PILGRIMAGE TOUR OF CENTRAL INDIA
11 Days – 10 Nights
Mumbai – Lonavala – Khandala – Matheran – Nashik – Shirdi – Aurangabad – Ellora Caves Excursion – Ajanta Caves Excursion – Mumbai
PILGRIMAGE TOUR OF CENTRAL INDIA
Day 1: Arrival in Mumbai
Upon your arrival in Mumbai, you will be greeted and assisted with the transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Exploring Mumbai
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a sightseeing journey. Commence by visiting the Gateway of India, and then take a motorboat to reach the renowned Elephanta Caves, which house a magnificent triple-headed Shiva idol. Your exploration continues with visits to the Hanging Gardens, Prince of Wales Museum, Parliament House, Jain Temple, and Marine Drive. Spend the night in Mumbai.
Day 3: Mumbai to Lonavala (85 kms / 2 hrs)
Following breakfast, set out towards the charming hill station of Lonavala, a sought-after destination in Maharashtra. Known for its lush valleys, hills, milky waterfalls, and cool breezes, Lonavala is a place of serene beauty. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy leisure activities. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the Karla and Bhaja Caves. Overnight stay in Lonavala.
Day 4: Lonavala to Khandala (10 kms / 0.15 hrs)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a short drive to Khandala. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. Khandala, with its breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil environment, offers a perfect escape from everyday stress. Spend the day exploring the Bhushi Dam and relishing the refreshing ambiance of Khandala. Spend the night at your hotel.
Day 5: Khandala to Matheran (60 kms / 1.5 hrs)
After breakfast, proceed to the hill station of Matheran. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. Positioned at an average altitude of 800 meters above sea level in the Western Ghats, Matheran is India’s smallest hill station. The day is yours to explore the area and visit points of interest such as Porcupine Point, Panorama Point, Echo Point, and more. Engage in activities like trekking and hiking. Overnight stay in Matheran.
Day 6: Matheran to Nashik (170 kms / 4 hrs)
Following breakfast, drive to Nashik and check in to your hotel upon arrival. Nashik, located on the banks of the Godavari River, is known for its sacred ghats, temples, and as one of the locations for the Kumbh Mela. Visit the Sunder Narayan Temple, Sita Gupta Caves, and Trimbakeshwar Temple. Overnight stay in Nashik.
Day 07: Nashik to Shirdi Sai Temple (90 kms / 2 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to the holy town of Shirdi, famous for its connection to Shri Sai Baba. Check in to your hotel and pay a visit to the revered Sai Baba temple. Shirdi attracts both devotees and tourists seeking the blessings of Shri Sai Baba. Overnight stay in Shirdi.
Day 8: Shirdi to Aurangabad (110 kms / 3 hrs)
After breakfast, travel to Aurangabad and check in to your hotel. Embark on a city tour, exploring attractions like the Daulatabad Fort, Deogiri Fortress, and the Bibi ka Maqbara, reminiscent of the Taj Mahal. Discover the Panchakki water mill as well. Spend the night in Aurangabad.
Day 9: Aurangabad – Ellora Caves Excursion (30 kms / 1 hr one way)
Enjoy breakfast before embarking on an excursion to the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves, constructed between the 6th and 11th centuries, showcase Buddhist, Brahmanical, and Jain artwork. Explore the Viharas, Kailasa Temple, and Buddhist Vishvakarma Chaitya. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 10: Aurangabad – Ajanta Caves Excursion (90 kms / 2 hrs one way)
After breakfast, embark on an excursion to the Ajanta Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves, dating back to the 2nd to 6th centuries, boast intricate sculptures and paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha. Situated in the Sahyadri hills, they offer a captivating cultural experience. Return to Aurangabad for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Aurangabad to Mumbai (by flight) – Departure
Transfer to the airport in time for your flight to Mumbai, where you will then connect to your onward international journey.