3-Day Picnic Itinerary Outside Maharashtra

Day 1: Saputara – Hilltop Retreat

Morning: Depart early for Saputara and enjoy the scenic drive through the Western Ghats, arriving in time to catch the sunrise at Sunrise Point. After a brief walk, check into your guesthouse and freshen up for the day.

Afternoon: Take a relaxing boat ride on Saputara Lake, where you can paddle amidst lush greenery and spot local birdlife. Follow this with a quick visit to the Tribal Museum to learn about the region’s indigenous culture.

Evening: Stroll along the lakeside promenade, sampling delicious street snacks like corn on the cob and chikki. End the day with a leisurely walk to the Sunset Point for panoramic views of the valley.

Day 2: Dandeli – Adventure by the River

Morning: Travel to Dandeli and embark on a short trek to Sykes Point, where sweeping vistas of the forest canopy await. The cool breeze and mist make for perfect photo opportunities.

Afternoon: Experience the thrills of river rafting on the Kali River, a popular spot for both beginners and seasoned rafters. After the adrenaline rush, set up a picnic on the riverbank and enjoy local snacks.

Evening: Join a guided wildlife safari in the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, spotting elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species as the sun sets over the jungle.

Day 3: Pachmarhi – Plateau Paradise

Morning: Arrive in Pachmarhi and head straight to the refreshing Bee Falls, where you can dip your feet in the cool cascade and take in the surrounding forest.

Afternoon: Explore the ancient rock-cut Jata Shankar Caves, marveling at intricate carvings and the cool, echoing chambers. Enjoy a picnic lunch on a nearby hilltop with views of the plateau.

Evening: Conclude your trip with a sunset visit to the historic Pandav Caves, where legends of the Mahabharata come alive against the backdrop of fading light.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Sunrise Point – 1 hour – INR 0 (free)
• Saputara Lake (boat ride) – 2 hours – INR 300
• Tribal Museum – 1 hour – INR 50
• Sunset Point – 1 hour – INR 0 (free)
• Sykes Point – 1.5 hours – INR 0 (free)
• Kali River (rafting) – 3 hours – INR 1,200
• Picnic at Riverbank – 1 hour – INR 200 (food)
• Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary (safari) – 2 hours – INR 800
• Bee Falls – 1 hour – INR 0 (free)
• Jata Shankar Caves – 1.5 hours – INR 100
• Pandav Caves – 1 hour – INR 100
• Meals & Miscellaneous – 3 days – INR 2,500
• Total Estimated Cost: INR 5,350

Tips

To extend the trip, consider adding a day in Saputara for a trek to the Mount Wilson Viewpoint or a night stay by the lake. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip the afternoon activity in Dandeli and head directly to the sanctuary in the morning, saving a few hours while still enjoying the main highlights.