Wildlife & Hill Circuit - Matheran - Lonavala - Bhimashankar (4N/5D)

Detailed Itinerary: Unfolding Your Maharashtra Adventure

Day 1: Arrival & Matheran – A Serene Hill Station Welcome

Your Maharashtra journey begins with a warm greeting at your designated pick-up point in Pune or Mumbai. Our private AC vehicle will transport you to Neral, the base of Matheran. At Dasturi Point, the journey continues via the charming Matheran Toy Train (subject to availability), pony, or a hand-pulled rickshaw to your pre-booked accommodation in the vehicle-free hill station. This unique entrance promises an immediate sense of tranquillity.

After checking in and refreshing, we'll explore Matheran. The afternoon includes a visit to Charlotte Lake, a picturesque body of water ideal for quiet contemplation and birdwatching. A short walk leads to Echo Point, famous for its natural acoustics and stunning valley views. Enjoy the crisp hill air and a delicious dinner at your hotel, reflecting on the peaceful start to your holiday.

• Morning: Pick-up from Pune/Mumbai, private AC transfer to Neral.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Matheran via Toy Train/Pony/Rickshaw. Hotel check-in.
• Evening: Explore Charlotte Lake and Echo Point. Dinner & overnight stay in Matheran.

Day 2: Matheran – Panoramic Vistas & Nature Trails

Awaken to the refreshing Matheran air. After breakfast, prepare to discover the hill station's iconic viewpoints. We begin with Panorama Point, offering magnificent 360-degree views of the surrounding hills. Next, proceed to Louisa Point, renowned for spectacular views of Vishalgad and Prabal Fort. We'll also visit Monkey Point, often frequented by its playful residents.

For adventure, enjoy horse riding, a popular local activity, or wander along shaded walking paths. Lunch will be at a local restaurant. The afternoon allows for browsing the local bazaar, known for leather goods and 'Chikki'. As dusk approaches, we'll head to Sunset Point (Porcupine Point) for a spectacular view. Dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at your Matheran hotel.

• Morning: Breakfast. Visit Panorama Point, Louisa Point, and Monkey Point.
• Afternoon: Horse riding or walking trails. Explore local market.
• Evening: Witness sunset at Sunset Point. Dinner & overnight stay in Matheran.

Day 3: Matheran to Lonavala – Caves, Dams & Chikki Indulgence

After breakfast in Matheran, check out and descend to Dasturi Point. Our private AC vehicle awaits to transport you to Lonavala, Maharashtra's celebrated hill station. After hotel check-in and refreshment, the afternoon blends history and nature. We'll visit the ancient Karla Caves (or Bhaja Caves), Buddhist rock-cut caves from the 2nd century BC, known for their magnificent chaitya hall.

Next, experience exhilarating views from Lion's Point and Tiger Point, offering dramatic cliff-edge panoramas of the Western Ghats. If travelling during monsoon, a visit to Bushi Dam showcases cascading waters. The day concludes with a stop at Lonavala's famous 'Chikki' shops for delicious local treats and souvenirs. Enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay in Lonavala.

• Morning: Breakfast. Checkout from Matheran. Transfer to Lonavala. Hotel check-in.
• Afternoon: Visit Karla Caves (or Bhaja Caves). Explore Lion's Point, Tiger Point. Bushi Dam (seasonal).
• Evening: Chikki shopping. Dinner & overnight stay in Lonavala.

Day 4: Lonavala to Bhimashankar – Spiritual Sanctuary & Wildlife Wonders

Prepare for a journey into spirituality and wilderness. After an early breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Bhimashankar, home to one of the twelve revered Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. The drive winds through dense forests of the Western Ghats.

Upon arrival, we visit the ancient Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple, a masterpiece of Nagara-style architecture, steeped in mythology. Soak in the spiritual atmosphere and admire its intricate carvings. The temple is nestled within the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot. While a full trek is an extended activity, the temple surroundings offer glimpses of natural beauty and a chance to spot unique inhabitants, including the 'Shekru' (Indian Giant Squirrel), Maharashtra's state animal.

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery near Bhimashankar, sampling authentic regional fare. After this soul-enriching visit, we begin our return journey to Lonavala for your final overnight stay, reflecting on the day's spiritual and natural encounters.

• Morning: Early breakfast. Private AC transfer to Bhimashankar.
• Afternoon: Visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple. Explore the periphery of Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Evening: Lunch at a local restaurant. Return transfer to Lonavala. Dinner & overnight stay in Lonavala.

Day 5: Lonavala Departure – Cherished Memories

Savour your last breakfast in Lonavala. Depending on your departure schedule, enjoy some leisure time or last-minute souvenir shopping. As your memorable Wildlife & Hill Circuit journey concludes, our private AC vehicle will transfer you comfortably to your chosen drop-off point in Pune or Mumbai. Depart with a heart full of cherished memories, rejuvenated spirits, and a deeper appreciation for Maharashtra's diverse beauty. We trust you've had an enriching experience and look forward to welcoming you back.

• Morning: Breakfast. Leisure time or last-minute shopping.
• Late Morning/Afternoon: Private AC transfer to Pune/Mumbai for your onward journey.

Inclusion

What Your Package Includes

Your Wildlife & Hill Circuit package covers essential services for a stress-free holiday:

• Accommodation: 4 nights' stay in comfortable 3-star equivalent hotels/resorts in Matheran and Lonavala.
• Meals: Daily wholesome breakfast at your hotels.
• Private AC Transport: All inter-city transfers and local sightseeing as per itinerary.
• Matheran Transfers: Dedicated transfers from Dasturi Point into Matheran (Toy Train/Pony/Rickshaw).
• Sightseeing Entry Fees: All standard entry fees for monuments and sites mentioned in the itinerary.
• All Applicable Taxes: Government taxes and service charges related to included services.
• Local Expertise: Assistance from our ground team for on-tour necessities.

Exclusion

What Your Package Excludes

For clarity and personal choice, the following are not covered:

• Airfare/Train Fare: Tickets to/from Pune or Mumbai.
• Meals Not Specified: Lunch and dinner, allowing you to explore local dining.
• Personal Expenses: Laundry, calls, mini-bar, tips, porterage, camera fees, medical expenses.
• Optional Activities: Costs for activities not explicitly in the itinerary (e.g., specific adventure sports, extended treks).
• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended but not included.
• Changes to Itinerary: Costs due to unforeseen circumstances (weather, road blocks, flight delays).
• Guide Services: Dedicated guide services are not included unless specified.

Cancellation Policy: Plan with Confidence

Our transparent cancellation policy is designed to be fair:

Cancellation Charges:

• 30 days or more before departure: 25% of the total package cost.
• 15-29 days before departure: 50% of the total package cost.
• 7-14 days before departure: 75% of the total package cost.
• Less than 7 days before departure or No Show: 100% of the total package cost.

Non-refundable components (e.g., specific permits, pre-booked tickets) may incur 100% charges. All cancellation requests must be in writing. Refunds are processed within a stipulated timeframe after applicable deductions.

Advance Preparation

Preparing for Your Journey: Essential Advice

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Wildlife & Hill Circuit tour, a little advance preparation helps:

• Clothing: Pack light, comfortable layers, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
• Essentials: Carry sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, personal medications, and a basic first-aid kit.
• Documents: Keep valid ID proof readily accessible.
• Photography Gear: Camera, extra batteries, memory cards, and a power bank are highly recommended.
• Cash: Carry some cash for smaller vendors and emergencies, especially in remote areas.
• Hydration: Carry a reusable water bottle.

Need to Know

Need to Know: Important Travel Information

For a seamless journey, note these points:

• Weather Considerations: Monsoon (June-September) brings lush greenery and waterfalls but can cause minor delays. Winter (Oct-Feb) is cool and clear, ideal for sightseeing.
• Matheran Vehicle Restriction: Matheran is vehicle-free. Be prepared for transfers via toy train, pony, or rickshaw from Dasturi Point.
• Bhimashankar Sanctuary: Respect the environment within the sanctuary. Avoid littering and disturbing wildlife.
• Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like Bhimashankar Temple; remove footwear.
• Flexibility: Minor itinerary adjustments may occur due to unforeseen circumstances.
• Health & Safety: Consult your physician for health precautions. Carry essential personal medications.