Dhule, previously known as Dhulia, is a city in the northwest of Maharashtra state in western India. It’s located on higher ground with major roads and railways passing through.

In the past, it was under the rule of the Faruqui dynasty during early Muslim times. Later, in 1601, it became part of the Mughal Empire. The Marathas took control in the 18th century and in 1818, it was handed over to the British and became part of the Bombay Presidency. From being mainly a center for agriculture and trade, Dhule transformed into a growing industrial city with a cotton textile mill and smaller industries like cotton ginning, cigarette making, and oil processing. It’s home to several colleges linked to Kavayitri Bahinabai Chaudhari North Maharashtra University in Jalgaon.

Dhule is in the Old West Khandesh district and is situated near the Satpuda hill range. The Sahyadri mountain range has also reached the western side of the district, with the Galna mountains nearby. Rivers like Tapi, Panzara, Kan, Arunavati, Amravati, Aner, Evil, and Sandy flow through the district. The division of Dhule district in 1998 led to the creation of Nandurbar District.

While in Dhule, you can choose state-run buses, minibuses, or auto-rickshaws for city travel. Private cars are also available for hire, making transportation easy.

Despite being in ruins, the Lalinga Fort stands as an important landmark. Perched on a hill, it offers spectacular views and reveals the city’s history. The fort is believed to have been built by Malik Raja Faruqui around the 14th or 15th century.

Dhule also boasts two notable temples: the Ekvira Mata Temple by the Panjhara River, which hosts an annual fair during Shivaratri, and the Shri Samartha Vagdevta Mandir, which also serves as a museum with historic manuscripts and letters.

In terms of accommodation, Dhule has two hotels, including popular ones like Hotel Uday Palace and Hotel Krishnai.