5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Maharashtra, India: Embrace Culture and Nature

Day 1: Arrival & Explore Mumbai

Mumbai, India on December 22, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Madras

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Café Madras, known for its authentic Idli and filter coffee.
Located in Matunga, just a short cab ride from most hotels.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gateway of India

Stroll around the iconic Gateway of India, an architectural marvel and perfect photo spot overlooking the Arabian Sea.
A short 20-minute taxi ride from Café Madras.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Elephanta Caves

Take a ferry from the Gateway of India to the Elephanta Island where ancient rock-cut temples await you.
Ferry service available at the Gateway of India.
INR 400, 3 hours including ferry ride

2:00PM

Lunch at Britannia & Co.

Experience authentic Parsi cuisine with a famous berry pulao or fish curry at this nostalgic eatery.
Take a ferry back and then a cab to the restaurant.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site to marvel at its Victorian Gothic architecture.
A quick 15-minute cab ride from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Marine Drive

Unwind while taking a leisurely walk along Marine Drive, soaking in the ocean view with your family.
A 10-minute cab ride from the terminus.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Grill House

Enjoy grilled delicacies and great city views from this rooftop restaurant to end your first day.
Located a short cab ride away.
INR 1500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Culture & Shopping in Mumbai

Mumbai, India on December 23, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aaswad

Enjoy delicious Misal Pav and other local delicacies for breakfast at this renowned spot.
A brief 15-minute cab ride from your hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

Explore the rich history and culture at this museum, known for its impressive collection.
A short 10-minute cab ride from the restaurant.
INR 150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Leopold

Experience the vibrant ambiance of this legendary café while enjoying a hearty lunch.
15 minutes by cab from the museum.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Colaba Causeway

Shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy the lively street atmosphere on this bustling market street.
A 10-minute walk from Café Leopold.
Free to browse, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Mani Bhavan

Discover Gandhi's residence from 1917-1934, which is now a museum dedicated to his life.
A brief share taxi or cab ride from Colaba.
INR 20, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax in Hanging Gardens

Spend some peaceful moments at these terraced gardens, appreciated for their flora and stunning views.
A 20-minute cab ride from Mani Bhavan.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Salt Water Café

Savor a delightful range of dishes including seafood and pasta with a charming ambiance.
A 20-minute cab ride from Hanging Gardens.
INR 1400, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Nature and Adventure in Lonavala

Lonavala, India on December 24, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a calming buffet breakfast at your hotel before a day of exploring nature.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Lonavala

Depart from Mumbai for a scenic drive to this picturesque hill station.
Approximately 1.5 hours by private vehicle.
N/A, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Bhushi Dam

Take in the natural beauty and let your family enjoy splashing around the pristine waters of this popular dam.
Located in Lonavala, accessible via taxi.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Dukes Retreat

Indulge in delectable multi-cuisine dishes while soaking in views of the mountains.
10 minutes by cab from Bhushi Dam.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Lion’s Point

Capture breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and relax in the cool breeze while enjoying nature.
A short ride from the restaurant, about 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Karla Caves

Marvel at ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves adorned with intricate sculptures and history.
A drive of about 30 minutes from Lion’s Point.
INR 250, 2 hours

6:00PM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your accommodations, opting for a family-friendly resort offering relaxation and amenities.
A 20-minute taxi ride from Karla Caves.
INR 7000, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a family dinner at the hotel restaurant with a mix of local and international cuisine.
In-house dining option.
Approximately INR 2000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Cultural Experiences in Pune

Pune, India on December 25, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Relish a steaming breakfast at your resort to energize yourself for a day of culture.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Pune

Head to Pune, a city rich in history and tradition, perfect for immersing your family in culture.
Approximately 1-hour drive.
N/A, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Aga Khan Palace

Explore this iconic palace that played a significant role in India's freedom movement.
Located in Pune, a short cab ride.
INR 100, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Osho Ashram

Wander through the tranquil gardens of this famous meditation center and soak in its peaceful atmosphere.
A nearby 10-minute drive from the Aga Khan Palace.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Vaishali Restaurant

Dine at this iconic eatery known for its South Indian cuisine, a favorite among locals.
Another 10-minute cab ride from the ashram.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Shaniwar Wada

Immerse your family in history by visiting this fortification that played a critical role in the Maratha Empire.
A quick 15-minute cab ride.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax in Saras Baug

Enjoy a leisurely stroll in this beautiful garden featuring a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh.
Nearby area, about 10 minutes by cab.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Check into Hotel

Settle into your accommodation in Pune for a relaxing evening.
Short drive from the garden to your hotel.
INR 5000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Malhar Machi

Experience authentic Maharashtrian flavors as you savor traditional dishes with a modern twist.
A 30-minute cab ride from the hotel.
INR 2000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Return to Mumbai

Mumbai, India on December 26, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Pune with fresh local specialties.
In-house dining.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel back to Mumbai

Head back to Mumbai, making the most of your road trip experience.
Around 3-hour drive.
N/A, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Zaffran

Savor a delicious array of Indian dishes at this cafe known for its excellent ambiance.
Located in Mumbai, just 30 minutes via cab from your hotel.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

Pay homage to the stunning architecture and the legacy of Mumbai’s rail history before your trip winds down.
Short cab ride from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shopping at Phoenix Marketcity

Enjoy shopping and exploring the spacious mall filled with shops, activities, and entertainment.
A 30-minute cab ride from the station.
Free to browse, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mahesh Lunch Home

Relish world-renowned seafood dishes before concluding your Maharashtra journey.
A quick cab ride to the restaurant.
INR 1800, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability