Located in Maharashtra, the historic city of Aurangabad is one of the top tourist destinations of the state. Renowned globally, this city is home of the UNESCO world heritage sites, Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Although a must visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, Aurangabad is an ideal holiday destination for everyone. Whether you are on a family holiday with children or planning a weekend trip with friends, you will find ample ways to spend a few days in Aurangabad.
The tourism capital of Maharashtra, Aurangabad welcomes everyone to its colourful culture and magnificent man-made and natural architecture. The city is also famous for its mouth-watering cuisine and handlooms.
Excellent connectivity to the rest of India via all modes of transportation makes Aurangabad tour all the more enjoyable. It is also equipped with world class facilities and a wide array of hotels and resorts.
Geography and History of Aurangabad
The largest city of Northern Maharashtra, Aurangabad is located on a hilly upland region in Deccan Traps. It lies on the Godavari River Basin and the Tapti River Basin.
Earlier known as Khadki, it was founded in 1610 by the prime minister of the Nizam Shahi rulers of Ahmednagar, Malik Ambar. In 1626, after the death of Malik Amber, this city came under the rule of his son, Fateh Khan. He later changed its name to Fatehnagar. However, in 1653, Mughals captured Daulatabad and regions around it, including Fatehnagar. Later, its name was changed to Aurangabad, after the Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, who made it his capital city.
Places to visit in Aurangabad
1. Ajanta Caves- Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most prominent site to visit when in Aurangabad. Primarily Buddhist monasteries, dedicated to both Hinayana and Mahayana sect, Ajanta caves comprise 30 caves which have been carved out of rock. Dating back to the 2nd century, these caves not only offer rich religious significance but also a glimpse of the ancient architectural mastery.
2. Ellora Caves- Located around 29 km from the city centre, Ellora Caves is another architectural wonder that one cannot miss. Also a UNESCO World Heritage site, these caves were built during the reigns of Rashtrakuta dynasty of the Buddhist clan and Yadav group of the Jains. Ellora Caves, with detailed carvings on the rocks, present a glimpse into the richness of Indian culture and workmanship in ancient times.
3. Bibi Ka Maqbara- Built by emperor Aurangzeb in 1661, in the memory of his wife Dilras Banu Begum, Bibi Ka Maqbara is a symbol of undying love. The architecture of this mausoleum is quite similar to Taj Mahal of Agra, both displaying fine craftsmanship and intricate design. Located in Begumpura, it is open from 8 AM to 8 PM.
4. Grishneshwar Temple- Located in Ellora, Grishneshwar Temple is regarded as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. This ancient temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this jyotirlinga is built in the South Indian architectural style with five tiered Shikara and carved pillars. The red stone walls of the temple are carved with legends of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu’s incarnations. At this temple, devotees are allowed to touch the Shiva Linga with bare hands.
5. Daulatabad Fort- Located about 11 km from the city, Daulatabad Fort, also known as Deogiri Fort, impresses visitors with its imposing architecture. Standing at a height of 200 metres above sea level, this fort is known for its exceptionally strong defence. First built by Yadava monarch, Bhillama V, in 1187, this fort has been used by rulers of various reigns over the centuries. While exploring this fort, make sure to spend time at the Chini Mahal, Chand Minar, and Baradari.
6. Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum- Named after the great Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji, this museum is located in Himayat Bagh. It has 6 halls stacked with photographs, artefacts, shields and ancient ammunition; each depicting the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji. It is open from 10 AM to 6 PM.
7. Salim Ali Lake- Situated in Chhatrapati Nagar, Salim Ali Lake is the place to visit for a few moments of complete relaxation. Tourists can spend some time by the side of this serene lake which is surrounded with lush vegetation and is frequented by a wide variety of beautiful birds. A popular spot for birdwatchers, this lake is also popular for boating. It is open from 8 AM to 5 PM.
8. Pitalkhora Caves- Located in Chandora hills, Pitalkhora Caves can be traced back to 1st century BC to 5th century AD. These ancient caves are an excellent example of ancient India’s rock cut architecture. A group of 14 Buddhist caves, they are now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Divided into Group I and Group II, these caves display intricate inscriptions, carvings of animals and human sculptures.
9. Bhadra Maruti Temple- One of the prominent religious sites, Bhadra Maruti Temple is located in Khuldabad. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, it is one of three temples in India where the idol of the presiding deity is shown in sleeping position. As per the legend, once the King Bhadrasana, an ardent devotee of Lord Rama was singing his deity’s praises. Impressed with his melodious song, Lord Hanuman came near him and slept there in happiness.
10. Siddharth Garden and Zoo- A must place to visit, especially if you are travelling with kids, Siddharth Garden and Zoo is located around 3 km away from the Aurangabad railway station. Bestowed with rich flowers, dense trees and shrubs, it also is home to wild animals like tigers, civet cats, lions, leopards, fox, deer, hyena, snakes, crocodiles, etc. It also has an aquarium and a musical fountain. It is open from 9 AM to 7 PM.
Other sightseeing places in Aurangabad are Sunehri Mahal, Aurangabad Jain Temple, Zainuddin Shirzai's Maqbara, Aurangabad caves, Himayat Bagh, Jayakwadi Dam, Lonar Crater Lake, Baba Shah Musafir Dargah, Dargah of Pir Ismail, Kailashanatha temple, Panchakki, Tomb of Aurangzeb, Khuldabad, Bani Begum Garden, Parli Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga, Tuljapur Bhavani Temple, Hazur Sahib Nanded, Goga Baba Hill, Chauki Ki Masjid, Jama Masjid, Naukhanda Palace, Kill Ark, Dargah Baba Shah Musafir and Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary.
Things to do in Aurangabad
The city of Aurangabad keeps its visitors busy not only with its world renowned attractions but also with umpteen numbers of activities.
1. The Ellora Ajanta Festival- If possible, plan your holiday around the Ellora Ajanta Festival, which is organised in either October or January. This three day festival celebrates the cultural and architectural richness of the city.
2. Trekking- This historical city also has options for adventure seekers. Few of the trails in and around Aurangabad such as Goga Baba Hill, promises a good trekking experience with mesmerising views.
3. Birdwatching- For those who love to explore avian fauna, Salim Ali Lake and Bird Sanctuary is an ideal place to visit. Sailing at the lake is also very popular.
4. Heritage Walks- The best way to explore Aurangabad is by opting for at least one heritage walk through its various monuments and streets. Aurangabad History Society, or Heritage Half Marathons, by MIT Aurangabad conduct regular heritage walks that one can take part in.
5. Adventure sports– To make the Aurangabad tour all the more exciting, tourists can participate in various adventure sports such as paragliding, parasailing, rafting and rappelling at Gautala Sanctuary, Mhaismal hill station, Pitalkhora and Daulatabad Fort.
6. Himroo Factory- For those interested in understanding the ancient craft, a visit to Himroo factory is a must. At this 150 year old factory, visitors can learn about handweaving and handicrafts.
7. Shopping- This city boasts of traditional woven items such as Paithani sarees and handloom shawls and silverware. One can also find an exquisite range of Bidriware in the city. Gul Mandi, Connaught Place, Prozone Mall are few of the popular shopping destinations of the city.
Best time to visit Aurangabad
The best time to visit the heritage city of Aurangabad is the winter season. It is ideal to explore its different ancient sites during the months of November to February, when the temperature varies between 10°C to 25°C. With light winter wear, tourists can experience this town in a pleasant atmosphere.
How to reach Aurangabad
By Flight- Aurangabad Airport, located at Chikalthana, is connected to all the prominent cities in the country such as Hyderabad, Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Indore, Ahmedabad, etc. It is only 10 km away from the city centre. The nearest international airport to Aurangabad is the Pune Airport, located at a distance of 230 km by road. It takes around 5 hours of time to reach Aurangabad from Pune.
By Train- Aurangabad railway station is well connected to the rest of India. There are regular trains from all the important towns and cities such as Delhi, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Chennai, Madurai, Bhopal, Bangalore and Pune. Tourists can either hire a taxi or auto rickshaw for the city from the state. The Aurangabad bus stand is only 2 km away from the railway station.
By Road- Aurangabad is well connected via road as well, making it utmost hassle-free for tourists to reach here. Various State and National Highways connect the city to the rest of the country. There are regular buses to Aurangabad from all the neighbouring towns and cities.
Once in the city, the common mode of commutation is auto rickshaw or taxi. Even the Aurangabad Municipal Corporation buses (AMT) connect all the parts of the city efficiently. For visiting tourist attractions like Ajanta and Ellora caves or Daulatabad Fort, there are special buses operated by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation.
