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Maharashtra Highlights: Temples, Caves, and Hill Stations

0/5
Duration

9 Nights / 10 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Experience the rich tapestry of Maharashtra’s heritage and natural beauty with our “Maharashtra Highlights: Temples, Caves, and Hill Stations” tour. Begin in vibrant Mumbai, where you’ll explore the Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, and the city’s iconic landmarks. Travel to Nashik to visit sacred temples linked to the Ramayana and historic caves. Journey to Aurangabad to marvel at the ancient Ajanta and Ellora Caves, showcasing exquisite Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art. Continue to Lonavala to explore ancient caves and fortresses amidst stunning hill station landscapes. This tour combines historical splendor with scenic tranquility for a truly memorable 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 46.2%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 45.8%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 54.4%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 54.7%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 58.7%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 58.2%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 62.5%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai

On arrival at Mumbai airport, assistance and transfer to hotel. Mumbai's vibrant lifestyle is showcased through its bustling streets and cultural landmarks. Rest time free for personal activities. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Mumbai

Breakfast at hotel. Drive along Marine Drive, the iconic waterfront boulevard, leading to the Gateway of India, an impressive archway built to commemorate King George V’s visit. Board a ferry to Elephanta Caves (Monday closed), which house a collection of ancient rock-cut temples dedicated to Hindu deities. The caves are renowned for their intricate sculptures, including the impressive Trimurti. Return to Gateway of India and continue the city tour. Pass by CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Gothic architecture, and the Parliament House, an important political landmark. Visit Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry where thousands of clothes are washed daily in communal troughs, and experience the vibrant local culture. Explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalay (formerly the Prince of Wales Museum), showcasing a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and ancient manuscripts. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Mumbai - Nashik (170kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Nashik, known as a key site in the epic Ramayana and its vineyards. Visit Panchavati Temple complex on the banks of the Godavari River, including Ram Kund, a revered bathing spot where Lord Rama is believed to have bathed. Explore Shri Kalaram Sansthan Mandir, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Rama. Nearby, visit Sita Gufaa, a series of caves associated with the legend of Sita. Visit Sundarnarayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and ISKCON Temple, known for its serene ambiance and spiritual practices. Explore Pandavleni Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back to the 1st century BC, known for their impressive chaitya halls and viharas. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Nashik - Aurangabad (170kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Aurangabad via Shirdi, a pilgrimage site dedicated to Sai Baba. Visit Samadhi Mandir, where Sai Baba's tomb and marble statue are enshrined. Explore Dwarkamai, a mosque where Sai Baba lived, and Lendi Garden, a tranquil spot with lush greenery and Sai Baba’s shrine. Arrive in Aurangabad and check in at hotel. Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the "Taj of the Deccan," built by Aurangzeb as a tribute to his wife. Explore Panchakki, an ancient water mill, which features a cascading waterfall used to power the mill and grind grain. Visit Aurangabad Caves, twelve rock-cut Buddhist caves known for their early Buddhist art and architecture. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Aurangabad

Breakfast at hotel. Excursion to Ajanta Caves (Monday closed), discovered in 1819. These caves contain mesmerizing murals and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha and his previous births. Ajanta Caves are divided into two groups: Hinayana and Mahayana, showcasing different Buddhist philosophies. The caves include Chaityas (prayer halls) and Viharas (monastic cells). Return to Aurangabad for Overnight at hotel.

Day 6: Aurangabad

Breakfast at hotel. Excursion to Ellora Caves (Tuesday closed), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 34 monasteries and temples. The complex includes Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments. Visit Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, revered for its intricate carvings and spiritual significance. Explore Daulatabad Fort, a formidable medieval fortress known for its ingenious defense mechanisms and panoramic views. Return to Aurangabad to visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, Panchakki, and Aurangabad Caves again if desired. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Aurangabad - Lonavala (290kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Lonavala, visiting Shani Temple and Shani Shingnapur Village. The village is unique for its lack of door frames, reflecting the local faith in Lord Shani's protection. Continue to Lonavala and check in at hotel. Rest time free to relax and enjoy the hill station's serene environment. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Lonavala/ Khandala

Breakfast at hotel. Visit Karla Caves and Bhaja Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves with significant historical and architectural value. Karla Caves are known for their grand chaitya hall and intricate carvings. Explore Lohagad Fort, a well-preserved hill fort offering stunning views and historical significance. Visit Bhushi Dam, known for its scenic beauty and the flowing water during the monsoon. Rest time to enjoy the hill station's cool climate and natural beauty. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Lonavala - Mumbai (85kms)

Breakfast at hotel. Drive back to Mumbai and check in at hotel. Optionally, explore Mumbai’s shopping scene at famous malls and markets such as Dadar, Fort, and Colaba Causeway. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Mumbai - Departure

Breakfast at hotel. As per flight schedule, transfer to airport for departure.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 9 Night's accommodation in 4-Star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plan.
  • 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

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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