Three Days in Maharashtra on a Shoestring Budget

1. Day 1: Exploring Mumbai's Iconic Landmarks
   Distance and time estimates based on starting point of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST)

   Start your day at CST, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mumbai's most iconic landmarks. Take a short walk to the Gateway of India, a must-visit monument built in 1924 during the British Raj. From there, take a ferry to Elephanta Caves, a collection of rock-cut temples dating back to the 5th century. Return to the Gateway of India and explore Colaba Causeway, a bustling street market filled with handicrafts, clothing, and street food. End your day by strolling along Marine Drive, popularly known as the "Queen's Necklace," for its stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

2. Day 2: Discovering Pune's Cultural Heritage
   Distance and time estimates based on starting point of Pune Railway Station

   Start your day at Shaniwar Wada Fort, an 18th-century palace fort that served as the seat of the Peshwa rulers. From there, head to Dagadusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, a popular Hindu temple known for its lavish decorations and idol of Lord Ganesha. Walk to the Pataleshwar Cave Temple, a rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visit the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, home to over 20,000 artifacts showcasing India's rich cultural heritage. End your day at Khadakwasla Dam for a beautiful sunset view and a relaxing evening picnic.

3. Day 3: Hiking and Heritage Weekend in Lonavala
   Distance and time estimates based on starting point of Lonavala Railway Station

   Start your day by hiking up to Lohagad Fort, a 16th-century hilltop fort with scenic views of the surrounding hills. Descend to the scenic Karla Caves, a collection of rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to 2nd century BC. From there, head to Bhaja Caves, another collection of ancient rock-cut Buddhist shrines. Spend some time exploring the quaint hill-station town of Lonavala, known for its lush greenery and waterfalls. End your day with a cup of locally grown Lonavala Chikki, a sweet and crunchy peanut candy.

Time and Costs Estimates

• CST (1-2 hours, free)
• Gateway of India (1-2 hours, free)
• Elephanta Caves (3-4 hours, ferry costs 150-200 INR per person, entrance fee 30 INR per person for Indians, 500 INR for foreigners)
• Colaba Causeway (2-3 hours, budget around 500 INR for souvenir shopping and street food)
• Marine Drive (1-2 hours, free)
• Shaniwar Wada Fort (1-2 hours, entrance fee 25 INR per person for Indians, 300 INR for foreigners)
• Dagadusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Pataleshwar Cave Temple (1 hour, entrance fee 15 INR per person)
• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum (2-3 hours, entrance fee 50 INR per person for Indians, 350 INR for foreigners)
• Khadakwasla Dam (2-3 hours, free)
• Lohagad Fort (2-3 hours, free)
• Karla Caves (1-2 hours, entrance fee 20 INR per person for Indians, 250 INR for foreigners)
• Bhaja Caves (1-2 hours, entrance fee 20 INR per person for Indians, 250 INR for foreigners)
• Lonavala Chikki (budget around 50 INR per person)
• Total Estimated Costs (excluding transportation and accommodation): Around 1200-1500 INR per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai, also known as the Prince of Wales Museum, or the Sinhagad Fort near Pune. If you have less time, you can skip the Elephanta Caves in Mumbai or the Bhaja Caves near Lonavala. Note that the best time to visit Maharashtra is during the winter months (October-February), when the weather is pleasant and there are a variety of festivals and events taking place. Always carry cash as most small businesses do not accept cards, and bargaining is common practice at street markets.