4-Day Scenic and Cultural Tour from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar, Pune, and Bhimashankar

Day 1: Travel and Arrival

Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar, India on April 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Madras, Mumbai

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at Cafe Madras, known for its filter coffee and idlis. This will energise you for the drive ahead.
INR500, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar

Start a scenic 5-hour drive covering approximately 260 km via NH48, enjoying the lush Western Ghats landscape en route.
INR2000 (fuel/taxi), 5h

2:00pm

Lunch at The Grapevine, Mahabaleshwar

Savour fresh, locally sourced North Indian cuisine in this cosy restaurant after your journey.
INR600, 1h

3:30pm

Venna Lake Visit

Spend the afternoon boating or walking around Venna Lake, a calm and picturesque spot ideal for relaxation.
INR100, 2h

6:00pm

Check-in and freshen up at a hotel in Mahabaleshwar

Settle into your accommodation to rest and prepare for sightseeing the next day.
INR4000, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Wai Vilas

Enjoy authentic Maharashtrian cuisine with a warm ambiance, perfect to end your first day in the Western Ghats.
INR700, 1h

Day 2: Mahabaleshwar Sightseeing

Mahabaleshwar, India on April 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mapro Garden Café

Try freshly made strawberry-based treats and breakfast items at the iconic Mapro Garden Café which opens at 8am.
INR400, 1h

9:15am

Visit Pratapgad Fort

Explore this historic fort with panoramic views of the Western Ghats; open till 6pm, it offers insight into Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy.
INR50, 2h

11:45am

Drive to Arthur’s Seat

Visit the famous viewpoint known as ‘Queen of all points,’ offering stunning views over the valley and waterfalls.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Panorama

Dine on local and continental dishes with views over the hills in a relaxed setting.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Mahabaleshwar Temple and Lingmala Waterfall

Take time to visit the ancient Mahabaleshwar temple followed by the scenic Lingmala Waterfall, perfect for nature lovers.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Explore the local market

Browse fresh strawberries, local jams, and handicrafts in the vibrant Mahabaleshwar market.
Variable, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Panorama

Return for a quiet dinner with a variety of Indian and international dishes.
INR700, 1h

Day 3: Mahabaleshwar to Pune

Mahabaleshwar to Pune, India on April 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a wholesome breakfast at your hotel in Mahabaleshwar to start the day.
Included in stay, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Pune

Travel approximately 120 km to Pune via NH60, expected travel time around 3 hours.
INR1500, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vaishali Restaurant, Pune

Try iconic Maharashtrian snacks and thalis at this much-loved Pune eatery on FC Road.
INR500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Aga Khan Palace

Explore this historical monument open from 8:00am to 6:00pm, significant for its role in India's freedom movement.
INR50, 1h

2:45pm

Visit Shaniwar Wada Fort

Tour this famous 18th-century fort and palace complex in Pune, known for its architecture and history.
INR25, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Saras Baug

Stroll in Saras Baug garden near Pune’s city centre, visiting the Ganesh temple within the park.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Malaka Spice

Enjoy South East Asian flavours in stylish Pune, with vibrant dishes carefully prepared.
INR800, 1h

Day 4: Bhimashankar Day Trip

Pune to Bhimashankar and return to Mumbai, India on April 21, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel in Pune

Start early with a packed or hotel breakfast to prepare for the day trip to Bhimashankar.
Included in stay, 30m

6:30am

Drive to Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

Journey 110 km towards Bhimashankar, famous for its ancient Shiva temple and rich biodiversity; plan arrival by 9am when sanctuary opens.
INR1500, 2.5h

9:15am

Visit Bhimashankar Temple and Trekking

Explore the ancient Shiva temple and enjoy short treks in the sanctuary looking out for the Indian Giant Squirrel and native flora.
Temple free, Trekking nominal fee, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at local dhaba

Eat traditional Maharashtrian cuisine at a nearby dhaba offering regional dishes.
INR300, 1h

1:30pm

Drive back to Mumbai

Return journey of about 180 km taking approximately 4 hours via NH48; expect to arrive by evening.
INR2000, 4h

6:00pm

Arrival in Mumbai and Dinner Recommendation

Conclude your trip with dinner at Bademiya in Colaba, famous for late-night kebabs and Indian street food specialties.
INR700, 1h