Nagpur to Aurangabad via Melghat Tiger Reserve, Burhanpur & Akola
Embark on an enriching 6-day journey from Nagpur to Aurangabad, offering a perfect blend of wildlife exploration, historical discovery, and cultural immersion. Begin with a city tour of Nagpur before heading into the untouched wilderness of Melghat Tiger Reserve, where scheduled gypsy safaris provide opportunities to spot tigers, leopards, and rare bird species in a serene forest setting. Continue to the historic town of Burhanpur, known for its Mughal-era monuments and architectural heritage, followed by a scenic drive towards Aurangabad with an en route visit to the magnificent Ajanta Caves. Explore the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, and Grishneshwar Temple, along with other iconic landmarks of Aurangabad. This thoughtfully designed itinerary offers a seamless journey through Central India’s wildlife, heritage, and timeless artistry.
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 exploration with visits to Sitabuldi Fort, a historic landmark associated with colonial history, followed by Deekshabhoomi (Dhamma Chakra Stupa), one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and an important pilgrimage site. Continue to the Central Museum (closed on Mondays), where you can explore regional artifacts, sculptures, and archaeological exhibits. After sightseeing, return to the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Nagpur.
Day 2: Nagpur – Melghat Tiger Reserve (Approx. 260 kms / 6 hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Melghat Tiger Reserve covering approx. 260 kms in 5–6 hours. En route, visit the revered Ambadevi Temple in Amravati, an important pilgrimage site. Continue your scenic journey through Satpura ranges, gradually entering the lush forest landscapes of Melghat.
Upon arrival, check in at your forest lodge. Later, enjoy a scheduled afternoon gypsy safari in the reserve accompanied by a naturalist, exploring its rich biodiversity of teak forests, valleys, and rivers. Spot wildlife such as tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, and various bird species. Return to the lodge by evening. Overnight at Melghat.
Day 3: Melghat – Morning Safari – Burhanpur (Approx. 120 kms / 3 hrs)
Early morning, proceed for a scheduled gypsy safari in Melghat Tiger Reserve, experiencing the forest during peak wildlife activity. The reserve is also known for rare bird species including forest owlet and green avadavat, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out. Later, drive to Burhanpur covering approx. 120 kms in 3 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Begin your city tour visiting Badshahi Qila, a majestic fort overlooking the Tapti River, followed by Jama Masjid and Dargah-e-Hakimi, reflecting the city’s rich Mughal heritage. Overnight at hotel in Burhanpur.
Day 4: Burhanpur – Aurangabad via Ajanta (Approx. 250 kms / 6 hrs)
After breakfast, begin your excursion to the impressive Asirgarh Fort, strategically located atop the Satpura hills and offering panoramic views of the region. Explore its ancient structures including temples, mosque, and fortifications.
Later, 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, renowned for its exquisite Buddhist murals and rock-cut sculptures. Continue your journey to Aurangabad and check in at your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 5: Aurangabad – Ellora & City Tour (Approx. 100 kms round trip)
After breakfast, begin a full-day excursion to Ellora Caves, located approx. 30 kms (1 hour drive). This UNESCO World Heritage Site features 34 rock-cut temples and monasteries representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. Marvel at the architectural masterpiece of Kailasa Temple, carved from a single rock.
Continue your tour with a visit to the sacred Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Proceed to Daulatabad Fort, known for its strategic design and historical significance. Later, explore Aurangabad city attractions including Bibi ka Maqbara, Panchakki, and Aurangabad Caves. Return to hotel. Overnight at 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 memorable journey through wildlife, history, and heritage.
- Assistance on arrival at airport
- 5 Nights’ accommodation in selected category hotels
- Daily breakfast at hotels
- Private AC vehicle for 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
Burhanpur x 1 night
3*/ 4*/ 5* - Hotel Grand Shivam/ MPT Tapti Retreat
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