Family Adventure in Maharashtra: Nature on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Mumbai

Mumbai, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day

Start your day with some budget-friendly sandwiches and coffee at Cafe Coffee Day, a popular chain with numerous outlets.
Walk to the nearest train station.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Explore the lush greenery of Sanjay Gandhi National Park where you can enjoy nature walks and witness the famous Kanheri Caves.
Take a local train from Churchgate to Borivali station, then an auto-rickshaw to the park.
INR 100, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Anand Stall

This iconic eatery offers delicious Vada Pavs, which are a must-try for anyone visiting Mumbai, and it's light on the pocket.
Take an auto-rickshaw back to Borivali station and head to Anand Stall.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Marine Drive

Stroll along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace, to enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Take a local train from Borivali to Churchgate.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore Hanging Gardens

Relax at the beautiful Hanging Gardens located on the slopes of Malabar Hill, perfect for a family outing.
Walk to the Hanging Gardens from Marine Drive.
Free, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at Bademiya

Savor delicious kebabs and rolls from Bademiya, a legendary food stall that has served Mumbai for generations.
Take a taxi to Colaba.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 2: Journey to Lonavala

Lonavala, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sanjivani

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with South Indian dishes that won't strain your wallet, setting you up for the day ahead.
Travel to Lonavala via local train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Lonavala Lake

Spend some time at the peaceful Lonavala Lake, perfect for picnics and soaking in the serene surroundings.
Walk to Lonavala Lake from the train station.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Bhushi Dam

Enjoy the mesmerizing views and cool waters at Bhushi Dam which is especially fun for kids during the monsoon.
Take a local bus or auto-rickshaw from Lonavala Lake to Bhushi Dam.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Chhatrapati Restaurant

Grab a budget-friendly meal at Chhatrapati Restaurant that offers a variety of local Maharashtrian dishes.
Head back to Lonavala and walk to Chhatrapati Restaurant.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Lion’s Point

A great spot for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, ideal for family photos.
Rent a local taxi for a few hours to take you there.
INR 500 (including taxi share), 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Sanjivani

Head back to your accommodation for a delightful dinner featuring local favorites, providing a cozy end to your day.
Return via the same taxi you used to get to Lion’s Point.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Karjat

Karjat, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at a local Dhabha

Start your day at a roadside Dhabha for fresh parathas and chai at a very affordable price.
Take an auto-rickshaw from Lonavala to Karjat.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Kondana Caves

Explore the scenic and historical Kondana Caves, perfect for a family hike with some adventure involved.
Hire a local guide for the caves and trekking route.
INR 300, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Picnic at Bhira Dam

Head to Bhira Dam for a relaxing picnic, complete with games and local snacks you packed earlier.
Take a shared auto-rickshaw to Bhira Dam.
Free, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at a local eatery

Enjoy a simple, budget-friendly lunch nearby featuring curry and rice.
Visit eateries near the dam.
INR 350, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Ulhas Valley

Take a short trek to the beautiful Ulhas Valley, a lush escape into nature that families can cherish.
Return to Karjat and take a local bus to Ulhas Valley.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Triveni

Wrap up your adventure with a delicious dinner at Hotel Triveni, offering a range of comfort food options.
Take a local bus back to Karjat.
INR 400, 1 hour
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