In the morning, start your journey in Shirdi at the famous Shirdi Sai Baba Temple. Witness the devotion and spirituality as you explore this holy place. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the Dwarkamai Mosque, where Sai Baba spent a significant part of his life. In the evening, head to the picturesque Lendi Garden for a serene walk amidst lush greenery.
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Indulge in a delicious South Indian breakfast at Shree Sai Sagar, located just a short distance from the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple. This popular eatery offers a variety of dosas, idlis, and vadas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, head to Woodlands Pure Veg Restaurant, known for its wide range of vegetarian dishes. From North Indian curries to South Indian specialties, this restaurant has something for everyone. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Rajdhani Thali Restaurant, where you can savor authentic Rajasthani and Gujarati thali meals. The unlimited thali includes a variety of vegetarian dishes and desserts. Average cost for a meal is about ₹350 per person.
Sunday, August 27, 2023: Nashik
Start your day by visiting the Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. Explore the magnificent architecture and experience the spiritual vibes of this ancient temple. In the afternoon, head to Sula Vineyards for a wine tour, tasting exquisite wines while enjoying the scenic beauty. Complete your day with a visit to the iconic Panchavati, a sacred site associated with Lord Rama.
Panchavati: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Samrat. This popular restaurant offers a delicious spread of traditional Indian dishes like poha, misal pav, and idli. Average cost for a meal is about INR 100 per person.
For lunch, head to Mezban Family Restaurant and enjoy their mouthwatering biryanis and kebabs. The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Sadhana Restaurant, known for their authentic Maharashtrian thali. Savour the flavors of traditional dishes like puran poli, batata vada, and varan bhaat. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
Monday, August 28, 2023: Igatpuri
Embark on a scenic journey to Igatpuri, known for its beautiful landscapes and pleasant weather. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Bhatsa River Valley, surrounded by lush green hills. In the afternoon, explore the majestic Tringalwadi Fort and enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Spend the evening at the serene Vipassana International Academy, known for its meditation courses.
Bhatsa River Valley: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Vipassana International Academy: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, August 29, 2023: Nashik
Return to Nashik to explore more of its cultural heritage. Begin your day at the iconic Kalaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. Experience the grandeur of this ancient temple and witness the religious rituals. In the afternoon, visit the Coin Museum to learn about the fascinating history of Indian currencies. End your day with a peaceful evening walk along the Godavari River.
Return to Shirdi for a final day of exploration. Start your morning by visiting the Sai Heritage Village, a unique museum that showcases the life and teachings of Sai Baba. In the afternoon, explore the Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir, the final resting place of Sai Baba. Spend your evening at the Dixit Wada Museum, dedicated to the life of Sai Baba and his devotees.
Sai Heritage Village: Estimated cost - INR 50-100, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Dixit Wada Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20-50, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Pandavleni Caves near Nashik, a group of ancient rock-cut caves with intricate sculptures. Locals also recommend exploring the scenic beauty of Dugarwadi Waterfall, located near Igatpuri. These attractions offer a great experience while being gentle on your shoestring budget.