Shivneri Fort is the birthplace of the legendary Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Start your morning with a visit to this fort that offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri mountain range. Take a guided tour to learn about the glorious history of the fort and the Maratha empire. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Lenyadri Caves, an important Buddhist site that features a series of rock-cut caves with beautiful sculptures and carvings. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Junnar Museum that houses a wide range of artefacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the region.
Day 2 is all about exploring the natural beauty of the region. Start your day with a trek to the Naneghat Pass, a historic mountain pass that was once an important trade route between Kalyan and Junnar. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, along with several ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves. In the afternoon, head to the Kukadi Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area that is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including leopards, sloth bears, and Indian giant squirrels. Take a guided Jeep safari to explore the sanctuary and spot some of the local wildlife.
If you have some spare time, consider visiting the famous Shivneri Caves, a series of Buddhist caves that date back to the 1st century BCE. Another great option is the Ozar Ganpati Temple, a prominent Hindu temple that attracts thousands of visitors every year. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary or the Malshej Ghat region, which is famous for its waterfalls and scenic beauty.