Solo Trip Itinerary from Mumbai to Grishneshwar: Spiritual Journey and Cultural Exploration

Day 1: Mumbai & Travel

Mumbai, India on May 16, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Madras

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast of idli and filter coffee at Cafe Madras in Matunga, open from 7:00am to 10:30pm. It's a local favorite and perfect for solo travelers.
INR200, 1h0m

10:30am

Sightseeing at Gateway of India

Visit Mumbai's iconic Gateway of India, a historic monument and boat departure point, ideal for morning photos and a peaceful stroll.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Britannia & Co. Restaurant

Savor Parsi cuisine like Berry Pulav and Sali Boti at the renowned Britannia, open from 12:00pm to 3:30pm, providing a unique Mumbai dining experience.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Travel to Aurangabad by flight

Catch an afternoon flight from Mumbai to Aurangabad, which takes about 1 hour. Book tickets in advance for convenience and off-peak prices.
INR2500, 1h0m

4:00pm

Check-in and rest at hotel in Aurangabad

Stay at a comfortable hotel near Aurangabad city center, such as the Lemon Tree Premier, which offers easy access to tourist sites and good amenities.
INR3000, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Nizam's Hotel

Enjoy traditional Hyderabadi biryani and other local dishes at Nizam's, Aurangabad’s famous eatery, open till 10:30pm.
INR450, 1h30m
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Day 2: Ajanta & Travel

Ajanta Caves & Grishneshwar, Maharashtra on May 17, 2025

6:30am

Early breakfast at hotel

Start early with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before departing for Ajanta Caves.
Included with hotel, 0h30m

7:00am

Visit Ajanta Caves

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Ajanta Caves, famed for intricate Buddhist rock-cut architecture and paintings; open from 9:00am to 5:30pm, best to arrive early with pre-booked tickets.
INR300 (entry fee), 4h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at nearby restaurant

Have a meal at a local restaurant near Ajanta providing Maharashtrian cuisine; try some thali or snacks like misal pav.
INR300, 1h0m

1:30pm

Travel to Grishneshwar

Drive approx. 3 hours from Ajanta to Grishneshwar temple area in Ellora village; check into a local guesthouse for convenience.
INR1000 (transport), 3h0m

5:00pm

Evening darshan at Grishneshwar Temple

Visit the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga temple, one of the 12 sacred Shiva shrines; open till 7:00pm, soak in spiritual vibes and beautiful temple carvings.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at local eatery

Enjoy a peaceful vegetarian Maharashtrian meal at a nearby local eatery, known for fresh and homemade flavors.
INR250, 1h0m
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Day 3: Ellora & Return

Ellora & Mumbai, India on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Have a simple, nutritious breakfast with Indian chai and local dishes to prepare for the day.
INR150, 0h30m

8:00am

Visit Ellora Caves

Explore the famous Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site comprising Hindu, Buddhist and Jain monuments carved in rock; the site opens at 9:00am and closes at 6:00pm.
INR600, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Cafe Coffee Day Ellora

Relax with a light meal and coffee at Cafe Coffee Day located near Ellora caves' entrance, perfect for a casual break.
INR250, 1h0m

2:00pm

Return journey to Mumbai

Travel back to Aurangabad airport to take a late afternoon flight or train back to Mumbai; total travel time is approximately 1 hour by flight or 7 hours by train.
INR2500 (flight), 1h0m (flight option)

7:00pm

Dinner in Mumbai at Bademiya

If arriving in Mumbai in the evening, enjoy street food staples like kebabs at Bademiya, famous for late-night dining; open till midnight.
INR400, 1h0m
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