14-Day Road Trip: Nature and Culture of South and North Maharashtra

Day 1: Discover Mumbai

Mumbai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Madras

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast, featuring delicious dosas and filter coffee.
Take a taxi to South Mumbai for a vibrant start.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Gateway of India

Marvel at the iconic arch and witness the hustle and bustle of Mumbai while enjoying the sea breeze.
Walk or take a rickshaw from your breakfast spot.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

A rich cultural experience awaits as you explore the vast art and history in this museum.
A short taxi ride will take you there.
INR 500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Britannia & Co.

Savor some Parsi delicacies including their famous berry pulao and berry chicken.
A short ride will get you to this iconic restaurant.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through Marine Drive

Enjoy an evening walk along the coastline while admiring the beautiful architecture.
A taxi from lunch will take you there.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Busaba

Indulge your taste buds with fine Thai Cuisine with a beautiful view of the city.
A quick taxi ride back to the bustling area.
INR 1200, 2 hours
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Day 2: Beach Bliss in Alibaug

Alibaug, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Kohinoor

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in Alibaug before heading to the beaches.
Drive to Alibaug, approximately 2.5 hours from Mumbai.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Relax at Alibaug Beach

Spend your morning sunbathing or lounging around the sandy shores.
Walk to the beach from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Kolaba Fort

Explore this historic fort located on an island just off Alibaug beach.
Take a boat from the shore.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Mermaid Restaurant

Relish some authentic coastal seafood dishes at this beachside restaurant.
A short boat ride then walk to the restaurant.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Unwind at Nagaon Beach

This beach offers serene and pristine sand ideal for relaxation.
Drive from Alibaug Beach to Nagaon Beach in 30 minutes.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sanman Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Maharashtrian fare like thalipeeth and fish curry.
Drive back to the main town.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Coastal Culture in Ratnagiri

Ratnagiri, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start with a filling breakfast featuring local specialties.
Eat at your hotel before departure.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ratnadurga Fort

This fort offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is rich in history.
Take a local auto to the fort.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Ganesh Mandir

Experience the local culture by visiting one of Ratnagiri’s famous temples.
Auto from the fort to Mandir.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Vinayak Hotel

Dig into local fish curry thali while absorbing the atmosphere.
Walk to the restaurant from the temple.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Mandvi Beach

A perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or even a leisurely walk on the shore.
Drive to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Samrat

Savor delicious Malvani cuisine under the stars.
Drive from the beach back to town.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Beach Day at Ganpatipule

Ganpatipule, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Prasad

Start off with a simple breakfast before hitting the beaches.
Travel to Ganpatipule, about an hour from Ratnagiri.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ganpatipule Beach

Enjoy a leisurely morning swimming and relaxing on the beach.
Walk to Ganpatipule Beach.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore the Ganapati Temple

A must-visit for its spiritual significance and beautiful setting.
Stroll over to the temple from the beach.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Phadke's

Indulge in some local fish and coconut-based dishes at this renowned joint.
Quick walk from the temple.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Beach Games

Spend your afternoon indulging in beach sports like volleyball or frisbee.
Return to Ganpatipule Beach.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Aditi Restaurant

End your day with a seaside view, enjoying delicious seafood.
Walk back to the restaurant from beach area.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Hub Kolhapur

Kolhapur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sayaji

Start the day with a filling breakfast buffet before heading to Kolhapur.
Drive to Kolhapur, nearly 3 hours from Ganpatipule.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Mahalakshmi Temple

This famous temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi is a must-see for its architectural beauty.
Take a taxi from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore New Palace Museum

Dive deep into the local history with a tour of this royal palace turned museum.
Taxi from the temple.
INR 50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Oasis

Enjoy the famous Kolhapuri thali for an authentic local experience.
Drive to the restaurant from the museum.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Rankala Lake

Relax by the scenic lake and enjoy boating options for a fun afternoon.
Auto-rickshaw from the restaurant.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Shivaji Udyan

Indulge in traditional cuisine while soaking up the beauty of the surrounding gardens.
Drive back to the city area.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Hill Station Vibes in Panchgani

Panchgani, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hilltop

Enjoy a scenic breakfast overlooking hills before departing for Panchgani.
Drive to Panchgani, approximately 2 hours from Kolhapur.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Table Land

Experience the vast plateau and stunning views, perfect for photography.
Short drive to Table Land.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore the Strawberry Farms

Visit local farms for strawberry picking and learn about cultivation.
Drive to local farms.
INR 200, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Hilltop Ice Cream

Treat yourself to delicious strawberry ice cream and sandwiches.
Head to a nearby eatery.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Parsi Point

Get panoramic views of the surrounding area, perfect for sunset viewing.
Take a rickshaw from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at a local Dhaba

Experience regional food flavors in an authentic setting.
Walk to a nearby dhaba.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Mountain Mystique in Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off to Mahabaleshwar.
Drive to Mahabaleshwar, around 1.5 hours from Panchgani.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Venna Lake

Enjoy boating on the beautiful lake, surrounded by lush greenery.
Drive to the lake.
INR 300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Arthur’s Seat

Witness stunning views of the valleys and hills from this famous viewpoint.
A short drive from the lake.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at the Grapevine

Enjoy breathtaking valley views with regional specialties.
Head to the restaurant nearby.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Mapro Garden

A delightful place to explore and taste strawberry-based products.
Drive to the garden.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Hilltop

Enjoy local cuisine while surrounded by the mountainous terrain.
Return to the hotel for dinner.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Cultural Capital Pune

Pune, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vaishali

Start your day with a classic South Indian breakfast in Pune.
Drive to Pune, about 3 hours from Mahabaleshwar.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shaniwar Wada

Explore the ruins of this grand fortification rich in Marathi history.
Auto from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

Get immersed in Maharashtra's art and culture at this fascinating museum.
Take a taxi from Shaniwar Wada.
INR 100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Chaitanya Restaurant

Relish local Pune food including Misal Pav and Thalipeeth.
Drive from the museum.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Aga Khan Palace

Witness the beauty and historical significance of this palace.
A short drive from the restaurant.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Blue Nile Restaurant

Enjoy a meal filled with biryani and kebabs in an ambient setting.
Drive back to the bustling restaurant area.
INR 600, 2 hours
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Day 9: Wine and Sights in Nashik

Nashik, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast in Pune before heading towards Nashik.
Drive to Nashik, about 4 hours from Pune.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sula Vineyards

Experience wine tasting and tour the picturesque vineyards.
Drive straight to Sula Vineyards.
INR 700, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Sula Bistro

Unwind with a meal paired with tasty Sula wines.
On-site, walk to Bistro.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Anjneri Hill

Hike up to get an amazing view of Nashik city and its surroundings.
Drive to Anjneri Hill.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Barbeque Nation

Cap off your day with delightful grilled dishes and a buffet.
Drive back into Nashik.
INR 1200, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Heritage in Aurangabad

Aurangabad, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy breakfast before setting off to Aurangabad.
Drive to Aurangabad, about 4 hours from Nashik.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara

Discover the beautiful tomb often referred to as the 'Mini Taj'.
Auto-rickshaw to the mausoleum.
INR 100, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Aurangabad Caves

Art and architecture come together in these ancient caves worth exploring.
Drive to the caves.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Taj Restaurant

Delight in Mughlai cuisine with a view of the fountains.
Return to the city for lunch.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Daulatabad Fort

A tour of this ancient fortress will inspire awe with its strategic design.
Auto from the restaurant.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Gulshan Restaurant

Enjoy regional delicacies in a cozy setting after a fulfilling day of exploration.
Head back to town.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Ancient Wonders: Ajanta Caves

Ajanta, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up for another adventurous day exploring the cultural sites.
Drive to Ajanta, around 2.5 hours from Aurangabad.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ajanta Caves

Explore these UNESCO World Heritage sites adorned with intricate carvings and paintings.
Quick walk to the ticket office from the parking.
INR 600, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ajanta Caves Restaurant

Recharge with delicious rural cuisine while enjoying views of the caves.
Walk back to the restaurant nearby.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

More exploration of Ajanta

Continue your journey through the caves to discover more hidden treasures.
Standard exploration continues.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive back to Aurangabad

Return journey to refresh and relax at the hotel.
Drive back to Aurangabad.
Included in 11., 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Ramgiri

Savor delicious local fare as you wrap up your cultural dive of the day.
Head to your preferred dining spot.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Rock Cut Marvels: Ellora Caves

Ellora, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a tasty breakfast before heading to the caves.
Drive to Ellora, about an hour from Aurangabad.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ellora Caves

Wander through these extraordinary rock-cut caves showcasing Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu monuments.
Short drive to the caves.
INR 600, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a local dhaba

Enjoy regional dishes in a rustic setting after your morning of exploration.
Drive back towards Aurangabad for lunch.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the remaining Ellora Caves

Continue to explore the fascinating cave systems that tell a rich story of history.
Continue walking through the site.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive back to Aurangabad

Return with memories of a lifetime from the caves.
Drive back to Aurangabad.
Included in 12., 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Majestic

Cap off your trip with exquisite dishes preparing you for the journey home.
Close to your hotel.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Small Town Charm in Jalna

Jalna, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Have a fulfilling breakfast before heading to Jalna.
Drive to Jalna, about 4 hours from Aurangabad.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Jalna Fort

Explore the ruins of this historic fort offering panoramic views.
Auto-rickshaw to the fort.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a local eatery

Relish the traditional Maharashtrian meal at a local joint.
Walk to a reputed local eatery.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore local markets

Immerse in local culture while shopping for handmade crafts and textiles.
Stroll through nearby markets.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit historic temples

Discover the traditional temples that hold cultural significance in the area.
Drive to the temple complex.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a local dhaba

Conclude your day with simple yet delicious local fare.
Head back towards the city center.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Return to Mumbai

Mumbai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast before you embark on your journey back to Mumbai.
Drive back to Mumbai, roughly 4.5 hours from Jalna.
INR 400, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Leopold

Savor iconic dishes like kheema pav and the vibrant ambiance of this famous café.
Head to Colaba area.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Prince of Wales Museum

Wrap up your trip with rich cultural artifacts and art at this museum.
A short drive or taxi ride from lunch.
INR 500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Dome

End your journey with spectacular views of the sunset over Marine Drive while enjoying fine dining.
Drive back to Marine Drive area.
INR 1500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability