Best months
Per-day budget
₹750–1,100/day
Getting there
Aurangabad is a city in Maharashtra, the gateway to the Ajanta Caves (100 km) and the Ellora Caves (30 km) — both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city has the Bibi Ka Maqbara (the Mini Taj), the Daulatabad Fort (a 12th-century hill fort), and the Aurangabad Caves. Aurangabad was the capital of the Mughal empire under Aurangzeb. The city is the ideal base for exploring the cave temples. It is a great destination for student backpackers looking for an affordable trip. The area is well-connected to major Indian cities by road, rail and air. The destination offers a mix of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers, from solo backpackers to small groups. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the ancient ruins and monuments. Local hospitality and food make the visit even more memorable.
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Why go
The Ajanta Caves are 30 Buddhist caves with wall paintings from the 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE — the finest ancient Indian paintings. The Ellora Caves are 34 Buddhist, Hindu and Jain caves — the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is a single rock-cut temple, the largest monolithic structure in the world. Bibi Ka Maqbara was built by Aurangzeb for his wife in 1678.
Daulatabad Fort (16 km) is a 12th-century Yadava fort on a 200 m conical hill with winding passages and a crocodile moat. The Chand Minar is a 64 m victory tower. The Aurangabad Caves are 9 Buddhist caves with a city view.
How to reach
Aurangabad has an airport with flights from Delhi and Mumbai. The railway station has trains from Mumbai (7-8 hours, sleeper class ₹250-400) and Delhi (16-18 hours). Buses from Mumbai, Pune and Nashik connect.
What a day costs
| Budget hotel | ₹500–800 |
| Food (Marathi thali) | ₹150–200 |
| Ajanta Caves entry | ₹50–50 |
| Ellora Caves entry | ₹50–50 |
When to go
October to March is best. November-February is pleasant. July-September is monsoon — the caves are green. April-June is hot (35-40°C).
Suggested itinerary
Day 1: Ellora
Arrive. Visit Ellora Caves (30 km). Visit Kailasa Temple. Evening at Bibi Ka Maqbara.
Day 2: Ajanta
Visit Ajanta Caves (100 km, 2 hours). Allow 3-4 hours. Return to Aurangabad.
Day 3: Daulatabad
Visit Daulatabad Fort. Visit Aurangabad Caves. Depart.
Student hacks
- ▸Ajanta and Ellora entries ₹50 each — best-value UNESCO sites in India.
- ▸Bus from Aurangabad to Ellora costs ₹50-100.
- ▸Ajanta is 100 km — bus ₹150-200 or share a taxi with other travellers.
- ▸Stay in Cidco area (₹500-700) — close to the bus stand.
- ▸Both caves are closed on Monday — plan accordingly.
Safety & permits
No permit needed. Ajanta and Ellora ₹50 each for Indians. Both closed on Monday. Carry water — limited food at the caves. ATMs in Aurangabad.
FAQs
How do I reach Aurangabad from Delhi?
Direct train (16-18 hours, sleeper class ₹500-800) or flight (2 hours).
What is Aurangabad known for?
Gateway to Ajanta and Ellora Caves — UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
How many days do I need?
3 days — one for Ellora, one for Ajanta, one for the fort.