Aurangabad Ajanta & Ellora Caves Same Day Tour

Aurangabad , India

Aurangabad Ajanta & Ellora Caves Same Day Tour

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(2 reviews)

7h - 8h

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

Explore the mesmerizing heritage sites of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
The Ajanta Caves stand as a UNESCO World Heritage site, situated within Maharashtra, India. These caves have gained global acclaim for their ancient rock-cut Buddhist cave structures, with origins dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Revered for their architectural brilliance, they showcase awe-inspiring frescoes, sculptures, and rock-carved shrines that vividly portray the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.

Ellora Caves, an esteemed UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in Maharashtra, India, stand as an extraordinary ensemble of rock-cut temples and monasteries that pay tribute to India’s diverse cultural and religious legacy. These caves trace their origins to the 6th to 10th centuries CE and boast intricate sculptures, elaborate carvings, and captivating murals that vividly depict themes from Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

Available options

Car + Guide + Lunch

Lunch<br/>Guide<br/>Pickup included

Car + Guide

Guide<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All Parking Fees, Tolls, Fuel & Taxes

English Speaking Guide

Entrance Fees of the Ajanta Caves & Ellora caves

Air-conditioned vehicle

01 Mineral Water Bottle per person.

Pick & Drop from the Aurangabad City Hotels Only.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Early morning, pick up from the hotel and proceed to visit Ajanta Caves The Ajanta caves are significant for their intricate rock-cut architecture. Stunning frescoes and cave paintings are considered some of the best examples of ancient Indian art. Ajanta caves are excavated in a horseshoe-shaped bend of rock surface nearly 76 m in height, overlooking the Waghur River. Built using only hammer and chisel, these caves served as secluded retreats for Buddhist monks for about nine centuries before being abruptly abandoned. These caves were rediscovered by an Army officer in the Madras Regiment of the British Army in 1819, during one of his hunting expeditions. Instantly, the discovery became very famous, and Ajanta became an important tourist destination in India.
(Note: Closed on Monday)

Later, visit Ellora Caves. The caves at Ellora were carved out of the vertical face of the Charanandri hills between the 6th and 10th centuries AD. The carving work began around 550 AD. At the same time, the Ajanta caves were abandoned. Kailash Temple (cave 16), which is the most remarkable structure The Kailash Temple at Ellora was made by the Rashtrakuta dynasty as a temple for Lord Shiva. Perhaps it was meant to be a lookalike of Mount Kailash. The mystical abode of Shiva Kailash is a standalone, multi-storeyed temple complex made to look like Mount Kailash, the uranic home of Lord Shiva. Kailash Temple (cave 16) is the most remarkable structure of the cave group. Shaped by hand from a single massive rock, it includes a gateway, exhibition area, square hall, sanctum sanctorum, and tower that bear testimony to the excellence of Dravidian art. The Kailash Temple is a stupendous piece of architecture with spatial effects and grand sculptures.
(Note: Closed on Tuesday)

What's not included

Tips and gratuities are optional, based on guest discretion and service satisfaction.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Car Type: for one to two people, four seater Sedan.

Car Type: for three to four people, five Seater Innova.

Car Types: for five to eight people, twelve Seater Tempo traveller.

If pickup from outside city hotels / airport / railway station then it will be an additional charge, payable directly.

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