Maharashtra, located in the western peninsular region of India, is one of the country's largest and most economically significant states. Known for its bustling capital city, Mumbai, which is the financial, commercial, and entertainment hub of India, Maharashtra also boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage. The state is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, the hill stations of the Western Ghats, and numerous forts and palaces from the Maratha Empire. With a diverse landscape that includes beaches, mountains, and urban centers, Maharashtra is a blend of traditional and contemporary India.