Top Sights
Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring ancient Buddhist rock-cut cave temples. These caves are adorned with intricate murals and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha and Jataka tales.
Explore the caves to marvel at the exquisite artistry and learn about ancient Buddhist traditions. The murals are remarkably well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the past. Be prepared for a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
Located about 100km from Aurangabad, it's best to hire a taxi or take a state-run bus. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Mondays
Best Time: Morning to avoid crowds and heat
Getting There: Taxi or bus from Aurangabad, 100km
Honest Take: Skip if you dislike crowds, worth it if you appreciate ancient art and history.
Insider Tip:
Hire a local guide at the entrance to understand the significance of the murals and sculptures.
Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves are another UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising a complex of rock-cut cave temples representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. The caves showcase a remarkable blend of religious art and architecture.
The most famous cave, Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), is an incredible monolithic structure carved out of a single rock. Explore the other caves to discover different religious themes and artistic styles. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
Located about 30km from Aurangabad, it's easily accessible by taxi or bus. Allocate at least half a day to explore the caves thoroughly.
Hours: 06:00-18:00 daily
Closed: Tuesdays
Best Time: Early morning to avoid crowds and the midday sun
Getting There: Taxi or bus from Aurangabad, 30km
Honest Take: Worth it for the Kailasa Temple alone. Hard to skip.
Insider Tip:
Photography is allowed inside the caves, but avoid using flash to preserve the artwork.
Bibi Ka Maqbara
Bibi Ka Maqbara
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 of the Deccan' due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal.
While smaller and less ornate than the Taj Mahal, Bibi Ka Maqbara offers a serene and beautiful setting. Explore the gardens and admire the intricate marble work. The monument is best viewed during sunset when the marble glows.
Located in Aurangabad city, it's easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi. The entry fee is relatively low, making it a budget-friendly attraction.
Hours: 08:00-20:00 daily
Best Time: Late afternoon for sunset views
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw or taxi from Aurangabad city center
Honest Take: Worth visiting if you appreciate Mughal architecture or are short on time to see the Taj Mahal.
Insider Tip:
Visit during the late afternoon to capture stunning photos of the monument during sunset.
Daulatabad Fort
Daulatabad Fort
Daulatabad Fort, also known as Devgiri, is a historic fortified citadel located near Aurangabad. It was once the capital of the Yadava dynasty and later served as the capital for the Delhi Sultanate under Muhammad bin Tughluq.
Explore the fort's complex defenses, including its unique sloping walls, dark passageways, and ingenious water management system. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of climbing involved.
Located about 16km from Aurangabad, it's easily accessible by taxi or bus. Allow ample time to explore the fort thoroughly.
Hours: 09:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat
Getting There: Taxi or bus from Aurangabad, 16km
Honest Take: Good for history buffs
Insider Tip:
Carry water and snacks as there are limited options inside the fort.
Grishneshwar Temple
Grishneshwar Temple
Grishneshwar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines in India. It is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Visit the temple to experience its spiritual atmosphere and admire its intricate architecture. The temple is particularly crowded during festivals. Follow the dress code and remove your shoes before entering.
Located near Ellora Caves, it's easily accessible by taxi or bus. Combine your visit with a trip to the Ellora Caves.
Hours: 05:00-21:00 daily
Best Time: Early morning for prayers
Getting There: Located near Ellora Caves, accessible by taxi or bus
Insider Tip:
Photography is not allowed inside the temple premises.
Aurangabad Caves
Aurangabad Caves
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 centuries AD.
Explore the caves to discover intricate sculptures and carvings depicting Buddhist deities and scenes from Jataka tales. The caves offer a peaceful and less crowded alternative to Ajanta and Ellora. Be prepared for some climbing.
Located a short distance from Aurangabad city center, they are easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Best Time: Morning to avoid the afternoon heat
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw or taxi from Aurangabad city center
Honest Take: A good option if you are short on time but want to see cave temples.
Insider Tip:
Carry a torch as some of the caves are dimly lit.