MAHARASHTRA

6 N / 7 D

Day 1: Arrival in Mumbai – City of Dreams

• Arrive at Mumbai Airport/Railway Station.

• Visit Gateway of India & take a ferry to Elephanta Caves (UNESCO site).

• Explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST) & Marine Drive.

• Visit Hanging Gardens & Girgaon Chowpatty.

• Explore nightlife in Colaba Causeway & Bandra.

• Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Day 2: Mumbai to Lonavala – Hill Station Retreat

• Drive to Lonavala (83 km, 2 hours).

• Visit Karla & Bhaja Caves (ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves).

• Explore Tiger’s Leap & Lion’s Point for breathtaking views.

• Visit Bhushi Dam & Pawna Lake.

• Enjoy Lonavala Chikki & local street food.

• Overnight stay in Lonavala.

Day 3: Lonavala to Mahabaleshwar – Strawberry Paradise

• Drive to Mahabaleshwar (180 km, 4 hours).

• Visit Pratapgad Fort (historical fort of Shivaji Maharaj).

• Explore Venna Lake (boating & horse riding).

• Visit Elphinstone Point & Arthur’s Seat.

• Taste fresh strawberries & cream at Mapro Garden.

• Overnight stay in Mahabaleshwar.

Day 4: Mahabaleshwar to Pune – Cultural & Historical Delight

• Drive to Pune (120 km, 3 hours).

• Visit Aga Khan Palace & Shaniwar Wada (Bajirao’s fort).

• Explore Pataleshwar Caves & Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple.

• Visit Koregaon Park for cafes & nightlife.

• Overnight stay in Pune.

Day 5: Pune to Aurangabad – Gateway to History

• Drive to Aurangabad (235 km, 5-6 hours).

• Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara (mini Taj Mahal).

• Explore Panchakki Water Mill & Aurangabad Caves.

• Taste local Naan Qalia, a Mughlai dish.

• Overnight stay in Aurangabad.

Day 6: Ajanta & Ellora Caves Exploration

• Visit Ellora Caves (30 km, UNESCO site with Kailasa Temple).

• Explore Ajanta Caves (Buddhist rock-cut caves, 100 km away).

• Visit Grishneshwar Temple (Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva).

• Return to Aurangabad for an overnight stay.

Day 7: Return to Mumbai & Departure

• Drive or take a flight/train back to Mumbai (6-7 hours).

• Explore shopping at Colaba Causeway or Phoenix Mall.

• Drop at Mumbai Airport/Railway Station for departure.

Best Time to Visit Maharashtra

✅ October to March – Best for pleasant weather & sightseeing.
✅ June to September – Ideal for monsoon lovers (Lonavala & Mahabaleshwar turn lush green!).

Maharashtra, located in the western part of India, is a state known for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, rich history, and bustling cities. If you're planning a tour of Maharashtra without a fixed itinerary, here are some of the top destinations and experiences you can explore at your own pace:

Cultural and Historical Sites

1. Mumbai

   • Gateway of India: One of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks, built during the British Raj, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

   • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this railway station is a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture.

   • Elephanta Caves: A short boat ride from the city, these ancient rock-cut caves feature intricate sculptures dedicated to Hindu gods.

   • Marine Drive: A scenic promenade along the coastline, perfect for an evening stroll and sunset views.

   • Colaba Causeway: A bustling shopping street where you can experience Mumbai’s vibrant street life and pick up local handicrafts.

2. Aurangabad

   • Ellora Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora Caves is an exceptional collection of rock-cut temples and monasteries, including the famous Kailasa Temple, which is carved from a single rock.

   • Ajanta Caves: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ancient caves contain exquisite Buddhist murals and sculptures that date back to the 2nd century BC.

   • Bibi Ka Maqbara: Often referred to as the "Taj of the Deccan," this mausoleum was built by Aurangzeb's son in memory of his mother.

   • Daulatabad Fort: A massive fort that was once the capital of the Delhi Sultanate, offering impressive views and a glimpse into Maharashtra’s medieval history.

3. Nashik

   • Trimbakeshwar Temple: A significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.

   • Saptashrungi: A sacred hill with a temple dedicated to Goddess Saptashrungi, it offers a challenging but rewarding trek.

   • Nashik Vineyards: Nashik is known as the "Wine Capital of India." Explore the vineyards and enjoy wine-tasting tours.

4. Pune

   • Shaniwar Wada: A historical fortification that was once the seat of the Peshwa rulers, it offers insights into Pune’s regal past.

   • Aga Khan Palace: An architectural marvel with historical significance, as it was the place where Mahatma Gandhi and his associates were imprisoned during the freedom struggle.

   • Sinhagad Fort: A popular trekking spot with panoramic views and rich historical significance related to the Maratha empire.

5. Matheran

   • Matheran is a charming hill station near Mumbai, known for its scenic beauty, quiet atmosphere, and viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys.

   • Echo Point: A place where you can shout and hear your echo reverberate back from the hills.

Nature and Adventure

1. Alibaug

   • Known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere, Alibaug is a popular coastal retreat located near Mumbai.

   • Alibaug Beach: A serene beach ideal for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying the coastal beauty.

   • Kihim Beach: Famous for its clean, peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.

2. Tadoba National Park

   • A renowned wildlife sanctuary, Tadoba is known for its tiger sightings, along with a variety of other wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and wild boars.

   • Safari Tours: Explore the dense forests of Tadoba with a jeep safari and spot some of India’s most elusive wildlife.

3. Mahabaleshwar

   • A popular hill station in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is known for its scenic viewpoints, lush greenery, and strawberries.

   • Venna Lake: A serene lake where you can enjoy boating amidst the hills.

   • Wilson Point: The highest point in Mahabaleshwar, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills.

   • Mapro Garden: A place to taste fresh strawberry products and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.

4. Lonavala and Khandala

   • Famous hill stations known for their picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and pleasant weather.

   • Tiger’s Leap: A viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

   • Bhushi Dam: A popular spot for monsoon picnics, where you can enjoy the cool water amidst the lush green hills.

   • Pawna Lake: A serene lake, ideal for camping, boating, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Tribal Culture and Villages

1. Gadchiroli

   • Located in the tribal heartland of Maharashtra, Gadchiroli offers a chance to explore the rural lifestyle and tribal traditions.

   • Kanger Valley National Park: A biodiversity hotspot, home to many species of flora and fauna, it also provides opportunities for trekking and nature walks.

2. Sawantwadi

   • Famous for its traditional wooden toys and handicrafts, Sawantwadi offers an authentic rural experience.

   • Explore the local markets to buy intricately carved wooden toys and souvenirs.

Festivals and Events

1. Ganesh Chaturthi (August-September)

   • Celebrated with grandeur across Maharashtra, Ganesh Chaturthi is a vibrant festival with processions, music, dance, and large idols of Lord Ganesha. The festival in Mumbai is particularly famous for its massive scale.

2. Makar Sankranti (January)

   • A harvest festival celebrated with kite flying, feasts, and cultural performances. The festival marks the arrival of the harvest season and is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm, particularly in rural Maharashtra.

3. Gudi Padwa (March-April)

   • The Marathi New Year, celebrated with processions, prayers, and a variety of cultural events. Homes are decorated with "gudis" (traditional ornaments) to welcome the new year.

4. Diwali (October-November)

   • The festival of lights is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout Maharashtra, with colorful rangolis, fireworks, and traditional sweets.

Local Cuisine

1. Vada Pav

   • A popular street food in Mumbai, Vada Pav is a spicy potato fritter served in a bun, usually accompanied by chutneys and fried green chilies.

2. Pav Bhaji

   • A savory vegetable mash served with buttered pav (bread), a must-try street food in Mumbai and Pune.

3. Puran Poli

   • A traditional Maharashtrian dish made from wheat flour, stuffed with a sweet lentil filling, typically served during festivals.

4. Misal Pav

   • A spicy curry made with sprouted lentils, served with pav, and topped with farsan (crunchy snacks), popular in Pune and other parts of Maharashtra.

5. Bhel Puri and Sev Puri

   • These are popular snacks, especially in Mumbai, made with puffed rice, vegetables, and chutneys, perfect for a light, savory bite.

Best Time to Visit

• October to March: The best time to visit Maharashtra is during the cooler months when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and beach visits.

• June to September: The monsoon season transforms the landscape into a lush, green paradise, especially in hill stations, though it might cause some disruptions in travel.

Maharashtra offers a wide variety of experiences for every type of traveler—whether you're looking for historical insights, cultural experiences, wildlife adventures, or simply a relaxing beach vacation. There's something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse state.