Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Pilgrimage Tour - 11 Nights / 12 Days

4N Mumbai 3N Aurangabad 2N Pune 1N Nashik 1N Parbhani

Flights
Breakfast
Hotel
Sightseeing
Transfers
Wi-Fi

Overview

This 12-day 11-night pilgrimage through Maharashtra covers five of India’s most renowned Jyotirlinga shrines, along with UNESCO sites, coastal landmarks, and heritage monuments.

Designed for spiritual seekers and culturally curious travellers, the journey blends devotion, mythology, architecture, and comfortable travel, spreading across Mumbai, Nashik, Aurangabad, Parbhani, Pune, and Bhimashankar.

The tour begins in Mumbai, India’s economic hub. After a relaxing first day, travellers visit the Elephanta Island Caves, a UNESCO heritage site featuring magnificent cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, including the iconic Trimurti sculpture.

The journey continues to Nashik, one of India’s holiest cities and a major Kumbh Mela site. Here lies the sacred Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, known for its unique three-faced lingam symbolising Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

From Nashik, travellers move to Aurangabad, a treasure trove of Mughal and ancient Indian architecture. Visits include Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the ‘Taj of the Deccan’, and Panchakki, a centuries-old water mill driven by natural underground springs.

The next day takes you to the world-famous Ellora Caves (closed Tuesdays), home to the extraordinary Kailasa Temple carved from a single rock. Nearby lies the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, revered as the last of the twelve Jyotirlingas.

The tour continues to Pune, a cultural powerhouse known for its educational institutions, Maratha history, and a slow-paced life. Visits include the Aga Khan Palace, associated with Mahatma Gandhi’s imprisonment, and Shaniwar Wada, an iconic Peshwa-era fortification.

A day excursion to Bhimashankar takes travellers deep into the Sahyadri forests, where the temple stands amidst misty hills and wildlife-rich terrain.

The final leg brings travellers back to Mumbai. With visits to Siddhivinayak Temple, Mahalakshmi Temple, Victoria Terminus, Dhobi Ghat, Hanging Garden, Gateway of India, and Marine Drive, the grand pilgrimage ends with a touching mix of spirituality and urban heritage.

This thoughtfully designed journey ensures meaningful darshan at each Jyotirlinga, manageable drive durations, comfortable stays in major cities, and a memorable blend of devotion and discovery.

Itinerary

This tour covers Elephanta Caves, Trimbakeshwar, Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar, Aundha Nagnath, Parli Vaijnath, Pune landmarks, Bhimashankar and coastal Mumbai sights with carefully arranged drives and comfortable stays.

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai - Hotel Check-in & Relax−

Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to your hotel. Rest, acclimatise, and prepare for the start of your spiritual journey. Evening is free for leisure.

Day 2: Mumbai - Excursion to Elephanta Island+

Take a boat ride to Elephanta Island. Explore ancient rock-cut Shiva caves, the monumental Trimurti sculpture, and surrounding carvings. Return to Mumbai for an evening at leisure.

Day 3: Mumbai to Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Visit+

Drive to Nashik and check in. Later, visit Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, known for its three-faced lingam and sacred rituals. Evening free by the Godavari ghats.

Day 4: Nashik to Aurangabad - Local Sightseeing+

Drive to Aurangabad. Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, the Mughal-style mausoleum resembling the Taj Mahal, made by Aurangzeb, and Panchakki, an ancient water mill fed by natural underground channels. Overnight stay in Aurangabad.

Day 5: Aurangabad - Ellora Caves & Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga+

Visit the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves (closed Tuesdays) and explore to your heart's content. From there, continue your journey to the massive Kailasa Temple for a spiritual twist to a historic day.

Proceed to Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, located near Ellora. Return to Aurangabad. Overnight stay in Aurangabad.

Day 6: Aurangabad to Aundha Nagnath- Parbhani+

Drive early to Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga, one of the oldest Shiva temples. Our tour guide will guide you through the history and local myths surrounding this Jyotirlinga. After darshan, continue to Parbhani. Overnight stay in Parbhani.

Day 7: Parbhani - Parli Vaijnanth - Aurangabad+

Visit Parli Vaijnath, revered as a Jyotirlinga dedicated to Shiva as the divine healer. Our tour guide will help you understand the spiritual, cultural, social and historical references attached to this magnificent Jyotirlinga. Later, drive back to Aurangabad for rest. Overnight stay in Aurangabad.

Day 8: Aurangabad to Pune - City Sightseeing+

Drive to Pune. Visit Aga Khan Palace, associated with Mahatma Gandhi, and Shaniwar Wada, the historic Peshwa fort. You can visit local markets, iconic bridges and indulge in local dishes. Overnight stay in Pune.

Day 9: Pune - Day Excursion to Bhimashankar+

Travel through lush Western Ghats to Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, surrounded by forests of the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. Return to Pune by evening.

Day 10: Pune - Additional Sightseeing - Drive to Mumbai+

Spend the morning exploring more of Pune or relaxing. You can indulge in local sightseeing, shop with artisans, and try authentic Maratha cuisine. In the afternoon, drive to Mumbai and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Day 11: Mumbai Sightseeing - Temples & Heritage Walks+

Visit Siddhivinayak Temple and Mahalakshmi Temple. Continue to Victoria Terminus, Dhobi Ghat, Hanging Garden, Gateway of India, and end with a peaceful evening walk at Marine Drive. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Day 12: Mumbai - Airport Transfer - Departure+

After checkout, transfer to Mumbai Airport for departure. Tour concludes with spiritual energy and unforgettable experiences.

FAQs on Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Pilgrimage Tour Package

What is the significance of Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga?

Trimbakeshwar is unique because the lingam displays three faces representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It stands near the sacred origin of the Godavari River and is considered one of the most powerful spiritual sites in India.

Are the Ellora Caves and Grishneshwar Temple close to each other?

Yes, Grishneshwar is very close to Ellora Caves, making it convenient to visit both on the same day. Since Ellora is closed on Tuesdays, travellers should plan the temple visit accordingly to ensure smooth darshan.

How difficult is the road journey to Bhimashankar?

The road passes through scenic but hilly Western Ghats terrain. While generally safe, the route includes curves and forested stretches. Daytime travel is recommended. Because of the limited accommodation there, a return trip from Pune is ideal.

Can elderly travellers comfortably join this tour?

Yes. Most temples provide ramps or moderate walking paths. Long drives are broken up, and major cities offer comfortable hotels. If required, wheelchairs, flexible timing, and short walking options can be arranged for elderly pilgrims.

Is photography allowed at the Jyotirlinga temples?

Photography is typically not allowed inside the Garbha Griha (sanctum). Outer temple areas usually permit photos. UNESCO sites like Elephanta and Ellora allow photography except where flash restrictions apply. Always follow posted rules and temple staff instructions.

Are there food options available around remote temples?

Basic eateries, tea stalls, and simple vegetarian meals are available, especially near Aundha Nagnath and Parli. However, choices are limited. It’s advisable to carry packaged snacks and water during long drives or rural stops.

What is the best time to undertake this Jyotirlinga tour?

October to March offers pleasant weather for temple visits and road travel. Summers can be hot, and monsoon rains may slow down travel, though the temples remain accessible throughout the year for devotees.