Aurangabad to Ellora and Pitalkhora Caves Day Trip Expedition

Aurangabad , India

Aurangabad to Ellora and Pitalkhora Caves Day Trip Expedition

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8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a captivating day trip from Aurangabad to Ellora and Pitalkhora Caves, discovering the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Maharashtra. Begin your expedition at 8:00 AM as your expert guide and driver pick you up from your hotel. During the 40 km drive to Ellora Caves, your guide will share insights into the history, culture, and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning rock-cut temples and monasteries. Explore the 34 caves dedicated to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist faiths, marveling at the intricate carvings and frescoes that adorn the walls. After a delightful lunch break, head to the lesser-explored Pitalkhora Caves, located about 50 km from Ellora. Discover the unique architecture and ancient Buddhist sculptures dating back to the 2nd century BC. Your enlightening day concludes with a scenic drive back to Aurangabad by 8:00 PM, leaving you with cherished memories of Maharashtra's cultural heritage.

Available options

Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide & Entrance

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
<br/>Pickup included

Car Only

Includes: Private Car with Driver.<br/>Pickup included

Car & Guide

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English speaking local guide, if option selected.

Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.

Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.

Lunch, if option selected.

Government Taxes.

Bottled water in the car.

Detailed itinerary

8:00 AM: Your knowledgeable tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Aurangabad.

8:30 AM - 10:00 AM: Drive to Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located approximately 40 km from Aurangabad. During the drive, your guide will provide you with insights into the history, culture, and significance of the Ellora Caves, which are renowned for their stunning rock-cut temples and monasteries.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Arrive at Ellora Caves and start exploring the complex, which comprises 34 caves dedicated to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist faiths. Marvel at the intricate carvings, sculptures, and frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings of the caves, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of ancient India. Your guide will provide you with detailed information about the different caves, their architectural styles, and the stories behind the sculptures and reliefs.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Lunch break at a local restaurant (meal not included in tour cost).

1:30 PM - 3:30 PM: Depart from Ellora Caves and drive to Pitalkhora Caves, a lesser-known but equally fascinating Buddhist site located about 50 km from Ellora Caves. During the drive, your guide will share insights about the history and significance of the Pitalkhora Caves, which date back to the 2nd century BC and are known for their unique architecture and ancient Buddhist sculptures.

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Arrive at Pitalkhora Caves and start exploring the complex, comprising a series of rock-cut Buddhist caves that served as monastic retreats for Buddhist monks. Your guide will provide you with insights into the life and teachings of Buddha, as well as the history and significance of the Pitalkhora Caves in the evolution of Buddhism in India.

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Drive back to Aurangabad and enjoy the scenic journey back to your hotel.

8:00 PM: Return to Aurangabad and drop-off at your hotel.

What's not included

Camera charges at monuments.

Gratuities and optional activities.

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Please provide up pick up information at least one day before the tour

About Aurangabad

Aurangabad is a historic city in Maharashtra, known as the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves. The city is rich in Mughal-era architecture and is a hub for cultural and historical exploration.

Top Attractions

Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are a series of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments dating from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE. They are renowned for their exquisite paintings and sculptures.

Historical/Architecture Half-day to full day INR 500 (foreigners), INR 50 (Indians)

Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves are a complex of 34 rock-cut temples and monasteries, representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religions. The site is famous for the Kailasa Temple, a magnificent example of Dravidian architecture.

Historical/Architecture Half-day to full day INR 600 (foreigners), INR 50 (Indians)

Bibi Ka Maqbara

Bibi Ka Maqbara is a mausoleum built by Prince Azam Shah in 1678 in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum. It is often referred to as the 'Taj of the Deccan' due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours INR 25 (Indians), INR 250 (foreigners)

Aurangabad Caves

The Aurangabad Caves are a group of 12 rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to the 6th century. The caves are known for their intricate carvings and sculptures.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Pandavleni Caves

The Pandavleni Caves, also known as the Trirashmi Caves, are a group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The caves are known for their beautiful sculptures and inscriptions.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours INR 5 (Indians), INR 100 (foreigners)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Misal Pav

A spicy curry made with sprouted mung beans, served with bread rolls (pav). It is a popular breakfast dish in Maharashtra.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Thalipeeth

A savory pancake made with a mixture of flour, vegetables, and spices. It is a traditional Maharashtrian breakfast dish.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Bharli Vangi

Stuffed eggplant with a spicy coconut and peanuts mixture. It is a popular vegetarian dish in Maharashtra.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian

Nahori Biryani

A flavorful biryani made with basmati rice, meat, and a blend of spices. It is a popular Mughlai dish in Aurangabad.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Trekking in the nearby hills Caving in the Ajanta and Ellora Caves Visiting spas and wellness centers Enjoying local cuisine at restaurants and cafes Exploring historical sites and museums Attending local festivals and events Boating in nearby lakes and reservoirs Visiting during the winter months for pleasant weather and outdoor activities

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This is the best time to visit Aurangabad as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The temperatures are moderate, and the skies are clear, making it perfect for exploring the historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.

15°C to 35°C 59°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Marathi
Widely spoken: Hindi, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Aurangabad is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services and negotiate fares in advance
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Aurangabad Railway Station

By bus

Aurangabad Bus Depot

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city. Buses are the primary mode of public transport for locals and tourists alike.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cidco Jyoti Colony Sillod

Day trips

Shirdi

120 km from Aurangabad • Full day

Shirdi is a small town known as the home of the famous spiritual leader, Sai Baba. The town attracts millions of devotees every year.

Grishneshwar Temple

30 km from Aurangabad • Half day

Grishneshwar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples of Lord Shiva. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Daulatabad Fort

15 km from Aurangabad • Half day

Daulatabad Fort is a 14th-century fort known for its impressive architecture and strategic location. It was once a key military stronghold.

Festivals

Ellora Ajanta International Festival • October Aurangabad Festival • February Diwali • October/November (varies by lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds
Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the caves and other historical sites
Try local Maharashtrian and Mughlai dishes, such as Misal Pav, Thalipeeth, and Nahori Biryani, at local restaurants and street food stalls
Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered or bottled water to reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated
Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting religious sites, and follow the rules and guidelines to ensure a positive and meaningful experience