Top 9 Places To Visit Near Aurangabad For History Enthusiasts

A view of the Aurangabad Airport NITB during dusk captured by a photographer.

Aurangabad City, known for its deep historical significance, remains a gateway to several other vital places to visit near Aurangabad that are perfect for history lovers. Located deep within Maharashtra, it boasts an array of attractions, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of this region. From ancient rock-cut caves to majestic forts and intricately designed temples, all these sites offer a glimpse into India’s illustrious past. Each destination tells a different story, offering architectural wonders and historical narratives that have reshaped the landscape.

9 Places To Visit Near Aurangabad

Here’s your guide to nine places to visit near Aurangabad that will take you down the lane of history.

1. Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the places to visit near Aurangabad.

Photo: Dey.sandip / Wikimedia Commons

Ajanta Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a paradise for any history buff visiting Aurangabad. These ancient rock-cut caves along the remote hillside, dating back to the 2nd century BC, were sculpted with impressive murals and sculptures describing the life of Buddha. These rock-cut caves are an outstanding example of Buddhist architectural works, considering intricate artistry and its historical value. Walking among the frescoes and carvings, you will find a close affinity with India’s rich cultural and spiritual history.

Entry Fee: ₹40 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners
Location: 105 km from Aurangabad

2. Ellora Caves

The view of impressive rock-cut Ellora Caves, one of the best places to visit near Aurangabad.

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons

Ellora Caves is another UNESCO World Heritage site, among the important places to visit near Aurangabad Maharashtra, for those who love history. The caves date from the 6th to the 10th century and combine Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain architecture, representing the region’s religious pluralism. The Ellora Caves are the showpiece of over 30 caves carved out of volcanic rock, every cave revealing intricate sculptures and majestic temples, including the impressive Kailasa Temple. With sheer scale and artistry on display, the efforts of ancient artisans make this destination unforgettable for people who would like to explore India’s historical and cultural heritage.

Entry Fee: ₹40 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners
Location: 30 km from Aurangabad

3. Daulatabad Fort

Daulatabad Fort, the military fortress has a great view and magnificent fortification.

Photo: Vishwajitbansode / Wikimedia Commons

Daulatabad Fort is among the important attractions near Aurangabad. This fortress, built during the 12th century, was once the capital of the Deccan region. This strategic hilltop provides astonishing panoramic views and reveals the grand military architecture of its time. It is an excellent ground for exploring a complex net of walls and gates, along with some steep pathways once guarding this stronghold. Features like Chand Minar and the ingenious water supply make it an attractive destination for history students interested in discovering this region’s antiquity.

Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners
Location: 15 km from Aurangabad

4. Bibi Ka Maqbara

View of Bibi Ka Maqbara with lovely gardens, one of the places to visit near Aurangabad.

Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons

Bibi Ka Maqbara is also known as the “Mini Taj.” It is a fantastic mausoleum and one of the best places to visit near Aurangabad. This monument was built in the 17th century as a tribute to Aurangzeb’s wife. This architectural masterpiece, made of stunning domes with intricate carvings, shows the elegance of Mughal architecture. Its serene gardens make it look even more beautiful, providing an incredibly peaceful atmosphere for reflection. As you go through the minute details of this monument, you appreciate its historical importance and the love story it stands for.

Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
Location: 4 km from Aurangabad

5. Panchakki

A view of Panchakki, an ancient water mill with complex hydraulic engineering.

Photo: Hiroki Ogawa / Wikimedia Commons

Panchakki, or the water mill, is one of the interesting historical sights that need to be added to your list of places to see near Aurangabad. Dating back to the 17th century, this ingeniously constructed hydraulic system was meant to withdraw water from a stream to mill grain. The engineering skills of the time have beautifully been depicted in an impressive structure on the site, along with a mosque and a beautiful garden. You may enjoy the technical advancement of the time amidst this peaceful ambience while visiting Panchakki.

Entry Fee: Free
Location: 3 km from Aurangabad

6. Tomb Of Aurangzeb

View of simple yet significant, the mausoleum bears testimony to the life of Aurangzeb.

Photo: Harisub / Wikimedia Commons

Located in Khuldabad, the Tomb of Aurangzeb is a significant historical site and one of the tourist attractions near Aurangabad, which is particularly interesting to history lovers. Unlike the grand mausoleums of other Mughal emperors, the final resting place of Aurangzeb characterises simplicity and austerity- a reflection of the emperor’s life and personal beliefs. Located between gardens and maze pathways, this tomb introduces to the eye of the visitor one of India’s most controversial leaders. This site tells a grand history of power, legacy, and the vagueness of Mughal history.

Entry Fee: Free
Location: 28 km from Aurangabad

7. Chand Minar

View of Chand Minar with intricacies in carvings, one of the places to visit near Aurangabad.

Photo: Sujayadhar / Wikimedia Commons

Historic Monument Chand Minar is a great place to visit near Aurangabad, which stands tall. Built in the 14th century as a victory tower, this 65-foot tower is a fine example of Islamic architecture in the region. Its glorious architecture houses beautiful carvings and is flanked by a lovely garden that compliments it well. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the fortifications in the neighbourhood.

Entry Fee: Free
Location: 63 km from Aurangabad

8. Tomb Of Malik Ambar

The tomb of Malik Ambar, one of the places to visit near Aurangabad, is artistically carved.

Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons

The tomb of Malik Ambar is a significant historical monument. Malik Ambar was one of the prominent personalities of the Deccan. He was a military leader and statesman known for his strategic capabilities for this region. His beautifully carved tomb is evident enough about the stranglehold of architecture during that time, and it lies in such an environment that lifts the thought process. The beauty of this place brings history enthusiasts close to the politico-social factors of those times, which trace out a different angle of Malik Ambar in changing Deccan.

Entry Fee: Free
Location: 26 km from Aurangabad

9. Ghrishneshwar Temple

View of Ghrishneshwar Temple known for its carved designs and worship of Lord Shiva.

Photo: Rashmi.parab / Wikimedia Commons

Ghrishneshwar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas found in India. It is considered a sacred sight and an important place to visit near Aurangabad. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for its scintillating architecture, carved designs of many deities, and myths. Several pilgrims and tourists visit the temple to seek this serenity besides this fantastic historical background. It is a big chance for visitors who want to see the interplay between religion, history, and art in Maharashtra.

Entry Fee: Free
Location: 30 km from Aurangabad

The tourist places to visit near Aurangabad are simply a tapestry of history, culture, and architecture that would surely fascinate all history enthusiasts. Every destination gives a glimpse into the region’s rich past, from the exquisite Ajanta and Ellora Caves to the imposing Daulatabad Fort. Plan your trip to Aurangabad with TripXL and get excited to discover the beautiful stories with excellent scenery awaiting you.

Cover Photo: Vmahendra / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Indeed, almost all temples host festivals such as Mahashivratri, and many visit them.
Hiring a taxi or availing of the local tour service would make travelling to various sites easier.
Dress modestly and respect the traditions of the place, especially in religious sites.
Most sites have basic facilities such as bathrooms, parking, and, sometimes, food stalls.
Photography is usually permitted, although specific restrictions can apply to every site.

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