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Sacred and Scenic Maharashtra: A Tour of Jyotirlingas and Historical Gems

0/5
Duration

7 Nights / 8 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a spiritual and cultural journey with “Sacred and Scenic Maharashtra: A Tour of Jyotirlingas and Historical Gems.” This meticulously crafted tour takes you through Maharashtra’s most revered Jyotirlinga temples, including the sacred Trimbakeshwar and Bhimashankar, while exploring the rich historical tapestry of the region. Discover Mumbai’s architectural marvels, from the Elephanta Caves to the vibrant Dhobi Ghat. Experience the grandeur of Aurangabad’s Ellora Caves, the serene beauty of Grishneshwar Temple, and the imposing Daulatabad Fort. Traverse through lush landscapes and historical sites as you drive from Nashik to Bhimashankar and back to Mumbai, with scenic stops at ancient caves and majestic forts along the way. This journey promises a blend of spiritual serenity and historical intrigue, showcasing Maharashtra’s diverse heritage.

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 46.0%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 46.9%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 52.1%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 53.7%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 57.6%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 58.0%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 62.2%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai

On arrival at Mumbai airport, you will receive assistance and be transferred to your hotel. Check-in time is 12 PM, so you have some free time to relax and engage in personal activities. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2: Mumbai

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day with a visit to the Elephant Caves, located on Elephanta Island, known for their impressive rock-cut sculptures of Hindu deities, including the massive Trimurti. The caves offer a glimpse into ancient Hindu art and religion. (Note: These caves are closed on Mondays.) Continue to CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus), an architectural marvel combining Victorian Gothic and Indian styles, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a bustling railway station. Explore the Prince of Wales Museum, now the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, which houses a diverse collection of artifacts, including sculptures, weapons, and manuscripts from India’s rich history. Visit Mani Bhawan, which served as Mahatma Gandhi’s Mumbai residence and is now a museum dedicated to his life and teachings, featuring a collection of photographs, personal belongings, and historical documents. Witness the Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundromat where traditional laundry techniques are employed. The sight of rows of clothes being washed and hung to dry offers a unique and vibrant snapshot of local life. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3: Mumbai - Nashik (170kms)

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Nashik and check-in at your hotel. Visit Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its sacred significance and architectural grandeur. The temple complex features three sacred lingams representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Explore Brahmagiri Fort, situated on a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The fort has historical importance and offers a glimpse into Nashik's past. Visit Gangadwar, a sacred site near the Trimbakeshwar Temple where the Godavari River is believed to have originated. The serene surroundings make it a tranquil place for reflection and worship. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4: Nashik - Aurangabad (170kms)

Breakfast at the hotel before visiting the Panchavati Temple Complex. This complex includes several important temples like Kalaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and the Saptashrungi Devi Temple, both renowned pilgrimage sites. Explore Ram Kund, a holy water tank associated with the epic Ramayana, where pilgrims come to bathe and perform rituals. Visit Sita Gufaa, a cave believed to be where Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, stayed during her exile, providing a spiritual and historical connection to the epic. Drive to Aurangabad, with a stop at Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, a major pilgrimage site dedicated to Sai Baba, who is venerated for his teachings of love and compassion. Arrive in Aurangabad and check-in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5: Aurangabad

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Explore the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 34 rock-cut caves representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions. The caves, dating from 600 to 1000 AD, include elaborate temples and monasteries carved from volcanic rock. Visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, an important pilgrimage site with intricately carved stonework, renowned for its sacredness and historical significance. Discover Daulatabad Fort, a massive and imposing fortress known for its formidable defenses and strategic importance throughout history. Visit Bibi ka Maqbara, an elegant mausoleum built by Aurangzeb’s son, which resembles the Taj Mahal and is often referred to as the "Taj of the Deccan." Explore Panchakki, a historical water mill that used innovative medieval engineering to grind grain, and showcases the engineering skills of the period. Visit Aurangabad Caves, a set of rock-cut Buddhist caves featuring ancient sculptures and relics that reflect the artistic and religious heritage of the region. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6: Aurangabad - Bhimashankar (280kms)

Breakfast at the hotel before driving to Bhimashankar and checking in at your hotel. Visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple, nestled in the Sahyadri Hills, known for its Naga-style architecture dating back to the 13th century. The temple’s serene environment and intricate carvings offer a peaceful and spiritual experience. Optionally, explore Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the endangered Indian Giant Squirrel. Enjoy a trek through lush forests and observe a variety of animal and bird species in their natural habitat. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 7: Bhimashankar - Mumbai (200kms)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Mumbai, with stops to visit the Karla Caves, an ancient Buddhist complex featuring chaitya halls and viharas with elaborate carvings and stupas dating back to 160 BC. Explore Bhaja Caves, another set of ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves with impressive architecture, including a large stupa and monastic cells. Visit Lohagad Fort, a historic fortification with impressive fortifications and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for hiking and history enthusiasts. Discover Bhushi Dam, a popular spot near Lonavala known for its cascading water and picturesque surroundings, providing a great place for relaxation and picnicking. Continue your drive to Mumbai and check-in at your hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8: Mumbai - Departure

Breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport according to your flight schedule for your onward journey.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 7 Nights' 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.
  • Monument 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 7 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Mumbai x 2 nights: Fariyas Hotel/ The Gordon House
Nashik x 1 night: Regenta Resort Soma Village/ Hotel Express Inn
Aurangabad x 2 nights: Lemon Tree Hotel
Bhimashankar x 1 night: Neelam Hills Resort/ Blue Mormon Jungle Holiday Resort
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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