Best Places to Visit in Ashti, Bid, Maharashtra [Updated-2025]

Best Places to Visit in Ashti, Bid, Maharashtra

Ashti is a small town in the Bid district of Maharashtra, known for its historical significance, religious sites, and natural beauty. While it may not be a major tourist destination, the surrounding region offers several interesting places to explore. Here are the best places to visit in and around Ashti, Bid:

1. Ghrishneshwar Temple (Verul)

• One of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, located near Ellora Caves.

• A major pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees.

• Distance from Ashti: ~90 km

2. Ellora Caves

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site with 34 rock-cut caves showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art.

• Famous for the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16).

• Distance from Ashti: ~90 km

3. Ajanta Caves

• Another UNESCO site with ancient Buddhist cave paintings and sculptures.

• Dates back to the 2nd century BCE.

• Distance from Ashti: ~150 km

4. Bid Fort (Bidar Fort)

• A historic fort with Bahmani and Barid Shahi architecture.

• Features palaces, mosques, and intricate carvings.

• Distance from Ashti: ~30 km

5. Ganpatipule Beach

• A serene beach with the Swayambhu Ganpati Temple.

• Perfect for relaxation and water sports.

• Distance from Ashti: ~250 km

6. Jayakwadi Dam (Nath Sagar Lake)

• One of the largest dams in Maharashtra, offering scenic views and birdwatching.

• Distance from Ashti: ~70 km

7. Pitalkhora Caves

• Ancient Buddhist caves with beautiful sculptures and paintings.

• Less crowded than Ajanta and Ellora.

• Distance from Ashti: ~120 km

8. Lenyadri Caves

• A group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves, with one dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

• Distance from Ashti: ~130 km

9. Shri Sant Gajanan Maharaj Temple (Shegaon)

• A famous temple dedicated to Sant Gajanan Maharaj.

• Known for its spiritual ambiance and beautiful gardens.

• Distance from Ashti: ~200 km

10. Anwa Temple

• A historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique architecture.

• Distance from Ashti: ~50 km

Best Time to Visit

• Winter (October-February) – Pleasant weather for sightseeing.

• Monsoon (July-September) – Lush greenery and waterfalls.

How to Reach?

• By Road: Well-connected via NH52 and state highways.

• Nearest Railway Station: Bid (~30 km) or Aurangabad (~90 km).

• Nearest Airport: Aurangabad (~90 km) or Pune (~250 km).

Things to Do

✔ Explore ancient caves (Ajanta, Ellora, Pitalkhora)
✔ Visit historic forts (Bid Fort)
✔ Pilgrimage tours (Ghrishneshwar, Ganpatipule)
✔ Nature walks (Jayakwadi Dam)

While Ashti itself is a quiet town, nearby attractions like Ellora, Ajanta, and Bid Fort make it a great base for exploring the rich history and culture of Maharashtra.