Experience the Grand Ganesha Festival – Celebrate with Devotion & Joy!

Welcome to the city of dreams! Upon arrival, our executive will assist you to the hotel and will help you through the check in process. You’ll get your tour documents and a brief about the tour as well. Feel the festive energy as the city prepares for Ganesh Chaturthi. Right from the bustling corners to the aarti chants in almost every house, Mumbai is a melting pot of cultures, is home to stunning Victorian architecture, bustling markets, and iconic seafront promenades. Spend the evening exploring Marine Drive or indulging in Mumbai’s famous street food.

Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Treat yourself with some healthy breakfast options that have become quite popular across the country.

Ganesh Chaturthi, in Mumbai is almost a huge wave of festivities is engulfing you with joy and devotion. Witness the grand Ganpati Mandals, each telling a unique story through intricate decorations.

Visit workshops where artisans sculpt magnificent idols, a tradition dating back centuries. The process of handcrafting the Lord has been a tradition for many years. It involves specialized skills, handed down from generation to generation, and workers come from as far as Bihar to assist.

You will be amazed how each statue is more elaborate than the next.

Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Mumbai wakes up early and so must you. Switch to your ready to move mode after a super tasty breakfast.

If you were impressed with the Ganesh Mandals and the festivities, wait till you dive into Mumbai’s colonial and cultural past with visits to the Gateway of India, Dhobi Ghat, and Mani Bhavan, Gandhi’s former residence.

Take a ferry to Elephanta Caves, an island rich with ancient rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the famous Trimurti sculpture, an impressive three-headed depiction of Shiva. Stroll along Colaba Causeway, a bustling street filled with vibrant shops, cafés, and local artefacts, perfect for picking up souvenirs.

Enjoy a scenic drive past Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace, as it sparkles under the evening lights. Make another round of the Ganpati Mandals and soak in the festive spirit.

End your day at Chowpatty Beach, where you can savour Mumbai’s famous street food, from spicy bhel puri to delicious kulfi, while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Mumbai.

After a scrumptious breakfast, we drive to Pune. We can assure you that your Pune adventure will take you deep into the cultural and historical heart of Maharashtra, once the stronghold of the mighty Marathas, it is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Upon arrival, visit the Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, a revered shrine where the stunning gold-adorned idol of Lord Ganesha attracts thousands of devotees, especially during the grand Ganesh Utsav celebrations.

Next, explore the Aga Khan Palace, an elegant architectural gem with deep historical significance. This iconic landmark once served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi, making it a symbol of India’s freedom struggle. Kasturba Gandhi, the wife of Mahatma Gandhi, passed away while imprisoned at the Aga Khan Palace in Pune. Her cremation took place on the premises of the palace, and a memorial (samadhi) was later built there in her honor.

Overnight stay in Pune.

This day is going to involve some walking and a little long drive. So, eat a good breakfast and get set to visit the first Jyotirlinga of the tour. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is nestled in the lush Sahyadri hills, it is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, drawing pilgrims and nature lovers alike. The temple, surrounded by dense forests, is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva defeated the demon Bhima, making it a place of both spiritual and religious significance.

Aurangabad and Bhimashankar are in opposite directions. This also is a 4-hour drive from Pune and involves travelling to a spot and then reaching the temple thru some local tempos. Depending on the season, or the day of the week the place can be crowded and darshan can take long.

Overnight stay in Pune.

The distance from Ellora Caves to Ajanta Caves is about 100 km. And both caves need at least 3-4 hours each of leisure time for detailed exploration. So, it's best to have two days, one for each cave site.

This day is going to be long, so eat a heavy breakfast and then embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Ajanta Caves, an extraordinary example of ancient Indian artistry and architecture that dates back to the 2nd century BCE.

Nestled within a horseshoe-shaped gorge, these rock-cut Buddhist caves are famous for their elaborate frescoes, sculptures, and murals illustrating scenes from the life of Lord Buddha and the Jataka tales—narratives about his previous lives.

Once a bustling monastic sanctuary for Buddhist monks, the caves were enigmatically deserted and forgotten until their rediscovery in 1819 by British officer John Smith.

As you stroll through the softly illuminated interiors, take in the intricate paintings that have endured the test of time, reflecting sophisticated shading techniques and vibrant natural colors.

The impressive Cave 1, featuring a breathtaking mural of the Bodhisattva Padmapani, along with the tranquil Chaitya halls, transforms this visit into an awe-inspiring experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a genuine testament to India's cultural and spiritual legacy.

A trip to Bibi Ka Maqbara, commonly referred to as the "Mini Taj Mahal”, can be planned if time permits.

Overnight stay in Aurangabad.

After breakfast, our first visit is to the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, nestled in Verul village near Aurangabad. This ancient temple, built from red basalt stone, is revered as the last of the Jyotirlingas and holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. Its intricate carvings and historic grandeur make it a must-visit pilgrimage site.

Next, explore the awe-inspiring Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its 34 rock-cut temples carved directly into the hillside. Witness the architectural marvel of Kailasa Temple, an entire temple complex carved from a single rock, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Later, wander through the lively local markets, where you can discover exquisite Paithani sarees and detailed Himroo shawls, both symbols of the city’s rich textile heritage. The fusion of Mughal architecture and Marathi culture makes Aurangabad a city where the past seamlessly intertwines with modern life. End your day by indulging in delectable Nawabi cuisine, known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices.

Overnight stay in Aurangabad.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a journey to Nashik. Nestled on the banks of the Godavari River, Nashik is renowned for hosting the Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, and is home to some of India’s most revered temples.

Start your exploration at Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. This unique temple enshrines three lingas representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, symbolizing the divine trinity.

Continue to Panchavati, a historic site where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshman are believed to have spent part of their exile. Visit the Sita Gufa, a small cave temple where Sita is said to have meditated, adding a touch of legend to your journey.

As the day transitions into leisure, visit one of Nashik’s famous vineyards, a key player in India’s flourishing wine industry.

Stroll through lush vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in a wine-tasting session, savouring some of the country’s finest blends. Whether seeking spiritual solace or refined indulgence, Nashik offers an experience that beautifully blends divinity and relaxation.

Overnight stay in Nashik.

A quick breakfast and then you fly back to Mumbai, the bustling metropolis. With the day at leisure, revisit your favourite landmarks or explore a different side of the city. Take a heritage walk through the Colaba and Fort areas, where British-era architecture, charming cafés, and art galleries paint a vivid picture of Mumbai’s colonial past. Stop by Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a UNESCO-listed railway station with stunning Victorian Gothic design.

If you prefer a relaxed evening, head to Juhu Beach, famous for its lively atmosphere and street food, including the must-try Mumbai-style chaat. Soak in the mesmerising Arabian Sea views and reflect on your incredible journey through Maharashtra’s vibrant cultural and historical tapestry. Your Mumbai experience ends with unforgettable memories of festivity, heritage, and warmth.

Overnight stay in Mumbai.

By now you already know what you’ve loved in the breakfast spread. Have a good hearty breakfast and set out to spend your final day in Mumbai at your own pace, exploring its diverse offerings. If shopping is on your list, head to Colaba Causeway, a vibrant street market where you can find everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to jewellery and trendy apparel. For a more traditional shopping experience, visit Crawford Market, one of Mumbai’s oldest and most iconic bazaars, known for its fresh produce, spices, and unique finds.

Nature lovers can escape the city’s hustle at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, home to lush greenery, ancient Kanheri Caves, and diverse wildlife. If you’re keen on a social and cultural experience, take a guided tour of Dharavi, Mumbai’s entrepreneurial heart, where small-scale industries thrive. Witness the spirit of resilience and innovation in one of Asia’s largest slums. As the day winds down, soak in Mumbai’s charm one last time, reminiscing about the unforgettable moments of your Ganesha Festival Tour.

Overnight stay in Mumbai.

With hearts full of memories and a deeper connection to Indian traditions, transfer to the airport for your departure.