Ajanta Caves Discovery Tour from Aurangabad

Aurangabad , India

Ajanta Caves Discovery Tour from Aurangabad

Active

6h - 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 journey with the "Ajanta Caves Discovery Tour from Aurangabad." Commencing at 8:00 AM, your private guide will pick you up from your hotel in Aurangabad. Head to the mesmerizing Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments dating from the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE. Immerse yourself in the historical and cultural richness of these caves as your guide unveils the intricate carvings, frescoes, and sculptures that depict the life and teachings of the Buddha. After a lunch break at a local restaurant, indulge in authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. Continue your exploration of Ajanta Caves, gaining insights into the profound significance of the carvings, murals, and sculptures, and their connection to Buddhist beliefs. As the day concludes at 5:00 PM, your private tour wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel in Aurangabad, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the ancient wonders of Ajanta.

Available options

Car, Guide & Entrance

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

Car & Guide

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.<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

8:00 AM - Your private guide will pick you up from your hotel in Aurangabad.

Stop 2

10:00 AM - Head to Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a complex of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments dating back to the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE. Your guide will provide historical and cultural insights as you explore the intricate carvings, frescoes, and sculptures inside these ancient caves.

1:00 PM - For lunch, head to one of the local restaurants and sample some authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. Your guide can recommend the best spots to try local specialties like vada pav, thali, and bhakri.

Stop 3

2:00 PM - After lunch, continue exploring Ajanta Caves and discover more about the life and teachings of the Buddha. Your guide will take you through the different caves, explaining the significance of the intricate carvings, murals, and sculptures, and how they relate to Buddhist beliefs and practices.

5:00 PM - Your private 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

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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