Thought I'd update this plan as my friend in Pune suggests I skip Vns and head to Aurangabad to see the Ajanta and Ellora caves. Distance wise this seems to make sense. At least I'll be heading in pregressive direction. What do you all think of this idea? The whole area looks like a wonderful thing to see! I didn't find any SPG or IHG's there, so I can't snag a free room, but I did find a Lemon Tree, which someone mentioned before.It gets good reviews for tripadvisor.

I'll be spending a lot more time researching this idea over the weekend and as always, appreciate the suggestions of those of you who have been here.