Introduction
The Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) is one of the best courses you can choose to build a career in natural healing or Ayurveda. It's a popular undergraduate program in India that blends ancient medical knowledge with modern medical techniques. Maharashtra, known for its educational excellence, is home to some of the country’s top BAMS colleges. These institutions stand out for their well-equipped campuses, knowledgeable faculty, hospital tie-ups, and a strong focus on hands-on learning.
In this blog, we’ll take you through the Top BAMS colleges in Maharashtra, what makes each of them special, how the admission process works, what you’ll learn during the course, and why studying Ayurveda here could be a great step toward a fulfilling medical career.
Overview of BAMS
BAMS, or Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, is an undergraduate course that offers an in-depth understanding of Ayurveda—one of the world’s oldest systems of natural healing, developed right here in India. This program blends the knowledge of traditional Ayurvedic practices with elements of modern medicine, giving students a solid foundation in subjects like anatomy, physiology, herbal medicine, pharmacology, and pathology.
One of the big advantages of BAMS is that it’s more affordable than MBBS and other mainstream medical courses, making it a great choice for students who are passionate about medicine but looking for a more budget-friendly path. After graduating, Ayurvedic practitioners can choose whether to use modern medical techniques, stick to traditional practices, or create a balanced blend of both to treat their patients.
Overall, BAMS offers not just a career, but a chance to be part of a healthcare system that focuses on healing from the root and supporting the body’s natural ability to recover.
Top BAMS Colleges in Maharashtra
If you're considering a career in Ayurveda and want the best start possible, choosing the right college is key—Maharashtra is home to some of the top BAMS colleges in the country, known for their culture, quality education, and hands-on clinical training. Some of them are mentioned below:
- Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Pune
Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya was established in 1933, is one of the oldest and respected Ayurvedic colleges in India. Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya is affiliated with the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) and is recognised by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) and the Ministry of AYUSH, the college has a great legacy in Ayurvedic education.
The hospital attached with campus is renowned Seth Tarachand Ramnath Charitable Ayurvedic Hospital, which makes sure that students gain hands-on experience with a diverse patient base. The institution not only offers undergraduate BAMS programs but also provides postgraduate and doctoral courses, making it a hub for advanced Ayurvedic studies.
Why Choose:
Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya is known for its academic structure and research-oriented approach. The clinical facilities provide practical training in real-time settings, essential for Ayurveda practitioners.
- Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, College of Ayurved, Pune
Established in 1990, Bharati Vidyapeeth College of Ayurved is affiliated with Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University and recognized by the CCIM. The college holds a prestigious NAAC 'A+' accreditation, reflecting its high academic standards.
Known for its modern infrastructure, digital classrooms, and well-equipped laboratories, it offers students a friendly learning environment. The college is attached to a 200+ bedded Ayurvedic hospital, providing satisfactory clinical exposure, and is actively involved in both national and international Ayurvedic research initiatives.
Why Choose:
Students get benefit from a blend of traditional Ayurveda with modern medical education, global exposure, and excellent placement opportunities.
- R. A. Podar Ayurved Medical College, Mumbai
Established in 1941, R.A. Podar Ayurved Medical College is one of Maharashtra’s top government-run institutions, affiliated with MUHS and recognized by the CCIM. Known for its strong academic reputation, the college offers both undergraduate (BAMS) and postgraduate programs.
It’s attached to the well-known Podar Hospital, which sees a high number of patients daily, giving students excellent clinical exposure. The college is also deeply involved in Ayurvedic research, making it a great choice for those looking to combine traditional knowledge with modern medical science.
Why Choose:
Podar College is ideal for students who aim for government colleges with minimal fees and excellent education and clinical facilities.
- Govt. Ayurved College, Nanded
Established in 1956, Government Ayurved College, Nanded is a well-regarded government institution affiliated with MUHS and recognized by the CCIM. Known for its affordable fees, it offers both BAMS and MD programs in various Ayurvedic specialties.
With a dedicated faculty and a well-equipped hospital on campus, students receive quality education along with solid practical training, making it a great option for those seeking a strong academic foundation in Ayurveda without the high cost.
Why Choose:
Perfect for students aiming for a quality education in Ayurveda under a low budget without compromising academic excellence.
- Shree Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Nagpur
Established in 1956, Shree Ayurved Mahavidyalaya in Nagpur is the oldest Ayurvedic college in the Vidarbha region, affiliated with MUHS and recognized by the CCIM. The college offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Ayurveda, combining traditional teachings with a modern learning environment.
With well-developed infrastructure, dedicated faculty, and beautifully maintained herbal gardens, students get plenty of hands-on learning opportunities, making it an ideal place for those passionate about natural healing and Ayurvedic science.
Why Choose:
Known for its culture and modern teaching methodology, the college is a blend of tradition and innovation.
- Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Ayurved and Research Centre, Pune
Established in 1999, Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Ayurved and Research Centre is part of the prestigious Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed University) and is recognized by the CCIM with NAAC accreditation. The college stands out for its modern Ayurvedic hospital, advanced research facilities, and a strong focus on clinical training.
It actively promotes international collaborations and provides students with well-structured internship programs and good placement opportunities. For those looking to study Ayurveda with a global outlook and hands-on experience, this college is a solid choice.
Why Choose:
Ideal for students looking for a private institute with modern infrastructure and a strong focus on global Ayurveda practices.
Admission Process for BAMS in Maharashtra
If you're planning to pursue a BAMS course in Maharashtra, the admission process is pretty straightforward. You'll need to clear a relevant entrance exam, meet the basic eligibility requirements, and then go through the centralized counselling process organized by the state authorities to secure a seat in one of the colleges.
- Appear for NEET-UG:
National Eligibility cum Entrance Test is mandatory for admission to BAMS courses.
- Maharashtra State Counselling:
- Conducted by the State CET Cell, Directorate of AYUSH Maharashtra.
- Candidates must register, upload documents, and choose preferred colleges.
- Merit List and Seat Allotment:
Based on NEET score, category, and preferences.
- Reporting and Document Verification:
After seat allotment, candidates must report to the assigned college.
BAMS Course Curriculum in Maharashtra
The BAMS course in Maharashtra is designed to give students the best of both medical worlds—combining knowledge of Ayurveda with the fundamentals of modern medicine. It offers a well-rounded education that helps future practitioners understand and treat health issues using both traditional and modern approaches.
| Year | Subjects / Training Areas |
| First Year (1.5 Years) | - Sanskrit - Ayurved Itihas - Padartha Vigyan - Kriya Sharir - Rachana Sharir |
| Second Year (1.5 Years) | - Dravyaguna Vigyan - Rasashastra - Agadtantra - Charak Samhita (Purvardha) |
| Third Year (1 Year) | - Kayachikitsa - Shalya Tantra - Shalakya Tantra - Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga - Panchakarma |
| Internship (1 Year) | - Hospital rotations - Community healthcare - Clinical training in Ayurveda disciplines |
Research and Innovations in Maharashtra’s Ayurveda Sector
Many of the top BAMS colleges in Maharashtra are actively involved in Ayurvedic research, often backed by the Ministry of AYUSH and leading Ayurvedic pharma companies. There’s a growing interest in areas like medicinal plants, herbal drug formulations, and Ayurvedic treatments for specific diseases. Colleges like Bharati Vidyapeeth and Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya regularly host national and international seminars, workshops, and contribute research papers to respected journals, helping students and faculty to stay connected with the latest developments in the field.
Tips for Selecting the Best BAMS College
Selecting the right BAMS college is a crucial step in shaping a successful Ayurvedic career, Here are some tips that helps student to select the Best BAMS College for them:
- Check Affiliation & Recognition:
- Must be affiliated with MUHS or a recognized Deemed University.
- Approved by CCIM and AYUSH Ministry.
- Hospital Facilities:
A good patient inflow is crucial for practical experience.
- Faculty & Research Opportunities:
- Qualified faculty ensures great education.
- Colleges with research departments offer more growth.
- Infrastructure & Hostel Facilities:
Library, labs, herbal garden, and hostel are essential.
- Location:
Urban centres like Pune and Mumbai offer better exposure and opportunities.
Comparison Table of Top BAMS Colleges
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a quick comparison table of some of the top BAMS colleges in Maharashtra:
| College Name | Location | Type | Estd. | Hospital Facility | Avg. Fees (INR) |
| Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya | Pune | Govt. | 1933 | Excellent | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| R.A. Podar Ayurved College | Mumbai | Govt. | 1941 | Excellent | 30,000 – 40,000 |
| Bharati Vidyapeeth College | Pune | Private (Deemed) | 1990 | Very Good | 2.5 – 3 LPA |
| Dr. D.Y. Patil College | Pune | Private (Deemed) | 1999 | Excellent | 2.5 – 3 LPA |
| Govt. Ayurved College | Nanded | Govt. | 1956 | Good | 25,000 – 40,000 |
| Shree Ayurved Mahavidyalaya | Nagpur | Private | 1956 | Very Good | 1 – 2 LPA |
Conclusion
Maharashtra offers some of the best BAMS colleges in India, where traditional Ayurvedic knowledge is blended with modern education and research. Whether you’re leaning toward an affordable government college or a private institute with top-notch facilities, there’s something here for every future Ayurvedic doctor.
Picking the right college is a big step, not just for your studies, but for your entire career. So, take your time to think about what matters most to you, like the location, quality of faculty, hospital exposure, and of course, your budget and career goals before making your decision.
