Duration : 14 Nights / 15 Days
Place to See : Mumbai, Nasik, Aurangabad, Pune and Kohlapur, Panjim, Benaulim, Mumbai
Day 01 - 02 : Mumbai (Bombay)
You can arrive at any time on day 1, as there are no group activities planned. On Day 2 we explore the many facets of India's commercial capital. A walk through Crawford Market and the surrounding bazaars is a perfect introduction to the local life of an Indian city. You have a free afternoon, so why not take a boat out to Elephanta Island?
Day 03 : Nasik
An early morning train takes us to Nasil, one of Hinduism's holy cities. Situated on the backs of the Godavari river, Nasik is a little known but fantastically picturesque town of bathing ghats, temples and markets.
Day 04 - 05 : Aurangabad
We continue by bus to Aurangabad, our base for visits to the world heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora. The rock cut temples of Ellora and the beautifully preserved frescoes of the Ajanta caves are highlights of any trip to central India, bringing alive a glorious past. We also visit the imposing hilltop fortress of Daulatabad.
Day 06 - 07 : Pune and Kohlapur
Travelling by bus across the Deccan, we make our way to the British colonial city of Pune, now one of India's fastest growing cities with modern shops, restaurants and nightclubs. Here's your chance to try and Indian disco! We break our journey to Goa with an overnight stop in Kohlapur, famous for its palace having one of India's more bizarre collections of memorabilia.
Day 08 - 09 : Panjim
A local bus ride takes us down the western ghats to Goa and Panjim, India's smallest state capital. This is a relaxed town with many reminders of its Portuguese heritage. We visit the majestic cathedrals and churches that make up the splendours of Old Goa and drop into some of the many tiny bars and cafes to enjoy tax free drinks and wonderful Portuguese food.
Day 10 - 13 : Benaulim
Leaving Panjim behind we head south to Benaulim, our base at the beach. This is a magical area with its friendly people, winding country roads beneath tall palm trees, mile after mile of white sandy beach and superb seafood. We spend a day at the infamous weekly Anjuna market and there are excursions to spice plantations and traditional Goa mansions but we're not in a mad rush - there is plenty of time to relax and enjoy the sea and sand. In the evening of Day 13 we take the overnight train to Mumbai.
Day 14 : Mumbai
Arriving in the early morning we have a whole day available for further sightseeing or shopping.
Day 15 : Mumbai
You may depart at any time today.
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