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Aurangabad Travel Tips

Aurangabad Travel Tips

Aurangabad Maharashtra, India Travel Guide

Local SIM Cards & Internet

Stay connected with local providers or portable Wi-Fi.

Connectivity Options

  • Major providers: Jio, Airtel, Vodafone Idea. Passport, visa copy, photo needed for purchase.
  • Wi-Fi available in most hotels. Mobile data affordable with local SIM. Consider Airalo for eSIM or Solis Wi-Fi for portable devices.
  • SIM activation can take up to 24 hours.

Language & Translation

Bridge communication gaps with basic phrases and apps.

Phrases & Tools

  • Marathi is the state language, Hindi is national. English understood in tourism.
  • Download Google Translate (offline packs for Hindi/Marathi).
  • Consider language learning from Rosetta Stone.

Essential Phrases

A few words in Hindi or Marathi to enrich your interactions.

Useful Greetings & Questions

  • Hello/Greetings: Namaste (Nah-mah-stay)
  • Thank You: Dhanyawad (Dhunya-wahd) / Aabhaar (Aa-bhaar)
  • How much?: Kitna hai? (Kit-nah hah-ee) / Kiti aahe? (Ki-tee aa-hay)

Business Hours & Banking

Understand local schedules for shops, restaurants, and financial services.

Schedules & Services

  • Shops: Generally 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM.
  • Restaurants: Lunch 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Dinner 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM.
  • Banks: Weekdays 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturdays 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. ATMs are 24/7.

Holidays & Closures

Public & Religious Holidays

  • India has numerous public and religious holidays.
  • Banks, government offices, and some businesses close.
  • Tourist attractions become crowded; transportation services are busier.
  • Check a local calendar for holidays during your travel dates.

Seasonal & Weekly Closures

  • Ajanta Caves close Mondays, Ellora Caves close Tuesdays.
  • Summer (April-June) intense heat; outdoor activities might reduce hours.
  • Tourist attractions remain open year-round otherwise.
  • Always confirm specific site operating hours before your visit.

Quick Check

Always have copies of your passport and visa for SIM card purchases. Check business hours for attractions and businesses, especially around public holidays.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigate local customs with consideration and awareness for a harmonious experience.

Greeting Customs

"Namaste" or "Namaskar" with palms pressed together shows respect. Handshakes are common with men; wait for women travelers to offer a hand.

Appropriate Attire

Modest dress is appreciated, specifically at religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). Revealing clothing is generally frowned upon.

Photography

Always ask permission before photographing people. Flash photography is often not allowed in caves to protect ancient paintings.

Dining & Tipping

Understand local customs related to meals and gratuities.

Dining Practices

  • Eat with your right hand, especially for traditional Indian meals.
  • Do not waste food.
  • Tipping (5-10%) is customary in sit-down restaurants.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Be aware of cultural sensitivities to show respect.

Cultural Sensitivities

  • Avoid public displays of affection.
  • Do not point with your foot or touch people/objects with your feet.
  • Do not touch anyone's head.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Considerations

  • Women dress modestly.
  • Solo female travelers exercise caution, after sunset in particular.
  • Staring is common but usually harmless.

LGBTQ+ Travel

  • Homosexuality has been decriminalized inside India.
  • Public acceptance varies.
  • Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, being discreet is advisable.

Communication

Always approach with an open mind and a smile.

Accessibility Information

Planning travel for individuals with mobility challenges in Aurangabad.

Infrastructure Overview

Accessibility infrastructure in Aurangabad is still developing.

Mobility Challenges

  • Limited infrastructure for mobility challenges.
  • Many historical sites, including caves, are not wheelchair accessible due to steps and uneven terrain.
  • Newer hotels and some shopping malls may have ramps and elevators.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

Certain places offer easier access; private transport is a solution.

Travel Solutions

  • Bibi Ka Maqbara: Relatively flat grounds, though the tomb itself has steps.
  • Kailasa Temple (Ellora): Much of the compound ground is flat once inside.
  • Arrange a private car with a driver that meets specific needs; communicate requirements in advance.

Visual or Hearing Impairments

Specialized services for these needs are limited.

Support & Advice

  • Not many specialized services.
  • Travel with a companion or join an organized tour for assistance.
  • Directly contact hotels or attractions to inquire about specific support.

Resources for Accessibility

Information resources dedicated to accessibility in Aurangabad are scarce.

Finding Information

  • Limited specific resources for Aurangabad accessibility.
  • General accessible travel guides for India may offer some advice.
  • In direct contact with venues is the best way to gather current accessibility details.

Airport Services

Lounge Access

  • Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access.
  • Offers comfort during layovers or before flights.
  • A relaxing pre-flight experience for regular travelers.

Flight Compensation

  • If flights are delayed/cancelled, seek compensation.
  • Services like Compensair assist with claims.
  • Useful for refused entry onto the plane situations.

Important Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 100
  • Fire: 101
  • Ambulance: 102

Medical Facilities

  • Several hospitals in Aurangabad city.
  • Pharmacies are widely available.
  • For non-emergencies, ask your accommodation for clinic recommendations.

Accessibility Preparation

For travelers with mobility needs, advanced planning and direct communication with service providers or attractions are essential to ensure a comfortable and accessible trip.