Aurangabad, a city in Maharashtra, is renowned for its rich historical heritage, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Visitors can explore the grandeur of Mughal architecture at the Bibi Ka Maqbara and delve into the city’s cultural tapestry with vibrant markets and delectable local cuisine. Here are some locations in and near Aurangabad that you might want to consider visiting:
Also Read : Place to visit in Maharashtra https://www.yourvacationtrip.com/category/best-places-to-visit-in-india/place-to-visit-in-maharashtra/
Places To Visit In Aurangabad
1. Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad :
Ajanta Caves will be one of the top results while looking for places to visit in Aurangabad. Around 30 Buddhist caves made of rock that date back to the second century are included in this collection. They are regarded as the pinnacle of ancient architecture and the most magnificent example of Indian art.
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About Ajanta Caves :
Best Time To Visit | July to Feb |
Location | Aurangabad, Maharashtra |
Timing | 9 A.M. to 5 P.M (Closed on Monday) |
Ajanta Caves Aurangabad Entry Fee :
- Indian Visitors: Total Rs.40/-(Cash),Rs.35/-(Online) per head.
- Foreign Visitors: Total Rs.600/-(Cash),Rs.550/-(Online) per head.
- Free entry: Children below 15 years.
2. Bibi Ka Maqbara, Aurangabad :
Bibi Ka Maqbara, located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, is a Mughal mausoleum often referred to as the “Taj of the Deccan.” Built in the 17th century by Emperor Aurangzeb in memory of his wife, it showcases exquisite Mughal architecture, reminiscent of the iconic Taj Mahal.
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About Bibi Ka Maqbara :
Best Time To Visit | October to March |
Entry Fees | ₹ 25 for Indians |
Location | Begumpura, Aurangabad, Maharashtra |
Timing | Everyday Open From 6:00 am–10:00 pm |
3. Ellora Caves, Aurangabad :-
These 34 monasteries and temples were built side by side in the wall of a tall basalt cliff not far from Aurangabad, Maharashtra, spanning a distance of more than 2 kilometers. Ellora brings the culture of ancient India to life with its continuous series of monuments ranging from A.D. 600 to 1000. With its shrines dedicated to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, the Ellora complex is not only a singular creative and technological achievement but also exemplifies the attitude of tolerance that was typical of ancient India.
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About Ellora Caves :
Best Time To Visit | October to March |
Location | Ellora Cave Road, Ellora, Aurangabad |
Timing | Open From 6:00 am – 6:00 pm Tuesday Closed / Holiday |
Ellora Caves Entry Fees :-
- Rs/- 30 per person for Indians
- Rs/- 500 per person for Foreign tourists
- Rs/- 25 for Video Camera
- Rs/- 30 Parking fee for Car
4. Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum, Aurangabad :-
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum, which honors the life and contributions of the renowned Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji, is one of the best locations to visit in Aurangabad. The museum’s six exhibition halls house a variety of historically noteworthy items.
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About Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum :
Best Time To Visit | October to March |
Location | near Govt. Arts and Science college, Himayat Bagh, Aurangabad |
Timing | Everyday Open From 10:30 am–6 pm |
Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum Entry Fees :
- Indian Adult Visitor : Rs 150
- Defence Personnel : Rs 100/-
- College Student : Rs 75/-
- Group Indian Visitors : Rs 110/-
- Students (through school upto 10th Std.) : Rs 35/-
- Audio Guide : Rs. 50/-
Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum Timings –
Monday to Sunday 10.15 am to 6.00 pm. The Museum ticket-counter will close at 5.45 pm
5. Salim Ali Lake, Aurangabad :-
Salim Ali Lake is one of the top tourist destinations in Aurangabad if you prefer quiet areas with natural beauty to busy shops and tourist traps. Due to its tranquil atmosphere and surrounding greenery, this vast body of water is a nature lover’s paradise where one can unceasingly enjoy the symphony of nature.The bird sanctuary surrounding the lake is a favorite place for bird watchers due to the wide variety of birds that can be seen there.
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About Salim Ali Lake :
Best Time To Visit | October to March |
Entry Fees | No Entry Fees |
Location | Salim Ali Lake, Chatrapathi Nagar, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431003. |
Timing | Everyday Open From 8:00 am – 6:00 pm |
6. Siddharth Garden And Zoo, Aurangabad :-
Siddharth Garden and Zoo is a popular tourist destination in Aurangabad that promises to make any day enjoyable. It’s a great spot to go with kids. A great range of flowering plants and trees, an aquarium, and, unlike typical gardens, a zoo make up this landscaped garden, which is a popular weekend destination for locals. While the zoo has some unusual species on display, ranging from tigers and elephants to crocodiles and snakes, the garden offers lots of space and a tranquil ambiance for leisure. So this garden zoo must be a good option if you want to take your kids somewhere to learn about animals or if you’re searching for a lovely place for a picnic with the family.
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About Siddharth Garden And Zoo :
Best Time To Visit | June to March |
Entry Fees | Rs/- 50 per person for Adults Rs/- 10 per person for Children |
Location | Heart Of The City | Near Station Road, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 431001, |
Timing | Everyday Open From 10:00 am – 7:00 pm Tuesday Closed / Holidays |
Siddharth Garden And Zoo Entry Fee & Timing :
- Rs/- 50 per person for Adults
- Rs/- 10 per person for Children
Remains Open Everyday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
7. Bani Begum Garden, Aurangabad :-
The breathtakingly gorgeous Bani Begum Garden, with its fountains, fluted pillars, and enormous domes, is located 24 kilometers from Aurangabad. The garden known as Bani Begum Garden, which honors Mughal architecture, is named after Bani Begum, the wife of Aurangzeb’s son.
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Bani Begum Garden :
Best Time To Visit | June to March |
Entry Fees | No Entry Fees |
Location | Bani Begum Mogul Garden Rd, Khuldabad, Maharashtra 431101 |
Timing | Everyday Open 24 hours |
8. Jama Masjid, Aurangabad :-
The Jama Masjid, which is next to the Killa Arrak in Aurangabad, is one of the city’s oldest still-standing mosques. The Masjid, known for its opulent Islamic architecture, appears stunning in every manner. The Archaeological Survey of India has restored this mosque, which was built during the Mughal era and is the largest and most important mosque in Aurangabad, to its original configuration.
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About Jama Masjid :
Best Time To Visit | October to March |
Entry Fees | No Entry Fees |
Location | Station Rd, Buddi lane, Naralibag, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001 |
Timing | Everyday Open From 5:00 am – 8:00 pm |
9. Khuldabad, Aurangabad :-
Ajanta and Ellora Caves, a world heritage site, are 3 km and 13 km, respectively, from the little village of Khuldabad. Khuldabad, formerly known as “Rauzaa,” which translates to “the garden of paradise,” is also known as the “Valley of Saints” since various Sufi saints lived there in the 14th century. Several significant historical landmarks, including Aurangzeb’s Tomb, the Dargah of Zar Zari Zar Baksh, Shaikh Burhan ud-din Gharib Chisti, and Shaikh Zain-ud-din Shirazi, are located in this holy city. The well-known Bhadra Maruti Temple, devoted to Lord Hanuman, is also located in Khuldabad.
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About Khuldabad :
Best Time To Visit | November, December, January, February and March |
Entry Fees | No Entry Fees |
Location | Khuldabad Village, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001 |
Timing | Everyday Open From12:00 am – 12:00 pm |
Tour Plan For Places to visit in Aurangabad :
Here is an example itinerary for a short trip to Aurangabad:
Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration
- Arrive in Aurangabad, check in to your hotel, and freshen up.
- Start your exploration by visiting Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the “Taj of the Deccan.” It’s a mausoleum built in memory of Aurangzeb’s wife.
- Explore the nearby Panchakki, an ancient water mill with a historical significance.
- Enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Ellora Caves and Grishneshwar Temple
- Begin your day early with a visit to the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These rock-cut caves feature stunning sculptures and architecture representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain faiths.
- After exploring Ellora, visit the Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Return to Aurangabad and explore the local market for some shopping and souvenirs.
Day 3: Ajanta Caves and Daulatabad Fort
- Start your day with a trip to the Ajanta Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves showcase intricate Buddhist rock-cut sculptures and paintings.
- After visiting Ajanta, have lunch and then head to Daulatabad Fort, a massive hilltop fortress with historical significance and panoramic views.
- Return to Aurangabad and spend your evening exploring the city’s local attractions or markets.
Day 4: Historical Sites and Departure
- Visit the Sunheri Mahal, a historical palace known for its beautiful architecture.
- Explore the Aurangabad Caves, a group of rock-cut Buddhist caves.
- If time permits, you can also visit the Siddharth Garden and Zoo.
- Depending on your departure time, you can do some last-minute shopping or enjoy local cuisine before heading to the airport or train station.
Enjoy your trip to Aurangabad!