Mumbai and Pune on a Shoestring Budget

  1. Day 1: Gateway of India
    1 hour (16 km) from Mumbai Airport

    The iconic landmark of Mumbai, overlooking the Arabian Sea, built in 1924 by Britishers. Take a boat ride from here to the nearby Elephanta Caves. After that, visit the Museum Mani Bhawan, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed.

  2. Day 2: Shaniwar Wada
    3 hours (147 km) by train from Mumbai to Pune

    A historical fortification in Pune. Explore the architecture and history of the Peshwas, the prime ministers of the Maratha Empire. Visit the garden and fountains of the fort. End the day with street shopping at Laxmi Road.

  3. Day 3: The Aga Khan Palace
    45 minutes (14 km) from Pune Railway Station

    A historical palace converted into a museum. It was built by Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III in 1892 and was an internment camp during the Quit India Movement. Learn about the Indian Independence movement and see paintings and photographs for that era.

  4. Day 4: Dagadusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple
    30 minutes (8 km) from Aga Khan Palace

    The most famous temple in Pune dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Enjoy the divine atmosphere here and be in awe of the magnificent idol of Lord Ganesha. Later, take a tour of the nearby Pataleshwar Cave Temple, an 8th-century rock-cut temple.

  5. Day 5: Colaba Causeway
    4 hours (150 km) by train or bus from Pune to Mumbai

    A shoppers paradise situated in the southern part of Mumbai. Shop for clothes, jewelry, handicrafts, antique items, and souvenirs. Also, visit the nearby Sassoon Docks for a glimpse of Mumbai's fish market.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Gateway of India (1-2 hours, free)
  • Elephanta Caves (5-6 hours, INR 200 per person for boat ride plus INR 500 for entry)
  • Mani Bhawan Museum (1-2 hours, INR 35 per person)
  • Shaniwar Wada (2-3 hours, INR 25 per person)
  • Laxmi Road (2-3 hours, as per personal expenses)
  • Aga Khan Palace (1-2 hours, INR 15 per person)
  • Dagadusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Pataleshwar Cave temple (1 hour, INR 15 per person)
  • Colaba Causeway (3-4 hours, as per personal expenses)
  • Total Estimated Costs (per person): INR 820 (excluding personal expenses)

Useful Tips

Add an extra day for a trip to Lonavala or Khandala, hill stations near Pune. If you have more time, explore the beaches of Alibaug or visit the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai. If you have less time, skip Pataleshwar Cave temple.

0