Nature-lover's 5-Day Itinerary in Maharashtra

1. Day 1: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 50 minutes (68.7 km) from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Mumbai

   Start your day with a guided nature walk in Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of flora and fauna including the Indian Giant Squirrel and the Malabar Grey Hornbill. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the Hanuman Lake for a peaceful boating experience. End the day with a visit to the ancient Bhimashankar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines in India.

2. Day 2: Karnala Bird Sanctuary
   1 hour 45 minutes (54.7 km) from Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

   Get an early start to explore Karnala Bird Sanctuary, a popular bird-watching spot. Take a guided tour to spot various bird species such as the Malabar Trogon and the Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Afternoon, visit the Karnala Fort, nestled amid the sanctuary. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely nature walk or a picnic at the nearby Karnala Beach.

3. Day 3: Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
   11 hours 10 minutes (770.1 km) from Karnala Bird Sanctuary

   Take an early morning flight to Nagpur and drive to Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, one of the largest tiger reserves in Maharashtra. Take a jeep safari to spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and other wildlife. After lunch, visit the Tadoba Lake, a beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery. End the day with a relaxing stroll at the Mohurli Lake.

4. Day 4: Lonavala
   3 hours 10 minutes (154.8 km) from Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

   Drive to Lonavala, a hill station known for its scenic beauty and waterfalls. Start your day with a trek to the Rajmachi Point for a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. Afternoon, visit the popular Lonavala Lake, the Kune Falls, and the Bhaja Caves. End the day with a cup of hot tea and some delicious local snacks at one of the many roadside stalls.

5. Day 5: Kaas Plateau
   3 hours 45 minutes (140.4 km) from Lonavala

   Drive to the Kaas Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning beauty during the monsoon season. Take a guided tour to see the colourful flowers and the mesmerising waterfalls. Afternoon, visit the Thoseghar Waterfalls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India. End the day with a visit to the nearby Sajjangad Fort, known for its historical significance.

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider visiting the beautiful hill stations of Matheran and Mahabaleshwar. For a unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over Lonavala's scenic valleys. To make the most of your trip, travel in the monsoon season (June to September) when the state is at its greenest and most beautiful.

For more travel options and to book hotels and flights, visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.