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The Aurangabad Caves are a beautiful example of an old rock-cut building in the historical city of Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Dating back to the 2nd to 6th centuries, these caves are a testament to India’s rich cultural history and artistic talent. Carved into the rocky hills, the Aurangabad Caves comprise a complex of 12 Buddhist caves, each adorned with elaborate carvings and drawings representing that era’s spiritual and artistic interests. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these caves attract history buffs, priests, and tourists alike, eager to explore their beauty and importance.
Aurangabad Caves Location
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
Located approximately 5 kilometres from the city centre of Aurangabad, Aurangabad Caves are Maharashtra’s popular tourist destination. The caves have been cut into the Sahyadri range hills and feature view-opening vistas across the landscape. The caves are easily accessible and are part of a larger historical backdrop that includes the Ajanta and Ellora caves, so the site is one of the significant halts for travelling enthusiasts interested in the art and architecture of ancient Indian civilisation. The caves are on a hillock called “Baheti,” providing a tranquil atmosphere, greenery and rocky terrains.
How To Reach Aurangabad Caves
Photo: Yashs999 / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport, located about 10 km from the caves. Regular flights link Aurangabad to significant places like Mumbai and Delhi. Once at the airport, you can hire a cab or take a local bus to reach the caves.
By Train: Aurangabad Railway Station is well-connected to different parts of India. Several trains run from Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur to Aurangabad. You can take an auto-rickshaw or cab from the station to the caves, roughly 6 km away.
By Road: Aurangabad is well-connected by road, with daily bus services from major towns in Maharashtra. National Highways 52 and 60 provide easy entry to the city. Once in Aurangabad, local cabs and auto-rickshaws can take you to the caves.
Places To Visit In And Around Aurangabad Caves
Here are some places you shouldn’t miss when visiting the Aurangabad Caves, Maharashtra:
1. Ajanta Caves
Photo: Dey.sandip / Wikimedia Commons
The Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their stunning rock-cut architecture and detailed paintings. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, these 30 caves display different stories from the Jataka tales, showing the artistic talent of old Indian artists. The detailed carvings and drawings show Buddhist lessons and everyday life during that era. Nestled in a beautiful setting by the Waghora River, the caves provide a peaceful environment that strengthens their spiritual importance. Visitors can experience the incredible artistry and historical background that makes Ajanta a must-visit for history fans and art lovers alike.
Location: Ajanta, Maharashtra
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40 (for Indians), ₹600 (for foreigners)
2. Ellora Caves
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
The Ellora Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, display a peaceful mix of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut buildings. From the 5th to the 10th centuries, these 34 caves feature impressive sculptures, elaborately carved figures, and stunning architecture, especially the famous Kailasa Temple, a remarkably massive structure. Ellora’s artistic heritage shows the cultural variety of old India and its spiritual importance. The vast complex allows tourists to walk through various caves, each offering unique insights into the artistic endeavours and religious practices of the time, making it a fascinating location for travellers and scholars alike.
Location: Ellora, Maharashtra
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40 (for Indians), ₹600 (for foreigners)
3. Bibi Ka Maqbara
Photo: Ameya Kulkarni / Wikimedia Commons
Bibi Ka Maqbara, often dubbed the “Mini Taj Mahal,” is a beautiful tomb near Aurangabad Caves built in the 17th century as a tribute to Aurangzeb’s wife, Dilras Banu Begum. This architectural wonder mimics the beauty of the Taj Mahal, featuring elaborate designs and beautiful grounds surrounding the structure. The white marble façade, decorated with flower designs, stands as a symbol of love and devotion. Visitors can explore the tomb, grounds, and nearby museum that shows the rich history and culture of the Mughal era. The calm environment and historical importance make Bibi Ka Maqbara a must-visit location in Aurangabad.
Location: Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Timings: 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹5 (for Indians), ₹100 (for foreigners)
4. Panchakki
Photo: Hiroki Ogawa / Wikimedia Commons
Panchakki, known as the water mill, is a historical place with a 17th-century water-driven mill. Another popular destination is near Aurangabad Caves. This innovative engineering marvel utilised the water from a nearby spring to grind grains for the local people. Surrounded by beautiful fields and a peaceful atmosphere, Panchakki gives tourists a glimpse into the farming practices of the Mughal era. The site also includes a beautiful mosque and a tomb of a Sufi saint, adding to its spiritual importance. Visitors can stroll through the grounds, enjoy the quiet air, and learn about the exciting history behind this unique site.
Location: Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
5. Daulatabad Fort
Photo: Lakshmeesha BS / Wikimedia Commons
Daulatabad Fort, perched on a hilltop, is a fascinating castle with a rich past from the 12th century. This strategically placed fort offers fantastic views of the nearby scenery and shows impressive architecture, including massive walls, gates, and a unique circular design. The fort’s complex features numerous buildings, including churches and a huge water tank, showing the engineering skill of its makers. Visitors can explore the twisting paths, climb to the top, and immerse themselves in the fort’s famous past. The fort’s historical importance and sweeping views make it a popular location for history buffs and explorers.
Location: Daulatabad, Maharashtra
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹5 (for Indians), ₹100 (for foreigners)
Where To Stay
Photo: Matheus Bertelli / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Aurangabad offers a range of housing choices, from fancy hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. For a relaxing stay, consider hotels like The Taj Vivanta, Lemon Tree Hotel, or Hotel Aurora Towers, which provide excellent goods and services. Alternatively, you can find cheap hotels and guesthouses in the city centre that offer good rooms at reasonable rates. Staying near the Aurangabad Caves and other sites will improve your experience and ease during your stay.
Where To Eat
Photo: Matheus Bertelli / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Aurangabad has a diverse food scene that caters to different tastes. For genuine Maharashtrian food, head to places like Panchakki Restaurant or Bhojan Ghar, which offer delicious local meals in a traditional setting. If you’re looking for foreign food, try out some of the multi-cuisine places in the city, such as Spice Garden or Tiger Hill, which provide a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices. Street food is also famous in Aurangabad, and you can enjoy local dishes like vada pav and pav bhaji from different shops around the city.
Other Things To Consider
Photo: Nataliya Vaitkevich / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the Aurangabad Caves is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is nice, with cool temperatures making it ideal for visiting the caves. The rainy season, from June to September, brings heavy rains, making travel difficult, while the summer months can be hot and sticky, making outdoor activities less fun.
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average trip cost to the Aurangabad Caves may change based on transportation, food, and other fees. For a day trip, spend around ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per person, which includes transportation (taxi or local transport), entry fees, food, and any extra costs like gifts.
Tips For Travellers
- Begin your day early to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful cave tour.
- Since these are sacred places, wearing simple clothes is recommended to show respect.
- Carry enough water to refresh yourself during your visit, especially in warmer months.
- Consider getting a local guide to improve your experience and gain insights into the past of the caves.
- Before your trip, check the weather report to plan your visit correctly.
The Aurangabad Caves offer an exciting glimpse into India’s old rock-cut architecture and rich cultural history. With their detailed paintings and quiet settings, these caves are a must-visit spot for history buffs and tourists alike. Combining your visit with nearby sites like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves will improve your experience, making it a truly unique trip. Explore the beauty of Aurangabad with TripXL, where your journey starts!
Cover Photo: Vishwajitbansode / Wikimedia Commons
