The land of Ajanta & Ellora, Aurangabad was named after the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. It is a known historical place in Maharashtra where travellers visit to explore its rustic charm. Aurangabad has earned great popularity due to the famed Ajanta and Ellora caves situated here. These caves are marvellous caretakers of history and overwhelm travellers with their breathtaking sculptures.
Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves remain the most popular lure of Aurangabad. It comprises of around 30 Buddhist caves made out of rocks. These caves belong to 2nd century and remain the most spectacular ancient architecture showcasing the brilliance of Indian art. Ajanta Caves are UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit here and explore its murals, paintings and carvings which take you back into the history.
Bibi Ka Maqbara
This historic tomb was commissioned by Aurangzeb's Son Azam. It has a great resemblance with the Taj Mahal of Agra. Bibi Ka Maqbara is guarded by four minarets and features a series of steps. The mausoleum has been adorned with exquisite marbles, intricate designs and carvings all over.
Daulatabad Fort
Daulatabad Fort remains one of the most undefeatable forts in India. It stands strong at a height of around 200m above the sea level. It features three layers of defensive walls and also a huge pit of fire. Some of the most prominent structures of the fort include Chand Minar, ChiniMahal and Baradari.
Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves house a chain of caves constructed by the Rashtrakuta dynasty of the Buddhist clan and Yadav group of the Jains. This remains one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes on the planet. You can find over 100 caves here 34 of which can be accessed by the public. These include 2 Buddhist (caves 1–12), 17 Hindu (caves 13–29) and 5 Jain (caves 30–34) caves.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas around 30kms from Aurangabad. It is raised using red rocks and flaunts a beautiful pre-historic architectural style. Here you will also find holy water springs. The temple has a distinct south Indian temple architectural style.
How to Reach
By Air: Aurangabad Airport connects with all major cities of India.
By Rail: Aurangabad railway station receives regular trains from all major railway stations across the country.
By Road: Aurangabad has a good road network too with many government and private buses operating here.