Welcome to Maharashtra! Begin your journey by arriving in Mumbai, the bustling capital city. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Gateway of India, a majestic monument overlooking the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Colaba Causeway, where you can find unique souvenirs and taste local street food. As evening falls, head to Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace, for a leisurely walk along the scenic promenade.
Gateway of India: Free, 1-2 hours
Colaba Causeway: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
Marine Drive: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Mumbai is Cafe Madras, known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. Enjoy a hearty breakfast of dosas and idlis here. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Britannia & Co. in Mumbai, a historic restaurant serving Parsi cuisine. Try their famous Berry Pulao and Dhansak. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at The Bombay Canteen, a trendy restaurant in Mumbai offering a contemporary twist on traditional Indian dishes. Enjoy their innovative menu and vibrant ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday August 15: Trimbakeshwar and Bhimashankar
On the second day, embark on a spiritual journey to the first two jyotirlingas—Trimbakeshwar and Bhimashankar. Start your day by visiting Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of the most revered Shiva temples in Maharashtra. In the afternoon, drive to Bhimashankar Temple, located amidst the lush greenery of the Sahyadri Mountains. Spend the evening exploring the surrounding nature trails and enjoying the tranquility of the area.
Trimbakeshwar Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Bhimashankar Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Nature trails in Bhimashankar: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day located near Trimbakeshwar Temple. Enjoy their delicious breakfast menu options like sandwiches, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Shri Manas Restaurant near Bhimashankar Temple. They offer a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including thalis and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, try the Rajwada Restaurant & Bar located in the heart of Bhimashankar. Indulge in their flavorful Indian cuisine, including kebabs, curries, and naan bread. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday August 16: Grishneshwar and Shirdi
Day three takes you to Grishneshwar and Shirdi, the next jyotirlingas on the trail. Begin your morning by visiting Grishneshwar Temple, a beautifully crafted shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, make your way to Shirdi, the home of the famous Sai Baba. Explore the Sai Baba Temple complex and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll in the serene surroundings of Gurusthan, believed to be the place where Sai Baba first appeared.
Grishneshwar Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Sai Baba Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Gurusthan: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Sai Swad Restaurant, located near Grishneshwar Temple. Indulge in their mouthwatering South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Shirdi Sai Prasadalaya, a popular vegetarian restaurant near the Sai Baba Temple. Enjoy their thali-style meals with a variety of dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Rajdhani Thali Restaurant in Shirdi. Indulge in their unlimited thali offering a wide range of authentic Maharashtrian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Saturday August 17: Tryambakeshwar and Aundha Nagnath
Start your day by visiting Tryambakeshwar, the fourth jyotirlinga on the trail. Explore the intricately designed temple and partake in the religious rituals. In the afternoon, make your way to Aundha Nagnath, the fifth jyotirlinga. Discover the historical significance of this ancient temple and learn about its architectural marvels. Spend the evening in the peaceful surroundings of the temple complex and enjoy the spiritual ambiance.
Tryambakeshwar Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Aundha Nagnath Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Temple complex surroundings: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Shobha, located just 1 km away from Tryambakeshwar temple. Enjoy their freshly prepared idlis and vadas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Savor a traditional Maharashtrian thali for lunch at Hotel Chetna, situated near Aundha Nagnath temple. Indulge in their flavorful curries and wholesome rice and breads. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Hotel Pushkraj, a restaurant known for its mouthwatering Maharashtrian and North Indian dishes, located close to Aundha Nagnath temple. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Sunday August 18: Parli Vaijnath and Nageshwar
On the fifth day, visit Parli Vaijnath and Nageshwar, the next two jyotirlingas. Begin your morning by exploring the magnificent Parli Vaijnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, travel to Nageshwar Temple, located in the coastal town of Dapoli. Enjoy the serene surroundings of this temple and take a stroll on the nearby beaches. Spend the evening witnessing a mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Parli Vaijnath Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Nageshwar Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Nearby beaches: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hotel Shyam in Parli Vaijnath, known for its delicious and filling Maharashtrian breakfast thali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Mango Leaf Restaurant in Dapoli is a great option for lunch, offering a variety of seafood dishes and local Maharashtrian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Sai Krishna in Dapoli, known for its authentic North Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Monday August 19: Bhimashankar (again) and Departure
Begin your final day by revisiting Bhimashankar, the sixth jyotirlinga on the trail. Experience the temple in a different light and capture any missed moments. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Maharashtra as you depart from Mumbai. Cherish the memories of the divine journey and the vibrant cultural experiences you had in the state.
Bhimashankar Temple (revisit): Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Good Luck in Pune, Maharashtra. Indulge in their famous bun maska and chai combo. Average cost for breakfast is about Rs.150 per person.
For lunch, head to Panshikar Snacks in Thane, Maharashtra. Enjoy their mouthwatering thali which includes a variety of traditional Maharashtrian dishes. Average cost for lunch is about Rs.200 per person.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Hotel Janata in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Savor their delectable seafood specialties like butter garlic prawns and tandoori pomfret. Average cost for dinner is about Rs.500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Maharashtra, don't miss the opportunity to explore the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located near Aurangabad, these ancient rock-cut caves showcase a harmonious blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain art. The stunning architecture and intricate carvings will leave you awe-inspired. Another hidden gem is the serene hill station of Matheran, known for its panoramic views, toy train rides, and tranquil nature trails. It offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
For more information on hotels and flights in Maharashtra, check here.