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Things to Do in Aurangabad (2026)
The Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are about 100 kilometers from Aurangabad. These ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves date back to the 2nd century BCE and featuβ¦ ποΈ Visit the Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are about 100 kilometers from Aurangabad. These ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves date back to the 2nd century BCE and feature stunning murals and sculptures. Plan a full-day trip, as the drive takes around two hours each way, and the site opens at 9:00 AM.
π Explore the Ellora Caves
Located just 30 kilometers from Aurangabad, the Ellora Caves are another UNESCO site with Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist monuments. The Kailasa Temple, carved from a single rock, is the highlight. Entry costs 40 INR for Indians and 600 INR for foreigners, and the caves are open from sunrise to sunset.
π° Tour the Daulatabad Fort
This imposing hill fortress, 15 kilometers from Aurangabad, was once the capital of the Yadava dynasty. The climb to the top involves a steep path and a dark tunnel, but the panoramic views are worth it. Entry is 25 INR for Indians and 300 INR for foreigners, and it is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
π Taste Local Naan Qalia
Aurangabad is famous for its unique dish, Naan Qalia, a slow-cooked mutton curry served with soft bread. Head to the old city area, near Kranti Chowk, where small eateries like Bhoj Thali serve authentic versions for around 150 INR per plate. The best time to try it is for lunch, when it is freshly prepared.
π³ Stroll at Bibi Ka Maqbara
Often called the 'Mini Taj,' Bibi Ka Maqbara is a mausoleum built by Aurangzeb for his wife. The gardens are well-maintained and perfect for a relaxing evening walk. Entry costs 25 INR for Indians and 300 INR for foreigners, and it is open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
π Ride the Heritage Train
For a unique experience, take the heritage train from Aurangabad to the nearby town of Jalgaon, which passes through scenic countryside. The train departs from Aurangabad Railway Station at 7:00 AM and returns by 6:00 PM. Tickets are around 200 INR for a round trip, and it is a great way to see rural Maharashtra.
ποΈ Shop at the Himroo Weaving Centers
Aurangabad is known for Himroo, a traditional silk-cotton fabric with intricate patterns. Visit the government-run Himroo Weaving Center on Station Road to see artisans at work and buy directly. Prices start at 500 INR for a scarf, and the center is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
π Watch Sunset at Panchakki
Panchakki is a 17th-century water mill that uses an underground channel to power a grinding stone. The site is peaceful in the late afternoon, and the surrounding gardens are ideal for a quiet picnic. Entry is free, and it is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
one thing this guide doesnt mention is the siddharth garden and zoo, its a chill spot if youve got kids or just want a break from all the cave walking. entry is like 10 rupees and the old banyan trees inside are massive, good for a picnic under them. also if youre driving to ajanta, stop at the lenyadri caves on the way, theyre part of the same range and way less crowded, the climb has 500 steps but the view from the top is something else
honestly the naan qalia recommendation is spot on but if you're there during ramadan the whole old city turns into a massive food fest at night. they set up these temporary stalls near the maulana azad college road and you get stuff like pathar ka gosht and malpua that you won't find any other time of year. also for the himroo shopping skip the government center and walk a few streets behind it to the actual weaver homes way better prices and theyll show u the loom working if you ask nicely
The guide covers the big sites well, but one thing I'd add is to visit the Grishneshwar Temple near the Ellora Caves. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and draws a steady stream of pilgrims, so the energy there is quite different from the tourist crowd at the caves. The temple closes between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM for rituals, so time it right if you want to go inside. Also, if you are at Bibi Ka Maqbara around sunset, the light on the marble changes quickly and makes for much better photos than the midday glare.
3 Days in Aurangabad: Itinerary 2026
Begin your trip at the central area around Kranti Chowk, where many hotels and eateries are located. From there, you can easily reach the main attractions by auto-rickshaw or taxβ¦ πΊοΈ Where to Start
Begin your trip at the central area around Kranti Chowk, where many hotels and eateries are located. From there, you can easily reach the main attractions by auto-rickshaw or taxi within 15-20 minutes.
ποΈ Day 1: Heritage and Caves
Start early at the Ajanta Caves (about 100 km away, 2 hours by taxi) to beat the crowds. Return to Aurangabad by lunch, then visit the Bibi Ka Maqbara (near Kranti Chowk, open 8 AM to 6 PM, entry βΉ25 for Indians). End the day with a walk around Panchakki, a historic water mill.
π° Day 2: Ellora and Daulatabad
Head to the Ellora Caves (30 km, 45 minutes by taxi) early morning; spend 3-4 hours exploring the Kailasa Temple and other caves. After lunch, visit the Daulatabad Fort (15 km from Ellora, entry βΉ25) for panoramic views. Return to the city by evening.
ποΈ Day 3: Local Markets and Cuisine
Spend the morning at the Aurangabad Caves (just 5 km from city center, free entry) for a quieter experience. Then explore the bustling Sarafa Bazaar for souvenirs like Himroo fabric and bidriware. Try local dishes at Bhoj Restaurant (near Kranti Chowk, meals around βΉ300).
π Getting Around
Auto-rickshaws are the most common transport within the city; fares start at βΉ20 for short rides. For outlying sites like Ajanta and Ellora, hire a prepaid taxi from the stand near Aurangabad Railway Station (around βΉ1500-2000 per day). Buses are cheaper but less frequent.
π½οΈ Best Evening Spots
For dinner, head to the rooftop restaurant at Hotel Panchavati (near Kranti Chowk) for a view of the illuminated Bibi Ka Maqbara. Alternatively, try the street food at the MG Road food stalls, where you can sample pav bhaji and kebabs for under βΉ100.
π‘ Local Prices and Tips
Entry fees for most monuments are βΉ25 for Indians and βΉ300 for foreigners. Carry cash as many smaller vendors don't accept cards. The best time to visit is from November to February when the weather is pleasant.
honestly this is a solid itinerary, i've lived here for a few years and done this exact route multiple times. one thing i'd add is that the ajanta caves are closed on mondays, so make sure day 1 isn't a monday or you'll be stuck at the hotel. also, if you're into photography, bibi ka maqbara looks best in the late afternoon light around 4-5 pm, not morning when it's washed out
for day 2, daulatabad fort has a steep climb and some dark tunnels inside, bring a torch or use your phone flashlight. the view from the top is worth it though, you can see ellora in the distance on a clear day. oh and skip the audio guides at ellora, they're boring, just read the signs or hire a local guide at the entrance for like βΉ500
sarafa bazaar is great for shopping but watch your pockets in the crowded lanes, it gets packed on weekends. for food, i'd actually recommend naandish restaurant near kranti chowk over bhoj, their thali is better and costs about the same. also try the irani chai at lucky restaurant on mg road, it's a local staple
i'd swap day 2 and day 3 honestly, ellora is huge and tiring, you dont want to do daulatabad fort after it. start with daulatabad in the morning when its cooler, then hit ellora around noon, the caves are naturally cool inside. also most auto drivers near kranti chowk will try to overcharge tourists so agree on the fare before getting in, should be βΉ50-60 to bibi ka maqbara max
for the markets, skip the main sarafa lane for bidriware, go to the smaller lanes near kala chowk instead, same stuff for half the price. and if you have time on day 3, walk to the siddharth garden, it's like 10 mins from the caves and has a nice little museum with old coins and stuff, entry is like βΉ10
yeah the guide's pretty spot on tbh, just a heads up that the ajanta caves are a long ride so pack some water and snacks, there's not much to buy near the entrance. also, if you're around on a sunday morning, the himroo weavers in sarafa bazaar sometimes do live demos, it's cool to watch