Malegaon, known as the “Textile City” of Maharashtra, offers a mix of historical, religious, and natural attractions. The major attractions in and around Malegaon can be categorized as follows:
- Historical & Architectural:
- Malegaon Fort: A significant historical monument built by the Maratha ruler Naro Shankar Raje in the 18th century, situated on the banks of the Mosam River. It houses a shrine and a temple, symbolizing the region’s secular history.
- Tippu Sultan Tower: A historic tower named after Tippu Sultan.
- Teen Kandil: A well-known landmark and historical structure.
- Religious Sites:
- Shahi Masjid: Considered one of the oldest and most beautiful among the city’s 300+ mosques.
- Shree Ram Mandir, Jai Tulja Bhawani Mandir, Hingalaj Mata Mandir: Prominent Hindu temples that reflect the city’s religious diversity.
- Natural & Scenic Spots:
- Girna Dam: A major dam near Malegaon, popular for its scenic beauty and as a picnic spot.
- Gigaon Waterfalls, Rahud Waterfall: Natural waterfalls that attract visitors, especially during the monsoon season.
- Unique Local Attractions:
- Power Loom and Textile Industries: Malegaon is famous for its textile industry. Visitors often visit power loom workshops to see the weaving process, including the famous Paithani sarees.
- Malegaon Yatra (Animal Fair): An annual event held in December, which is a massive market for buying and selling animals, featuring decorated horses and camels.
- Maratha Film Industry: Malegaon is home to the local Maratha Film Industry, and visiting film studios or sets can be a unique experience.
Best Time to Visit Malegaon
The ideal time to visit Malegaon and its attractions is between October and March. The weather during these months is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Tourist Attractions in Malegaon: Table of Details
| Attraction Name | Popularity (Approx. Rating/No. of Ratings) | Average Time Spent | Estimated Fees | Activities & Things to Do | Best Time to Visit | Secret Tips for Tourists/Visitors |
| Malegaon Fort | High (4.0/1.4k+) | 1 – 2 hours | Free / Nominal | Explore the fort ruins, view the confluence of the Mosam and Girna rivers, photography. | Oct – Mar (cooler months) | Wear comfortable shoes; the fort’s condition is deteriorating, so explore with caution. |
| Girna Dam | High (4.2/350+) | 2 – 3 hours | Free | Picnic, nature walks, birdwatching (especially in winter), boating (if available). | Post-Monsoon (Sep – Feb) when water levels are high. | Pack snacks/lunch as facilities might be limited. Ideal for a relaxed evening or morning. |
| Shahi Masjid | High (One of the most visited religious sites) | 30 mins – 1 hour | Free | Observe the architecture, offer prayers (respect religious customs). | Oct – Mar. Avoid peak prayer times for a peaceful visit. | Dress modestly (covering head for women); check if non-Muslim visitors are permitted inside the main prayer hall. |
| Power Loom/Textile Workshops | Moderate | 1 – 2 hours | Free (May vary for organized tours) | Witness the handloom/power loom process, see Paithani saree weaving, purchase textiles. | Oct – Mar (Industry operates year-round, but weather is comfortable). | Enquire locally for permission before visiting a workshop. Be polite and ask before taking photos of workers. |
| Statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj/Putala | High (4.5/1.3k+) | 15 – 30 mins | Free | Quick visit for photos and paying respects to the Maratha ruler. | Anytime (Daytime) | It’s a key city landmark; combine the visit with exploring the surrounding areas (local markets). |
| Malegaon Yatra (Animal Fair) | High (Annual Event) | 3 – 4 hours | Free (For entry) | Witness the large-scale animal market (horses, camels), enjoy the decorated animal performances. | Annually in December (Check exact dates). | Be prepared for crowds and dust. Go early to see the best animals and performances. |
| Gigaon/Rahud Waterfalls | Moderate | 2 – 4 hours | Free / Nominal | Enjoy the waterfall, photography, relaxing in nature. | Monsoon/Post-Monsoon (Jul – Oct) | The paths can be slippery during the monsoon. Ensure local guides/info on current water flow and safety. |
Transport Hubs for Attractions
As Malegaon is not connected by Metro and does not have a major railway station in the city, the main modes of regional transport are bus and rail via nearby stations.
| Attraction Name | Nearest Bus Stop (Local/MSRTC) | Nearest Metro Station | Nearest Railway Station |
| Malegaon Fort | Malegaon Main Bus Stand (approx. 1.5 – 2 km) | Not Applicable (No Metro) | Manmad Junction (MMR) – approx. 35 km |
| Girna Dam | Nearest village bus stop (e.g., Talwade Bus Stop) | Not Applicable (No Metro) | Manmad Junction (MMR) – approx. 35 km |
| Shahi Masjid | Malegaon Main Bus Stand (Very close, can be reached by local rickshaw) | Not Applicable (No Metro) | Manmad Junction (MMR) – approx. 35 km |
| Power Loom Areas | Local Bus Stops (in the textile areas like Golden Nagar) | Not Applicable (No Metro) | Manmad Junction (MMR) – approx. 35 km |
Image Gallery of Malegaon
