4-Day Cultural and Nature Exploration: Ajanta Ellora Caves, Lonar Lake, and Nearby Hill Station

Day 1: Ajanta Exploration

Ajanta, India on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Ajanta

Start your day with a hearty traditional Maharashtrian breakfast at this well-rated local hotel near Ajanta caves, ensuring energy for the day.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Ajanta Caves

Explore the renowned Ajanta Caves, famous for their ancient rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments and exquisite murals dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
INR40, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Ajanta Caves Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with local Indian and vegetarian dishes at the on-site restaurant, perfect for recharging after your cave visit.
INR400, 1h0m

3:00pm

Local Village Walk

Take a guided walk through nearby Ajanta villages to experience rural life and local crafts, providing a cultural insight beyond the caves.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Ajanta

Dine in with authentic Maharashtrian cuisine including dishes like bhakri and pithla in a comfortable hotel setting.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 2: Ellora Caves Tour

Ellora, India on May 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast at your hotel in Ajanta before traveling to Ellora, preparing you for a full day of exploration.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Ellora Caves

Travel approximately 1.5 hours by car to reach Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its monumental cave temples representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.
INR1500 (car rental), 1h30m

10:30am

Explore Ellora Caves

Discover the impressive rock-cut temples at Ellora, including the breathtaking Kailasa temple carved out of a single rock. Open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
INR40, 4h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Krishna Palace

Have lunch at this nearby restaurant specializing in Indian and continental dishes with a good variety of choices.
INR450, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Ellora Village Handicrafts

Explore local shops featuring handmade crafts and souvenirs like textiles and jewelry, showcasing local artisan skills.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel

Dinner at your hotel with options for both traditional Maharashtrian dishes and other Indian cuisine.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 3: Lonar Lake Visit

Lonar, India on May 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Ellora hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for the approximately 3-hour drive to Lonar Lake.
INR300, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Lonar Lake

Travel to the unique Lonar Crater Lake, formed by a meteorite impact, known for its saline and alkaline water, along with surrounding wildlife and forest.
INR1500 (car rental), 3h0m

11:30am

Visit Lonar Lake

Explore the geological and ecological wonder of Lonar Lake including walking around the crater and visiting the nearby temples. Open daylight hours.
INR30, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at local dhaba

Enjoy a simple, authentic meal at a local dhaba near the lake offering traditional Marathi dishes.
INR200, 1h0m

4:00pm

Bird Watching and Nature Walk

Take an afternoon nature walk around the surrounding forest where many migratory birds can be spotted, ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Lonar Lake Resort

Dine at a nearby resort restaurant offering a mix of regional and Indian cuisine, perfect to relax after a long day.
INR600, 1h0m

Day 4: Hill Station Serenity

Bhandardara, India on May 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast at your hotel near Lonar before heading to Bhandardara hill station for a day of relaxation in nature.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Bhandardara

Drive about 2.5 hours to Bhandardara, a scenic hill station known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and serene ambiance.
INR1500 (car rental), 2h30m

11:30am

Visit Arthur Lake and Randha Falls

Explore beautiful Arthur Lake and nearby Randha Falls for nature walks and photography opportunities. Perfect for hiking and enjoying peaceful natural surroundings.
Free, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Bhandardara Restaurant

Lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the lake serving Maharashtra regional dishes and fresh vegetarian options.
INR400, 1h0m

4:00pm

Wilson Dam visit and Sunset

Visit Wilson Dam, a historic dam and spot famous for its sunset views over the Sahyadri hills, offering a tranquil end to the trip.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at local lodge

Enjoy a peaceful dinner with local flavors at your lodge before departure the next day.
INR500, 1h0m