Start your trip in Aurangabad, a city known for its rich history and architectural wonders. In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ajanta Caves, a collection of ancient Buddhist cave temples filled with stunning sculptures and paintings. Spend the afternoon exploring Bibi Ka Maqbara, a beautiful mausoleum often called the "Mini Taj" for its resemblance to the iconic Taj Mahal. As the evening approaches, head to the bustling Aurangabad City Center for shopping and local street food.
Ajanta Caves: Estimated cost - INR 600 for foreigners, INR 40 for Indians | Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
Bibi Ka Maqbara: Estimated cost - INR 25 for Indians, INR 300 for foreigners | Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Aurangabad City Center: Cost varies | Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Zomato, a popular restaurant known for its wide range of breakfast options. From traditional Indian dishes to continental breakfast platters, they have something to suit every taste. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Naivedyam Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. Enjoy a variety of traditional dishes like Puran Poli, Misal Pav, and Thalipeeth. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Spice Kitchen, a fine dining restaurant offering a blend of Indian and international flavors. From aromatic curries to sizzling grills, their menu showcases the best of both worlds. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Monday, August 14: Pilgrimage to Shirdi
Embark on a spiritual journey to Shirdi, the holy abode of Sai Baba. Start your day with a visit to the famous Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple, where you can seek blessings and witness the religious rituals. In the afternoon, explore the Dwarkamai Mosque, a sacred site associated with Sai Baba's life. Spend the evening at the Sai Heritage Village, an open-air museum showcasing the life and teachings of Sai Baba through exhibits and performances.
Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple: No entry fee | Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Dwarkamai Mosque: No entry fee | Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Sai Heritage Village: Estimated cost - INR 50 | Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Tuesday, August 15: Discovering Nashik
On your last day, visit the enchanting city of Nashik, famous for its religious significance and vineyards. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, explore the Sula Vineyards, where you can take a tour, sample wines, and enjoy breathtaking views of the vineyards. In the evening, take a serene boat ride along the Godavari River and witness the grandeur of the Panchavati Ghat.
Trimbakeshwar Temple: No entry fee | Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
Godavari River Boat Ride and Panchavati Ghat: Estimated cost - INR 100-200 | Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While visiting Aurangabad, don't miss out on the lesser-known Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing magnificent rock-cut temples and monasteries. In Shirdi, explore the tranquil Lendi Garden, a peaceful place where Sai Baba used to meditate. In Nashik, make sure to visit the ancient Pandavleni Caves, a series of Buddhist caves carved into a hillside offering stunning views of the city.