovered, which connected the state with North India. Between 640-641 BC, the famous Chinese traveler Hiun Tsang travelled to this region and was largely impressed with the development of this region.

In the 3rd & 4th century BC, the area of Konkan was under the reign of Mauryans, who introduced various policies that lead to development in trade & learning. After them came the Satwahanas, who made Pratishthan their capital. They were further succeeded by Chalukya, Vakataka and the Rashtrakuta empires. The Muslim rulers overtook the state from the reign of Yadavas. Allauddin Khilji understood the importance of Deccan area and thus tried to maintain his control over the area.

In the midst of the 17th century, emerged a new brigade of warriors known as Marathas. Such was their impact that once they even captured Delhi from the Mughal. Shivaji was a great ruler of the Marathas and he laid the path for the influence of Marathas on India. He is known for his greatness & heroism throughout India. During the freedom struggle against the Britishers, Maharashtra always remained at forefront. Pune was the chief center of revolutionary activities that took place in the region. Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, the famous freedom fighter also belonged to the state of Maharashtra.

Climate:  The climate of Maharashtra is moderate, with variations in temperature. Cotton clothing are apt all through the year and light woollens are required for the winter months.

Best Season, Climate and Clothing:  The climate here in the state of Maharashtra is quite moderate. The temperature ranges from16°C to 35°C. The state of Maharashtra experiences Monsoon between the months of July-September. During this period some parts of the state gets heavy rainfall, while some parts still remains dry. Cotton clothes are the ideal type of clothing, which can be worn throughout the year.