Day 1: Arrive Mumbai

On arrival in Mumbai, you will be assisted and transferred to your hotel. Freshen up and relax after your journey. Visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly the Prince of Wales Museum), showcasing a diverse collection of ancient artifacts, artworks, and exhibits. Explore the bustling Colaba Causeway, a popular shopping street filled with stalls selling everything from jewelry to handicrafts. Stroll along Marine Drive, the "Queen's Necklace," a scenic promenade along the Arabian Sea.

 

Day 2: Mumbai City Tour

Delight in breakfast at the hotel. Visit the iconic Gateway of India, a historic monument built during the British Raj. Take a boat ride to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with rock-cut sculptures depicting Hindu deities. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic Kala Ghoda district, known for its art galleries, museums, and cultural spaces. Explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a Victorian Gothic architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dive into local culture at Crawford Market, a bustling marketplace known for its fresh produce and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a heritage landmarks drive-past and walking tour of South Mumbai, including landmarks like the Bombay High Court and the University of Mumbai. Conclude with a visit to the Hanging Gardens for panoramic city views and serene surroundings.

 

Day 3: Mumbai to Nashik (170kms/4hrs approx)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Depart from Mumbai and embark on the drive to Nashik, renowned for its religious and wine tourism. Check in at the hotel upon arrival. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Trimbakeshwar Temple, an important Jyotirlinga site dedicated to Lord Shiva. This ancient temple is revered for its spiritual significance and architectural grandeur, making it a key pilgrimage destination. Afterward, head to the Sula Winery, one of India’s most celebrated wineries. Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard, where you’ll learn about the wine-making process and the different grape varieties cultivated in the region. Participate in a wine tasting session, savoring a selection of fine wines and gaining insights into the nuances of wine flavors. Return to your hotel in the evening and relax or explore the local surroundings at your leisure.

 

Day 4: Nashik to Aurangabad (170kms/4hrs approx)

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Begin by exploring the Panchvati Temple Complex in Nashik. First, visit Sita Gufa, an ancient cave believed to be the residence of Sita during her exile, featuring inscriptions and carvings from centuries past. Next, head to the Kapileswara Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its historical significance and tranquil ambiance. Continue your visit to the Kalaram Temple, which houses a revered black statue of Lord Rama and is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees.

After exploring Nashik’s spiritual landmarks, embark on the drive to Aurangabad. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to rest and refresh. In the evening, venture out to explore the local market in Aurangabad. The market is famous for its traditional Paithani sarees and Himroo shawls, both renowned for their intricate designs and craftsmanship. You can enjoy shopping for these local specialties and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Aurangabad.

 

Day 5: Aurangabad Excursion: Ellora Caves

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a full-day excursion to Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 34 rock-cut temples and monasteries representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions. Visit the Kailasa Temple, an architectural marvel carved out of a single rock. Explore Daulatabad Fort, a 12th-century fort with a complex defense system. Return to Aurangabad and visit Aurangabad Caves, ancient rock-cut Buddhist shrines. Visit Bibi ka Maqbara, often called the "Taj of the Deccan" for its resemblance to the Taj Mahal. See Panchakki, an ancient water mill with a fascinating engineering mechanism.

 

Day 6: Aurangabad to Burhanpur (220kms/5hrs approx)

Savor breakfast at the hotel. Depart for Burhanpur, visiting Ajanta Caves en route, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exquisite Buddhist paintings and sculptures dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Continue the drive to Burhanpur, a historic city known for its Mughal heritage. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel in Burhanpur. Explore the local attractions, including the Burhanpur Fort, known for its grand architecture and historical significance. Visit the beautiful Jami Masjid, an ancient mosque with impressive Mughal architecture. Enjoy a stroll along the Tapti River, known for its scenic beauty and serene environment. Return to the hotel for a restful evening.

 

Day 7: Burhanpur to Maheshwar via Asirgarh and Omkareshwar (175kms/4hrs approx)

Begin with breakfast at the hotel. Explore Burhanpur, including Shahi Qila, a Mughal-era fort and palace with intricate designs and historical tales. Visit Jama Masjid, an ancient mosque celebrated for its elegant Mughal architecture and serene ambiance. Depart for Maheshwar, stopping at Asirgarh Fort on the way. This fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and has a rich history linked to the Marathas and Mughals. Continue to Omkareshwar, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site located on an island in the Kaveri River, renowned for the Omkareshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Continue your journey to Maheshwar. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and unwind. Explore the charming town of Maheshwar, known for its historic fort and vibrant handloom industry. Visit the Maheshwar Fort, with its impressive architecture and sacred Narmada River views. Discover the traditional Maheshwari saris, renowned for their craftsmanship. Enjoy a serene evening by the riverside, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere.

 

Day 8: Maheshwar to Mandu to Indore (125kms/3hrs approx)

Visit the Maheshwar Fort complex after breakfast, known for its exquisite handloom saris and the sacred Narmada River. Drive to Mandu, a historical fortress town. Explore Jahaz Mahal (Ship Palace), which appears to float on water, Hindola Mahal (Swinging Palace), known for its sloping walls, and Rani Roopmati Pavilion, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visit Hoshang Shah’s Tomb, India’s first marble structure, and Jami Masjid, a grand mosque modeled after the Great Mosque of Damascus. Explore Baz Bahadur’s Palace and Rewa Kund, a historic reservoir. Continue to Indore and check in at the hotel.

 

Day 9: Indore to Ujjain to Bhopal (255kms/5hrs approx)

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on your journey. Drive to Ujjain, one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism, known for its spiritual significance. Begin your visit at the Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which is a major pilgrimage site and features a unique and revered deity. Next, explore the Kal Bhairav Temple, dedicated to the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, known for its intense religious rituals and vibrant atmosphere. Continue to the Harsiddhi Temple, an ancient and significant temple known for its sacredness and historical relevance. After your spiritual tour of Ujjain, drive to Bhopal and check in at your hotel.

 

Day 10: Bhopal Excursion: Bhimbetka & Bhojpur (45kms/1hr approx one way)

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Begin your excursion with a visit to Bhimbetka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its prehistoric rock shelters and cave paintings that offer insights into ancient human life. Explore the cave paintings that date back to the Stone Age and admire the historical significance of this site. Continue your journey to Bhojpur, where you will visit the Bhojeshwar Temple, known for its colossal Shiva Lingam, which stands as a testament to ancient architectural skill.

Return to Bhopal and spend the afternoon exploring the city's notable landmarks. Visit the Taj-ul-Masajid, one of the largest mosques in India, famed for its impressive architecture and serene environment. Discover the Shaukat Mahal, an architectural gem that blends Gothic and Islamic styles, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage. Finally, enjoy a relaxing visit to Upper Lake, Bhopal's oldest man-made lake, offering picturesque views and a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle.

 

Day 11: Bhopal Excursion: Sanchi & Udayagiri (50kms/1hr approx one way)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Visit Bhoj Wetland, a Ramsar site with rich biodiversity and a haven for bird watchers. Proceed to Sanchi, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient Buddhist stupas and monasteries. Explore the Great Stupa, a large hemispherical dome containing relics of the Buddha, and visit the Ashoka Pillar, an elegant stone column with inscriptions by Emperor Ashoka. Explore the Sanchi Museum, which houses artifacts from the site, and visit Udayagiri rock-cut caves, famous for their intricate sculptures and carvings. Return to Bhopal for an overnight stay.

 

Day 12: Bhopal Departure

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport as per your flight schedule

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 11 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 11 nights accommodation

Mumbai x 2 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

Burhanpur x 1 night
3*/ 4*/ 5* - Hotel Grand Shivam/ MPT Tapti Retreat

Maheshwar x 1 night
3* - MPT Narmada Resort/ Gurukripa Hotel and Restaurant
4* - MPT Narmada Resort/ Gurukripa Hotel and Restaurant
5* - Ahilya Fort 

Indore x 1 night
3* - Citrus Hotels/ Hotel Nahargarh Palace
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/ Pride Hotel
5* - Indore Marriott Hotel/ Sheraton Grand Palace

Bhopal x 3 nights
3* - Lake View Ashok/ The Fern Residency
4* - Noor Us Sabha Palace/ Sayaji Bhopal
5* - Jehan Numa Palace/ Courtyard by Marriott

- Bhopal - Mumbai flight fare approx INR 6, 500 per person in economy class.

- 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.