Mumbai to Lonavala, Pune & Aurangabad – Ajanta Ellora Tour

Day 1 · Mumbai – Lonavala – Pune (Approx. 170 kms / 4 hrs)

1. 1

   Mumbai

   Passing by

   After breakfast, drive from Mumbai to Pune via the scenic hill station of Lonavala, beautifully surrounded by the Sahyadri Hills and Western Ghats. The route offers picturesque landscapes, mountain passes, waterfalls during monsoon season, and lush green valleys, making the drive one of the most scenic journeys in Maharashtra.

2. 2

   Lonavala

   one hour

   Stop at Tiger Point and Lion’s Point, two of the most popular viewpoints in Lonavala offering spectacular panoramic views of deep valleys, rolling hills, and dramatic cliffs. During the monsoon season, the area becomes especially scenic with clouds drifting through the mountains and seasonal waterfalls flowing across the hillsides. The viewpoints are ideal for photography and short refreshment breaks while enjoying the cool mountain breeze.

3. 3

   Karla Caves

   one hour Admission included

   Visit Karla Caves, one of the oldest and finest examples of Buddhist rock-cut cave architecture in India dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The caves are famous for their grand prayer hall supported by intricately carved pillars and a massive stupa at the center. The site provides fascinating insight into ancient Buddhist culture, trade routes, and monastic life in western India.

4. 4

   Bhaja Caves

   one hour Admission included

   Continue to Bhaja Caves, a remarkable group of Buddhist caves known for their historic chaityas, meditation halls, and ancient carvings. The caves are set amidst scenic surroundings and offer a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds. The site is particularly admired for its detailed relief sculptures and traditional rock-cut architecture.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   30 min Admission included

   Visit Bedse Caves, a lesser-visited yet impressive Buddhist cave complex located amidst tranquil hill landscapes. The caves are renowned for their beautifully carved pillars, prayer halls, and serene environment offering a more intimate heritage experience. The elevated location also provides scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

6. 6

   Pune

   Passing by

   Later continue drive to Pune. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Evening free for leisure or optional market and café visit.

Overnight at hotel in Pune.

Day 2 · Pune – Aurangabad (Approx. 240 kms / 5–6 hrs)

1. 1

   Pune

   Passing by

   After breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Pune, often referred to as the cultural capital of Maharashtra and known for its rich Maratha history, educational institutions, and vibrant local culture.

2. 2

   Shaniwar Wada

   one hour Admission included

   Visit Shaniwar Wada, the historic seat of the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha Empire. Built in the 18th century, the fort-palace complex features massive gates, beautiful gardens, fountains, and remnants of royal architecture. The site offers an excellent introduction to the history and legacy of the Maratha dynasty.

3. 3

   Aga Khan Palace

   one hour Admission included

   Continue to Aga Khan Palace, an elegant palace associated with Mahatma Gandhi and India’s independence movement. The palace served as a prison for Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi, and other freedom fighters during the British era. Today, it houses photographs, memorabilia, and historical exhibits related to India’s freedom struggle.

4. 4

   Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

   one hour Admission included

   Explore Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of traditional Indian artifacts, musical instruments, sculptures, weapons, and decorative objects. The museum showcases the richness of Indian craftsmanship and everyday life from various regions of the country. It is considered one of Pune’s finest cultural attractions.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Passing by

   Later drive to Aurangabad (officially Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar). En route enjoy views of sugarcane fields, rural villages, and the rugged landscapes of the Deccan plateau.

   Upon arrival, check in at hotel and relax.

Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 3 · Excursion to Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort & Aurangabad Sightseeing (Approx. 30 kms / 45 mins one way)

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Passing by

   After breakfast, proceed for a full-day excursion to Ellora Caves, one of India’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a masterpiece of ancient rock-cut architecture.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   3 hours Admission included

   Explore the magnificent Ellora cave complex featuring Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves carved between the 6th and 10th centuries. The highlight is the awe-inspiring Kailasa Temple, a monolithic temple carved entirely from a single rock and considered one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements. The intricate sculptures, pillars, and mythological carvings showcase the artistic brilliance of ancient India.

3. 3

   Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

   45 min

   Visit Grishneshwar Temple, one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva and an important Hindu pilgrimage destination. The temple is admired for its traditional temple architecture, intricate stone carvings, and spiritual atmosphere where visitors can witness local rituals and devotional practices. Please note that entry into the inner temple sanctum is generally permitted only for Hindus and is subject to temple regulations, security procedures, and queue conditions at the time of visit.

4. 4

   Daulatabad Fort

   one hour Admission included

   Continue to Daulatabad Fort, an imposing hilltop fortress known for its ingenious defensive design and historical importance. The fort features massive gateways, narrow passages, secret escape routes, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It is regarded as one of medieval India’s strongest military fortifications.

5. 5

   Bibi Ka Maqbara

   45 min Admission included

   Later return to Aurangabad and visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, a beautiful Mughal-era mausoleum often referred to as the “Mini Taj Mahal.” Built by Aurangzeb’s son in memory of his mother, the monument reflects elegant Mughal architecture with marble domes, landscaped gardens, and decorative carvings.

6. 6

   Panchakki (Water Mill)

   20 min Admission included

   Continue to Panchakki, a fascinating medieval water-powered mill system that demonstrates the advanced engineering techniques used during the Mughal era. The site also includes a peaceful garden, water reservoir, and historical structures associated with Sufi saints.

7. 7

   Aurangabad Caves

   30 min Admission included

   If time permits, also visit the Aurangabad Caves known for their Buddhist sculptures and scenic hilltop setting.

Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 4 · Excursion to Ajanta Caves & Aurangabad Market Visit (Approx. 100 kms / 2 hrs each way)

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Passing by

   After an early breakfast, drive to the world-famous Ajanta Caves, beautifully located in a horseshoe-shaped valley surrounded by forested hills and dramatic landscapes.

2. 2

   Ajanta Caves

   3 min Admission included

   Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, Ajanta is renowned for its exceptional Buddhist murals, frescoes, sculptures, and ancient monastic complexes. The caves depict scenes from the life of Lord Buddha and stories from the Jataka tales through intricate paintings and carvings that have survived for centuries. The peaceful setting, artistic brilliance, and historical significance make Ajanta one of India’s greatest cultural treasures.

   Later drive back to Aurangabad.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   2 hours

   In the evening, enjoy a visit to local markets such as Gul Mandi and Nirala Bazaar, known for traditional Paithani sarees, Himroo shawls, textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. The markets offer an excellent opportunity to experience local culture, interact with artisans, and shop for authentic regional products. Visitors can also sample local snacks and sweets popular in Maharashtra.

Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 5 · Aurangabad – Mumbai by Fast AC Train / Flight

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Passing by

   After breakfast, check out from hotel and transfer to the railway station or airport for your onward journey to Mumbai.

2. 2

   Mumbai

   Passing by

   Travel by fast air-conditioned train such as the Vande Bharat Express or opt for a domestic flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel or preferred location.