Maharashtra Tour Packages — Caves, Coast, Hills & City Energy

Maharashtra moves from the high-rise energy of Mumbai to the 2,000-year-old rock-cut chaityas of Ajanta and Ellora, the Sahyadri hill stations of Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar, and the palm-fringed Konkan coast. Palyatra's Maharashtra tour packages stitch these contrasts together with city hotels, heritage stays and the coastal drive down to the Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri forts.

Best time to visit: November to February for Mumbai, the caves and the coast; June to September brings the Sahyadri monsoon waterfalls; March to May is best for Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar strawberries. Ajanta and Ellora are best in cooler months for climbing the steps.

Top experiences: the Ajanta frescoes and Ellora Kailasa monolith, a Mumbai heritage and Marine Drive walk, Shirdi darshan, sunset at Lonavala's Tiger Point and the strawberry farms of Mahabaleshwar.

Frequently asked questions: How far are the caves from Mumbai? Aurangabad (the base for Ajanta and Ellora) is about a 6-hour drive or a short flight; plan at least two nights. Can Shirdi be combined with the caves? Yes, Shirdi sits between Mumbai and Aurangabad and pairs naturally. Are cave guides included? Yes, licensed ASI guides are arranged at Ajanta and Ellora.