Driving through Marvels: Vadodara to Hyderabad
This 11-day private journey from Vadodara to Hyderabad is designed for travelers who enjoy exploring India at a comfortable, unhurried pace while witnessing its most remarkable architectural and spiritual landmarks. The itinerary begins in Vadodara with royal palaces and museums, then moves to Kevadia for the Statue of Unity and its surrounding attractions. From there, the route continues to Nashik for sacred temples and serene hill-town experiences, followed by Aurangabad, where ancient rock-cut masterpieces and historic forts await. En route, the journey includes meaningful pilgrimage stops such as Shirdi, Aundha Nagnath, and Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, as well as Bidar’s medieval heritage. The tour concludes in Hyderabad, where forts, mosques, tombs, palaces, and museums reveal the city’s rich Deccan legacy. With private transfers, guided sightseeing, and well-planned stays, this itinerary offers a balanced blend of comfort, culture, and discovery.
Day 1: Arrival in Vadodara – Begin the Royal City Tour
Upon arrival at Vadodara airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After some time to relax, begin your city tour with the majestic Laxmi Vilas Palace, one of the grandest royal residences in India, known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture and opulent interiors. Continue to the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, where royal paintings, sculptures, and European art collections reflect the artistic legacy of the Gaekwad dynasty. Later, visit Kirti Mandir, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and the royal family, offering a peaceful atmosphere and historical value. Spend the evening exploring the city at a leisurely pace or resting at the hotel.
Overnight at hotel in Vadodara.
Day 2: Vadodara – Kevadia (Approx. 90 kms / 2 hrs drive)
After breakfast, drive to Kevadia, the home of the iconic Statue of Unity. The drive is short and comfortable, passing through open landscapes and rural stretches of Gujarat. Upon arrival, begin your sightseeing with the world’s tallest statue dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, where the engineering scale and panoramic surroundings create a truly impressive experience. Continue to the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the Valley of Flowers, where beautifully landscaped gardens offer a refreshing contrast to the monumental structures. You may also spend time at selected viewing areas and photo points that showcase the grand setting of Kevadia. In the evening, enjoy the atmosphere around the Statue of Unity complex before returning to your accommodation.
Overnight at hotel in Kevadia.
Day 3: Kevadia – Nashik (Approx. 310 kms / 7–8 hrs drive)
After breakfast, check out and begin your scenic drive to Nashik, covering approximately 310 kilometers in 7 to 8 hours. The route takes you through changing landscapes as you move from Gujarat into Maharashtra, making the journey itself an important part of the experience. Upon arrival in Nashik, check in at your hotel and take a short break to refresh. In the evening, you may choose to explore the city’s peaceful surroundings or enjoy a relaxed stroll in the local area. Nashik, known for its vineyards and spiritual heritage, offers a gentle shift from monumental sightseeing to a more tranquil and devotional atmosphere.
Overnight at hotel in Nashik.
Day 4: Nashik City Tour and Spiritual Exploration
After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the most sacred Shiva shrines in India. Continue to Brahmagiri Hill and Gangadwar, which hold mythological importance and offer scenic views of the surrounding region. Later, proceed to the Panchavati area, where Ram Kund, Kalaram Temple, and Sita Gufa reflect Nashik’s deep connection with the Ramayana and Hindu pilgrimage traditions. You may also visit the Pandavleni Caves, an ancient rock-cut Buddhist site that adds an archaeological dimension to the day. In the evening, enjoy the calm of the Godavari riverfront before returning to your hotel.
Overnight at hotel in Nashik.
Day 5: Nashik – Shirdi – Aurangabad (Approx. 170 kms / 4–5 hrs drive)
After breakfast, check out and drive towards Aurangabad. En route, stop at Shirdi, the revered pilgrimage town associated with Sai Baba, and visit the Sai Baba Temple to experience its devotional atmosphere. After darshan, continue your journey to Aurangabad, crossing the landscapes of central Maharashtra. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and later begin a short city exploration with visits to Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the Mini Taj Mahal, followed by the historic Panchakki watermill and Aurangabad Caves. The day introduces you to the city’s unique blend of Mughal, Deccan, and Buddhist heritage.
Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 6: Aurangabad – Ajanta Caves Excursion (Approx. 210 kms round trip / 5 hrs drive)
After breakfast, set out for a full-day excursion to the Ajanta Caves, located about 105 kilometers from Aurangabad. These UNESCO World Heritage caves are among the finest examples of ancient Buddhist art and architecture in the world. Carved into a horseshoe-shaped rock face, the caves are renowned for their murals, sculptures, and depictions of the life of Buddha. Spend ample time exploring the site, appreciating the detail and serenity that make Ajanta truly exceptional. After the visit, return to Aurangabad through the same scenic route.
Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 7: Aurangabad – Ellora, Grishneshwar & Daulatabad Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin another full-day exploration of Aurangabad’s historic treasures. Start with the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves, where Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut monuments stand side by side in a remarkable display of religious harmony and artistic skill. Continue to the magnificent Kailasa Temple, the monolithic marvel carved from a single rock. Later, visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, followed by Daulatabad Fort, known for its strategic hilltop defense and dramatic history. If time permits, continue to Aurangabad Caves for a final look at the region’s Buddhist legacy.
Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 8: Aurangabad – Nanded (Approx. 265 kms / 6 hrs drive)
After breakfast, check out and drive to Nanded, with an en route visit to Aundha Nagnath Temple, an important Jyotirlinga shrine associated with the Yadava dynasty. Continue your journey through rural Maharashtra, enjoying the changing scenery along the way. Upon arrival in Nanded, check in at your hotel and later visit Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, one of the most important Sikh pilgrimage sites in India and one of the five Takhts. The gurudwara’s serene atmosphere and spiritual significance make it a memorable stop on the journey.
Overnight at hotel in Nanded.
Day 9: Nanded – Bidar – Hyderabad (Approx. 305 kms / 7 hrs drive)
After breakfast, check out and begin your drive back toward Hyderabad. En route, stop at Bidar, a historic town known for its medieval forts and Indo-Islamic architecture. Visit Bidar Fort, Mahmud Gawan Madarsa, Bahmani Tombs, and Narasimha Jhira, each offering a different perspective on the region’s layered heritage. Continue your scenic drive to Hyderabad, where you will check in at your hotel upon arrival. The day combines architecture, faith, and history in one rich driving experience.
Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.
Day 10: Hyderabad City Tour
After breakfast, begin the city tour of Hyderabad, a destination celebrated for its forts, monuments, and royal legacy. Visit Golconda Fort, known for its impressive acoustics and commanding views, followed by the Qutub Shahi Tombs, where elegant domed structures rest within landscaped grounds. Continue to Charminar, the enduring symbol of the city, and Mecca Masjid, one of the oldest and largest mosques in India. Later, explore the Salar Jung Museum, home to a vast and fascinating collection of art, manuscripts, and artifacts. Conclude the sightseeing with a visit to Chowmohalla Palace, which reflects the grandeur of the Nizams.
Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.
Day 11: Hyderabad Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and enjoy some free time depending on your flight schedule. You may use the remaining time to explore local markets, purchase pearls or handicrafts, or simply relax after the journey. Later, you will be transferred to Hyderabad airport for your onward flight. Your tour concludes with a rich collection of memories from India’s royal palaces, sacred sites, rock-cut wonders, and historic cities.
Tour ends.
- Assistance on arrival and departure at airport
- 10 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
- Daily breakfast at hotel
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers, sightseeing, and intercity drives as per itinerary
- English-speaking local guides during sightseeing in major cities and monuments
- Monument entrance fees for sites mentioned in the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water in vehicle throughout the tour
- All applicable government taxes, tolls, parking, and driver allowances
Hotels used or similar for 10 nights accommodation
Vadodara x 1 night
3* - Tansha Comfort Regency/ Suba Elite Fatehganj
4* - Royal Orchid Central/ Lemon Tree Hotel
5* - Welcomehotel Vadodra/ Vivanta Vadodara
Kevadia x 1 night
3* - Tent City Narmada / Brg Budget Stay
4* - Statue of Unity Tent City 1 - Royal Cottages/ Ramada Encore
5* - Statue of Unity Tent City 1 - Royal Villa
Nashik x 2 nights
3* - Lily Sarovar Portico/ Holiday Inn Express
4* - Express Inn/ Hi 5 Hotel
5* - The Gateway Hotel Ambad/ The Source at Sula
Aurangabad x 3 nights
3* - Keys Hotel The Aures/ Aurangabad Gymkhana Club
4* - Ambassador Ajanta / VITS Hotel
5* - WelcomHotel Rama International / Lemon Tree Hotel
Nanded x 1 night
3* / 4* / 5* - Gurudwara Sarai/ NRI Complex (Neat & clean)
Hyderabad x 2 nights
3* - Aditya Park/ Lemon Tree Hotel
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/ Fortune Park Vallabha
5* - ITC Kakatiya, a Luxury Collection/ Trident Hotel000000
- Airfare or train tickets
- Visa fees and travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners unless specifically mentioned
- Camera and video charges at monuments
- Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverages, minibar, telephone, and fax
- Optional activities, boat rides, or shows not specified in the itinerary
- Expenses due to delays, weather, roadblocks, or unforeseen circumstances
- Medical expenses or emergency evacuation costs
- Any increase in taxes, entrance fees, or service charges by authorities
- Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions