Aurangabad
Place Overview: Aurangabad, recently renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, is a historic city in Maharashtra that serves as the gateway to the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora. Founded in 1610 by Malik Ambar and later named after the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, the city is a treasure trove of medieval architecture, ancient caves, and grand monuments. It is uniquely positioned as a hub for Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art which draws millions of international and domestic tourists every year. The city's landscape is dotted with 52 gates and impressive structures like Bibi Ka Maqbara which reflect its glorious past as a major administrative and cultural center of the Deccan region. Historical Grandeur: The history of Aurangabad is a fascinating tapestry of different dynasties including the Satavahanas, Yadavas, Mughals, and Marathas. Each era has left an indelible mark on the city's identity from the rock-cut caves that date back to the 2nd century BC to the massive Daulatabad Fort which was once the capital of India under the Tughlaqs. Exploring the city feels like walking through a living museum where ancient heritage coexists with a growing modern economy. The resilience of its structures and the preservation of its ancient art forms like Paithani weaving and Himroo textiles make it a significant center for understanding the diverse cultural evolution of central India. Architectural Marvels: The city is renowned for its diverse architectural styles ranging from the intricate Buddhist rock-cut temples of Ajanta to the Indo-Islamic design of Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the "Taj of the Deccan." The Ellora Caves represent a peak of monolithic architecture with the Kailasa Temple being the largest single rock-cut structure in the world. Within the city, the 52 gates served as defensive checkpoints and decorative entrances which showcase the strategic urban planning of the 17th century. The use of local basalt stone and lime mortar has allowed these monuments to survive for centuries which provides a clear link to the engineering brilliance of ancient and medieval Indian builders. Modern Hub: Today, Aurangabad is not just a tourist destination but also a major industrial and educational hub in Maharashtra. It is home to several large manufacturing units and the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University which contributes to the city's cosmopolitan and vibrant atmosphere. The local markets are famous for their traditional crafts and modern shopping malls which offer a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary lifestyle for residents and visitors alike. With its well-developed infrastructure and growing hospitality sector, the city continues to be a premier destination that offers a comfortable and enriching experience for travelers exploring the rich heritage of the Deccan.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
3 to 5 DaysPlace Type:
Heritage & CultureEntry Fees:
Cave Entry Fees: Entry to the Ajanta and Ellora caves is regulated by the ASI with fees around 40 rupees for Indians and 600 rupees for foreign nationals. There is also a nominal charge for the shuttle bus from the parking area to the caves which helps in maintaining the ec...Cave Entry Fees: Entry to the Ajanta and Ellora caves is regulated by the ASI with fees around 40 rupees for Indians and 600 rupees for foreign nationals. There is also a nominal charge for the shuttle bus from the parking area to the caves which helps in maintaining the eco-sensitive zone around these ancient monuments.
Monument Charges: Visiting Bibi Ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort involves a separate entry fee of approximately 25 rupees for domestic tourists. Professional photography and videography may require special permits and additional charges which should be checked at the entrance gate to avoid any inconvenience during your visit.Timing:
Regular Timings: Most monuments and caves are open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM but it is important to note that Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays and Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesdays. Planning your itinerary around these weekly closures is essential to ensure you don't miss...Regular Timings: Most monuments and caves are open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM but it is important to note that Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays and Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesdays. Planning your itinerary around these weekly closures is essential to ensure you don't miss out on these primary attractions during your stay.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit the caves is the early morning as soon as they open to avoid the large tour groups and the midday heat. For the city monuments like Bibi Ka Maqbara, the late afternoon is ideal for enjoying the gardens and the sunset views which provide a more atmospheric and comfortable experience for travelers.Special Events:
Ellora Ajanta Festival: Usually held in January, this grand cultural event features performances by renowned Indian classical dancers and musicians against the backdrop of the illuminated caves. The festival celebrates the heritage of the region and attracts art lovers from...Ellora Ajanta Festival: Usually held in January, this grand cultural event features performances by renowned Indian classical dancers and musicians against the backdrop of the illuminated caves. The festival celebrates the heritage of the region and attracts art lovers from across the globe who come to witness the fusion of ancient art and modern performances.
Paithan Fair: The annual fair at Paithan near the Sant Eknath temple is a major religious event that draws lakhs of devotees for a holy dip in the Godavari River. The fair is a vibrant display of rural culture with folk music, traditional games, and local markets that provide a deep insight into the spiritual life of the Marathwada region.Best Photo Spots:
Kailasa Temple Top View: Climbing the stairs to the side of the Kailasa Temple allows photographers to capture the entire structure from above which shows the incredible scale of the excavation. The aerial perspective highlights the symmetry and the detailed carvings on the...Kailasa Temple Top View: Climbing the stairs to the side of the Kailasa Temple allows photographers to capture the entire structure from above which shows the incredible scale of the excavation. The aerial perspective highlights the symmetry and the detailed carvings on the roof which are not visible from the ground level.
Ajanta Viewpoint: The hilltop viewpoint across the Waghora river provides a classic panoramic shot of the entire horseshoe-shaped cliff of the Ajanta Caves. This spot is particularly beautiful in the morning when the sun lights up the cave entrances and the surrounding greenery is reflected in the river below.
Bibi Ka Maqbara Reflexion: The long water fountains in the Charbagh garden offer a perfect reflection shot of the mausoleum's dome and minarets. Capturing this symmetry during the early morning or late afternoon provides a clean and professional-looking photograph that showcases the elegance of the Mughal-style architecture.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
Panchakki, meaning "water mill," is a 17th-century water mill complex known for its ingenious engineering. It was designed to generate power from an underground water channel that brings water from a well located about 11 km away, near the confluence of the Harsul River and a tributary stream. The water is made to fall from a height into a cistern, generating the necessary power to drive the millstones. This complex served the purpose of grinding grain for the devotees and inhabitants of the adjacent Dargah of Baba Shah Musafir, a revered Sufi saint. The site includes a mosque, a madrasa, a minister's residence, and a sarai (inn), all set amidst a serene garden with fountains. The architectural beauty of the complex, with its graceful arches and intricate carvings, combined with the marvel of its water-powered mechanism, makes it a unique historical site. Local legends also speak of a mystical stream beneath the mill believed to possess healing powers.
The Bhadra Maruti Temple is a highly revered Hindu shrine located in the town of Khuldabad. It is one of the only three temples in India where Lord Hanuman is depicted in a reclining or "sleeping" posture, known as the Bhav Samadhi. According to local legend, the ruler of this region, King Bhadrasen, was a great devotee of Lord Rama and used to sing devotional songs. Lord Hanuman was so enchanted by the king's music that he decided to rest at this spot. The temple is a significant spiritual hub, especially for those following the path of devotion. The atmosphere is vibrant with chants of "Jai Shri Ram," and the temple complex is always filled with energy. It is located very close to the Ellora Caves, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the region's heritage. The temple's interior is decorated with intricate glass work and colorful paintings that tell stories of Hanuman's life and his devotion to Rama. Devotees believe that praying here brings mental peace and fulfillment of wishes, making it a cornerstone of local religious life and culture.
While the Daulatabad Fort itself is an architectural marvel and a significant historical site, the small museum housed within its premises provides a more focused and detailed understanding of the fort's rich past. The Devgiri Fort Museum serves as a repository of artifacts unearthed from the fort and surrounding areas, offering a tangible connection to the various dynasties that ruled this strategically important stronghold. The exhibits typically include a collection of ancient weaponry such as swords, daggers, chain mail, and cannonballs, showcasing the military prowess and defensive strategies employed by the fort's occupants. Beyond warfare, the museum also displays pottery fragments, terracotta figures, ancient coins from different periods (including Yadava, Delhi Sultanate, Bahmani, Mughal, and Maratha), and sculptures, providing insights into the daily life, artistic styles, and economic activities of the fort's inhabitants. Informative panels and displays narrate the fort's tumultuous history, from its origins as Devgiri under the Yadavas to its transformation into Daulatabad under Muhammad bin Tughlaq, and its subsequent control by various powerful empires. A visit to this museum, after exploring the sprawling fort, enhances the overall experience by providing crucial context and preserving the smaller, yet equally important, relics of its glorious past.
@@ Engineering and Ecological Marvel : The Jayakwadi Dam, built across the holy Godavari River, is one of the largest irrigation projects in India and the pride of the Marathwada region. Inaugurated in 1976 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the dam was constructed to address the perennial water scarcity in the surrounding districts. The resulting reservoir is named Nath Sagar, in honor of the great saint Sant Eknath Maharaj who lived in the nearby town of Paithan. The dam creates a massive water body that covers an area of over 350 square km, forming a unique ecosystem that supports both agriculture and wildlife. It is home to the Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary, which attracts thousands of migratory birds from as far as Siberia and Europe during the winter months. The project not only provides water for irrigation and drinking to cities like Aurangabad and Jalna but also supports a hydroelectric power plant. The surrounding landscape is characterized by the lush Dnyaneshwar Udyan, a garden modeled after the Brindavan Gardens of Mysore. For tourists, it offers a blend of engineering scale, serene water views, and rich biodiversity. The sight of the 27 massive gates and the vast expanse of water stretching to the horizon is truly breathtaking. It stands as a symbol of modern India's progress and its commitment to ecological preservation.
Kala Darwaza, meaning "Black Gate," is one of the 52 gates that once fortified the city of Aurangabad. While most of the city walls have crumbled over time, some of these impressive gates, including Kala Darwaza, still stand as a testament to Aurangabad's historical defenses. This particular gate is named for its dark stone construction, which sets it apart from other gates. It served as a crucial entry and exit point for the city, controlling trade and movement during the Mughal era. The gate is a robust structure, featuring strong wooden doors reinforced with iron spikes, designed to deter elephant charges. The architecture is sturdy and functional, emphasizing defensive capabilities rather than elaborate ornamentation. Surrounding the gate, one can still observe remnants of the old city walls, offering a glimpse into the city's past grandeur as a fortified capital. Visiting Kala Darwaza allows one to visualize the scale of the original city defenses and appreciate the strategic planning involved in its construction. It is a significant historical landmark that provides a tangible link to Aurangabad's rich Mughal past and its role as a regional power center.
The Tomb of Raziya Sultan, India's first and only female Muslim ruler of the Delhi Sultanate (reigned 1236-1240 AD), is a poignant historical site in Aurangabad. While she ruled from Delhi, her tomb here in Aurangabad, though disputed by some historians who claim her tomb is in Delhi, is a widely accepted local tradition and a significant point of interest. The tomb is remarkably simple, consisting of a plain, open-air grave without any elaborate mausoleum, reflecting the humble nature of her final resting place after her tumultuous reign. It is said that she was brought to Aurangabad by her brother, who later became a Sufi saint, and buried here. The site is a reminder of Raziya Sultan's extraordinary life a powerful and capable ruler who challenged patriarchal norms in a male-dominated medieval era. Her story is one of courage, political acumen, and ultimately, betrayal. The simplicity of her tomb contrasts sharply with her powerful legacy, inviting contemplation on the fleeting nature of power and the endurance of historical memory. For those interested in medieval Indian history, particularly the role of women in power, Raziya Sultan's tomb in Aurangabad offers a unique and thought-provoking connection to a pivotal figure.
@@Historical Context and Buddhist Heritage: The Aurangabad Caves are a group of 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines, divided into three main groups (Western: Caves 1-5, Eastern: Caves 6-9, Northern: Caves 10-12), dating from the 3rd to the 7th centuries A.D. These caves were built during the time when the city was a significant spiritual and trade hub. Unlike the massive scale of their famous neighbors, Ajanta and Ellora, the Aurangabad Caves hold a unique place in Indian rock-cut architecture, primarily showcasing Buddhist art. They represent the transition from the Hinayana (early Buddhist) phase to the Mahayana (later Buddhist) phase, and even show Tantric influences, which is a rare feature. They are often overshadowed by the proximity of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, earning them the moniker of the 'Hidden Caves' of Maharashtra. The caves were excavated from soft basaltic trap rock on the Sihyachal ranges, rising about 700 feet above the plains, offering a breathtaking view of the city and the nearby Bibi Ka Maqbara. Their lack of inscriptions has made precise dating difficult, but scholarly consensus places their construction and use over a long period, reflecting different stages of Buddhist thought and art. Cave No. 4 is the only Chaitya-griha (prayer hall) from the earlier Hinayana period. Caves 1 and 3 are prominent examples of later Vihara (monastery) design, similar to those found in the Vakataka period at Ajanta. The sculptures here, especially the female figures and the Bodhisattva statues, are considered masterpieces of the Gupta and post-Gupta artistic periods, recognized for their elegance and dynamic posture. The surrounding landscape also makes the site ideal for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. The ongoing maintenance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) helps preserve these fragile remnants of an ancient spiritual and artistic tradition. The complex, located behind the Bibi-ka-Maqbara, provides an essential link in the chain of rock-cut monuments in the Deccan region, illustrating the extensive spread of Buddhist monastic life and patronage in ancient India. (Word Count: 404):Show All
Mhaismal is a serene and relatively unexplored hill station perched at an altitude of 1067 meters in the Sahyadri ranges. It is a hidden gem that transforms into a lush green paradise during the rainy season. The plateau offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and the Girija Bhawani temple. Unlike crowded hill stations, Mhaismal provides a quiet atmosphere for nature lovers. It is famous for its botanical diversity, often called a "Botanical Workshop." The drive to the top is scenic, with winding roads and cool breezes. Small tribal hamlets and local farms add to the rustic charm of the place. It is a perfect weekend getaway for those looking to escape the city's noise. The area is rich in flora and fauna, making it a favorite for researchers. The hilltop provides a panoramic view of the Ellora region and the Devgiri Fort in the distance. The mist-covered peaks during monsoon create a magical setting for visitors. It is an ideal spot for a picnic or a short spiritual retreat.Information
-
Why Famous:
UNESCO Heritage Sites: Aurangabad is famous for housing the Ajanta and Ellora caves which are among the most significant archaeological sites in the world. These caves contain stunning frescoes and sculptures that represent the golden age of Indian art and offer a profound ...UNESCO Heritage Sites: Aurangabad is famous for housing the Ajanta and Ellora caves which are among the most significant archaeological sites in the world. These caves contain stunning frescoes and sculptures that represent the golden age of Indian art and offer a profound insight into the religious harmony and artistic mastery of ancient civilizations.
Mughal Architecture: The city is home to Bibi Ka Maqbara, the only monument of its kind in the Deccan that closely resembles the Taj Mahal. This beautiful tomb built by Aurangzeb's son for his mother is a significant example of Mughal architecture in southern India and is a major landmark that defines the city's skyline. -
Architecture:
Ellora Cave 16 (Kailasa) The Kailasa Temple is a monolithic masterpiece carved from a single block of basalt rock from the top down. It measures 164 feet in length, 108 feet in width, and 100 feet in height with intricate sculptures of gods and goddesses that represent the pinnacle of Rashtrakuta a...Ellora Cave 16 (Kailasa) The Kailasa Temple is a monolithic masterpiece carved from a single block of basalt rock from the top down. It measures 164 feet in length, 108 feet in width, and 100 feet in height with intricate sculptures of gods and goddesses that represent the pinnacle of Rashtrakuta architecture and spiritual devotion.
Bibi Ka Maqbara Layout: This mausoleum features a classic Charbagh layout with the main tomb standing on a high square platform surrounded by four minarets. Its architecture mirrors the Taj Mahal but with unique Deccan influences using marble for the dome and polished plaster for the main structure which gives it a distinct and elegant aesthetic. -
How To Reach:
By Air Access: Aurangabad Airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bangalore with regular domestic flights. The airport is located about 10 KMS from the city center which makes it very convenient for travelers to reach their hotels... -
Near Tourist Places:
Ajanta Caves (100 KM), Ellora Caves (30 KM), Daulatabad Fort (15 KM), Bibi Ka Maqbara (3 KM), Panchakki (2 KM), Grishneshwar Temple (30 KM), Paithan Garden (56 KM), Aurangabad Caves (5 KM), Siddharth Garden (2 KM), Lonar Crater (140 KM)
Tourism Tips
-
Health and Safety: When exploring the caves, wear comfortable walking shoes with a good grip as the rock surfaces can be slippery and there are many stairs to climb. Carry a flashlight for seeing the details in the darker caves and always stay hydrated by carrying a water b...
Reviews
Information about New and Updated Locations(608+) of Maharashtra Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Daulatabad Fort Shani ShingnapurTrimbakeshwar Shiva TempleUpasani Maharaj AshramMatheran Water Reservoir Monkey PointBassein Fort BhiwandiGorakhgad FortJai Vilas PalaceKelva BeachMahuli FortManas MandirTansa Wildlife SanctuaryThane Creek Flamingo SanctuaryTitwala Ganesh MandirVardhaman Fantasy ParkYeoor Forest SpotMore PlacesNote:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Ajanta Caves
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Alibag
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Alibaug
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Amravati
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Aurangabad
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Bhandardara
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Diveagar
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ganpatipule
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Karjat
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Khandala
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities