Nagpur to Aurangabad via Melghat Tiger Reserve & Akola
Embark on a well-curated 6-day journey from Nagpur to Aurangabad, offering a seamless blend of wildlife adventure, cultural exploration, and architectural marvels. Begin with a guided city tour of Nagpur before venturing into the untouched wilderness of Melghat Tiger Reserve, where scheduled gypsy safaris provide opportunities to spot tigers, leopards, and rare bird species amidst scenic Satpura landscapes. Continue to Akola, discovering its historic fort and sacred temples that reflect the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The journey culminates in Aurangabad, where you will explore the UNESCO-listed Ajanta and Ellora Caves, along with iconic monuments like Daulatabad Fort and Bibi ka Maqbara. With scenic drives, immersive safaris, and enriching cultural experiences, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of nature, history, and heritage.
Day 1: Arrive Nagpur – City Tour
Upon arrival at Nagpur airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, begin your city tour exploring Sitabuldi Fort, a historic landmark offering panoramic views and colonial significance. Continue to Deekshabhoomi (Dhamma Chakra Stupa), one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and an important pilgrimage site. Later, visit the Central Museum (closed on Mondays), showcasing regional artifacts and historical exhibits. Return to the hotel for relaxation. Overnight at hotel in Nagpur.
Day 2: Nagpur – Melghat Tiger Reserve (Approx. 260 kms / 5–6 hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, begin your scenic drive to Melghat Tiger Reserve covering approx. 260 kms in 5–6 hours. En route, visit the sacred Ambadevi Temple in Amravati, known for its spiritual significance. Continue your journey through the Satpura ranges, entering lush forest landscapes.
Upon arrival, check in at your forest lodge. In the afternoon, proceed for a scheduled gypsy safari in the reserve accompanied by a naturalist. Explore dense forests, valleys, and riverine habitats while spotting wildlife such as tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, and a variety of birds. Return to the lodge in the evening. Overnight at Melghat.
Day 3: Melghat – Morning Safari – Akola (Approx. 100 kms / 3 hrs)
Early morning, embark on a scheduled gypsy safari in Melghat Tiger Reserve, when wildlife activity is at its peak. The reserve is also renowned for rare bird species, making it ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts. Return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out.
Later, drive to Akola covering approx. 100 kms in 2–3 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Begin sightseeing with a visit to Akola Fort, an ancient structure reflecting regional history and architecture. Within the fort complex, visit Rajeshwar Temple, a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Spend the evening exploring the local surroundings. Overnight at hotel in Akola.
Day 4: Akola – Aurangabad via Ajanta (Approx. 250 kms / 5–6 hrs)
After breakfast, begin your drive to Aurangabad covering approx. 250 kms in 5–6 hours. En route, visit the world-famous Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 2nd century BCE. These rock-cut Buddhist caves are renowned for their exquisite murals and sculptures depicting ancient Indian art and spirituality.
After exploring Ajanta, continue your drive to Aurangabad. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 5: Aurangabad – Ellora & City Tour (Approx. 100 kms round trip)
After breakfast, begin your excursion to Ellora Caves, located approx. 30 kms (1 hour drive). This UNESCO World Heritage Site features 34 rock-cut caves representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. Marvel at the architectural brilliance of the Kailasa Temple, carved from a single rock.
Continue to visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Later, explore Daulatabad Fort, known for its impressive defense system and historical importance.
Return to Aurangabad and visit key attractions including Bibi ka Maqbara, Panchakki, and Aurangabad Caves. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 6: Aurangabad – Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Aurangabad airport as per your flight schedule, marking the end of your enriching wildlife and heritage journey.
- Assistance on arrival at airport
- 5 Nights’ accommodation in selected category hotels
- Daily breakfast at hotels
- Private AC vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing
- English-speaking local guides as per program
- 3 scheduled gypsy safaris in Melghat Tiger Reserve with naturalist (included)
- Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
- Bottled drinking water in vehicle
- Government taxes
Hotels used or similar for 5 nights accommodation
Nagpur x 1 night
3* - Tuli Imperial/ The Nagpur Ashok
4* - The Pride/ Regenta Central & Convention
5* - Le Meridien/ Radisson Blu Hotel
Melghat Tiger Reserve x 1 night
3*/ 4*/ 5* - MTDC Chikhaldara/ The Kolkas Rest House
Akola x 1 night
3*/ 4*/ 5* - Hotel Jasnagra/ Hotel Tushar Executive
Aurangabad x 2 nights
3* - Keys Hotel The Aures/ Aurangabad Gymkhana Club
4* - Ambassador Ajanta / VITS Hotel
5* - WelcomHotel Rama International / Lemon Tree Hotel
- Any flight tickets
- Camera charges at monuments if applicable
- Meals other than mentioned
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, etc.)
- Gratuities and optional services
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions