Morning:
Depart from Pune after early breakfast by private cab or train (Shatabdi or Janshatabdi available options too)
En route suggestion:
Quick halt at Ahmednagar for snacks / historical points if desired (Ahmednagar Fort)
Afternoon:
Arrive in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), check-in at hotel
Freshen up and proceed for local sightseeing:
Bibi Ka Maqbara (Mini Taj Mahal of Deccan)
Panchakki (ancient water mill)
Aurangabad Caves (if time permits)
Evening:
Explore local markets for Himroo shawls, Paithani sarees, and Bidriware
Overnight stay in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Morning:
Breakfast and head to Ellora Caves (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Explore the grand Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)
Visit Buddhist and Jain caves as per time & interest
Next stop:
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple (last of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, next to Ellora complex)
Afternoon:
Visit Daulatabad (Deogiri) Fort
Climb the famous Chand Minar
Explore secret escape routes, moats, and cannons
Learn the history of how this impregnable fort fell only by cunning strategy
Evening:
Return to hotel, relax, or opt for a night food stroll in Aurangabad
Overnight stay in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Morning:
Early breakfast and depart for Ajanta Caves
30 rock-cut Buddhist caves famous for intricate murals, sculptures, and paintings dating from 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE
Explore key caves:
Cave 1, 2, 9, 17, 26 — masterpieces of ancient Indian art
Note: Caves are closed on Monday
Afternoon:
Lunch at MTDC restaurant near Ajanta
Return to Aurangabad by evening
Optional: Attend a light and sound show at Daulatabad Fort (if running, seasonal)
Overnight stay in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Early morning:
Check out and head to Lonar Crater Lake (approx. 3 hrs drive)
Formed by a meteor impact around 50,000 years ago
Visit Daitya Sudan Temple (10th century Hemadpanthi style)
Walk around the saline and alkaline lake rim if time allows
Afternoon:
Early lunch at Lonar or en route
Drive back to Pune (approx. 6 hrs)
Reach by late evening / night