Maharashtra, a state as vast as it is diverse, offers travellers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, historic forts, bustling cities, and serene beaches. From the vibrant life of Mumbai to the tranquil hills of the Western Ghats, a 10-day journey through Maharashtra promises an unforgettable experience. This 10-day Maharashtra itinerary is designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state, ensuring a memorable exploration of this magnificent state.
My 10-day Maharashtra Itinerary
Day 1 & 2: Mumbai: South Mumbai & Bandra
Based on your hometown, you can reach Mumbai by different modes. You can pick a suitable mode. As far as accommodation is concerned, Mumbai is the home for the best hotels.
Where to Stay in Mumbai?
Mumbai offers a diverse range of accommodations catering to various preferences and budgets. For luxury seekers, iconic hotels like The Taj Mahal Palace and The Oberoi provide unparalleled opulence and service. Those inclined towards boutique experiences may enjoy properties like Abode Bombay or The Taj Mahal Tower. Budget travelers can find comfort in guesthouses and hostels scattered across the city, such as Backpacker Panda or Zostel Mumbai. Additionally, Airbnb offers a plethora of unique stays, from cozy apartments in Bandra to chic lofts in Colaba. Regardless of choice, Mumbai ensures a memorable stay with its blend of hospitality and vibrant culture.
Day 1: Mumbai – The City of Dreams
Set out on a 10-day tour of Maharashtra, your adventure starts in Mumbai, a city that perfectly captures the heart of contemporary India. Mumbai provides a variety of experiences that may enthral any traveller with its striking blend of heritage, tradition, and vibrant modernity. Here’s how to make the most of your first day in Mumbai by seeing its famous sites, tasting its mouthwatering cuisine, and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Check out my post on 4-day Delhi itinerary.
Morning: Gateway of India and Heritage Walk
Gateway of India
With a view of the Arabian Sea, begin your day at Mumbai’s most famous monument, the Gateway of India. Constructed in 1924, this imposing gateway represents the city’s colonial past and its importance as a port. It combines elements of Hindu and Muslim architecture. With fewer visitors and the gentle glow of dawn, the early morning atmosphere makes for a tranquil backdrop for pictures and leisurely exploring. During my Mumbai visit, I make it a point to visit this spot to get some relaxing experiences. Hope, you will be on the same page as me.
My post on 100 places to visit near Mumbai might help you. If you plan a trip to Rajasthan, my post on 8-day Rajasthan itinerary might help you.
Heritage Walk
Take a heritage trip through the neighboring Colaba and Fort regions starting at the Gateway of India. You will pass some of Mumbai’s most iconic structures on this stroll, such as the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which is renowned for both its stunning architecture and historical significance. Proceed to the University of Mumbai and the Bombay High Court. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (previously the Prince of Wales Museum) is home to a varied collection of paintings, sculptures, and rare artefacts. These structures are prime examples of Gothic Revival architecture.
Afternoon: Street Food and Shopping in Colaba
Travel to the Colaba Causeway by afternoon, a busy business district brimming with shops, cafes, and sellers. It’s the ideal location to purchase clothing, jewellery, and handicrafts as well as souvenirs. In addition, the boulevard is lined with structures and eateries from the British era, providing a window into Mumbai’s colonial past.
Street Food Experience
Without sampling some of Mumbai’s street cuisine, a trip there is not complete. Many regional specialities are available in Colaba, including the hot potato fritter known as vada pav, the spicy vegetable blend known as pav bhaji, and the veggie sandwich known as the Bombay sandwich, which is paired with a distinctive chutney. These meals offer a flavour of Mumbai’s diverse culinary scene in addition to tantalizing your taste buds. Vada Pav is undoubtedly my personal favourite. I would recommend you to try it at least once. Share whether you too love this dish like me.
Evening: Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach
Marine Drive
Head to Marine Drive, a 3.6-kilometer-long boulevard along the coast, as the day fades into the dark. Named for the Queen’s Necklace, this road’s streetlights form a necklace-like arc along the beach. Both locals and visitors adore strolling there to take in the sea breeze and watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea. This is a place I always try to spend an evening when I visit Mumbai. It’s an opportunity that you shouldn’t pass up.
Nariman Point
Nariman Point is a prestigious business district located at the southern tip of Mumbai, India. Named after Khursheed Framji Nariman, a visionary Parsi municipal commissioner, this area is often referred to as Manhattan of Mumbai. It emerged from land reclaimed from the sea in the 1940s and has since evolved into a bustling hub of financial and commercial activity. Home to some of the city’s most iconic skyscrapers, it houses a plethora of multinational corporations, luxury hotels, and diplomatic missions. Nariman Point offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, making it a popular spot for both professionals and tourists. Its scenic marine drive promenade is a haven for evening strolls, encapsulating the vibrant and dynamic spirit of Mumbai.
Chowpatty Beach
Finish the day at Chowpatty Beach, which is near Marine Drive’s northernmost point. In the evening, families, friends, and food vendors swarm the beach. It’s the perfect spot to sample additional street cuisine, such as kulfi (traditional Indian ice cream) and bhel puri, a dish of puffed rice and vegetables. You can plan your dinner in Soam, which is a popular restaurant in this area. You can also try foods at Irani Cafes and authentic Parsi restaurants. The vibrant environment and the setting light provide for the ideal way to cap off your first day in Mumbai. Return to your lodging and get a good night’s sleep to get ready for another day of exploring Mumbai the following day.
Beginning on your first day in Mumbai, you can expect an amazing journey through Maharashtra, which offers a unique blend of modern energy, culture, and history that makes this remarkable city unique.
My post on 9-day Telangana itinerary and 8-day Goa itinerary might help if you plan a visit to these states.
Day 2: Discovering Mumbai: A Second Day of Exploration
After immersing yourself in the iconic sights and flavours of Mumbai on your first day, the second day of your 10-day Maharashtra itinerary offers an opportunity to delve deeper into the city’s diverse neighbourhoods, artistic culture, and serene natural spaces. This route aims to highlight Mumbai’s differences, from peaceful seafronts to busy markets, and from colonial antiquities to modern art.
Morning: Bandra and Bollywood
Bandra Fort and Bandstand Promenade
Make sure to visit Bandra Fort, sometimes referred to as Castella de Aguada, in the morning. The fort, which is located in Bandra at the Land’s End, has expansive views of the Arabian Sea and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. The Bandstand Promenade, a favourite spot for locals to take morning strolls with views of the sea, is just a short stroll from the fort. Bollywood superstars’ homes, among other prominent properties, are another well-known feature of this neighbourhood. Therefore, if your favourite Bollywood celebrities are out for a morning stroll, you might be able to catch a peek at them here.
Bollywood Celebrity Tour
Seize the chance to go on a Bollywood star tour while you’re in Bandra. During this guided tour, you’ll see the residences of well-known Bollywood stars as you stroll through the affluent areas of Bandra and Juhu. It’s a unique way to take in Mumbai’s glitzy side, and you never know—you might even get a glimpse of a celebrity!
Afternoon: Linking Road Shopping and Lunch at a Local Café
Shopping at Linking Road
Shopping is another reason Bandra is well-known. Visit Linking Road, a busy retail area renowned for its affordable selection of designer and traditional clothing, accessories, and shoes. It’s an excellent spot to hone your haggling techniques and find one-of-a-kind Mumbai fashion items.
Lunch at a Café
Refuel and unwind in one of Bandra’s many charming cafés after shopping. Bandra is well-known for its thriving café culture, offering a variety of alternatives from contemporary restaurants serving international food to traditional Irani cafés. Savour a relaxed meal and maybe a cup of Mumbai’s signature Irani chai.
Evening: Nightlife in Lower Parel
Are you interested in experiencing Mumbai’s nightlife? If so, I would recommend you to head to Lower Parel, a neighbourhood that has transformed from midlands to a vibrant entertainment hub. Here, you’ll find some of the city’s most popular bars, pubs, and nightclubs, perfect for ending your day on a high note.
Lower Parel, a bustling neighborhood in Mumbai, India, boasts a vibrant nightlife scene that attracts both locals and tourists. Among its highlights are some of the best pubs where you can relax and unwind.
- Todi Mill Social, with its quirky decor and eclectic vibe, offers an array of craft beers and inventive cocktails, making it a popular hangout.
- The Bombay Canteen is another favorite, celebrated for its innovative Indian-inspired drinks and lively atmosphere.
- For those who appreciate a more upscale ambiance, KODE delivers with its sophisticated interiors and a fine selection of spirits. These spots not only offer great drinks but also pulsate with the energetic spirit of Mumbai.
Your second day in Mumbai offers a blend of cultural immersion, artistic exploration, and culinary delights, reflecting the city’s dynamic spirit. Mumbai’s charm lies in its diversity, and these two days provide a glimpse into the myriad experiences that make it truly unforgettable.
You may find my post on 11-day West Bengal itinerary helpful.
Day 3 & 4: Spiritual Sojourn at Trimbakeshwar & Shirdi
Day 3: Spiritual Journey from Mumbai to Trimbakeshwar
Embarking on a spiritual journey from Mumbai to Trimbakeshwar, culminating with an evening darshan and an overnight stay in Trimbakeshwar, is a fulfilling pilgrimage that combines divine experiences with the serene beauty of Maharashtra. Here’s how to plan this spiritual voyage seamlessly:
Early Morning: Departure from Mumbai to Trimbakeshwar
Start Your Journey Early
Departure Time: To beat traffic and make the most of your day, leave Mumbai for Trimbakeshwar at around 5:00 AM.
Transportation: Considering the distances and rural areas you will be travelling, it is recommended that you rent a car or reserve a private cab for the day to have flexibility and comfort
Morning: Trimbakeshwar Darshan
Arrival and Darshan
Anticipated Arrival: Try to get to Trimbakeshwar by nine or ten in the morning. It takes roughly 3.5 to 4 hours to travel the 178 kilometres to the temple town from Mumbai.
Visit the Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, immediately upon arrival for darshan. Keep in mind to dress modestly as a sign of respect for the temple’s traditions.
Poojas and rituals: It’s advisable to reserve your place in advance for any rituals or poojas you’re interested in attending because they can get very popular.
Afternoon:
Lunch Break
Local Dining: In Trimbakeshwar, after seeing the temple, savour a classic Maharashtrian lunch. Various restaurants in the area serve excellent, real food.
Evening:
If you have finished Darshan in Trimbakeshwar, you can spend the evening for a relaxing stroll around the temple. You can shop for some useful stuff.
Spend the night in Trimbakeshwar
Unwind and Ponder: Spend your evening in Trimbakeshwar following a day of touring and spiritual discovery. This allows you to have a more laid-back visit
Check out my post on 7-day Andaman & Nicobar Islands itinerary.
Day 4: From Trimbakeshwar to Shirdi
Continuing your spiritual and historical journey through Maharashtra, Day 4 leads you from the sacred ambience of Trimbakeshwar to another spiritual marvel of Shirdi, concluding with a serene evening in Shirdi.
Morning: Departure from Trimbakeshwar to Shirdi
Early Start
Departure Time: Get an early start and try to get out of Trimbakeshwar by 6:00 AM. You can arrive at Shirdi by mid-morning after travelling 123 kilometres.
Prepare: When departing from Trimbakeshwar, take along some food for the journey. Make sure you’re rested enough for a spiritual day.
Travel to Shirdi: The trip to Shirdi passes through some of Maharashtra’s most breathtaking scenery. Enjoy the tranquil vistas and give some thought to your pilgrimage at this time.
Late Morning: Arrival at Shirdi
Check into Your Hotel: Before you go to the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, check into your accommodation and have a shower. It is strongly advised that you reserve your lodging in advance, particularly during the busiest times of the pilgrimage.
Darshan at Shirdi Sai Baba Temple: The time taken to line up for the Samadhi Temple at Shirdi and have darshan differs. You may get the chance to complete the darshan in an hour. Otherwise, it can also take 6 hours. The average time for darshan will be between 2 and 3 hours. After darshan, you can participate in the evening aarti.
Visit the Evening Aarti: Take part in the spiritually elevating evening Aarti at the temple. Aarti at the temple has a calm, uplifting ambience that makes for the ideal way to conclude the day. If you have time, you should also visit the museum, Dwarkamai, and Chavadi, which are located on the temple grounds.
You can spend the night in Shirdi. Let the day 5 of the 10-day Maharashtra itinerary stay dedicated to Ellora Caves exploration.
Also, go through my post on 7-day Lakshadweep itinerary.
Day 5 & 6: Aurangabad and surrounding caves
Day 5: From Shirdi to Aurangabad
On the 5th day of your 10-day Maharashtra itinerary, start early in the morning from Shirdi to reach Aurangabad. It will take around 2 to 3 hours to travel from Shirdi to Aurangabad. The reason is that in the middle of your trip, you will have to finish your breakfast.
Where to Stay in Aurangabad?
Aurangabad boasts several excellent accommodation options for visitors. For luxury seekers, Vivanta Aurangabad offers upscale amenities and impeccable service, while WelcomHotel Rama International provides a serene retreat amidst lush gardens. Travelers seeking a blend of comfort and affordability might consider Lemon Tree Hotel Aurangabad or Hotel Windsor Castle, known for their convenient locations and modern facilities. Additionally, for a more immersive experience, homestays like Shivshakti Homestay offer a chance to connect with local culture and hospitality. Whether exploring historic sites like Ajanta and Ellora Caves or indulging in Aurangabad’s culinary delights, these accommodations ensure a pleasant stay in this culturally rich city.
Check in At Aurangabad
Let us plan that you can spend your day 5 and 6 nights in Aurangabad. From your Aurangabad accommodation, you can explore places like Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar Temple and Ajanta Caves.
From Aurangabad, you can reach Ellora Caves within around 1 hour’s drive.
Explore Ellora Caves
Arrival at Ellora
Ellora Caves: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora Caves are a remarkable collection of cave temples and monasteries belonging to the Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions, which date back to the 6th and 10th centuries. The location is a prime example of the religious concord that characterized this era of Indian history.
Key Takeaways
- Temple Kailasa (Cave 16): This is the world’s largest monolithic rock excavation and the focal point of Ellora. Its size, architecture, and craftsmanship are unmatched, and it is devoted to Lord Shiva.
- Jain Caves: The Jain caves are renowned for their fine craftsmanship and elaborate carvings, especially Cave 32 (Indra Sabha) and Cave 34.
- Guided Tour: For an educational tour, think about hiring a guide at the entry. They can offer insightful information about the caverns’ construction, meaning, and history. When you take a guided tour, you can cut some time as well and guides will quickly explain things.
Afternoon: Lunch and Travel to Grishneshwar Temple
Lunch Break Local Food:
Have lunch at one of the dhabas or restaurants close to the Ellora complex after exploring the caves. This is a fantastic chance to sample Marathi food and rest before carrying on with your tour.
Spiritual Visit:
The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines listed in the Shiva Purana. It is situated not far from the Ellora Caves. The temple is highly regarded for both its exquisite design and the heavenly atmosphere that permeates its grounds.
Evening: Arrival and Stay in Aurangabad
Journey to Aurangabad
Proceeding Onward: After your visit to Grishneshwar, drive the thirty minutes or so to Aurangabad. Named for the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, Aurangabad is a historic city that combines ancient landmarks with contemporary conveniences.
Culinary Exploration
Supper in the City: Discover the Mughlai and Maharashtrian delicacies that Aurangabad has to offer over supper. The city’s rich cultural legacy is reflected in the cuisine served in restaurants and cafés all over the place, such as biryani and naan qalia.
From the peaceful darshan at Grishneshwar to the breathtaking tour of the Ellora Caves, your fifth day of a 10-day Maharashtra itinerary seamlessly ties together the strands of spirituality, history, and architectural magnificence, concluding in the warm atmosphere of Aurangabad. This day enhances your vacation experience and broadens your understanding of India’s vast cultural and religious diversity.
Day 6: A Journey Through Time at Ajanta Caves and Return to Aurangabad
The fifth day of your 10-day Maharashtra itinerary takes you to the mesmerizing Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient Buddhist rock-cut temples and exquisite murals. Before starting at Ajanta Caves, make sure to finish your breakfast in Aurangabad. It will take around 3 hours to reach Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad. The day promises a deep dive into the artistic and spiritual heritage of ancient India, followed by a return to the comfort of Aurangabad for the night.
Morning: Head out to see the Ajanta Caves
Early Action
Departure Time: After a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation, try to get out of Aurangabad by 7:00 AM. It takes two to three hours to travel roughly 100 kilometres to the Ajanta Caves.
Get ready for the day by bringing water, snacks, and sunscreen. Wear footwear that is appropriate for walking and climbing stairs because the cave complex is large and requires considerable physical exertion.
The Scenic Drive
Travel to Ajanta: The route to the Ajanta Caves is paved with picturesque scenery. As you get closer to one of the most important ancient sites in India, take in the rural Maharashtra surroundings.
Late Morning: Ajanta Cave Exploration
Reaching Ajanta
Ajanta caves: Spend some time touring the caves after you arrive. Ajanta is well-known for its 29 caves, which were painstakingly cut into a cliff’s rock face and span from the second century BCE to roughly 480 CE. The caves are notable for their exquisite sculptures and paintings and were originally used as monastic retreats.
- Highlights
Murals in the Caves: The caves are decorated with beautiful murals that tell stories from the Jataka Tales, portray scenes from everyday life in ancient times, and show the life of the Buddha. These paintings shed light on the sophisticated creative and cultural activities of the era through the use of vivid colours and expressive characters. - Buddhist Monasteries: A few of the caves are monasteries, exhibiting the spiritual ethos and architectural genius of the early Buddhist communities. They are composed of prayer rooms and monk chambers encircling a central stupa.
- Highlights and Interpretations of the Guided Tour: To enhance your visit, think about hiring a guide who can provide in-depth explanations of the sculptures, frescoes, and architectural details. Gaining insight into the historical and religious backgrounds of the artwork will enhance your admiration for this age-old masterpiece.
Afternoon: Lunch and Leisure
Lunch Break
Local Food: After seeing the caverns, have lunch at one of the neighbouring cafes, such as the MTDC (Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation) restaurant near Ajanta, where you may savour some traditional Marathi food in a casual atmosphere.
Free Time
Unwind and Think: Spend the rest of the afternoon thinking back on the creative and spiritual trip you’ve been on at Ajanta. The calm surroundings provide the ideal setting for reflection and unwinding.
Return to Aurangabad in the Evening:
Travel Return Journey to Aurangabad: Start your drive back to Aurangabad in the late afternoon so that you can reach the city by the early evening. This time guarantees that you won’t travel at night and allows you to relax in the evening.
Evening at Aurangabad
Dinner and Relaxation: After returning to Aurangabad, take a leisurely dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city. The cuisine of Aurangabad is a fusion of modern and traditional, offering everything from gourmet dining to street food.
Night: In Aurangabad, spend the night Unwinding
Remain at ease: Stay an additional night in Aurangabad and make use of the facilities offered by the city to recuperate. A leisurely evening stroll about the city might offer a relaxing conclusion to a day spent learning about the past.
On the sixth day of your Maharashtra tour, you will be fully submerged in the historic marvels of the Ajanta Caves, which provide an insightful look into India’s rich cultural and spiritual legacy. The day’s events deepen your awareness of India’s diverse cultural fabric as you head back to Aurangabad, leaving
Day 7, 8 & 9: Explore beautiful landscapes in and around Pune
Day 7: From Aurangabad to Pune and a Serene Stay in Pune
As your journey through Maharashtra continues, Day 6 of your 10-day Maharashtra itinerary transitions from the historic city of Aurangabad to the vibrant, cultural hub of Pune, before settling down for a tranquil evening in the picturesque hill station of Lonavala. This leg of the trip offers a mix of urban exploration and natural beauty, perfectly blending Maharashtra’s rich heritage with its serene landscapes.
Morning: Heading out to Pune
Early Action
Departure Time: To maximize your time in Pune, try to get out of Aurangabad by 7:00 AM. Depending on traffic, the 235-kilometer trip to Pune takes between 4.5 and 5 hours to complete.
Get ready for the day’s travel by having a hearty breakfast at your hotel. After checking out, prepare your camera, drink, and food for the day.
Check out top 10 things to do in Pune.
The Scenic Drive
Travel time to Pune: There are a variety of sceneries along the way to Pune, including small towns and rural views. This is a fantastic chance to see Maharashtra’s varied geography. You will reach Pune around afternoon. So, you can check-in and freshen up before heading to one of the best restaurants in Pune for a delightful lunch.
Afternoon: The Lively Ambience of Pune
Pune Lunch: Regional Food:
Pune has a thriving culinary scene. Visit a nearby Thai restaurant for lunch to sample some traditional Maharashtrian food, which offers a glimpse of the region’s gastronomic diversity.
Pune, a vibrant city in Maharashtra, India, is not only celebrated for its rich history and culture but also its diverse culinary scene, which reflects a blend of traditional Maharashtrian flavors with modern gastronomy. Among the best restaurants, “Malaka Spice” stands out for its innovative Southeast Asian cuisine, offering dishes like the flavorful “Vietnamese Pho” and the spicy “Malaysian Laksa”. Another gem is “Bailey’s The Cafe”, renowned for its cozy ambiance and delectable European dishes, especially the creamy “Pasta Alfredo” and the exquisite “Belgian Waffles”.
After you finish your lunch, you can get to your accommodation and relax. By this time, you can get ready to explore authentic local flavors for dinner.
Where to Stay in Pune?
Pune offers a variety of accommodations suitable for every traveler. For luxury and elegance, The Westin Pune Koregaon Park and JW Marriott Hotel Pune are excellent choices, offering world-class amenities and impeccable service. Those seeking boutique experiences might enjoy the charm of Conrad Pune or the contemporary style of Hotel Ritz. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for comfortable stays at Hyatt Place Pune/Hinjawadi or IBIS Pune, which offer great value without compromising on quality. Additionally, for a more local experience, homestays and guesthouses like SaffronStays L’Attitude By Alcove or Backpacker Panda Pune provide a cozy and authentic atmosphere. Whatever your preference, Pune ensures a memorable stay with its blend of culture, history, and modernity.
Dinner in Pune:
For those craving authentic local flavors, “Sukanta” offers an unparalleled thali experience, serving an array of traditional Maharashtrian dishes in a single platter, including “Bhakri”, “Pithla”, and the sweet “Puran Poli”. “Kayani Bakery” is a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to indulge in the famous “Shrewsbury Biscuits”, a buttery delight that has captivated the taste buds of generations.
Pune’s street food scene is equally compelling, with “JJ Garden Vada Pav” offering the city’s best Vada Pav – a spicy potato fritter in a bun, paired with chutney and fried chilies. Lastly, no culinary exploration in Pune is complete without savoring the “Mango Mastani”, a rich mango milkshake topped with ice cream and nuts, available at “Sujata Mastani”.
This diverse culinary landscape makes Pune a paradise for food lovers, offering a unique blend of flavors that cater to every palate.
After finishing your dinner, get back to your accommodation for a restful sleep. The next day, you will have to travel to Lonavala.
Day 8: From Pune to Lonavala and a Serene Stay in Lonavala
Traveling to Lonavala
How to get to Lonavala? Set out for Lonavala after finishing your breakfast in Pune. It is roughly 70 kilometres from Pune and takes around 2 hours by road. Renowned for its verdant surroundings, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil atmosphere, this hill station provides an ideal haven from the bustle of the city.
Morning: Arrival and Leisure in Lonavala
After reaching Lonavala, make yourself at home by checking into your hotel or resort. Then, unwind. It’s a wonderful time to unwind and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, which are offered by many estates.
Before checking into your accommodation, finish your lunch. Then, head to your accommodation to take some rest for enjoying great sunset views in Lonavala.
One of the most celebrated spots is “Sunny Da Dhaba”, renowned for its authentic North Indian cuisine. The “Butter Chicken” and “Tandoori Roti” here are must-tries, offering a perfect blend of flavors and spices. Another gem is “The Kinara Village Dhaba”, which provides a rustic ambiance paired with delectable traditional dishes; the “Bhuna Gosht” and “Dal Tadka” stand out for their rich taste and aroma.
For those with a penchant for Italian, “Café 24 – Della Resorts” offers a sophisticated dining experience with its gourmet pizzas and pasta, amidst the tranquil backdrop of the hills. The “Wood-fired Pizza” and “Fettuccine Alfredo” are highly recommended.
Not to be missed, “Cooper’s Fudge” is synonymous with Lonavala itself. Their chocolate walnut fudge is a heavenly delight that melts in the mouth, offering a sweet end to any meal.
Additionally, “German Bakery Wunderbar” is a cozy spot for a light snack, offering freshly baked goods and the best “Masala Chai” in town, perfect for the cool Lonavala weather.
Lonavala’s culinary scene beautifully complements its natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for both nature lovers and gourmands.
Where to Stay in Lonavala?
Lonavala, with its serene beauty and proximity to Mumbai and Pune, offers a plethora of accommodation options.
- For a luxurious retreat, The Machan is a top pick, featuring unique treehouse villas amidst lush greenery.
- Another upscale choice is Della Resorts, known for its opulent rooms, adventure activities, and picturesque views of the Sahyadri mountains.
- Travelers seeking a blend of comfort and affordability can opt for hotels like Fariyas Resort or The Lagoona Resort, both offering modern amenities and scenic surroundings.
- Additionally, for a cozy and intimate stay, boutique resorts like Rhythm Lonavala or Aamby Valley City provide a tranquil ambiance perfect for relaxation.
Whether you’re in search of luxury, adventure, or tranquility, Lonavala has the perfect accommodation to suit your needs.
Sunset Views
Take in the breathtaking display of colours that dance across the valleys and sky at one of Lonavala’s views, such as Lion’s Point or Tiger’s Leap. Enjoy a nighttime stay and dinner in Lonavala.
Local Delights
Try the restaurants near your hotel or the neighbourhood for dinner, where you may eat traditional Maharashtrian food as well as various Indian and foreign cuisines. Famous for its chikki, a traditional Indian sweet made with nuts and jaggery, Lonavala is also an excellent place to have a dessert or a snack.
Stargazing
You may spend some time stargazing, depending on the conditions. An amazing view of the stars may be had under the clear skies away from city lights, capping a day full of sightseeing and experiencing the majesty of nature.
The day 8 beautifully captures the essence of Maharashtra. This journey not only enriches your travel experience with historical insights but also provides a serene retreat into nature, setting the stage for the final day of your adventure.
Day 9: Exploring Lonavala
On the 9th day of your 10-day Maharashtra itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Lonavala. Lonavala is a beautiful hill station nestled in the Sahyadri range of Maharashtra, known for its scenic landscapes, historical forts, lush greenery, and waterfalls. With just two days to explore, you’ll want to prioritize the top attractions. Here’s a suggested itinerary that covers a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture:
Natural Wonders and Scenic Views
Bhushi Dam: Start your day with a visit to Bhushi Dam, where you can enjoy the water and the scenic surroundings. It’s a popular spot, especially during the monsoon when the water flows over the steps creating a beautiful sight.
Lonavala Lake: Head to Lonavala Lake, which is serene and ideal for a relaxed time. It’s perfect for picnics and bird watching.
Lion’s Point: Visit Lion’s Point for breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunset.
Tiger’s Leap: Another viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the landscape. It resembles the shape of a leaping tiger, hence the name.
So, you are spending your 8th and 9th nights in Lonavala. This excellent hill station will provide you all the relaxation you need to prepare for a journey back to your home.
Day 10: Departure
Day 10: Departure from Mumbai
Morning: Discover Lonavala
Early Exploration
Sunrise at Tiger’s Leap: Begin your day early and witness the stunning vista of the valley below as the early morning light casts the surrounding area in a golden tone.
Breakfast: Savor local specialities or a filling continental breakfast to set you up for the day’s activities. You can have breakfast at your hotel or one of Lonavala’s many restaurants.
Late Morning: Leisure
Relaxation/Leisure Time: If time permits, spend some downtime at your hotel or visit any other neighbouring sites you may have missed or would like to see again. Before making the drive to Mumbai, this could be an excellent moment to take stock of your travel and unwind.
Afternoon: Drive to Mumbai Airport
Travelling to Mumbai
Travel Time: Try to depart Lonavala by early afternoon, since traffic can make the two- to three-hour drive to Mumbai Airport seem longer. This should allow for any unforeseen delays and provide you with enough time to go to the airport without hurrying.
Route Scenic: On your way back to Mumbai, you’ll pass one last time through the enchanting Western Ghats. Heading towards the city, savour these last moments of Maharashtra’s natural splendour.
Arrival at the airport in Mumbai
Arrival and Go-Ahead: As soon as you get to the Mumbai Airport, check-in for your flight that is departing. To go past security checks and potential lines, it’s best to arrive at the airport at least three hours before an international trip and two hours before a local flight.
Hopefully, your trip across Maharashtra has been a rewarding experience that has improved your respect for this lively and diversified state while also providing a break from the usual routine. Until you return to discover more of what this amazing state has to offer, you take memories of the sights, sounds, and flavours of Maharashtra with you as you leave. Happy travels!
This 10-day Maharashtra itinerary has been designed to offer a blend of cultural, historical, and natural experiences. Each destination provides a glimpse into the state’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Maharashtra’s warmth and hospitality, combined with its diverse attractions, ensure an enriching journey that captivates the heart of every traveller. You might also find my post on 9-day Punjab itinerary, 10-day Andhra Pradesh itinerary, 10-day Tamil Nadu itinerary and 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary helpful.
