Private Custom Tour: Aurangabad Sightseeing including Ellora Caves with Guide
Active
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
Aurangabad is famous for its Historic gates. This is because there are thirteen gates which are still present in the city.
Visit the Ellora Caves which holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also Aurangabad Caves which are artificial caves, dug out of the rather soft rock during the 6th and 7th century. There is an imitation of The Taj Mahal of Agra, called Bibi Ka Maqbara, which is a mausoleum, i.e. the burial place of Aurangzeb's wife. Explore these astounding sites in an air-conditioned vehicle, accompanied by a professional and well-versed guide, who will introduce you to the intriguing facts of these places.
Available options
Private Custom Tour: Aurangabad Sightseeing including Ellora Caves with Guide
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Local guide
Bottled water
Private tour
Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Ellora Caves which holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ellora Caves represent the major religions, namely Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. There are a total of 34 monasteries and temples at Ellora, belonging to the three different religions. Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesdays.
2
Stop 2
This is the burial place of Aurangzeb's 1st wife, Rabia-ud-Durrani. It is an imitation of the Taj at Agra. This mausoleum is also termed as 'poor man's Taj Mahal' owing to it being a less grander replica of the Taj. Behind the mausoleum is located a small archaeological museum. Emperor Aurangzeb's son built this monument in 1679 AD in memory of his mother Rabia (Aurangzeb's wife).
3
Stop 3
These are artificial caves, dug out of the rather soft rock during the 6th and 7th century. These caves were found on two separate locations, called Western Group Caves (caves 1-5) and Eastern Group Caves (caves 6-10), about 1km from each other. Each group has five caves. The architecture and iconography is influenced by Tantric Hinduism.
What's not included
Camera charges at monuments
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Monument entrance fee
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Important notes
Contact info: Mobile +91-9810311292 or email tours@delapt.com
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
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
Instant confirmation
