4-Day Maharashtra Itinerary on a Shoestring Budget

  1. Day 1: Explore Mumbai
    Recommended start time: 9:00am from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
    Estimated duration: 8 hours
    Distance: Around 15 kms

    Begin your day visiting the Gateway of India, a popular landmark with great views of the Arabian Sea. Then head to the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, known for its architectural splendour. Next, visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, take a local train to the Chor Bazaar for bargain hunting. Also visit the Haji Ali Dargah, a picturesque mosque located on an islet. End your day with a leisurely stroll along Marine Drive.

  2. Day 2: Experience Pune's Culture and Heritage
    Recommended start time: 9:00am from Shaniwar Wada
    Estimated duration: 8 hours
    Distance: Around 150 kms

    Start at Shaniwar Wada, a historical fortification with a rich history. Next, proceed to the grand Aga Khan Palace, a beautiful heritage site with an intricate architecture. Then make your way to the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, a museum housing an impressive collection of Indian artefacts. End your day at Sinhagad Fort, a perfect spot for trekkers and nature enthusiasts where you will be amazed with beautiful views of the city.

  3. Day 3: Visit Mahabaleshwar
    Recommended start time: 9:00am from Kate's Point
    Estimated duration: 8 hours
    Distance: Around 125 kms

    Begin your day visiting the Kate's Point, offering stunning views of the mountains. Next, visit the Old Mahabaleshwar Temple, one of the oldest temples in India with intricate carvings. Continue to the Mapro Garden, a popular tourist spot for its fresh strawberries and delicious jams. Next, head to the Lingmala Waterfall to enjoy a picnic and a refreshing swim. End your day with a visit to the Venna Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush green hills.

  4. Day 4: Experience Aurangabad's Rich History
    Recommended start time: 9:00am from Bibi Ka Maqbara
    Estimated duration: 8 hours
    Distance: Around 240 kms

    Begin your day at the Bibi Ka Maqbara, a stunning mausoleum built in honour of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb's wife. Then, make your way to the Aurangabad Caves, an ancient Buddhist site with rock-cut monuments. Next, head to the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest rock-cut temple monasteries in the world. End your day at the Daulatabad Fort, a majestic hill fort with a fascinating history.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Gateway of India (1 hour, free)
  • Taj Mahal Palace Hotel (1 hour, free)
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (1 hour, free)
  • Chor Bazaar (2 hours, 500 INR)
  • Haji Ali Dargah (1 hour, free)
  • Marine Drive (1 hour, free)
  • Shaniwar Wada (1 hour, 50 INR)
  • Aga Khan Palace (1 hour, 100 INR)
  • Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum (2 hours, 200 INR)
  • Sinhagad Fort (3 hours, 100 INR)
  • Kate's Point (1 hour, free)
  • Old Mahabaleshwar Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Mapro Garden (1 hour, free)
  • Lingmala Waterfall (2 hours, 200 INR)
  • Venna Lake (2 hours, 100 INR)
  • Bibi Ka Maqbara (1 hour, 10 INR)
  • Aurangabad Caves (2 hours, 100 INR)
  • Ellora Caves (3 hours, 500 INR)
  • Daulatabad Fort (2 hours, 100 INR)
  • Total Estimated Costs (24 hours): 1760 INR

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Siddhivinayak Temple and Haji Ali Juice Centre in Mumbai or the Lohagad Fort in Pune. For a more luxurious experience, you can book a stay at one of the many resorts in Mahabaleshwar. If you have less time, you can skip some of the places on the itinerary, but we recommend spending at least a day in each city to fully experience its unique culture and heritage.

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