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Aurangabad!

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Population

1.2 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Maharashtra map West India 🗺️ Offbeat Aurangabad Ajanta Ellora Bibi Ka Maqbara Maharashtra Tourism

Aurangabad is a historical city in Maharashtra, known as the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora caves. It boasts a rich Mughal heritage, evident in its architecture and cultural influences. The city offers a blend of ancient wonders and vibrant modern life.

Aurangabad is worth visiting for its proximity to Ajanta and Ellora, showcasing stunning rock-cut architecture. However, the city itself can be crowded and polluted. While the historical sites are fascinating, be prepared for persistent touts and vendors. Consider visiting during the cooler months for a more pleasant experience.

Reaching Aurangabad is convenient by air, rail, and road. Allocate at least 2-3 days to explore the city and the nearby caves. Plan your itinerary carefully to maximize your time and avoid unnecessary travel hassles.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

15-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for sightseeing. Days are sunny and evenings are cool.

Why Visit:

This period offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring the caves and other outdoor attractions. The weather is perfect for walking and photography. Fewer chances of rain disrupting your plans.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. Book accommodations and transportation in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

25-35 degrees C

Monsoon season with moderate to heavy rainfall. The landscape turns lush and green.

Why Visit:

The monsoon brings relief from the summer heat and fewer tourists. The waterfalls near Ellora are at their fullest during this time, offering scenic views.

Tip: Some roads might be in poor condition due to the rain. Humidity can be high.

Avoid

April to June

30-45 degrees C

Extremely hot and dry weather. Heatwaves are common.

Why Avoid:

The intense heat makes it uncomfortable to explore the caves and outdoor attractions during the day. Dehydration and heatstroke are risks.

Note: If you must visit, stay hydrated, avoid midday sun, and choose air-conditioned transportation.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Ajanta Caves

⏱ 4-6 hours ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring ancient Buddhist rock-cut cave temples. These caves are adorned with intricate murals and scu...

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Ellora Caves

⏱ 4-6 hours ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Ellora Caves are another UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising a complex of rock-cut cave temples representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. The c...

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Bibi Ka Maqbara

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Bibi Ka Maqbara is a mausoleum commissioned by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb's son, Azam Shah, in memory of his mother. It is often referred to as the 'Taj...

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Daulatabad Fort

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Daulatabad Fort, also known as Devgiri, is a historic fortified citadel located near Aurangabad. It was once the capital of the Yadava dynasty and lat...

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Grishneshwar Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Grishneshwar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines in India. It is an important pilgrimage ...

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Aurangabad Caves

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

The Aurangabad Caves are a set of 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines located on a hill overlooking Aurangabad city. These caves date back to the 6th and 7th...

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Things To Do

attractions

Heritage Walk in Aurangabad

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹500-1000 per person

Explore the historical streets of Aurangabad with a guided heritage walk. Discover hidden gems and learn about the city'...

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attractions

Cooking Class: Maharashtrian Cuisine

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹1000-2000 per person

Learn to prepare traditional Maharashtrian dishes in a hands-on cooking class. Discover the flavors and spices of the re...

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attractions

Photography Tour of Aurangabad

⏱ 4-5 hours 💰 ₹1500-3000 per person

Capture the beauty of Aurangabad's historical sites and landscapes with a guided photography tour. Learn tips and techni...

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attractions

Visit to Paithani Weaving Center

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹200-500 for transport; Paithani sarees ₹5000+

Visit a Paithani weaving center to witness the creation of these exquisite silk sarees. Learn about the intricate weavin...

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Cultural Experiences

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Attend a Qawwali Performance

2-3 hours | ₹200-500

Qawwali is a form of Sufi devotional music that is popular in Aurangabad. It is a powerful and movin...

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Visit a Local Market

1-2 hours | Free

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a local market in Aurangabad. Explore the stalls selling spices...

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celebration

Attend a Ganesh Chaturthi Celebration

Varies | Free

Ganesh Chaturthi is a major Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in Aurangabad. The festi...

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celebration

Experience a Traditional Maharashtrian Wedding

Varies | Invitation only, but observe from a distance

Witness the vibrant colors and rituals of a traditional Maharashtrian wedding. The weddings are elab...

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celebration

Learn Calligraphy

2 hours | ₹500-1000

Learn the art of calligraphy, particularly Persian or Arabic styles, which have historical significa...

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celebration

Attend a local music concert

2-3 hours | ₹200-800

Experience the local music scene by attending a concert featuring traditional Maharashtrian folk mus...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Naan Qalia
Naan Qalia

A rich mutton stew served with naan, a local specialty.

Thalipeeth
Thalipeeth

A savory multi-grain pancake, often served with yogurt or chutney.

Bhakarwadi
Bhakarwadi

A sweet and spicy snack, perfect for taking home as a souvenir.

Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun

Deep-fried milk balls soaked in sugar syrup, available at most sweet shops.

Where to Eat

Tandoor Restaurant

📍 Central Aurangabad

Popular restaurant known for its delicious tandoori dishes and Mughlai cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and the service is good. Located in Central Aurangabad.

Tandoori dishesbiryanis

₹800-1200 for two

Green Leaf Restaurant

📍 Near Railway Station

Serves quality South Indian and Chinese cuisine. A good option for vegetarian food. Located near the railway station.

Dosainoodles

₹500-800 for two

Street Food Spots

Gulmandi Market

Gulmandi Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Go during the evening for the best selection. Be mindful of hygiene and choose vendors with clean stalls.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Aurangabad

More restaurants & dishes from Aurangabad

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Central Aurangabad

Ideal for those who want to be close to the main attractions and markets. It can be noisy and crowded, but offers easy access to everything.

Best For: First-time visitors, shoppers

Near Airport

Quieter and more relaxed area, suitable for those who prefer a peaceful stay. It's farther from the city center, but offers easy access to the airport.

Best For: Business travelers, those with early flights

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Green Olive

📍 Near Railway Station

Basic rooms with essential amenities, convenient for travelers arriving by train. Offers decent value for money.

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Indraprastha

📍 Central Aurangabad

Clean and comfortable rooms, close to the city center. Good for budget travelers.

₹900-1300/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2500-4000/night

Hotel VITS Aurangabad

📍 Near Airport

Modern hotel with well-appointed rooms and a range of amenities. It's a great choice for a comfortable stay.

₹2500-4000/night

Keys Hotel Aures Aurangabad

📍 Central Aurangabad

Stylish hotel with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool. Perfect for business and leisure travelers.

₹2800-4500/night

Luxury

₹6000+/night

The Taj Residency Aurangabad

📍 Central Aurangabad

Luxurious hotel offering impeccable service, elegant rooms, and a range of dining options. Features a beautiful pool and spa.

₹6000+/night

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Rama International, Aurangabad

📍 Near Airport

Offers luxurious accommodations with modern amenities and excellent dining options. It also has a pool and fitness center.

₹5500+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Reach & Get Around

flight

By Air

train

By Train

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By Bus

Complete transport guide with routes, timings, costs, and local transport options.

Practical Tips

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Money

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Health

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What To Wear

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Communication

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Language & Tipping

Essential advice on safety, health, money, and local customs.

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Avoid The Crowds

Smart strategies to experience Aurangabad without the rush

schedule

Visit Early or Late

Arrive at opening time or during late afternoon hours when most tour groups have left.

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Choose Weekdays

Weekends and holidays bring domestic tourists. Visit Tuesday-Thursday for quieter experiences.

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