4-Day Cultural Journey: Thane to Ajanta Caves, Lonar, Shegaon, and Igatpuri

Day 1: Exploration of Ajanta

Ajanta, India

6:00 AM

Depart from Thane

Start your adventure early to beat the traffic and maximize your time at your destination.
Head northwest on NH 160 towards Aurangabad, then follow the signs to Ajanta Caves.
INR600, 5 hours

11:00 AM

Visiting Ajanta Caves

Explore the stunning rock-cut caves adorned with exquisite frescoes and sculptures that date back to the 2nd century BCE, representing ancient Indian art.
Enter Ajanta Caves complex and start with Caves 1 and 2 which are among the most famous.
INR40, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Ajanta Caves

Enjoy a delicious thali that showcases the local Maharashtra cuisine, perfect for re-energizing.
Dining at Hotel Ajanta Caves located near the entrance.
INR300, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Continue Exploring Caves

Visit more of the caves you might have missed earlier; don’t forget to capture the beauty of the ancient carvings.
Utilize the walking trails connecting the caves throughout the complex.
INR0, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Thane

After a fulfilling day, head back to Thane while reminiscing about the artistry of Ajanta.
Drive back towards Thane taking NH 160.
INR600, 5 hours
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Day 2: Journey to Lonar

Lonar, India

8:00 AM

Departure to Lonar

Set off for Lonar, home of the unique Lonar Crater, with its ecological wonders.
Take NH 61 leading towards Jalna and then follow signs to Lonar.
INR700, 4 hours

12:00 PM

Visit Lonar Crater

Explore this fascinating geological phenomenon, surrounded by lush vegetation and rich biodiversity.
Go to the Lonar crater site, entrance is straightforward to locate.
INR0, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Vithal Kamats

Savor authentic Maharashtrian dishes like puri bhaji and misal while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.
Located just outside the crater site.
INR300, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Daitya Sudan Temple

Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Vishnu, built along the rim of the crater, showcasing intricate rock carvings.
Walk a short distance from the crater site to the temple.
INR0, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Relax by Lonar Lake

Unwind and appreciate the serene surroundings of the crater lake, perfect for photography.
Stroll around the lake, taking in the scenic views.
INR0, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Head to Shegaon

Prepare for the final leg of your day as you travel towards Shegaon, known for its spiritual significance.
Use the NH 61 route connecting to Shegaon.
INR800, 4 hours

9:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Saikrupa

Enjoy local delicacies such as bhakri and chicken curry in a cozy environment.
Located right in the heart of Shegaon.
INR400, 1 hour
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Day 3: Spiritual Sojourn

Shegaon, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast that includes idli, sambhar, and filter coffee.
In-house dining at Hotel Saikrupa.
INR200, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit Gajanan Maharaj Temple

Seek blessings at this revered temple while enjoying the tranquility and spiritual energy of the site.
Easily reachable by foot or auto-rickshaw from the hotel.
INR0, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Explore Shegaon Garden

Stroll through the lush gardens that reflect serenity and peace, perfect for relaxation or photography.
Located adjacent to the temple.
INR0, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Krishna Hotel

Relish kite of biryani and roti in a local eatery that people rave about.
Short drive from the gardens.
INR250, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Departure to Igatpuri

Embark on a scenic drive to Igatpuri, a serene hill station known for its stunning landscapes.
Take NH 60 towards Igatpuri.
INR500, 3 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Vipassana International Academy

Engage in a calming environment focused on meditation and mindfulness courses offered here.
Located just outside Igatpuri, well-signposted.
INR0, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Relax at Bhatsa River Valley

Unwind by the river, enjoying the views of the surrounding hills as the sun slowly sets.
A short drive from the academy.
INR0, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Manas Resort

Enjoy a delightful meal with an array of Indian and continental dishes by a cozy fireplace.
Located within the resort complex.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Return to Thane

Thane, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Manas Resort

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, featuring an omelet, toast, and fresh fruits.
In-house restaurant of Manas Resort.
INR300, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Nature Walk in Igatpuri

Enjoy a refreshing morning walk among the lush greenery and hills, taking in the clean mountain air.
Accessible via the resort pathways.
INR0, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Departure to Thane

Begin your journey back to Thane, filled with wonderful memories of the trip.
Take the NH 60 route back.
INR500, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a local Thane eatery

Savor a simple meal of chapati and dal along with a popular local dish, the misal pav.
Explore local food spots throughout Thane.
INR250, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Thane City

Spend your afternoon visiting local landmarks such as Upvan Lake and Yo Yo Park, or shopping in local markets.
Easily accessible from your lunch spot.
INR0, 3 hours
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