Aurangabad Maharashtra, India Travel Guide
Get ready for an adventure that combines historical discovery with cultural immersion, leaving you with lasting memories of ancient marvels. This guide assists you in unlocking the secrets of a city rich in stories, ready for your exploration.
Aurangabad’s history traces back to olden days, but its prominence grew significantly under various dynasties. The city’s name itself honors Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal Emperor, who made it hithe nation's capital in the Deccan region during the 17th century.
Before the Mughals, the area was a stronghold for the Yadava dynasty, and then, the Delhi Sultanate. Its strategic location made it a coveted prize for many rulers.
The region surrounding Aurangabad holds even older stories, specifically evident in the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. These sites represent a confluence of religious and artistic expression over more than a millennium. The Ajanta Caves, dating from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE, are Buddhist monasteries and prayer halls. They present a rare glimpse into ancient Indian art, with murals and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha and Jataka tales. These caves show the flourishing Buddhist culture and patronage during that period.
The Ellora Caves, constructed between the 6th and 10th centuries CE, showcase an unique harmony of three major Indian religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. Here, you find temples and monasteries carved side-by-side, demonstrating an impressive tolerance and coexistence. The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora is a pinnacle of rock-cut architecture, a massive multi-story temple carved from a single, gigantic rock. This achievement highlights the engineering prowess and artistic vision of its creators.
Early regional control.
Medieval influence.
Aurangzeb’s capital in the Deccan (17th century).
Continued as regional administrative hub.
Later colonial period.
Later, under the Nizam of Hyderabad, Aurangabad continued as a regional administrative center. The city’s architecture mirrors this a history with many layers, from the grand Mughal tomb of Bibi Ka Maqbara to the medieval fortifications of Daulatabad Fort. Each monument gives a chapter in India’s rich and complex past, making Aurangabad a living museum of historical and cultural evolution.
Ajanta offers a rare glimpse into old Indian art, with murals and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha and Jataka tales.
The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora is a pinnacle of rock-cut architecture, a massive multi-story temple carved from a single, gigantic rock.
Aurangabad’s history is not just about battles and empires; it is also about the enduring power of faith, art, and human endeavor.
Aurangabad has a concentrated dose of India's historical and artistic grandeur. It is a city that gives a calm yet deeply enriching experience, serving as the perfect base for exploring world-class heritage sites.
It is a journey that shows the depth of India’s heritage, delivering both wonder and contemplation.
Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves with exquisite murals and sculptures.
A complex of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut temples, including Kailasa Temple.
Mughal tomb, a smaller architectural marvel known as the 'Taj of the Deccan.'
The city's culinary scene features a blend of Mughlai and Maharashtrian flavors.
Accommodation spans budget guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Local transport utilizes auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs. Visit October to March for ideal weather.
