Relaxing 3-Day Itinerary in Maharashtra, July 2023

  1. Day 1: Elephanta Caves
    1 hour 20 minutes (28.7 miles) from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport

    Explore the mysterious 7th-century Elephanta Caves, located on Elephanta Island. Marvel at the intricate cave carvings and statues of Lord Shiva and Hindu mythological figures. Take a leisurely ferry ride to the island, making sure to bring comfortable walking shoes. For lunch, head to the **Royal Bombay Yacht Club**, a historic club with an elegant dining room overlooking the Arabian Sea.

  2. Day 2: Panchgani
    5 hours 30 minutes ( 163.6 miles) from Elephanta Caves

    Known for its serene atmosphere and breathtaking views, Panchgani is a hill station town that will help you unwind. Enjoy a walk through Table Land, the second-longest mountain plateau in Asia, where you'll find stunning views of the surrounding hills. Afterwards, check out the **Devrai Art Village**, an eco-friendly village that sells handcrafted items for conservation causes. For dinner, head to the **Hilltop Ice-cream Restaurant**, a cozy and popular restaurant that offers a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine.

  3. Day 3: Aamby Valley City
    2 hours (56.2 miles) from Panchgani

    Spend the day relaxing at Aamby Valley City's scenic 19-acre artificial lake, where you can try your hand at various water sports, such as jet skiing and kayaking. If you prefer to stay dry, there are also activities like rock climbing and ziplining. The **Ritzy Roadside Cafe** is the perfect spot for lunch, serving delicious burgers and sandwiches made from locally sourced ingredients. After an exciting day, watch the sunset from the **Timber Trail Point**, where you can take in a stunning view of the valley.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Elephanta Caves (3 hours, INR 60 entrance fee)
  • Royal Bombay Yacht Club (1 hour, INR 800-1000 per person for lunch)
  • Panchgani (6 hours, INR 500-800 for taxi fare)
  • Devrai Art Village (1-2 hours, prices vary)
  • Hilltop Ice-cream Restaurant (1-2 hours, INR 400-600 per person for dinner)
  • Aamby Valley City (8 hours, INR 2500-3000 per person)
  • Ritzy Roadside Cafe (1-2 hours, prices vary)
  • Timber Trail Point (1 hour)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 5,100-6,100

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the charming hill station town of Mahabaleshwar, which is just a 30-minute drive from Panchgani. Nature lovers may enjoy a visit to the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, a 2-hour drive from Mumbai. If you have less time, consider visiting the **Kanheri Caves**, located in the Mumbai suburbs, for a shorter excursion.

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