The Best of Ellora & Aurangabad in One Day
Active
5h - 6h
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 an enriching journey through "The Best of Ellora & Aurangabad in One Day," starting with a hotel pick-up by your private guide. Delve into the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ellora Caves, marveling at the 34 rock-cut temples dating from the 6th to 10th centuries. Learn the historical and cultural significance behind the intricate carvings. Following a visit to the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple and a delightful lunch, explore the 14th-century Daulatabad Fort, experiencing its ramparts and panoramic views. Return to Aurangabad to discover the captivating Bibi Ka Maqbara, also known as the "Tomb of the Lady." Continue your cultural exploration with visits to the Chatrapati Shivaji Museum and the Panchakki water mill, concluding with a drop-off at your hotel. Immerse yourself in the historical tapestry of Ellora and Aurangabad in a single day.
Available options
Car & Guide
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<br/>Pickup included
Car, Guide & Entrance
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included
Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch
Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.<br/>Pickup included
Car Only
Includes: Private Car with Driver.<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
1
8:00 AM - Your private guide will pick you up from your hotel in Aurangabad.
2
9:00 AM - Head to Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a complex of 34 rock-cut temples dating back to the 6th and 10th centuries. Explore the intricate carvings and sculptures inside these ancient caves while your guide provides historical and cultural insights.
3
Stop 3
11:30 AM - Next, visit the Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Learn about the significance of this sacred site and hear its rich history and legends. You'll also have the opportunity to witness the temple's rituals and ceremonies.
12:30 PM - Lunch break.
4
1:30 PM - After lunch, visit the Daulatabad Fort, a hilltop fortress built in the 14th century. Your guide will take you through the fort's ramparts, gates, and underground tunnels, revealing stories of the fort's strategic importance and the battles that were fought there. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the fort.
5
Stop 5
3:30 PM - Return to Aurangabad and visit the Aurangabad Caves, a complex of rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries. Admire the intricately carved sculptures and serene ambiance of these ancient monastic retreats, gaining insight into the region's Buddhist heritage from your guide.
6
Stop 6
3:30 PM - Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, also known as the "Tomb of the Lady." Admire the stunning architecture and learn about the history behind this beautiful monument.
7
4:30 PM - Next, explore the Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the Maratha empire, including weapons, paintings, and manuscripts.
8
5:00 PM - Visit the Panchakki, a water mill built in the 17th century that was used to grind grain for the pilgrims visiting the nearby Dargah of Baba Shah Musafir.
9
5:30 PM - Your tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel in Aurangabad.
What's not included
Camera charges at monuments.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
