Family Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Nashik, Bhimashankar, Ajanta Ellora, and Ghrishneshwer

Wednesday, October 25: Nashik

Start your trip by exploring the holy city of Nashik. In the morning, visit the famous Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Afterward, head to the beautiful Sula Vineyards for a wine tour and tasting. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Gangapur Dam and enjoy the serene surroundings.

• Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Sula Vineyards: Cost: INR 400 per person for the tour, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Gangapur Dam: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 26: Bhimashankar

Embark on a journey to Bhimashankar, a popular pilgrimage site and wildlife sanctuary. Start your morning with a visit to the Bhimashankar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the lush greenery and diverse fauna of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary during the afternoon. In the evening, take a refreshing walk through the picturesque Bhimashankar Village.

• Bhimashankar Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Bhimashankar Village: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Friday, October 27: Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, showcasing ancient rock-cut Buddhist and Hindu temples. Start your day at the Ajanta Caves, marveling at the stunning paintings and sculptures. In the afternoon, visit the Ellora Caves, known for its intricately carved temples. End your day with a visit to the majestic Daulatabad Fort.

• Ajanta Caves: Cost: INR 30 per person, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Ellora Caves: Cost: INR 40 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Daulatabad Fort: Cost: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Saturday, October 28: Grishneshwar

Explore the religious town of Grishneshwar, known for its ancient temples. Begin your morning with a visit to the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, take a scenic boat ride on the divine Ellora Lake. In the evening, experience the local culture and cuisine at the bustling Aurangabad Street Food Market.

• Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ellora Lake Boat Ride: Cost: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Aurangabad Street Food Market: Cost: Variable, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 29: Explore Nashik

Spend your last day back in Nashik, exploring more of this vibrant city. In the morning, visit the iconic Pandavleni Caves, ancient rock-cut caves with intricate carvings. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely picnic at the picturesque Dudhsagar Falls. End your trip with a relaxing evening boat ride on the serene Gangapur Lake.

• Pandavleni Caves: Cost: INR 15 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Dudhsagar Falls: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Gangapur Lake Boat Ride: Cost: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Nashik, make sure to visit the Coin Museum, which showcases an extensive collection of coins from different eras. For a fun-filled family activity, head to the Soma Vine Village and indulge in grape stomping and wine tasting. Additionally, don't miss the chance to savor the local delicacies at the famous Nashik Misal Pav joints, such as Hotel Shyam Sunder or Sadhana Misal.

For hotel and flight prices, check out kayak.com.