Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Aurangabad and Lonar Meteor Lake, 6 days from Mumbai

Planning a trip to India often means balancing iconic sights with authentic experiences. This 6-day private tour from Mumbai offers a thoughtfully curated route through some of Maharashtra’s most fascinating landmarks — from ancient rock-cut caves to a meteorite crater, topped off with a taste of India’s burgeoning wine scene. Based on glowing reviews, the experience combines knowledgeable guides, comfortable travel, and immersive cultural sights, making it an appealing option for history buffs, nature lovers, and wine enthusiasts alike.

What we love about this tour is how it balances heritage sites like Ajanta and Ellora with the scientific intrigue of Lonar Lake, all while offering personalized attention in a private setting. The inclusion of five nights of accommodation, breakfast, entrance fees, and wine tasting makes it a practical, no-surprise package. One possible consideration? The long drives between some locations (particularly Mumbai to Aurangabad and Nashik) require patience and a love for scenic road trips. This tour will suit those who appreciate comfort, want a flexible schedule, and are eager to uncover lesser-known gems alongside famous UNESCO sites.

Key Points

• Private tour with personalized service and flexible scheduling.
• In-depth visits to UNESCO-listed Ajanta and Ellora caves, plus historic forts and temples.
• Scientific marvels at Lonar Meteor Lake, with opportunities for unique experiments.
• Tasty cultural experience with wine tasting at Nashik’s Sula Vineyards.
• Comfortable transportation in a private car, minimizing fatigue.
• Includes accommodations and breakfast for five nights, adding value and convenience.

The Journey Through Maharashtra: What to Expect

This tour crafts a balanced itinerary that appeals to travelers seeking both cultural depth and unique natural phenomena. It’s designed to be immersive without feeling rushed, with a professional guide ensuring you get the most out of every site.

Day 1: From Mumbai to Ellora Caves

Starting early from Mumbai, you’ll enjoy a scenic 330 km drive to Aurangabad, a city known today mostly for its proximity to incredible historical sites. After settling into your hotel and grabbing a local lunch, you’ll visit the Ellora Caves. This UNESCO World Heritage site is essentially a stone city, with 34 caves carved out of the hillside between the 5th and 10th centuries.

The highlights here are the Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples, showcasing a remarkable blend of religious architecture. The Kailasa Temple, a monolithic masterpiece built in the 8th century, is the largest single rock excavation in the world. It appears as a mountain carved out of solid stone, entirely man-made, and took around 150 years to complete with 7,000 laborers. Visiting this site, you’ll marvel at the detailed sculptures and the scale of ancient craftsmanship.

Day 2: Aurangabad’s Heritage and Forts

The second day begins with a visit to Bibi Ka Maqbara — often called the “Taj of the Deccan.” Built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s son in memory of his wife, the monument is particularly charming and provides a more accessible version of Mughal architecture. Visitors have noted the impressive design and beautiful gardens, with some reviewers mentioning that the architect, Ata Ullah, was the son of the Taj Mahal’s chief designer.

Next up is Daulatabad Fort, a formidable structure with a colorful history. Once the capital under Sultan Muhammad Bin Tughlaq, this 14th-century fortress offers panoramic views and a glimpse into medieval military architecture. You’ll see remnants of palaces and mosques, and hear stories about the Sultan’s eccentric decision to relocate his capital — a move that ultimately proved disastrous.

Day 3: From Aurangabad to Lonar

The journey continues with a 140 km drive to Lonar. This small village is home to the Lonar Meteor Lake, a geological phenomenon that has fascinated scientists for decades. The Daitya Sudan Temple, built in Chalukya architecture, adds a spiritual dimension to the day, with intricate erotic sculptures reminiscent of Khajuraho.

Reviewer feedback highlights the temple’s fascinating architecture and sculptures, with some mentioning how the carvings offer insights into ancient Indian art. It’s a quiet, contemplative stop that provides a break from the drive and an opportunity to appreciate India’s religious diversity.

Day 4: The Science and Mysteries of Lonar Lake

The highlight of this day is the Lonar Crater Lake, formed approximately 50,000 years ago by a meteorite impact. The crater’s size — 1.8 km wide and 150 meters deep — is a sight to behold. The lake itself is saline and alkaline, which is unusual, and scientists (including NASA) are still trying to understand why water here hosts unique micro-organisms and magnetic anomalies.

Visitors mention the guide’s demonstrations of scientific experiments that showcase the lake’s unusual properties, making it a fun and educational experience. The lake’s environment is also a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with various migratory and local bird species frequenting the area.

Day 5: Ajanta Caves and the Artistic Heritage

A 150 km drive takes you to Ajanta Caves, a masterpiece of ancient Buddhist architecture and art. Carved into a cliffside beside the River Waghora, these caves date back to the 1st and 2nd centuries BC. The caves contain exquisite paintings, sculptures, and frescoes illustrating Jataka Tales and the life of Buddha before enlightenment.

Reviewers frequently praise the lifelike paintings and the serenity of the site, often describing the caves as “magnificent” and “a must-see.” The detailed artwork provides insight into early Buddhist culture and the artistic skills of ancient craftsmen.

Day 6: Wine Tasting in Nashik and Return to Mumbai

The final day is a relaxing contrast to the previous historic and natural sites. A drive of about 3 hours takes you to Nashik, India’s wine capital, where you’ll enjoy a guided tasting at Sula Vineyards. This is a lovely way to cap off the trip, blending culture with leisure, and getting a taste of India’s emerging wine scene.

The tour concludes with the return trip to Mumbai, a 165 km drive that allows you to reflect on the journey’s highlights. The inclusion of breakfast and the private guide helps make this a smooth, stress-free experience.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

What makes this tour stand out is the personalized touch. The private guide, praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, really brings history and science alive. Reviewers mention guides like Pankaj, who went out of his way to answer questions and make sure all needs were met. Their expertise adds depth to each site, transforming a sightseeing trip into a meaningful experience.

The comfort of a private car means you’ll avoid the hassles of crowded buses or confusing public transport. The schedule is flexible enough to allow for photography, short breaks, or extra time at favored sites. The hotel accommodations are included for five nights, giving you a comfortable base to rest and recharge.

Price-wise, at around $1,226 per person, this tour offers good value considering the number of attractions, entrance fees, breakfast, and wine tasting included. It’s a comprehensive package that saves you the hassle of booking individual components and ensures a seamless experience.

Insights from reviews highlight the value of the package: “Very well organised and great hotels,” and “the caves are magnificent.” Many mention how knowledgeable guides, like Pankaj, made the difference, offering insights that aren’t found in guidebooks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of culture, history, science, and relaxation. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate expert guides, personalized service, and authentic sites away from overly commercialized tourist traps. If you’re curious about India’s ancient civilizations, enjoy nature’s mysteries, or simply want to sample local wines in a scenic setting, this tour hits the right notes.

It’s also great for history buffs, geology enthusiasts, and anyone with a sense of adventure willing to spend a few hours on long drives that are part of the experience.

The Sum Up

This 6-day private tour from Mumbai offers a well-rounded exploration of Maharashtra’s cultural, historical, and natural treasures. With visits to UNESCO sites, a scientific marvel in Lonar Lake, and a delightful wine tasting in Nashik, it balances education, adventure, and relaxation. The inclusion of experienced guides and comfortable transportation makes it accessible and enjoyable, especially for those seeking a personalized, hassle-free experience.

While the travel involves some lengthy drives, the scenic routes and fascinating stops make it worthwhile. The carefully curated itinerary ensures you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of India’s diverse heritage, complemented by moments of leisure and discovery.

Whether you’re a history lover, a science geek, or a wine enthusiast, this tour provides a meaningful way to experience Maharashtra beyond the usual tourist paths. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a comprehensive yet flexible exploration of this vibrant region.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, solo travelers will enjoy personalized attention and the flexibility to customize their experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel accommodations for five nights, breakfast, all entrance fees, transportation by private car, professional guide services, and a wine tasting experience.

Do I need to arrange my own meals?
Lunch and dinner are not included, so you can explore local restaurants or ask your guide for recommendations to experience regional cuisine.

How long are the drives between major sites?
The longest drive is approximately 330 km from Mumbai to Aurangabad, with shorter journeys between other locations like Lonar, Ajanta, and Nashik.

Can we customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s room for flexibility and potential customization based on your interests and pacing preferences.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves some walking and long drives, so travelers should be comfortable with these activities. It’s suitable for most age groups with moderate mobility.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites on the itinerary are included in the package price.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than that are subject to the stated policies.

In sum, this Maharashtra tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, science, and leisure, delivered through expert guidance and thoughtful planning. It’s a fantastic way to see some of India’s hidden gems comfortably and authentically.