Caves, Temples & Fortresses: Mumbai to Hyderabad Expedition
Why we love it?
The "Caves, Temples & Fortresses: Mumbai to Hyderabad Expedition" is an 8-day journey through some of India's most significant historical and cultural sites. This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking to explore the rich heritage of Maharashtra and Telangana. Participants will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, and experience the architectural grandeur of Hyderabad's forts and temples. The expedition stands out for its combination of guided sightseeing, local insights, and the convenience of private transportation, making it a comprehensive experience for those looking to delve deep into India's diverse history.
Inclusions
- Assistance on arrival at airport.
- 7 Nights' accommodation (if option selected) 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 the program Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.
- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
- Bottled drinking water in the car.
- Government taxes.
Exclusions
- Mumbai - Aurangabad - Hyderabad flight fare approx ₹10500 per person in economy class.
- Camera charges at monuments if any.
- Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.
- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
- Gratuities and optional activities.
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Mumbai
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Upon arrival at Mumbai airport, you'll be assisted and transferred to your hotel.
Rest of the day is free for you to relax and engage in personal activities. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 Mumbai
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Enjoy breakfast at the hotel followed by a morning excursion to Elephant Caves (closed on Mondays).
Elephant Caves: These ancient rock-cut caves on Elephanta Island are adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings, primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Later, embark on a city tour visiting CST, Prince of Wales Museum, Mani Bhawan, Dhobhi Ghat & Kala Ghoda Art Precinct.
CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent railway station is an architectural marvel blending Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian styles.
Prince of Wales Museum: Also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, it houses a vast collection of art, artifacts, and natural history exhibits.
Mani Bhawan: Former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, now converted into a museum showcasing his life and struggle for India's independence.
Dhobi Ghat: The world's largest open-air laundry where traditional washermen (Dhobis) hand wash clothes from Mumbai's hotels and hospitals.
Kala Ghoda Art Precinct: A vibrant cultural hub in Mumbai, known for its art galleries, street art, and cultural events. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 Mumbai - Aurangabad (Flight)
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After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Aurangabad.
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later, explore Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar Temple & Daulatabad Fort.
Ellora Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora houses a complex of rock-cut temples, monasteries, and chapels, representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain faiths.
Grishneshwar Temple: One of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva, known for its architectural beauty and religious significance.
Daulatabad Fort: A formidable fortress with intricate defense mechanisms, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Also visit Bibi ka Maqbara, Panchakki & Aurangabad Caves.
Bibi ka Maqbara: Often referred to as the "Mini Taj," this mausoleum was built by Emperor Aurangzeb's son in memory of his mother, Begum Rabia Durani.
Panchakki: An ancient water mill dating back to the 17th century, known for its ingenious engineering and serene surroundings.
Aurangabad Caves: A group of rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries, featuring intricate carvings and sculptures. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 Aurangabad - Visit Ajanta Caves (200kms round)
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Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full-day excursion to Ajanta Caves.
Ajanta Caves: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ajanta comprises 30 rock-cut caves adorned with exquisite sculptures and paintings depicting Buddhist religious art.
Explore the 30 rock-cut caves dating from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE, featuring mesmerizing sculptures and paintings depicting Buddha's life and previous births.
Return to Aurangabad for overnight stay.
Day 5 Aurangabad - Hyderabad (Flight)
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Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight to Hyderabad.
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and check-in. Rest of the day is at leisure for personal activities and relaxation. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 6 Hyderabad
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After breakfast, explore Hyderabad, a city steeped in history and culture.
Golconda Fort Complex: A majestic fortress known for its acoustic architecture and panoramic views of the city.
Qutubshahi Tombs: Elaborate mausoleums of the Qutub Shahi dynasty rulers, showcasing Persian, Hindu, and Pathan architectural influences.
Charminar: Iconic monument and mosque built in 1591, offering a glimpse into Hyderabad's rich heritage.
Mecca Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in India, renowned for its grandeur and architectural beauty.
Salarjung Museum: A treasure trove of art and artifacts collected by the Salar Jung family over generations.
Chowmohalla Palace: Former seat of the Nizams of Hyderabad, known for its opulent architecture and royal grandeur.
Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 7 Hyderabad - Visit Warangal Unesco World Heritage Sites (300kms round)
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After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Warangal, home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Thousand Pillar Rudreswara Temple: A masterpiece of Kakatiya architecture, adorned with intricately carved pillars and sculptures.
Warangal Fort: Impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Kakatiya dynasty.
Kakatiya Kala Thoranam: Grand arch dating back to the 12th century, symbolizing the Kakatiya dynasty's cultural and artistic achievements.
Continue to Ramappa Temple, renowned for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings.
Ramappa Temple: An architectural marvel from the Kakatiya era, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
Return to Hyderabad for overnight stay.
Day 8 Hyderabad - Departure (Flight)
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Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for your onward flight.
Cancellation Policy
Fully refundable until 3 days before start
Non-refundable after 3 days before start
