Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Maharashtra, India
Friday, December 1: Mahad to Aaudumber to Narsobachi Wadi
Start your trip by visiting the beautiful Aaudumber Temple in Mahad. In the morning, explore the temple and witness its intricate architecture. Afterward, head to Narsobachi Wadi, a pilgrimage site known for its ancient Narsobachi Temple. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the temple premises and participate in the evening aarti ceremony. Spend the evening strolling around the local market, trying delicious street food.
Local Market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Aaudumber Temple is Shri Krishna Katta, known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Indulge in their mouthwatering dosas and idlis. The average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Kalyan Bhel Puri, located near Narsobachi Temple. Enjoy their flavorful street food options, including bhel puri and pani puri. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Shree Sai Family Restaurant in the local market area. They offer a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Saturday, December 2: Kanheri Math to Rankala to Mahalaxmi Mandir
Start your day with a visit to Kanheri Math, an ancient monastery located amidst a serene forest. Explore the intricate carvings and peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Rankala Lake, a popular spot for boating. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride with your family and soak in the picturesque views. End your day by visiting the majestic Mahalaxmi Mandir, a revered Hindu temple known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
For a delicious breakfast, head to Café Madras in Matunga, Mumbai. This iconic South Indian restaurant serves authentic dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Hotel Vishwa in Kolhapur. This family-friendly restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Maharashtrian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For a delightful dinner, try the rooftop restaurant Bayview at Vivanta by Taj in Aurangabad. Enjoy a fusion of Indian, Asian, and international cuisines along with stunning views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about INR 1000 per person.
Sunday, December 3: Kolhapur to Jotiba Dongar
Embark on a day trip to Kolhapur, a city rich in history and culture. Start your day by exploring the iconic Kolhapur Palace, known for its grand architecture. In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Jotiba Dongar, a sacred hill dedicated to the deity Jotiba. Enjoy a scenic ropeway ride to the hilltop and admire panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Spend the evening visiting the famous Mahalaxmi Temple and indulging in local delicacies.
Kolhapur Palace: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Jotiba Dongar: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person (ropeway ticket), Time spent - 3 hours
For breakfast, head to Shri Kala Snacks, a popular local eatery known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Try their crispy dosas and fluffy idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Hotel Padma, a family-friendly restaurant that offers a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Enjoy their flavorful biryanis and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, make a reservation at The Pavilion, a fine dining restaurant with a beautiful ambience. Indulge in their authentic Maharashtrian thali, which includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Monday, December 4: Panhala Fort to Pavankhind
Explore the historic Panhala Fort, located on a hilltop with breathtaking views. Spend your morning exploring the fort's ruins, ancient structures, and enjoying panoramic vistas. In the afternoon, visit Pavankhind, a scenic spot known for its natural beauty. Take a leisurely walk amidst lush greenery and enjoy a picnic with your family. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and trying traditional snacks.
Pavankhind: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Local Markets: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours
Tuesday, December 5: Marleswer to Ganpati Pule to Mahad
Begin your day by visiting Marleswer, a picturesque village known for its stunning waterfalls. Enjoy a refreshing morning amidst nature and take a dip in the cool waters. Afterward, head to Ganpati Pule, a beautiful coastal town famous for its pristine beaches and the Ganpati Temple. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach and exploring the temple. End your trip by returning to Mahad.
While exploring Kolhapur, be sure to visit the New Palace Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts and royal memorabilia. For a unique cultural experience, attend a traditional Lavani dance performance in Kolhapur, showcasing the vibrant folk dance form of Maharashtra. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to savor the local Kolhapuri cuisine, known for its spicy flavors and aromatic spices.
Check hotel and flight prices for your Maharashtra trip here.