6-Day Maharashtra Cultural and Nature Exploration Itinerary

Day 1: Mumbai City Tour

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Table

Start your day with a contemporary breakfast at The Table, known for its global cuisine and fresh ingredients in Colaba. It opens at 8:00 AM, perfect to energize for the day.

INR1000, 1h

9:30am

Gateway of India

Visit the iconic Gateway of India, a historic monument on the waterfront in South Mumbai that offers beautiful views of the Arabian Sea. Open 24 hours, good for morning photos and sightseeing.

Free, 1h

10:45am

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum)

Explore this museum’s extensive collection of art, archaeology, and natural history housed in a striking Indo-Saracenic building. Open from 10:15 AM to 5:00 PM.

INR85, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Britannia & Co.

Enjoy classic Parsi dishes at this legendary Irani cafe in Mumbai’s Fort area, renowned for its berry pulao and mutton dish. Open till 3:30 PM.

INR500, 1h

2:00pm

Marine Drive Walk

Take a leisurely walk along Marine Drive, also called the Queen’s Necklace for its string of lights at night. Ideal for people-watching and ocean breeze.

Free, 1h

3:30pm

Colaba Causeway Shopping

Explore street shopping at Colaba Causeway for souvenirs, clothes, and jewelry. Shops usually open till 9:00 PM.

Varies, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Trishna

Dine on exquisite seafood at Trishna, famous for its crab preparations and authentic Malvani flavors. Open till 11:30 PM.

INR1500, 1h30m

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Day 2: Elephanta Island Excursion

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India on July 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Excelsior

Enjoy a quick but hearty breakfast at Café Excelsior located near the Gateway of India, serving traditional Indian and continental dishes. Opens at 7:00 AM.

INR400, 45m

8:30am

Ferry to Elephanta Island

Take the ferry from Gateway of India to Elephanta Island to see the UNESCO World Heritage rock-cut caves depicting Hindu deities. Ferry timings start from 9:00 AM, returns by 4:00 PM.

INR210, 1h30m

10:00am

Elephanta Caves Tour

Explore the fascinating rock-cut sculptures in the Elephanta Caves, primarily devoted to Lord Shiva, showcasing remarkable ancient Indian art. The site closes at 5:30 PM.

INR40, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch Picnic on Elephanta Island

Pack or buy snacks for a light picnic on the island’s serene spots under shade, enjoying views of the sea and Mumbai skyline.

INR300, 1h

2:00pm

Return Ferry to Mumbai

Catch the ferry back to Mumbai by late afternoon, heading towards Pune afterwards.

INR210, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check-in and Relax at Pune Hotel

After the journey, check into your hotel in Pune and relax for the evening.

Varies, Rest

7:30pm

Dinner at Vaishali Restaurant

Savor classic Maharashtrian dishes and snacks like Misal Pav at the iconic Vaishali on Fergusson College Road, open till 11:00 PM.

INR600, 1h

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Day 3: Pune Cultural Highlights

Pune, Maharashtra, India on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at German Bakery

Start with fresh baked goods and hearty breakfast options at the popular German Bakery in Pune, open from 8:00 AM onwards.

INR500, 1h

9:30am

Aga Khan Palace

Visit this historical palace known for its role in the Indian freedom movement and beautiful gardens. Open 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

INR25, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Shabree

Enjoy authentic Maharashtrian thali cuisine at Shabree on FC Road, open 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM.

INR700, 1h

1:30pm

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

Explore a fascinating private collection of Indian artifacts showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage. Open 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

INR50, 1h30m

3:30pm

Osho Ashram Visit

Visit the Osho International Meditation Resort for a spiritual experience or a relaxing walk in the serene park. Open all day.

INR200, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Malaka Spice

Have a delicious dinner of Southeast Asian cuisines in a cozy ambiance, open till 11:00 PM.

INR1200, 1h30m

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Day 4: Lonavala & Khandala Nature Escape

Lonavala & Khandala, Maharashtra, India on July 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel in Pune

Freshen up and have a wholesome hotel breakfast before departing for the hill stations.

Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Lonavala

Travel approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to the scenic hill station of Lonavala, famous for its pleasant climate and natural beauty.

Transport Cost, 2h

11:00am

Visit Bhushi Dam

Enjoy the lush surrounds and water flowing over the steps on this popular spot especially during monsoon. Open all day.

Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ram Krishna

Taste authentic Maharashtrian flavors in a casual setting at Ram Krishna, a local favourite in Lonavala.

INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Karla and Bhaja Caves

Explore ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back to 2nd century BC, open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

INR20, 2h

4:30pm

Tiger’s Leap and Sunset Point

Visit these viewpoints for spectacular panoramic views of the Western Ghats and valley below – perfect for photography and sunset.

Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Cozy Place

Dine in at Cozy Place with local and multi-cuisine options, open till 10:00 PM.

INR700, 1h

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Day 5: Aurangabad History

Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India on July 13, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have an early breakfast before taking the flight or train to Aurangabad.

Included, 1h

10:00am

Visit Daulatabad Fort

Explore this mighty medieval fort with its complex defense architecture. Open 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

INR25, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Sher-E-Punjab

Enjoy North Indian and Mughlai dishes at this popular Aurangabad restaurant open till 10:00 PM.

INR600, 1h

2:00pm

Ellora Caves

Visit the spectacular Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its monumental rock-cut temples and monasteries. Open 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

INR40, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Cafe 1980

Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring Maharashtrian and continental options at this charming cafe, open till 10:30 PM.

INR700, 1h30m

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Day 6: Ajanta Caves Exploration

Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India on July 14, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast and prepare for a day trip to Ajanta Caves.

Included, 1h

7:30am

Drive to Ajanta Caves

Travel approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to the Ajanta Caves, historic rock-cut Buddhist caves with intricate murals and sculptures. Open 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Transport Cost, 3h