Aurangabad Tourism (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) Complete Guide to Travel (2025)

Aurangabad Tourism (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) Tour Guide: Explore History, Culture, and Cuisine

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Welcome to Aurangabad, a city steeped in history, culture, and architectural marvels! Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, Aurangabad has something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring this gem in Maharashtra, complete with stay options, food recommendations, and transportation tips.

Top Attractions in Aurangabad

Ajanta Caves

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves, located near Aurangabad, Maharashtra, are a stunning complex of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave temples dating back to the 2nd century BCE to 480 CE. Famous for their ancient paintings, sculptures, and architecture, these caves are a must-visit for history lovers, art enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers.

Key Highlights of Ajanta Caves

✔ Ancient Buddhist Art – Marvel at intricate murals and sculptures depicting Jataka tales and Buddha’s life.

✔ UNESCO World Heritage Site – Recognized for its cultural and historical significance.

✔ Architectural Brilliance – Carved into a horseshoe-shaped cliff, showcasing ancient engineering.

✔ Cave 1, 2, 16 & 17 – Must-visit caves with the most exquisite paintings and carvings.

Ajanta Caves Timings

Open: Tuesday to Sunday (Closed on Mondays)

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)

Best Time to Visit: November to March (Pleasant weather)

Ticket Booking – Online & Offline

Online Booking:

Book tickets via ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) official website or authorized portals.

https://asi.nic.in/

https://asi.payumoney.com/

Entry Fee:

Indians: ₹40 (Adults), Free for children below 15

Foreigners: ₹600

Camera Charges: ₹25 (Mobile free, professional cameras may have extra fees)

Offline Booking:

Tickets available at the Ajanta Caves ticket counter (Cash & UPI accepted).

Avoid queues by booking online in advance.

How to Reach Ajanta Caves?

Nearest City: Aurangabad (~100 km)

By Road: Taxis/buses from Aurangabad (2.5-hour drive)

By Train: Jalgaon (60 km away) is the nearest railway station

By Air: Aurangabad Airport (nearest airport)

Pro Tips for Visitors

✔ Wear comfortable shoes – The site involves walking.

✔ Carry water & sunscreen – Limited shade available.

✔ Hire a guide – Enhances the experience with historical insights.

✔ Photography allowed (without flash in sensitive areas).

Tip: Hire a guide to understand the intricate carvings and paintings.

Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Maharashtra, India, are a stunning complex of 34 rock-cut temples dating back to the 6th–10th centuries. These caves showcase a harmonious blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain architecture, making them a must-visit for history buffs, spiritual seekers, and travellers alike. The Kailasa Temple is a must-see!

Why Visit Ellora Caves?

UNESCO World Heritage Site – A masterpiece of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture.
Three Religious Monuments – Explore Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves in one place.
Architectural Marvel – The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is carved from a single rock!
Rich History – Dates back over 1,500 years, reflecting India’s cultural diversity.

Best Time to Visit

Ideal Months: October–March (pleasant weather, 15–30°C)

Avoid: Monsoon (July–September) due to slippery paths.

Ellora Caves Entry Fee & Timings

Entry Fee:

Indians: ₹40

Foreigners: ₹600

Children (below 15): Free

Opening Hours:

6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Wednesday–Sunday & Monday)

Closed on Tuesday

The Ellora Caves offer both online and offline booking options for entry tickets. Here’s what you need to know:

Online Booking:

Website: Tickets can be booked through ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) official portal (https://asi.payumoney.com) or authorized platforms like Yatra, MakeMyTrip, or BookMyShow.

Advantages:

Avoid long queues.

Secure your slot in advance.

Digital tickets (can be shown on your phone).

Payment: Credit/debit cards, UPI, or net banking.

Offline Booking

Ticket Counters: Available at the Ellora Caves entrance.

Cash & Cards: Both are accepted, but carrying cash is advisable.

Timings: Counters open during visiting hours (usually 6 AM to 6 PM, closed on Tuesdays).

Entry Fees (Approx.)

Indians: ₹40 per person

Foreigners: ₹600 per person

Children (below 15): Free

Tips :

Weekends & holidays are crowded—book online if possible.

Carry ID proof for verification.

Top Caves to Explore:

Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) – The world’s largest monolithic structure.

Buddhist Caves (1–12) – Serene monasteries and stupas.

Jain Caves (30–34) – Intricate carvings of Tirthankaras.

How to Reach Ellora Caves

Nearest City: Aurangabad (30 km away)

By Road: Taxis/buses from Aurangabad (1-hour drive).

By Train: Aurangabad Railway Station (then cab/bus).

By Air: Aurangabad Airport (flights from Mumbai, Delhi).

Travel Tips for Visitors

✔ Wear comfortable shoes (uneven terrain).

✔ Carry water & sunscreen (hot climate).

✔ Hire a guide (for deeper historical insights).

✔ Visit early morning to avoid crowds.

Bibi Ka Maqbara (Tomb Of Rabiadurani)

Often called the “Taj of the Deccan,” this beautiful mausoleum was built in memory of Emperor Aurangzeb’s wife.

Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners

Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Daulatabad Fort

A majestic hilltop fort with a rich history and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Daulatabad Fort, also known as Devagiri Fort, is a majestic hilltop fortress near Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Built in the 12th century by the Yadav dynasty, it later became the capital of the Delhi Sultanate under Muhammad bin Tughlaq. The fort is renowned for its impregnable defenses, intricate architecture, and rich history.

Key Highlights of Daulatabad Fort:

Chand Minar – A 30-meter-high victory tower resembling Delhi’s Qutub Minar.

Hathi Haud – A massive water tank capable of holding 10,000 cubic meters of water.

Baradari – A royal pavilion offering panoramic views of the surroundings.

Secret Passages & Defense Mechanisms – Ingenious traps like false doorways, spiral staircases, and dark tunnels to confuse invaders.

Jama Masjid – A 14th-century mosque built from temple ruins.

Best Time to Visit

October to March (pleasant weather)

Avoid summers (April–June) due to extreme heat.

Entry Fees & Timings

Indians: ₹20 | Foreigners: ₹300

Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Open all days)

How to Reach?

From Aurangabad: 15 km (30 min drive) via NH52.

Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (20 km).

Public Transport: Buses and auto-rickshaws available.

Panchakki (Water Mill)

A unique 17th-century water mill system that showcases Mughal engineering brilliance.

Panchakki is a spiritual site with a serene water mill and a tomb of Sufi saint Baba Shah Musafir.

Entry Fee: ₹5 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners

Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Siddharth Garden and Zoo Temple / Siddharth Garden Temple

Siddharth Garden and Zoo is a popular attraction located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. It’s a well-maintained garden and zoo complex that offers a pleasant experience for visitors of all ages. The garden is lush and beautifully landscaped, making it a great spot for leisurely walks or picnics. The zoo houses a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, deer, and birds, providing an opportunity to observe wildlife up close.

Within the Siddharth Garden complex, there is also a temple dedicated to Lord Buddha, known as the Siddharth Garden Temple. This temple is a serene place for meditation and reflection, adding a spiritual touch to the visit. The peaceful ambiance of the temple complements the natural beauty of the garden and zoo.

Overall, Siddharth Garden and Zoo, along with its temple, is a must-visit destination in Aurangabad for nature lovers, families, and those seeking a tranquil retreat.

Located within the Siddharth Garden, this temple is a peaceful spot for meditation and prayer.

Mandir Timings:

Morning : 6:00 AM to 12 PM

Evening : 4 pm to 8 pm

Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM

Pro Tip: Perfect for families with kids, as the zoo is a bonus attraction

Aurangabad Caves: A Glimpse into Ancient Rock-Cut Wonders

Located just 2 km from Aurangabad city, the Aurangabad Caves are a group of 12 Buddhist rock-cut shrines dating back to the 6th–7th century. These caves showcase intricate carvings, serene viharas (monasteries), and chaityas (prayer halls), offering a peaceful retreat for history lovers and spiritual seekers.

Key Highlights:

✔ Cave 6 & 7 – Famous for stunning sculptures of Bodhisattvas and Tantric influences.
✔ Panoramic Views – Enjoy breathtaking sights of Aurangabad from the hilltop.
✔ Architectural Marvel – Blend of Hindu and Buddhist artistry.

Aurangabad Caves Timings

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Open all days)
Best Time to Visit: October–March (pleasant weather)

Ticket Booking: Online & Offline

Entry Fee:
₹25 for Indians
₹300 for Foreign Tourists
Free for children below 15 years

Online Booking:
Book via ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) website or travel portals like Yatra, MakeMyTrip.

Offline Booking:
Tickets available at the cave entrance (cash preferred).

How to Reach?
By Car/Taxi: 15 mins from Aurangabad city (auto-rickshaws & cabs available).
Public Transport: Local buses run from Aurangabad Railway Station.

Food Options Nearby

Budget Eats:
Bhoj Thali (Authentic Maharashtrian meals) – 3 km away
Café Good Luck (Snacks & Irani chai) – 4 km

Mid-Range:
Tandoor (North Indian & Mughlai) – 5 km
Paithankar Restaurant (Local flavors) – 4.5 km

Travel Tips:
✔ Wear comfortable shoes (steep steps involved).
✔ Carry water & hats (limited shade).
✔ Hire a guide (~₹200) for historical insights.

Plan Your Visit Today! Whether you're a history buff or a nature lover, the Aurangabad Caves promise an unforgettable experience. Book tickets online for a hassle-free trip!

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, Grishneshwar Temple is a must-visit for spiritual seekers. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is a masterpiece of ancient architecture.

Arti Timings:

Morning: 5:30 AM

Evening: 7:00 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM

Pro Tip: Visit during Mahashivratri for a grand celebration.

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga: A Sacred Pilgrimage Spot

Located in Verul (Ellora), Maharashtra, Grishneshwar Temple is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. After seeking blessings, pilgrims often look for nearby stays and food options. Here’s a curated list for a hassle-free trip!

Where to Stay Near Grishneshwar Temple?

Budget-Friendly Options (Under ₹1,500/night)

Shivsadan Dharamshala

Distance: 500 m from the temple

Amenities: Basic AC/Non-AC rooms, attached bathrooms

Booking: Walk-in (first-come basis)

MTDC Ellora Tourist Resort

Distance: 2 km

Amenities: Clean rooms, restaurant, parking

Booking: Online (MTDC website) or call

Mid-Range Hotels (₹1,500–₹4,000/night)

Hotel Kailas

Distance: 3 km

Amenities: Spacious rooms, temple view, multicuisine restaurant

Booking: OYO/Goibibo

Ellora Heritage Resort

Distance: 5 km

Amenities: Pool, garden, pure veg restaurant

Luxury Stays (₹4,000+)

Lemon Tree Hotel, Aurangabad

Distance: 30 km (ideal for those visiting Ellora/Ajanta too)

Amenities: Spa, pool, fine dining

Food Options Near Grishneshwar Temple

Temple Prasad & Local Eats

Grishneshwar Temple Bhojanalaya

What to Try: Maharashtrian thali, puran poli

Cost: ₹50–100 per plate

Shivsagar Restaurant (1 km)

Specialty: South Indian, North Indian thalis

Pure Veg Restaurants

Bhadra Marathi Dawakhana (3 km)

Must-Try: Zunka bhakar, pithla bhakri

Hotel Panchavati (5 km)

Specialty: Jain-friendly meals

Street Food & Snacks

Ellora Tea Stall (near caves)

Try: Irani chai, vada pav

Travel Tips

✔ Best Time to Visit: October–March (avoid summer).

✔ Temple Timings: 5:15 AM–9:30 PM (check for special puja slots).

✔ Parking: Available near the temple (₹50–100).

Top Homestay Options Near Grishneshwar Temple

1. Shree Krishna Homestay

Distance: 800 m from the temple

Price: ₹800–₹1,200/night

✔ Highlights:

Clean AC/Non-AC rooms with attached bathrooms

Home-cooked vegetarian meals (breakfast/dinner included)

Friendly host family, temple guidance

Booking: Call or WhatsApp

2. Om Sai Homestay (Family-Run)

Distance: 1.2 km

Price: ₹600–₹1,000/night

✔ Highlights:

Traditional Marathi-style rooms

Free Wi-Fi, parking

Walking distance to temple & local market

Booking: Contact via Airbnb/Goibibo

3. Rudraksha Farmstay (Scenic & Peaceful)

Distance: 3 km (amidst farms)

Price: ₹1,500–₹2,500/night

✔ Highlights:

Organic farm-to-table meals

Spacious cottages, nature views

Yoga space, cycle rentals

Online Booking: Available on Booking.com

What to Expect in a Grishneshwar Homestay?

✔ Local Cuisine: Enjoy authentic Maharashtrian meals (Puran Poli, Pithla Bhakri).

✔ Temple Proximity: Easy early-morning access for Maha Aarti.

✔ Cultural Insights: Hosts often share temple history and rituals.

How to Book?

Online: Check Airbnb, MakeMyTrip, Booking.com (search "Grishneshwar homestay").

Offline: Call hosts directly (numbers listed on travel forums).

Travel Tips

✔ Best Time: Winter (Nov–Feb) for pleasant weather.

✔ Advance Booking: Recommended during festivals (Shravan, Mahashivratri).

✔ Transport: Auto-rickshaws available from homestays to temple (₹50–100).

Pandulena Caves, Nasik or Pandav Leni / Trirashmi Caves Nasik

Stay Options in Aurangabad

Aurangabad offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget:

Luxury Stays

Taj Residency Aurangabad: A 5-star hotel with luxurious amenities and excellent service.

Lemon Tree Hotel Aurangabad: Modern comforts with a touch of elegance.

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Aurangabad Girnar: Comfortable rooms and great hospitality.

The Meadows: A serene stay with beautiful views.

Budget-Friendly Options

Hotel Panchavati: Affordable and clean accommodations.

Tourist’s Home: A budget-friendly guesthouse with basic amenities.

Food Options in Aurangabad

Aurangabad’s cuisine is a delightful blend of Mughlai and Maharashtrian flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and eateries:

Local Delicacies

Naan Qalia: A flavorful mutton dish served with naan.

Aurangabadi Biryani: Aromatic and rich, this biryani is a local favorite.

Kachori: Crispy and spicy, perfect for breakfast.

Top Restaurants

Bhoj: Known for its authentic Mughlai cuisine.

Krishna Restaurant: A popular spot for vegetarian thalis.

Green Leaf: Offers a mix of Indian and Chinese dishes.

Street Food

Visit Prozone Mall or Gulmandi Area for delicious street food like kebabs, chaat, and sweets.

Transportation Options

Getting around Aurangabad is easy with these options:

Local Transport

Auto-Rickshaws: Affordable and convenient for short distances.

City Buses: Operated by MSRTC, these buses connect major attractions.

Car Rentals

Hire a cab or self-drive car for a hassle-free experience. Companies like Zoomcar and Ola are available.

Outstation Travel

Ajanta & Ellora Caves: Hire a taxi or join a guided tour for a comfortable trip.

Airport Connectivity

Aurangabad Airport (Chikkalthana) is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad.

Tips for Travellers

Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.

Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites.

Language: Marathi and Hindi are widely spoken, but English is understood in tourist areas.

Aurangabad is a treasure trove of history, culture, and culinary delights. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the charm of this incredible city!

How to Travel from Mumbai to Aurangabad: By Car, Train & Bus

Aurangabad, a city steeped in history and culture, is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara, and Daulatabad Fort. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, Aurangabad has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip from Mumbai to Aurangabad, you have multiple travel options—by car, train, or bus. This guide covers everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

1. Mumbai to Aurangabad by Car (Self-Drive or Taxi)

Distance: ~330 km

Travel Time: 6-7 hours (depending on traffic)

Best Route:

Mumbai → Nashik → Aurangabad (NH160) (Most common & fastest)

Mumbai → Pune → Aurangabad (NH48 & NH60) (Scenic but longer)

Highlights Along the Way:

✔ Nashik: Famous for vineyards and temples like Trimbakeshwar.

✔ Shirdi: Visit the Sai Baba Temple.

✔ Igatpuri: Scenic hill station with lush greenery.

Toll & Fuel Cost:

Toll Charges: ~₹400-500 (one way)

Fuel Cost: ~₹2,000-2,500 (round trip for a petrol car)

Car Rental Options:

Self-Drive: Zoomcar, Revv (₹2,000-3,000/day)

Taxi/Cab: Ola Outstation, Savaari (₹5,000-6,000 one way)

Pro Tip: Start early to avoid Mumbai’s morning traffic.

2. Mumbai to Aurangabad by Train

Travel Time: 6-7 hours

Best Trains:

Train Name	Departure (Mumbai)	Arrival (Aurangabad)	Duration	Fare (SL)
Tapovan Express (11013)	6:05 AM (CST)	12:35 PM	6h 30m	₹180
Devgiri Express (17057)	7:10 PM (CST)	2:30 AM	7h 20m	₹180

Train Booking Tips:

✔ Book tickets 1-2 weeks in advance (trains fill quickly).

✔ Sleeper (SL) is budget-friendly; AC Chair Car (CC) is more comfortable.

✔ Check IRCTC website/app for real-time updates.

3. Mumbai to Aurangabad by Bus

Travel Time: 7-8 hours

Bus Types & Fares:

Bus Type	Operator	Fare (Approx.)	Departure Points
MSRTC (ST) Bus	Govt.	₹400-500	Mumbai Central, Dadar
Volvo AC Bus	Private (Neeta, VRL)	₹800-1,000	Borivali, Thane
Sleeper Bus	Paulo, Prasanna	₹1,000-1,500	Andheri, Kurla

Bus Booking Tips:

✔ RedBus & MSRTC website for online bookings.

✔ Overnight buses save time (depart around 10 PM-12 AM).

✔ Private buses offer better comfort than state transport.

Which Option is Best?

By Car: Best for flexibility & sightseeing (great for groups).

By Train: Most scenic & comfortable (but limited options).

By Bus: Budget-friendly & convenient (multiple departures).

Final Travel Tips:

✔ Best Time to Visit: October-March (pleasant weather).

✔ Check Road Conditions (monsoon can cause delays).

✔ Carry Water & Snacks for long journeys.

Enjoy your trip to Aurangabad! Whether you explore ancient caves or savor Mughlai cuisine, this city promises an unforgettable experience.

How to Travel from Pune to Aurangabad: By Car, Train & Bus

Aurangabad, a historic city in Maharashtra, is famous for UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara, and Daulatabad Fort. If you're planning a trip from Pune to Aurangabad, you have multiple travel options—by car, train, or bus. This guide covers routes, travel times, costs, and tips for a smooth journey.

1. Pune to Aurangabad by Car (Self-Drive or Taxi)

Distance: ~230 km

Travel Time: 4-5 hours (depending on traffic)

Best Route:

Pune → Ahmednagar → Aurangabad (NH60) (Most common & fastest)

Pune → Shirdi → Aurangabad (NH160) (Scenic but slightly longer)

Highlights Along the Way:

✔ Ahmednagar Fort – A historic Mughal-era fort.

✔ Shani Shingnapur – Famous temple with no doors.

✔ Paithan – Ancient town known for silk sarees.

Toll & Fuel Cost:

Toll Charges: ~₹300-400 (one way)

Fuel Cost: ~₹1,500-2,000 (round trip for a petrol car)

Car Rental Options:

Self-Drive: Zoomcar, Revv (₹1,500-2,500/day)

Taxi/Cab: Ola Outstation, Savaari (₹3,500-4,500 one way)

Pro Tip: Start early to avoid Pune’s morning traffic.

2. Pune to Aurangabad by Train

Travel Time: 5-6 hours

Best Trains:

Train Name

Departure (Pune)

Arrival (Aurangabad)

Duration

Fare (SL)

Pune-Aurangabad Express (17613)

6:00 AM

11:30 AM

5h 30m

₹180

Devgiri Express (17057)

10:15 PM

4:30 AM

6h 15m

₹180

Train Booking Tips:

✔ Book tickets 1-2 weeks in advance (trains fill quickly).

✔ Sleeper (SL) is budget-friendly; AC Chair Car (CC) is more comfortable.

✔ Check IRCTC website/app for real-time updates.

3. Pune to Aurangabad by Bus

Travel Time: 5-6 hours

Bus Types & Fares:

Bus Type	Operator	Fare (Approx.)	Departure Points
MSRTC (ST) Bus	Govt.	₹300-400	Swargate, Pune Station
Volvo AC Bus	Private (Neeta, VRL)	₹600-800	Wakdewadi, Shivajinagar
Sleeper Bus	Paulo, Prasanna	₹800-1,200	Hinjewadi, Kothrud