Four-Day Itinerary for Maharashtra in July 2023

1. Day 1: Mumbai
   Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus - 5 minutes (0.3 miles) from Crawford Market

   In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. Spend time admiring the Victorian Gothic architecture before heading to Crawford Market for a taste of local culture and shopping. In the afternoon, head to the Gateway of India and take a boat ride to Elephanta Caves for a glimpse of ancient Hindu and Buddhist rock-cut caves. In the evening, visit Marine Drive to enjoy the sunset and experience the bustling nightlife of Mumbai.

2. Day 2: Pune
   Aga Khan Palace - 15 minutes (4.5 miles) from Shaniwar Wada Fort

   In the morning, visit the historic Shaniwar Wada Fort and learn about its significance in Indian history. In the afternoon, head to the Aga Khan Palace, where Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned during the Indian independence movement. Spend time exploring the palace and its gardens before heading to the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum to see an extensive collection of Indian artifacts. In the evening, visit the Osho Ashram for some spiritual meditation and reflection.

3. Day 3: Nashik
   Sula Vineyards - 20 minutes (7.5 miles) from Pandavleni Caves

   In the morning, visit the ancient Pandavleni Caves, a group of 24 rock-cut caves dating back to the 1st century BC. Afterward, head to the vineyards of Sula and explore the beautiful property and learn about the winemaking process. Enjoy a wine-tasting session before heading to the Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. In the evening, head to the vibrant local markets to experience the unique shopping culture of Nashik.

4. Day 4: Aurangabad
   Ajanta and Ellora Caves - 40 minutes (20 miles) from Aurangabad

   In the morning, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ajanta Caves, and admire the ancient rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments. Afterward, head to the Ellora Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a collection of 34 monasteries and temples. In the afternoon, head to the Bibi Ka Maqbara, a beautiful mausoleum built in memory of Aurangzeb's wife. In the evening, head to the Aurangabad Caves, a group of twelve rock-cut Buddhist shrines.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Karla Caves in Lonavala or the Daulatabad Fort in Aurangabad. The beaches of Alibaug and Kashid are also worth a visit. For a unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscapes of Maharashtra.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (1-2 hours, free)
• Crawford Market (1-2 hours, variable costs)
• Gateway of India (1 hour, free)
• Elephanta Caves (4-5 hours, INR 800 for boat and entry fee)
• Shaniwar Wada Fort (1-2 hours, INR 5 entry fee)
• Aga Khan Palace (1-2 hours, INR 25 entry fee)
• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum (2-3 hours, INR 100 entry fee)
• Osho Ashram (2-3 hours, free)
• Pandavleni Caves (1-2 hours, INR 20 entry fee)
• Sula Vineyards (3-4 hours, INR 750 for wine-tasting)
• Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Ajanta and Ellora Caves (5-6 hours, INR 40 entry fee)
• Bibi Ka Maqbara (1-2 hours, INR 25 entry fee)
• Aurangabad Caves (1-2 hours, INR 15 entry fee)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1805-1915

For hotel and flight bookings, check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.