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Historic Treasures & Scenic Escapes: A Maharashtra Journey

0/5
Duration

9 Nights / 10 Days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on the Historic Treasures & Scenic Escapes: A Maharashtra Journey, a captivating exploration of Maharashtra’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Begin your adventure in vibrant Mumbai, where you’ll witness iconic landmarks such as Marine Drive, Gateway of India, and the Elephanta Caves. Journey through Nasik to uncover ancient temples and sacred sites before moving on to Aurangabad, home to the stunning Ajanta and Ellora Caves, and the elegant Bibi ka Maqbara. Experience the unique Shani Shingnapur village and the lush landscapes of Lonavala, including Karla and Bhaja Caves and the historic Lohagad Fort. This tour seamlessly blends historical marvels with scenic retreats, offering a diverse and immersive travel experience.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 %
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 %
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 %
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 %
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 %
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 %
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 %

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai

On arrival at Mumbai airport, meet with our office executive for assistance and transfer to your hotel. Mumbai is known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, and impressive architecture. Rest of the day is free for personal activities. Explore local markets like Colaba Causeway, known for its eclectic shops, or visit Marine Drive for a sunset view. Dine at renowned restaurants or take a leisurely stroll through the city. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Mumbai

Breakfast at the hotel. Start with a drive along Marine Drive, a picturesque boulevard that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and is known as the "Queen’s Necklace" for its illuminated night view. Visit the Gateway of India, a historic arch monument overlooking the waterfront, and board a ferry to Elephanta Caves. The caves are located on an island and house ancient Hindu rock-cut temples with impressive carvings of deities. Return to the Gateway of India and continue your city tour. Drive past Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), an architectural marvel with Victorian Gothic design and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Parliament House, the seat of India’s government, from the outside. Visit Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry where clothes are washed in traditional ways. Explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalay (formerly the Prince of Wales Museum), which features ancient artifacts, artwork, and sculptures from India’s rich history. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3: Mumbai - Nashik (170kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Nashik, known for its religious significance and association with the epic Ramayana. Check in at your hotel upon arrival. Visit the Panchavati Temple complex, which includes Ram Kund, a sacred tank where Lord Rama is believed to have bathed. Explore Shri Kalaram Sansthan Mandir, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Rama, and Sita Gufaa, caves linked to Sita’s exile. Discover the Sundarnarayan Temple, known for its intricate carvings and historical importance. Visit the ISKCON Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, and the Pandavleni Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves with significant archaeological value. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4: Nashik - Aurangabad (170kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Aurangabad, with a stop at Shirdi to visit the Samadhi Mandir, an important pilgrimage site for Sai Baba followers, featuring an ornate marble statue and his tomb. Explore Dwarkamai Mosque, where Sai Baba lived, and Lendi Garden, a serene place with lush greenery. Arrive in Aurangabad and check in at your hotel. Visit Bibi ka Maqbara, a white marble mausoleum built by Aurangzeb’s son as a tribute to his mother, often referred to as the "Taj of the Deccan" due to its architectural resemblance. Explore Panchakki, an ancient water mill with an artificial waterfall used to grind grain for pilgrims. Visit Aurangabad Caves, a group of twelve rock-cut Buddhist caves known for their ancient carvings and inscriptions. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5: Aurangabad

Breakfast at the hotel. Excursion to Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Buddhist rock-cut temples and stunning murals depicting the life of Buddha. The caves date from around 200 BC to 650 AD and include Chaityas (prayer halls) and Viharas (monasteries). The Ajanta Caves are divided into Hinayana and Mahayana categories, showcasing different Buddhist traditions through intricate sculptures and paintings. Return to Aurangabad for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Aurangabad

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Ellora Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 34 monasteries and temples representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. These caves include intricate rock-cut temples and elaborate sculptures. Explore Grishneshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Ellora. Visit Daulatabad Fort, a formidable medieval fortress with panoramic views and a complex history. Return to Aurangabad and revisit Bibi ka Maqbara, Panchakki, and Aurangabad Caves if desired. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 7: Aurangabad - Lonavala (290kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Lonavala, stopping en route to visit Shani Temple and Shani Shingnapur Village, renowned for its unique practice of having no doors or locks on homes due to local beliefs in divine protection. Arrive in Lonavala and check in at your hotel. Enjoy leisure time to explore the scenic hill station, known for its lush landscapes and pleasant weather. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8: Lonavala/ Khandala

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Karla Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut shrines dating back to around 160 BC, featuring a grand prayer hall and intricate carvings. The caves include a large stupa and significant sculptures. Explore Bhaja Caves, another set of Buddhist caves with impressive architectural features and a prominent stupa. Visit Lohagad Fort, a historical hill fortress with four gates and commanding views of the surrounding landscape. Check out Bhushi Dam, where water cascades over steps during the rainy season, creating a picturesque setting. Enjoy leisure time in Lonavala to relax and explore. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9: Lonavala - Mumbai (85kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Mumbai and check in at your hotel. Optional shopping tour includes visiting famous malls and markets such as Dadar, Fort, and Colaba Causeway for local products and souvenirs. Enjoy additional exploration or shopping based on your preferences. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 10: Mumbai - Departure

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Mumbai airport as per your flight schedule for your onward journey.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 9 Nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plane.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monuments entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Any flight tickets.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 9 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Mumbai x 2 nights: Fariyas Hotel/ The Gordon House
Nasik x 1 night: Regenta Resort Soma Village/ Hotel Express Inn
Aurangabad x 3 nights: Lemon Tree Hotel
Lonavala x 2 nights: The Fern/ Resort by Meritas
Mumbai x 1 night: Fariyas Hotel/ The Gordon House

How many person will be in the group ?

There could be upto 10 people in the group.

Does this tour include airport pick ?

Yes, you can arrive on any flight and private airport transfer will be provided.

How do travelers meet the group ?

On first day of sightseeing all group member will assemble in hotel lobby and there will be first introduction with group member.

What category of hotel accommodation will be provided ?

4star below mention or similar hotels accommodation is included in the tour.
Hotels used or similar for 9 nights accommodation

Mumbai x 3 nights
4* - Sun-N-Sand Hotel/ Fariyas Hotel

Nashik x 1 nights
4* - Express Inn/ Hi 5 Hotel

Aurangabad x 3 nights
4* - Ambassador Ajanta / VITS Hotel

Lonavala x 2 nights
4* - Countryside - Resort by Meritas/ Citrus Hotel

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Yes, travelers can upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels by paying the supplement. Please send inquiry for same from the booking page to get the price quote.

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