10-Day Travel Itinerary: Varanasi to Triyambakeshwar Mandir, Grishneshwar Mandir, Bhimashankar, Ellora Caves & Goa

Day 1: Varanasi to Nashik - Arrival & Local Sightseeing

Morning: Depart early from Varanasi by flight/train to Nashik. Check in to your hotel and freshen up.

Afternoon: Visit the serene and revered Triyambakeshwar Mandir, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, surrounded by scenic hills.

Evening: Stroll along the Godavari river ghats and enjoy local eateries. Leisure walk at Nashik City Centre Mall.

Day 2: Grishneshwar Mandir & Travel to Aurangabad

Morning: Check out and depart for Aurangabad (approx. 3 hours). En route, visit the beautiful Grishneshwar Mandir, the twelfth Jyotirlinga nestled near Ellora.

Afternoon: Arrive Aurangabad, check-in, and have lunch. Visit local markets or relax at the hotel.

Evening: Explore the historical Aurangabad city, maybe visit local cafés or the Bhadra Fort area.

Day 3: Ellora Caves Exploration

Morning: Early breakfast and head to the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with magnificent rock-cut temples representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain faiths.

Afternoon: Continue exploring the extensive caves; pay special attention to the iconic Kailasa Temple.

Evening: Return to Aurangabad and unwind. Enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian dinner.

Day 4: Aurangabad to Bhimashankar

Morning: Check out early and drive to Bhimashankar (approx. 4-5 hours), home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and famous for its wildlife sanctuary.

Afternoon: Visit the Bhimashankar Mandir and take a nature walk in the nearby sanctuary if time permits.

Evening: Stay overnight in a nearby guesthouse or eco-resort and enjoy a peaceful evening amidst nature.

Day 5: Bhimashankar to Mumbai to Goa Travel

Morning: Depart Bhimashankar after breakfast and head towards Mumbai (approx. 3.5 hours). From Mumbai, catch a flight or train to Goa.

Afternoon: Arrive in Goa, check into your beachside resort and relax.

Evening: Explore the beach promenade, enjoy the sunset, and relish Goan cuisine at a beach shack.

Day 6: North Goa Beaches and Sightseeing

Morning: Visit the famous Baga Beach and Calangute Beach for watersports and relaxation.

Afternoon: Explore forts like Aguada Fort and visit vibrant markets like Anjuna Flea Market (if day matches).

Evening: Enjoy Goan nightlife in the popular clubs or beach parties in North Goa.

Day 7: South Goa & Cultural Tour

Morning: Head to Palolem Beach or Colva Beach in South Goa for a quieter beach experience.

Afternoon: Visit the Old Goa Churches: Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral to admire their architecture and history.

Evening: Relax at your resort or attend a traditional Goan music performance if available.

Day 8: Adventure and Nature Activities in Goa

Morning: Take a river cruise on the Mandovi River and spot dolphins or try kayaking.

Afternoon: Explore spice plantations around Ponda; learn about local herb cultivation and have a traditional lunch.

Evening: Return to the beach; enjoy an evening bonfire or leisure walk by the shore.

Day 9: Leisure and Local Exploration in Goa

Morning: Free time for shopping souvenirs or visiting lesser known beaches such as Butterfly Beach or Ashwem Beach.

Afternoon: Enjoy a cooking class or visit local art galleries/museums showcasing Goan culture.

Evening: Have a relaxing dinner at a seaside restaurant and pack for the return journey.

Day 10: Goa to Varanasi - Return Home

Morning: Check out and head to Goa airport for your flight back to Varanasi.

Afternoon: Travel and transit.

Evening: Arrive in Varanasi, reach home and rest after an enriching journey.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Triyambakeshwar Mandir - 2-3 hours - ₹100 (donation/entry)
• Grishneshwar Mandir - 1-2 hours - ₹50 (donation)
• Ellora Caves - 4-5 hours - ₹300 (entry ticket)
• Bhimashankar Mandir & Sanctuary - 4-5 hours - ₹200 (entry and guide fees)
• Goa Beaches and Sightseeing - Full days - ₹1000 (transport and activities)
• Travel (Flights, trains, taxis) - Approximately ₹10,000-₹15,000 (Varanasi-Nashik-Aurangabad-Mumbai-Goa-Varanasi)
• Accommodation (10 nights) - Approx. ₹12,000 - ₹20,000 (budget to mid-range hotels)
• Food and Miscellaneous - Approx. ₹5,000

Total Estimated Cost: ₹30,000 - ₹40,000

Tips

To extend your trip: Add an extra 2-3 days in Goa for diving courses or an Ayurveda spa retreat to deepen relaxation and adventure.

To reduce the trip: Skip Bhimashankar or stay fewer days in Goa, focusing on either North or South Goa to save travel time and costs.