Culture & Heritage of Maharashtra 11D/10Nbeyonders2024-01-10T09:36:43+00:00
Maharashtra is an ancient region inhabited for centuries and hence a place where much of the culture of this country has been developed… a place where much of the tumultuous history of India, both war and political, has played out. The UNESCO World Heritage sites of Elephanta caves with their ancient carvings (dating back to the 5th-8th century), the famous Ajanta and Ellora cave complex (2nd century BC onwards), the 3rd century BC Pandavaleni caves, and the ancient temples en route give us a great peek into the culture of this land that have contributed to the enduring culture of India. The various forts and monuments take us on a journey back in time to get a glimpse of the history of this great land and the wars fought over territory, wealth and freedom… And after a dose of the heady brew of culture and history, kick back your shoes and relax in the invigorating mountain air of the hills in Lonavala. Come Beyonder with us on a trip to get a glimpse of all this in an immersive experience, while also enjoying the pleasures of the modern cities of Mumbai and Pune…
$1,065 onwards GST as applicable
Prices vary based on departure season. (Per person for a group of 2 people on a twin sharing basis)
Do you have a larger group? Your per-person cost could reduce, sometimes quite significantly. Do write to us at contact@beyonder.travel
Itinerary in brief
Day 1 - Mumbai: Soul of India
Arrive in Mumbai by train/flight and head out to do a quick tour of the must-see sights of urban Mumbai including Prince of Wales Museum, Hanging Gardens, Juhu Beach, Siddhivinayak Temple, Marine Drive, and get back in time to walk the streets of this bustling city and experience the frenetic pace it sets. Enjoy an overnight stay in Mumbai.
Day 2 - Mumbai: Elephanta Island
Head out to the network of sculpted caves located on Elephanta Island and marvel at the beauty and detail in the ancient carvings depicting scenes from Indian mythology. Relax and soak in this UNESCO World Heritage site and get back by evening. Overnight stay at Mumbai.
Day 3 - Nashik: Vineyard Tours
Head to Nashik, visit a vineyard along a scenic stretch of road and sample the different varieties of wine. Visit the Coin Museum and the Artillery center. Take some time out to shop for Silver Jewelry and figurines from the local market. Overnight stay at Nashik.
Day 4 - Nashik: Temples and Caves
Visit the key temples of Trimbakeshwar and Saptashrungi consisting of seven hills. Head to the Pandavleni caverns, a gathering of 24 caverns cut between the third century BC and the second century AD. Get refreshed at the Dudhsagar Falls. Overnight stay at Nashik.
Day 5 - Aurangabad: City of Gates
Drive to Aurangabad, city of gates, having 52 gates and each of which has a local history. Take a leisurely walk to explore the surroundings. Visit Bibi ka Maqbara shrine, styled on the Taj Mahal, Shivaji Maharaj Museum, dedicated to the Maratha king Shivaji, which displays war weapons and a coin collection and Salim Ali Bird Park.
Day 6 - Aurangabad: Ellora Caves
Drive to the World Heritage site of Ellora caves. These caves have a strong spiritual connection with 5 caves dedicated to Jainism, 12 caves to Buddhism and 17 to Hinduism. The Ellora caves also house 34 monasteries. Overnight stay in Aurangabad.
Day 7 - Pune: Ajanta Caves
Visit the Ajanta Caves that has 31 rock-cut cave monuments which date from the 2nd century BC. The caverns incorporate artworks and models viewed as perfect works of art of Buddhist religious workmanship just as frescos which are reminiscent of the Sigiriya artistic creations in Sri Lanka. Travel to Pune, enjoy the nightlife, go pubbing. Overnight stay at Pune.
Day 8 - Pune: City Tour
Explore the heritage and history of Pune, the Aga Khan Palace, David Synagogue, Pataleshwar Cave Temple and the Shaniwar Wada.
Day 9 - Lonavala: Mountain Escape
Drive down to the hill town, Lonavala for some magnificent views and a relaxed colonial atmosphere. Stroll around the town and try out the local food and fresh fruits. Go out on a short trek. Overnight stay at Lonavala.
Day 10 - Lonavala: Exploration of Forts
Visit the Lohagad Fort, an important hill fort used extensively by King Chhatrapati Shivaji. Visit the Tikona Fort and the Satvahan caves. Overnight stay at Lonavala.
Day 11 - Departure: Alvida!
Travel to the Mumbai airport for your onward journey after enjoying the culture and heritage of Maharashtra.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Accommodation with breakfast in a 3-star hotel
- All transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Tour with an English-speaking Guide
- Sight-seeing as mentioned in the itinerary
- Entry fees to all the sights and monuments
Exclusions
- Airfare, visa and travel insurance
- Any other expense not mentioned in the detailed itinerary
- Taxes, if applicable
Recommended Experiences
West & Central India
West & Central India
