Western India comprises of the states of Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, the union territory of Daman-Diu-Dadra & Nagar Haveli. It is primarily famous for places like Mumbai, Goa, Rann of Kutch, the cave temples of Ajanta and Ellora and the Wildlife Sanctuaries in Gujarat. When you think of Goa, you think of sandy beaches, amazing parties, beautiful little villages, delicious food, and a magical holiday experience. Goa is rightfully the most popular tourist destination on the West Coast of India, and not just because of its scenic beaches, but also because of its tropical climate and its rich Portuguese heritage, which you can still find lingering on in some parts of the town. Nestled in the Konkan Coast Belt, Goa attracts millions of visitors both from within and outside the country all year round. Gujarat seems to project out into the Arabian Sea. Its northern region – Kutch, with its distinct pastoral communities and exquisite crafts, is a salty desert-cum-marshland. The coast cradles the old port-town of Mandvi and constitutes the revered temples of Somnath and Dwarka. Gir National Park in Gujarat is a major tourist hot-spot because Asiatic Lions can only survive here. The most industrialised state in West India, Ahmedabad and Surat are business hubs with a large presence in textiles and petrochemicals. Maharashtra is the state that houses the only city for which the word ‘megalopolis’ is used in the country – Mumbai. Known as the maximum city, it is the financial, film capital of India. Bollywood derives its name from the city’s former name Bombay. On its waterfront stands the iconic Gateway of India stone arch. The Chowpatty, Marine Drive, Juhu Beach and Victoria Terminus are other touristy hotspots here. You also find Maratha Forts in Raigad, and the World Heritage frescoes of the rock-cut Ajanta and Ellora caves in Aurangabad, that entice tourists globally. Many beautiful hill stations like Panchgani, Mahabaleshwar, Khandala and Matheran serve as cool green retreats with abundant adventurous trails and thrilling activities in Maharashtra.