With a history that dates back to 8th century AD, Latur is a city that offers many sites and historical tidbits to the discerning and curious tourist. Today a part of the Marathwada region of Maharashtra, as recently as post independence Latur belonged to the state of Hyderabad under the Nizams. In fact, many rulers have ruled Latur including the Sakas, the Delhi Sultans and the Mughals, to name just a few. Influences of these kingdoms are still found in traces here and there, strewn across this historic city.
Though agriculture and manufacturing are the mainstays of Latur, tourism is a big hit here too. Walk around the ancient city and you’ll know why. Age-old, crumbling temples usher you in with the ring of puja bells and the temptation of the prasad; historically carved caves invite you to a peek into the happenings of centuries gone by, intact for you to experience today; and strong forts that bear battle scars tell tales of brave wars fought, won and lost. It’s the spirit of those long gone that keep this city alive.
The Khaorsa Caves are the most famous tourist destination in Latur so you shouldn’t miss out on it. These caves were believed to have been built in the 6th century during the rule of the Gupta dynasty and have beautiful sculptures of Narasimha, Ravaan, Lord Shiva and Parvati, and are of strong cultural and religious significance to the city.
Check out the many forts next, such as the Udgir and Ausa forts, which still stand tall today, and bear inscriptions of past rulers and warfare. Located on a small hill offering lovely views of the surroundings is the Hattibet-Devarjan, also famous for its ancient cave carvings. Temples and religious spots dot the town, and with their beautiful, traditional architecture and rituals, are definitely worth a visit.
State-run and private buses ply through various routes in the city. Auto-rickshaws are also common and more convenient to travel. You can hire a taxi or a private car to roam about at leisure as well.
You can reach Latur through train.Laturis one of the most popular train stations in Latur.On an average about 19 trains pass through Latur on a daily basis.Kurduvadi to Latur, Barshi to Latur, Osmanabad to Laturare some of the most popular routes to Latur with 36, 29, 29 trains weekly respectively.
By road Latur is surrounded by Osmanabad, Basavakalyan, Bhalki which are 38.02 km, 45.52 km, 49.65 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.
Latur has a total of 4 hotels.There are 4 hotels in Latur with the popular ones being Carnival Resort, Hotel Aroma, VITS Grand Latur etc.