Mumbai & Three Jyotirlinga Temples in Maharashtra

Day 1 Arrive Mumbai

1. 1

   Mumbai

   4 hours

   Upon landing at Mumbai's international airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and assist with your smooth transfer to the hotel. Check-in at the hotel, relax, and freshen up after your journey. Please note that the standard hotel check-in time is 2:00 PM. Enjoy some leisure time to unwind and acclimate to the vibrant atmosphere of Mumbai. Later in the evening, you may explore the bustling streets of the city or opt for a relaxing dinner at one of Mumbai's renowned restaurants, immersing yourself in the culinary delights of this cosmopolitan metropolis.

Day 2 Mumbai

1. 1

   Elephanta Caves

   5 hours Admission ticket included

   After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, set out for a memorable excursion to the Elephanta Caves, located on Elephanta Island in the Arabian Sea.
   Board a ferry at the iconic Gateway of India for a picturesque ride to the island, offering stunning views of the Mumbai skyline and the Arabian Sea.
   Explore the ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries. Marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu mythology and legend.

2. 2

   Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

   2 hours Admission ticket included

   Upon returning to Mumbai, continue your city tour with a visit to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, a museum showcasing a vast collection of art and historical artifacts.

3. 3

   Kala Ghoda

   1 hour

   Continue your city tour with a visit to the vibrant Kala Ghoda neighborhood. Explore its charming lanes adorned with art galleries, cafes, and boutiques, showcasing Mumbai's thriving cultural scene.

4. 4

   1 hour

   Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive, known as "The Queen's Necklace" due to its dazzling lights resembling a string of pearls, before visiting the Hanging Gardens at Malabar Hill for panoramic views of the city.

Day 3 Mumbai – Nashik (170kms/ 4hrs)

1. 1

   Nashik

   6 hours

   Bid farewell to Mumbai after breakfast as you embark on a scenic drive to Nashik, a city steeped in spirituality and history.

2. 2

   Shri Trimbakeshwar Temple

   2 hours

   Upon arrival in Nashik, complete your check-in at the hotel and freshen up before setting out to explore the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlingas Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
   Marvel at the temple's captivating architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance as you observe the sacred rituals being performed.

3. 3

   Nashik

   2 min

   Continue your spiritual journey with a visit to the Panchvati temples complex, including the Kalaram Temple and Sita Gufa, steeped in mythological significance.
   Conclude your day with a visit to the ancient rock-cut caves of Pandavleni, adorned with Buddhist sculptures and inscriptions, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and heritage.

4. 4

   2 hours Admission ticket included

   Conclude your day with a visit to another esteemed winery, where you can sample a variety of locally produced wines and gain insight into Nashik's flourishing wine culture.
   Return to your hotel in Nashik, where you can relax and unwind after a day filled with spiritual enlightenment and culinary indulgence.

Day 4 Nashik – Aurangabad (170kms/ 4hrs)

1. 1

   Nashik

   5 hours

   Continue your journey to Aurangabad with a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora Caves, renowned for its rock-cut shrines, temples, and monasteries representing multiple faiths.

2. 2

   Ellora Caves

   3 hours Admission ticket included

   Explore the architectural marvels of Ellora, including the Kailasa Temple, the largest monolithic structure in the world, and marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures.

3. 3

   Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

   1 hour

   Visit the Grishneshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, before proceeding to the imposing Daulatabad Fort.

4. 4

   Daulatabad Fort

   1 hour Admission ticket included

   Ascend to the summit of Daulatabad Fort and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, while learning about its fascinating history and strategic significance.

5. 5

   Aurangabad

   1 hour

   After a day filled with exploration, check in at your hotel in Aurangabad and unwind with a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 5 Aurangabad - Ajanta Caves - City Tour (100kms/ 2hrs approx. one way)

1. 1

   Ajanta Caves

   6 hours Admission ticket included

   After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to the Ajanta Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient Buddhist cave temples and exquisite murals.
   Explore the intricately carved caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE, depicting the life of Buddha and his teachings.

2. 2

   Bibi Ka Maqbara

   1 hour Admission ticket included

   Return to Aurangabad in the afternoon and embark on a city tour, visiting the Bibi Ka Maqbara, a mausoleum often referred to as the "Mini Taj Mahal."

3. 3

   Aurangabad Caves

   1 hour Admission ticket included

   Explore the ancient Aurangabad Caves, showcasing rock-cut Buddhist temples and monasteries.

4. 4

   Aurangabad

   2 hours

   Later city tour of Aurangabad visit Bibi ka Maqbara Built by Azam Shah in 1678, the Bibi ka Maqbara is a son's loving tribute to his mother. Due to its similar design standing spectacularly on the lawns of the landscaped garden with ponds, fountains and water channels, the white marbled monument is popularly known as the mini Taj of the Deccan.

5. 5

   Panchakki (Water Mill)

   20 min Admission ticket included

   Conclude the day with a visit to Panchakki, a 17th-century water mill and garden complex.

Day 6 Aurangabad – Bhimashankar (280kms/ 6hrs approx)

1. 1

   Bhimashankar Temple

   1 hour

   Check out from the hotel after breakfast and drive to Bhimashankar, a serene town nestled in the Sahyadri Hills.
   Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and freshen up.

2. 2

   Bhimashankar

   4 hours

   Visit the Bhimashankar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, and marvel at its architectural beauty.
   Optionally, explore the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various species of flora and fauna.
   Spend the day in devotion or nature exploration, as you prefer, and relax amidst the tranquil surroundings.
   Return to your hotel in Bhimashankar for an overnight stay.

Day 7 Bhimashankar – Lonavala - Mumbai (200kms/ 5hrs approx)

1. 1

   2 hours

   After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive back to Mumbai.

2. 2

   Karla Caves

   4 hours Admission ticket included

   En route, visit the Karla Caves and Bhaja Caves, ancient Buddhist rock-cut cave complexes showcasing intricate sculptures and carvings.
   Explore the beauty and history of these caves and learn about Buddhist philosophy.

3. 3

   Mumbai

   Continue your journey to Mumbai and check in at your hotel upon arrival.
   Spend the evening at leisure, exploring the bustling markets or indulging in some last-minute shopping.

Day 8 Mumbai – Departure (flight)

1. 1

   Mumbai

   2 hours

   After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Mumbai's international airport for your onward journey.