Aurangabad, Nashik, Shirdi: 4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Friday, July 28: Aurangabad

Start your trip by exploring the ancient caves of Ellora. Spend the morning marveling at the rock-cut temples and sculptures that date back to the 5th century. In the afternoon, visit the impressive Bibi Ka Maqbara, also known as the mini Taj Mahal, and admire its beautiful architecture. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk in Panchakki, an ingeniously designed water mill that served as a pilgrimage site.

• Ellora Caves: Estimated Cost - INR 600 per person, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Bibi Ka Maqbara: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Panchakki: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Saturday, July 29: Nashik

Start your day with a visit to the famous Sula Vineyards, where you can take a tour of the vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in wine tastings. In the afternoon, explore the ancient temples of the Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple and the Kalaram Temple. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing boat ride along the Godavari River and enjoy the scenic beauty.

• Sula Vineyards: Estimated Cost - INR 300 per person, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Kalaram Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Godavari River Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour

Sunday, July 30: Shirdi

In the morning, visit the famous Sai Baba Temple and pay your respects at this revered pilgrimage site. Explore the museum and library dedicated to Sai Baba's life and teachings. In the afternoon, take a peaceful walk in Lendi Garden, a serene park where Sai Baba used to meditate. As the evening approaches, visit the nearby Shani Shingnapur Temple, known for its unique beliefs and rituals.

• Sai Baba Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Lendi Garden: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Shani Shingnapur Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, July 31: Aurangabad

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient Buddhist cave paintings. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Buddhist art and architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Aurangabad Caves, a collection of rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries. As the evening sets in, enjoy some shopping at the bustling local markets.

• Ajanta Caves: Estimated Cost - INR 600 per person, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Aurangabad Caves: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Local Markets: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, head to Aurangabad's Himayat Bagh, a beautiful garden that houses a variety of fruit trees and plants. It's a great place for a family picnic. Another hidden gem is the Pandavleni Caves in Nashik, a group of ancient Buddhist caves with intricate carvings and breathtaking views. Locals also love to visit the Samadhi Mandir in Shirdi, the final resting place of Sai Baba, to seek blessings and experience the spiritual atmosphere.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices on Kayak.