Exploring Maharashtra on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: City Exploration

Mumbai, India

9:00 AM

Gateway of India

Start your day at the iconic Gateway of India, a historical monument overlooking the Arabian Sea.
The Gateway of India is easily accessible by local taxis or rideshare services from most parts of Mumbai. It takes approximately 30 minutes to reach from the city center.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture.
From the Gateway of India, you can take a local train to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. The journey takes around 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Bademiya

Indulge in delicious and affordable street food at Bademiya, known for its kebabs and rolls.
Bademiya is located in Colaba, a short taxi or train ride away from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Marine Drive

Stroll along the picturesque Marine Drive promenade and enjoy the sunset by the Arabian Sea.
You can walk to Marine Drive from Colaba or take a short taxi ride.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Gajalee

Savor authentic Malvani seafood at Gajalee, a popular restaurant in Mumbai.
Gajalee is easily reachable by taxi or rideshare services from Marine Drive.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Pune, India

9:00 AM

Aga Khan Palace

Explore the Aga Khan Palace, a historic landmark with beautiful architecture and a serene garden.
Travel from Mumbai to Pune by train, which takes around 3-4 hours. The Aga Khan Palace is a short taxi or bus ride from the Pune railway station.
INR 200, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Dorabjee & Sons

Enjoy a traditional Parsi meal at Dorabjee & Sons, a renowned restaurant in Pune.
Dorabjee & Sons is located in Camp area, easily accessible by local transportation from Aga Khan Palace.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Shaniwar Wada

Visit the historic Shaniwar Wada fort and learn about Pune's rich cultural heritage.
Take a short bus or taxi ride from the restaurant to Shaniwar Wada.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

Explore the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, home to a diverse collection of artifacts and cultural exhibits.
The museum is a short distance from Shaniwar Wada and can be reached by walking or a quick taxi ride.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Vohuman Cafe

Try delicious Irani chai and bun maska at Vohuman Cafe, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Vohuman Cafe is located in Pune's Camp area and is easily accessible by local transportation.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature Retreat

Mahabaleshwar, India

9:00 AM

Elephant's Head Point

Begin your day with a visit to Elephant's Head Point, offering breathtaking views of the Sahyadri Mountains.
Travel from Pune to Mahabaleshwar by bus or private car, which takes around 4-5 hours. Elephant's Head Point is a short drive from the main town.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Mapro Garden

Have a meal at Mapro Garden, known for its fresh strawberry products and scenic surroundings.
Mapro Garden is a popular tourist spot and can be reached by a short taxi ride from Elephant's Head Point.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Pratapgarh Fort

Explore the historic Pratapgarh Fort and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Take a taxi or local transportation from Mapro Garden to Pratapgarh Fort.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Venna Lake

Relax by Venna Lake, a serene spot for boating and enjoying the natural beauty of Mahabaleshwar.
Venna Lake is a short distance from Pratapgarh Fort and can be easily accessed by walking or local transport.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Rajmahal

Enjoy a hearty meal at Hotel Rajmahal, known for its delicious Indian cuisine and warm hospitality.
Hotel Rajmahal is located in the main market area of Mahabaleshwar and is easily reachable by walking or local transport.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 4: Historical Exploration

Aurangabad, India

9:00 AM

Ellora Caves

Discover the ancient rock-cut Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing stunning sculptures and architecture.
Travel from Mahabaleshwar to Aurangabad by bus or private car, which takes approximately 7-8 hours. Ellora Caves are a short drive from the city center.
INR 250, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Naivedyam

Indulge in traditional Maharashtrian thali at Naivedyam, a popular restaurant in Aurangabad.
Naivedyam is located in the central part of Aurangabad and can be reached by local transportation from Ellora Caves.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Bibi ka Maqbara

Visit Bibi ka Maqbara, often referred to as the 'Taj of the Deccan', and explore its stunning Mughal architecture.
Take a taxi or local bus from Naivedyam to Bibi ka Maqbara, which is a short distance away.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Daulatabad Fort

Explore the historic Daulatabad Fort, known for its impressive defensive architecture and panoramic views.
Daulatabad Fort is a short drive from Bibi ka Maqbara and can be reached by taxi or local transport.
INR 50, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Bhoj Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Bhoj Restaurant, known for its authentic Hyderabadi biryani and North Indian dishes.
Bhoj Restaurant is located in the central area of Aurangabad and is easily accessible by walking or local transport.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 5: Spiritual Journey

Nashik, India

9:00 AM

Sula Vineyards

Start your day with a visit to Sula Vineyards, where you can take a tour of the vineyard and enjoy wine tasting.
Travel from Aurangabad to Nashik by bus or private car, which takes around 5-6 hours. Sula Vineyards are located on the outskirts of Nashik.
INR 200 (tour and tasting), 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Divtya Budhlya Wada

Enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian meal at Divtya Budhlya Wada, a heritage restaurant in Nashik.
Divtya Budhlya Wada is located in the Old City area of Nashik and can be reached by local transportation from Sula Vineyards.
INR 350, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Sita Gufa

Explore Sita Gufa, a cave temple associated with the epic Ramayana and a tranquil spot for meditation.
Take a short taxi or bus ride from the restaurant to Sita Gufa, located in the outskirts of Nashik.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Panchavati

Visit Panchavati, a sacred area in Nashik with historic temples and the iconic Godavari River.
Panchavati is a short distance from Sita Gufa and can be explored on foot or by local transport.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Panchavati Yatri

Enjoy a traditional thali meal at Hotel Panchavati Yatri, known for its authentic Maharashtrian cuisine.
Hotel Panchavati Yatri is located in the central part of Nashik and is easily accessible by walking or local transport.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 6: Return to Mumbai

Mumbai, India

9:00 AM

Shopping at Colaba Causeway

Spend your morning exploring the shops and street vendors at Colaba Causeway for souvenirs and local finds.
Travel back to Mumbai from Nashik by bus, train, or private car, which takes around 4-5 hours. Colaba Causeway is easily reachable by local transportation.
Variable, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Leopold Cafe

Have a meal at Leopold Cafe, a historic restaurant in Mumbai known for its diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere.
Leopold Cafe is located near Colaba Causeway and can be reached on foot or by local transport.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Dharavi Slum

Take a guided tour of Dharavi Slum to gain insight into the vibrant community and small-scale industries within the area.
Join a guided tour that starts from Colaba or arrange for transportation to Dharavi Slum for an immersive experience.
INR 500 (tour), 2 hours

5:00 PM

Evening at Juhu Beach

Relax at Juhu Beach, one of Mumbai's most popular beaches, and witness a beautiful sunset by the Arabian Sea.
You can take a taxi or train from Dharavi to Juhu Beach, which offers a perfect setting for a leisurely evening.
Free, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Britannia & Co.

End your day with a meal at Britannia & Co., a charming eatery known for its Parsi cuisine and nostalgic ambiance.
Britannia & Co. is located in the Ballard Estate area of Mumbai and can be reached by taxi or local transport.
INR 400, 1 hour
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