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7-Day Maharashtra Itinerary: Pune, Nagpur, Shirdi, and Ellora Caves with Jyotirlingas

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Sunday, November 12: Arrival in Pune

In the morning, arrive in Pune, also known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra. Start your day with a visit to the Aga Khan Palace, a historical landmark with beautiful architecture and lush gardens. In the afternoon, explore the Shaniwar Wada, an impressive fort from the Maratha Empire. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the lively FC Road, known for its shopping and street food.

  • Aga Khan Palace: Cost - INR 30, Time - 2 hours
  • Shaniwar Wada: Cost - INR 25, Time - 2 hours
  • FC Road: Cost - Varies, Time - 2 hours
Monday, November 13: Pune to Nagpur

Travel from Pune to Nagpur, known as the "Orange City" due to its vast orange orchards. In the morning, visit the beautiful Ambazari Lake and Garden, a popular spot for picnics and boat rides. In the afternoon, explore the famous Deekshabhoomi, a sacred Buddhist monument. In the evening, take a walk along the vibrant Sitabuldi Main Road and try some local street food.

  • Ambazari Lake and Garden: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
  • Deekshabhoomi: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
  • Sitabuldi Main Road: Cost - Varies, Time - 2 hours
Tuesday, November 14: Nagpur to Shirdi

Depart from Nagpur and head to Shirdi, a renowned pilgrimage site. In the morning, visit the Shri Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir, the main temple dedicated to the revered saint Sai Baba. In the afternoon, explore the peaceful Dwarkamai Mosque, which holds great significance for devotees. In the evening, attend the mesmerizing Kakad Aarti (morning prayer) at the temple.

  • Shri Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
  • Dwarkamai Mosque: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
  • Kakad Aarti at Shri Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
Wednesday, November 15: Shirdi to Ellora Caves

Travel from Shirdi to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ellora Caves, known for its impressive rock-cut architecture. Spend the morning exploring the intricate caves and temples, including the famous Kailash Temple. In the afternoon, visit the peaceful Buddhist caves. In the evening, witness the magical sunset at the nearby Daulatabad Fort.

  • Ellora Caves: Cost - INR 40, Time - 4 hours
  • Daulatabad Fort: Cost - INR 20, Time - 2 hours
Thursday, November 16: Ellora Caves to Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga

Embark on a spiritual journey as you visit the Parli Vaijnath Jyotirlinga, one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend the morning exploring the magnificent temple complex and immerse yourself in its divine aura. In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional vegetarian meal at a local eatery. In the evening, witness the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at the temple.

  • Parli Vaijnath Temple: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
  • Local Vegetarian Eatery: Cost - INR 200, Time - 1 hour
  • Evening Aarti at Parli Vaijnath Temple: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
Friday, November 17: Parli Vaijnath to Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga and Return to Pune

Depart from Parli Vaijnath and travel to the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, another sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend the morning offering prayers at the temple and exploring the surrounding area. In the afternoon, savor a delicious Maharashtrian thali at a local restaurant. Return to Pune in the evening.

  • Grishneshwar Temple: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
  • Local Restaurant for Maharashtrian Thali: Cost - INR 300, Time - 1 hour
Saturday, November 18: Pune Sightseeing and Departure

On your last day, explore the city of Pune further. In the morning, visit the iconic Shaniwar Wada, known for its rich history and architectural grandeur. In the afternoon, stroll through the picturesque Pune University campus and admire its beautiful architecture. Finally, bid farewell to Pune as you depart for your onward journey.

  • Shaniwar Wada: Cost - INR 25, Time - 2 hours
  • Pune University: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Pune, don't miss the opportunity to visit Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, which houses a vast collection of Indian artifacts and artworks. In Nagpur, Serene Spaces Botanical Garden is a hidden gem where you can relax amidst nature and picturesque landscapes. In Shirdi, visit Lendi Garden, a peaceful place near the temple where Sai Baba used to meditate. When in Ellora, take a detour to visit the stunning Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the "Mini Taj Mahal."

For local flavors, try Pune's famous Misal Pav, a spicy traditional breakfast dish available at various local eateries. Nagpur is renowned for its irresistible Tarri Poha, a delicious breakfast made with flattened rice flakes. In Shirdi, indulge in the mouthwatering Prasadalaya meals served at the temple complex. And in Ellora, savor the delectable Maharashtrian vada pav, a popular street food snack.

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