Western India

Jaswant Thada Lake, Jodhpur

Western India comprises three large states, one small state and two minuscule union territories. It is bounded by Pakistan and the Arabian sea to its west and the Gangetic plains to its east. This is the most heterogeneous of India's regions. The states differ drastically from one another in language, culture and levels of economic development. Maharashtra and Gujarat are among the most industrialized states of India while Rajasthan and Goa are magnets for tourists, though for different reasons.

Sex Scene and Prostitution

This region has some of the country's most popular destinations. In Rajasthan, the desert forts of Jaisalmer and the magnificent sand-dunes evoke all the romance and splendour of its princely past. Gujarat's Jain temples and intricately designed stepwells are architectural marvels, while its natural beauty can be enjoyed on the beaches of Diu.

Regions

Western India comprises the following states/union territories.

Western India.png
Rajasthan
the land of warriors, deserts, colorful saris, historic forts and Rajput temples
Gujarat
an important business hub, home to Asiatic lions and also the fastest-developing cities of Ahmedabad and Surat; great places to purchase traditional textiles, too
Maharashtra
India's third largest state is home to two of its most fascinating cities, Mumbai and Pune
Goa
home to the country's best beaches
  • Dadra and Nagar Haveli — a small territory wedged between the larger states of Maharashtra and Gujarat
  • Daman and Diu — two small towns, one an island off the Gujarat coast and the other on the coast

Cities

The Gateway of India, the icon of Mumbai
  • Ahmedabad — The commercial and business capital of the state of Gujarat and one of the fastest developing cities in Asia. The Mughal architecture in the city is very beautiful and intricate. Home to the beautiful textile museum. Also known for the traditional and distinct Gujarati cuisine.
  • Aurangabad — a few miles from the famous Ajanta and Ellora caves, a sacred site for Hindus, Jains and Buddhists
  • Jaipur — the Pink City, famous for Rajput architecture
  • Jodhpur — the Sun City, also known as the Blue City
  • Mumbai — the financial capital, the hub of Bollywood and London to many an Indian Dick Whittington
  • Nagpur — at the geographical center of India
  • Nashik — the city of temples located 180 km from Mumbai
  • Pune — Maharashtra's cultural capital, a historic city and home to many educational institutions
  • Pushkar — home to the country's only Brahma temple, the camel festival in November is an added bonus

Stay safe

Unlike the plains, the West has a low crime-rate. Pickpockets are known to operate in Pune and Mumbai. Keep your money, passport and credit card safely in your wallet. The National Toll-free Police Helpline is 100.

Rajasthan has plenty of persistent touts, just ignore them and walk on. Hotel-scams are not uncommon and booking a room in advance is highly recommended.

See Also

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