4-Day Mumbai Pune Itinerary - Family Friendly (June 2023)

1. Day 1: Gateway of India, Mumbai
   2 hours (21.6 miles) from Pune

   In the morning, visit the iconic Gateway of India landmark which offers a beautiful view of the Arabian Sea. Take a ferry ride to the nearby Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which houses ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. For lunch, head to the famous Leopold Cafe known for its Indian and Continental cuisine. Spend the afternoon exploring the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a historic railway station, before grabbing a local street food dinner at Mohammed Ali Road.

2. Day 2: Shaniwar Wada Fort, Pune
   3 hours (97.3 miles) from Gateway of India, Mumbai

   Start the day with visiting the Shaniwar Wada Fort, a former seat of the Peshwa dynasty, which is known for its beautiful architecture and light and sound show. For lunch, enjoy some authentic Maharashtrian cuisine at the nearby Durvankur Dining Hall. Visit the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, which has a huge collection of artefacts from all over India, in the afternoon. For dinner, head to the German Bakery for some delicious baked goods and snacks.

3. Day 3: Aga Khan Palace, Pune
   15 minutes (3.5 miles) from Shaniwar Wada Fort, Pune

   Start the day early by visiting the Aga Khan Palace, known for its historical significance in India's independence movement and its beautiful architecture. For lunch, head to the nearby Malaka Spice restaurant, which offers a mix of Asian and Indian cuisine. Spend the afternoon exploring the Osho Ashram, a tranquil meditation centre, before heading to the famous Pingle Vada Pav for dinner - a local favourite for their iconic Vada Pav.

4. Day 4: Lonavala Hill Station
   1.5 hours (39.1 miles) from Aga Khan Palace, Pune

   Take a day trip to the beautiful hill station of Lonavala. Start the day early by visiting the Tiger's Point, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the valley. Have lunch at the famous German Bakery, which offers some delicious sandwiches and cakes. Visit the Bhushi Dam, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, for some fun in the water. Finally, end the day by visiting the Karla Caves, a group of rock-cut Buddhist shrines, before heading back to Pune for dinner.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the famous Haji Ali Dargah, a historic mosque located in the middle of the Arabian Sea, in Mumbai. For a side trip, visit the hill station of Mahabaleshwar, which is known for its beautiful scenery and strawberries. To maximize your fun, try some adventure activities in Lonavala such as trekking, rappelling, or zip lining. Finally, don't forget to check out the local markets in Mumbai and Pune for some great shopping deals.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Gateway of India (2 hours, free)
• Elephanta Caves (3-4 hours, 600 INR)
• Leopold Cafe (1-2 hours, 800 INR)
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (2 hours, free)
• Mohammed Ali Road (2-3 hours, 500 INR)
• Shaniwar Wada Fort (2 hours, 250 INR)
• Durvankur Dining Hall (1-2 hours, 300 INR)
• Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum (2-3 hours, 200 INR)
• German Bakery (1-2 hours, 500 INR)
• Aga Khan Palace (2 hours, 100 INR)
• Malaka Spice (1-2 hours, 800 INR)
• Osho Ashram (2-3 hours, free)
• Pingle Vada Pav (1 hour, 100 INR)
• Lonavala (6-8 hours, 2000 INR)
• German Bakery, Lonavala (1 hour, 500 INR)
• Bhushi Dam (2-3 hours, free)
• Karla Caves (2-3 hours, 250 INR)
• Total Estimated Costs: 6,000 INR (excluding transportation and accommodation)