Fly from BLR to Pune (PNQ) for a 1h20–1h30 flight; alternatively take an overnight train if preferred. Flying saves time and maximises temple visiting days.
Vaishali (Fergusson College Road) for South Indian breakfast or German Bakery (Koregaon Park) for a relaxed continental option; both open from around 8:00–9:00 and are popular with visitors.
Short city sightseeing: Shaniwar Wada (historic fort) and the famous Dagdusheth Ganpati temple — good introductions to Pune’s cultural scene; check Shaniwar Wada opening 9:00–18:30 and Dagdusheth 5:00–22:00.
Try Maharashtrian thali at Hotel Shreyas or simple, flavoursome Parsi/Irani fare at Good Luck Café; both are open midday and give local cuisine experience.
Early departure (approx 3–4 hour drive, 120–150 km depending on route) to reach Bhimashankar for morning darshan and to avoid afternoon heat and traffic.
One of Maharashtra’s 3 Jyotirlingas set in the Western Ghats; sacred Shiva shrine with scenic surroundings — morning darshan recommended. Typical temple hours: 5:30–11:00 and 17:00–20:00 (confirm locally).
Optional short nature walks or a gentle trek to nearby viewpoints — the area is in a wildlife sanctuary; check local guides and timings (daylight hours).
Famous open-air shrine to Shani (Saturn) with the unique feature of no doors on houses in the village; darshan usually free, temple hours approx 6:00–20:00 — check for special puja times.
Major pilgrimage site with long visiting hours (typically 5:00–22:00, multiple queues including VIP/regular/express). Plan for time in queues; consider booking prior entry passes if available.
Visit associated sites inside the complex: Dwarkamai (mosque where Baba stayed) and Chavadi; timings follow the main complex (evening arti around 18:30 sometimes has queues).
Trimbakeshwar hosts one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is also the source of the Godavari River; temple hours are generally 6:00–21:00 (confirm local timings). Expect rituals and a strong religious atmosphere.
Option A: Stay in Nashik to rest. Option B: Drive to Aurangabad (approx 3–3.5 hours, 190–200 km) in the evening to be ready for Ellora/Grishneshwar next day.
Grishneshwar is a small, ancient Jyotirlinga temple restored and visited in combination with Ellora; temple hours generally from early morning to evening (approx 5:30–21:00).
World Heritage site of rock-cut caves (Buddhist, Hindu, Jain) adjacent to Grishneshwar; recommended visiting hours ~7:00/8:00–18:00 but check ASI for exact timings and any maintenance closures. Entry fee typically small for Indians.
Arrive back in Bangalore; use this time to rest and reflect on the pilgrimage. If you still have time, arrange a small thanksgiving visit to a local temple.