Exploring Western India: A Journey from Valsad to Ganpatipule via Pandharpur and Kolhapur

Day 1: Pilgrimage & Travel

Valsad to Pandharpur, India on June 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Presidium, Valsad

Start your day with a traditional Gujarati breakfast of Thepla and Gujarati Kadhi at this popular local hotel, open from 7am to 10am.
INR100, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Valsad to Pandharpur

Drive approximately 6.5 hours (about 370 km) southeast to Pandharpur, a major pilgrimage center.
INR1500 (travel cost approx.), 6h30m

3:30pm

Visit Vitthal Temple, Pandharpur

Visit the famous Vitthal-Rukmini Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage places in Maharashtra, open till 9pm. Experience the spiritual atmosphere and intricate architecture.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Evening Tea at Café Krishna

Enjoy some local snacks and chai at this cozy café near the temple, perfect for a break before dinner.
INR50, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Surya, Pandharpur

Try traditional Maharashtrian thali with dishes like bhakri and varan at this well-reviewed restaurant, open until 10pm.
INR300, 1h0m

Day 2: Cultural Heritage

Pandharpur to Kolhapur, India on June 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Surya

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast including poha and chai before starting the journey to Kolhapur.
INR150, 45m

8:30am

Drive to Kolhapur

Travel approximately 3.5 hours (about 165 km) to Kolhapur, renowned for its rich heritage and temples.
INR800 (travel cost approx.), 3h30m

12:00pm

Visit Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur

Explore the iconic Mahalaxmi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Mahalaxmi, open for visitors from 5am to 9pm.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Sukh Sagar, Kolhapur

Taste famous Kolhapuri cuisine such as Tambada Rassa and Pandhra Rassa in a well-known local restaurant.
INR350, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Rankala Lake

Enjoy a leisurely visit to Rankala Lake; perfect for a walk or boat ride. The lake is open throughout the day.
INR50, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore New Palace Museum

Discover the heritage of Kolhapur by touring the New Palace Museum. It opens from 9am to 6pm.
INR40, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Padma Shri Cafe

Sample delicious snacks and a light dinner, including Kolhapuri misal pav, open till 10pm.
INR200, 1h0m

Day 3: Coastal Relaxation

Kolhapur to Ganpatipule, India on July 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Padma Shri Cafe

Start your day with fresh South Indian idlis and filter coffee at this local favorite.
INR120, 45m

8:00am

Drive to Ganpatipule

Take the scenic 3 hour drive (about 150 km) southwest to the beautiful coastal town of Ganpatipule.
INR900 (travel cost approx.), 3h0m

11:30am

Visit Ganpatipule Temple

Visit the serene Ganpatipule Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, set by pristine beaches, open from early morning till evening.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sujata Beachside Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and Malvani cuisine with a seaside view in this popular beachfront eatery.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax at Ganpatipule Beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing or swimming at the clean and peaceful Ganpatipule Beach.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Jaigad Fort

Short drive to Jaigad Fort, a historic seaside fort with panoramic views, open till sunset.
INR30, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Malgundi

Relax with a dinner of traditional coastal dishes including fish curry and sol kadhi in this recommended hotel restaurant.
INR450, 1h0m