3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Maharashtra in May 2023

  1. Day 1: Mumbai
    2 hours (94 kilometers) from Pune

    Mumbai is often referred to as the city that never sleeps. You can start your day by visiting the Gateway of India and taking a ferry ride to Elephanta Caves, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After returning from the caves, walk around Colaba Causeway for some street shopping and street food. In the evening, visit Marine Drive to watch the sunset and enjoy the sea breeze.

  2. Day 2: Lonavala and Khandala
    1 hour (64 kilometers) from Mumbai

    Located in the Sahyadri mountain range, Lonavala and Khandala are popular hill stations. Start your day by visiting the Bhushi Dam and Karla Caves, which are Buddhist rock-cut caves. After that, hike to the top of Tiger Point for stunning views of the valley. In the evening, enjoy the local delicacy, chikki, which is a sweet made from jaggery and peanuts.

  3. Day 3: Ajanta and Ellora Caves
    6.5 hours (350 kilometers) from Lonavala

    Ajanta and Ellora Caves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are famous for their rock-cut Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples and monasteries. Start your day by visiting the Ajanta Caves and marveling at the intricate carvings and paintings. After lunch, head to the Ellora Caves and explore the Kailash Temple, which is the largest monolithic structure in the world. In the evening, head back to your hotel in Aurangabad.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Gateway of India and Elephanta Caves (4 hours, INR 100 for ferry ride)
  • Colaba Causeway (2 hours, INR 500 for street shopping and food)
  • Marine Drive (1 hour, free)
  • Bhushi Dam (2 hours, free)
  • Karla Caves (2 hours, INR 250 for entry fee)
  • Tiger Point (2 hours, free)
  • Chikki (30 minutes, INR 50 for a pack)
  • Ajanta Caves (4 hours, INR 500 for entry fee)
  • Ellora Caves (4 hours, INR 500 for entry fee)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1900

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore other places in Maharashtra like Nashik, Mahabaleshwar, or Shirdi. If you have less time, skip Lonavala and Khandala and head straight to Aurangabad to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves. It's best to plan your trip in advance and book your tickets and accommodations early to avoid any last-minute hassles.

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