5-Day Shoestring Budget Maharashtra Itinerary in November 2023

1. Day 1: Mumbai - Gateway of India
   35 minutes (12.8 km) from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

   Begin your Maharashtra adventure with a visit to the iconic Gateway of India. Built in 1924, it's a symbol of Mumbai's rich colonial history. Take a morning stroll around the area, then hop on a ferry to Elephanta Caves. In the afternoon, head to Colaba Causeway for some souvenir shopping, followed by a sunset view from Marine Drive.

2. Day 2: Lonavala - Bhushi Dam
   2 hours 45 minutes (85 km) from Mumbai

   Escape the city and head to the hill station of Lonavala. Trek to Bhushi Dam for stunning views of the Western Ghats and take a dip in the cool waters. In the afternoon, visit the Lonavala Wax Museum and Karla Caves for a glimpse of ancient Buddhist rock-cut architecture.

3. Day 3: Pune - Shaniwar Wada
   1 hour 40 minutes (75 km) from Lonavala

   Explore the cultural capital of Maharashtra, Pune. Visit the historical Shaniwar Wada, a fortification from the Peshwa dynasty. Wander around the vibrant Laxmi Road market for some local shopping and street food. End the day with a sunset view from the hilltop Parvati Temple.

4. Day 4: Nashik - Sula Vineyards
   4 hours (211 km) from Pune

   Head to Nashik, the wine capital of India. Take a tour of the Sula Vineyards and taste some of the finest wines the region has to offer. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Trimbakeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. End your day with a scenic view of Gangapur Dam.

5. Day 5: Aurangabad - Ajanta and Ellora Caves
   5 hours 30 minutes (343 km) from Nashik

   End your trip with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Admire the stunning rock-cut sculptures and paintings that date back to the 2nd century BC. End your day with a visit to the Bibi Ka Maqbara, the tomb of Aurangzeb's wife.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve for a wildlife experience. Take a side trip to the hill station of Mahabaleshwar for stunning views. To maximize your fun, try some local delicacies such as vada pav and misal pav. Don't forget to bargain while shopping in the local markets.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Gateway of India (2 hours, free)
• Elephanta Caves (4 hours, 1500 INR)
• Colaba Causeway (2 hours, 500 INR)
• Bhushi Dam (4 hours, free)
• Lonavala Wax Museum (1 hour, 200 INR)
• Karla Caves (2 hours, 250 INR)
• Shaniwar Wada (2 hours, 200 INR)
• Laxmi Road (2 hours, 500 INR)
• Parvati Temple (2 hours, free)
• Sula Vineyards (4 hours, 1200 INR)
• Trimbakeshwar Temple (2 hours, free)
• Ajanta and Ellora Caves (6 hours, 500 INR)
• Bibi Ka Maqbara (2 hours, 300 INR)
• Total Estimated Costs: 3950 INR

Check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.