Day 1: Mumbai Arrival

Upon landing at Mumbai’s international airport, be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
After check-in, take time to relax and freshen up.
Begin your evening city tour with the Gateway of India, a grand archway overlooking the Arabian Sea, built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. This iconic monument stands as a symbol of Mumbai's rich colonial past.
Stroll along Colaba Causeway, a bustling street lined with shops, cafes, and vibrant street vendors, offering a lively atmosphere and a taste of Mumbai's urban energy.
Visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, featuring elaborate carvings, spires, and an impressive facade that showcases the grandeur of colonial-era engineering.

Day 2: Mumbai Sightseeing - Elephanta Caves

After breakfast, journey to the Elephanta Caves, a collection of ancient rock-cut temples located on Elephanta Island, a short ferry ride from the Gateway of India.
The caves, dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries, are renowned for their intricate sculptures and carvings dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva, including the colossal Trimurti, a representation of the Hindu trinity.
Enjoy the scenic ferry ride across the Arabian Sea, taking in the views of Mumbai’s skyline and the lush greenery of Elephanta Island.
Return to Mumbai and visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly Prince of Wales Museum), which houses a rich collection of art and historical artifacts, from ancient sculptures to decorative arts.
Stroll along Marine Drive, a picturesque promenade along the coastline, known for its sweeping views of the sea and cityscape, earning it the nickname "The Queen's Necklace" due to its glowing lights at night.
Visit the Hanging Gardens at Malabar Hill, an elevated park offering panoramic views of the city and beautifully landscaped gardens, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below.

Day 3: Mumbai to Nashik - Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlingas Temple

Depart Mumbai after breakfast and head to Nashik, a city of significant religious and historical importance.
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and freshen up.
Visit the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlingas Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its intricate carvings, sacred ambiance, and spiritual significance. The temple is situated at the source of the Godavari River and features ornate sculptures and elaborate architecture.
Explore the Panchvati temples complex, including the Kalaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama and known for its historical and spiritual importance. Visit Sita Gufa (Sita's Cave), a sacred site associated with the legend of Goddess Sita's exile. Nearby, see the Kapileshwara Temple, an ancient shrine with historical and religious relevance.
Conclude your day with a visit to the Pandavleni Caves, ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves featuring intricate carvings and inscriptions from the 2nd century BC, offering a glimpse into the region’s Buddhist heritage.

Day 4: Nashik to Aurangabad via Ellora Caves and Daulatabad Fort

Depart Nashik for Aurangabad, with a stop to explore the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable rock-cut temples and monasteries representing Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Admire the Kailasa Temple, an impressive monolithic structure carved from a single rock, showcasing intricate carvings of deities and mythical scenes, reflecting the artistry and engineering prowess of ancient India.
Continue to Aurangabad, check in at your hotel, and then visit the Grishneshwar Temple, a sacred Jyotirlinga shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its architectural beauty and religious importance.
Explore the Daulatabad Fort, a hilltop fortress with a robust defensive system, including a maze of paths, steep slopes, and impressive gates. The fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and reflects the military ingenuity of the medieval era.

Day 5: Aurangabad - Ajanta Caves - Aurangabad City Tour

After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exquisite murals and paintings that depict the life of Buddha and Jataka tales.
Explore the Viharas (monastic cells) and Chaityas (prayer halls) within the caves, marveling at the detailed frescoes and serene atmosphere that provide insight into ancient Buddhist artistry and spiritual life.
Return to Aurangabad for an afternoon city tour.
Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, a stunning mausoleum built by Emperor Aurangzeb in memory of his wife, reflecting the grandeur of the Taj Mahal with its elegant design and intricate marble inlay work.
Explore the Aurangabad Caves, rock-cut Buddhist temples featuring elaborate carvings and serene sculptures, representing India's rich religious and artistic history.
Visit Panchakki, a 17th-century water mill with an innovative engineering design, featuring an intricate system of water channels and surrounded by tranquil gardens.

Day 6: Aurangabad to Bhimashankar - Bhimashankar Temple

Journey from Aurangabad to Bhimashankar, a serene town nestled in the Sahyadri Hills.
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and then visit the Bhimashankar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is renowned for its intricate carvings, spiritual ambiance, and scenic location.
The temple complex features beautifully carved pillars and sculptures, providing a serene environment for meditation and reflection.
Optionally, explore the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, which surrounds the temple and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the Indian Giant Squirrel. Enjoy nature walks and wildlife viewing in this lush, verdant sanctuary.

Day 7: Bhimashankar to Mumbai via Karla and Bhaja Caves

Depart Bhimashankar and travel to Mumbai, with stops at the Karla and Bhaja Caves in Lonavala.
Explore the Karla Caves, an important Buddhist site featuring chaitya halls with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Buddhist themes. The caves showcase impressive architectural and artistic achievements of ancient India.
Visit the Bhaja Caves, another set of ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves known for their unique stupa structures, detailed carvings, and historical significance in Buddhist monastic life.
Continue your journey to Mumbai, check in at your hotel, and enjoy leisure time to explore bustling markets, shop for souvenirs, or take a leisurely stroll around the city to absorb Mumbai’s vibrant atmosphere.

Day 8: Mumbai Departure

After breakfast, check out of your hotel.
If time permits, indulge in last-minute shopping or additional sightseeing in Mumbai, such as visiting local markets or exploring cultural landmarks.
Later in the day, a representative will transfer you to Mumbai’s international airport in accordance with your flight schedule.
Depart with cherished memories of a culturally enriching and spiritually fulfilling journey through Maharashtra, carrying with you the experiences and beauty of the places you visited.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 7 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.

- Daily breakfast at hotels.

- Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

- English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.

Hotels used or similar for 7 nights' accommodation

Mumbai x 3 nights
3* - Hotel Suba Palace/ BW Hotel Sahil
4* - Sun-N-Sand Hotel/ Fariyas Hotel
5* - Trident Hotel/ ITC Grand Central

Nashik x 1 nights
3* - Lily Sarovar Portico/ Holiday Inn Express
4* - Express Inn/ Hi 5 Hotel
5* - The Gateway Hotel Ambad/ The Source at Sula

Aurangabad x 2 nights
3* - Keys Hotel The Aures/ Aurangabad Gymkhana Club
4* - Ambassador Ajanta / VITS Hotel
5* - WelcomHotel Rama International / Lemon Tree Hotel

Bhimashankar x 1 night
3* / 4* / 5* - Neelam Hills Resort/ Blue Mormon Jungle Holiday Resort

- Any flight tickets.

- Camera charges at monuments if any.

- Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.

- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc. 

- Gratuities and optional activities.

- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.