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Famous Landmarks in Aurangabad

Famous Landmarks in Aurangabad

Aurangabad Maharashtra, India Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

Aurangabad boasts several WORLD Heritage Sites. The Ajanta Caves (100 km away, 2.5-3 hr drive) feature 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments (2nd BCE - 480 CE), famed for exquisite murals and sculptures depicting Buddha's life and Jataka tales. The Ellora Caves (30 km away, ~1 hr drive) present 34 rock-cut caves (6th-10th CE) of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain faiths. The monumental Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is carved from a single rock, a marvel of ancient architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. Within the city, Bibi Ka Maqbara, the "Taj of the Deccan," is a 17th-century Mughal tomb resembling the Taj Mahal, built by Prince Azam Shah for his mother.

Visitor Essentials

  • Ajanta Caves: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed Mon).
  • Ajanta Fees (Foreigners): ₹600. Guides available.
  • Ellora Caves: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed Tue).
  • Ellora Fees (Foreigners): ₹600. Guides available.
  • Bibi Ka Maqbara: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (daily).
  • Bibi Ka Maqbara Fees (Foreigners): ₹300.

Insider Tips & Best Views

Photography & Viewing

  • Ajanta Caves: Visit in the morning for better natural light. Flash photography is prohibited to protect murals.
  • Ellora Caves: Start with Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) early morning to avoid crowds. Ample natural light.
  • Bibi Ka Maqbara: Early morning or late afternoon light enhances photography. Night photography is also possible.
  • Ajanta Viewpoint: Across the river, it presents a panoramic perspective of the horseshoe-shaped cave complex.
  • All major sites are least crowded early mornings on weekdays.
  • Avoid weekends and Indian public holidays due to larger crowds.

Booking & Tours

  • Consider booking tickets or tours in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Audio guides are available at major cave complexes for self-paced information.
  • Organize transport to Ajanta and Ellora Caves, as they are outside the city.
  • Licensed guides by the doors can provide detailed historical and cultural context. Negotiate rates beforehand.

Browse and book tours for these attractions on GetYourGuide.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum: Displays artifacts related to Maratha history, including weapons and miniature paintings.
  • University Museum (Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University): Exhibits archaeological finds, ancient sculptures, and historical documents from the region.
  • Archaeological Museum (Aurangabad Caves): A smaller museum near the Aurangabad Caves, displaying sculptures and excavated artifacts.
  • Formal art galleries are limited. Local artists might display works at cultural events.

Historical Sites

  • Aurangabad Caves:

    12 Buddhist rock-cut caves (6th-8th CE), smaller but peaceful, offering city views.

  • Daulatabad Fort (Devagiri):

    14th-century hill fort, known for intricate defense mechanisms including a dark winding passage (Bhool Bhulaiya).

  • Old City:

    Explore narrow lanes, classic homes, bustling markets, and historical gates (Kala Darwaza, Delhi Gate, Paithan Gate).

  • Panchakki (Water Mill):

    17th-century engineering marvel using water power to grind grain, with a mosque and Sufi shrine.

  • Religious Sites:

    Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple (near Ellora), Jama Masjid, Shah Ganj Masjid.

Natural Attractions

Aurangabad's natural surroundings offer respite plus possibilities for admiring the local environment.

Green Spaces & Scenic Views

  • Siddharth Garden and Zoo

    A popular local park featuring a small zoo, excellent for families and a pleasant green space within the city.

  • Salim Ali Lake & Bird Sanctuary

    A small lake attracting migratory birds during winter months, offering bird spotting opportunities.

  • Aurangabad Caves

    These caves present panoramic views of the city and surrounding plains from their elevated position.

  • Daulatabad Fort

    The summit of the fort has excellent, sweeping views of the landscape and surrounding countryside.

  • Deccan Traps

    The basaltic rock formations, characteristic of the Deccan Traps, are evident in the rock-cut caves themselves, showing unique geological features.

  • Gautala Autramghat A Wildlife reserve

    Is around 60 km from Aurangabad, this sanctuary is home to various wildlife species, offering viewing opportunities.

Himayat Bagh

A sprawling Mughal garden now housing a nursery and research center, presenting a peaceful retreat less crowded than other sites.

Sunheri Mahal

A small, historical palace converted into a museum, showing local artifacts and paintings, for a quiet cultural stop.

Baradari Khana

An old Mughal era pavilion, often overlooked by tourists, presenting a glimpse into historical leisure architecture.

Explore More with GetYourGuide

Explore and book a variety of tours, tickets, and activities for Aurangabad and its surrounding attractions.

  • Ajanta & Ellora Caves Tours: Guided excursions to these UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Book Here
  • City Sightseeing: Explore Aurangabad's local landmarks with expert guides.
  • Cultural Experiences: Find unique local interactions and workshops.

Hidden Gems

Discovering Aurangabad's less-explored sites has unique perspectives and quieter experiences.

Local Favorites

Explore places rarely visited by tourists, offering an authentic glimpse into local life.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

  • Local Markets: Gulmandi or Gandhi Market offer an authentic glimpse into local life and commerce.
  • Paithan: (56 km away) This ancient city is famed for its exquisite Paithani silk sarees and the Jayakwadi Dam.
  • Paithan has a worthwhile day trip from Aurangabad, featuring a bird sanctuary.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning visuals at these unique locations, especially during golden hours.

Best Photo Spots

  • Sunsets at Bibi Ka Maqbara: The monument looks ethereal in the soft, golden light.
  • Daulatabad Fort: Capture sweeping views of the scenery from the fort's heights.
  • Cave Art: Focus on the intricate carvings and paintings inside Ajanta and Ellora Caves, where permitted.

Himayat Bagh

A sprawling Mughal garden now houses a nursery and research center.

What to Expect

  • A tranquil getaway.
  • Less crowded green space.
  • Historical significance with lush greenery.

Ideal for a quiet afternoon walk or relaxation in the middle of nature.

Sunheri Mahal

A small, historical palace converted into a museum.

What to Expect

  • Showcases local artifacts.
  • Features local paintings.

A quiet cultural stop offering understanding of local art and history.

Baradari Khana

An old Mughal era pavilion, often overlooked by tourists.

What to Expect

  • A glimpse into historical leisure architecture.
  • Quiet and less crowded.
  • Good for architectural photography.

A serene spot to observe Mughal design and enjoy peaceful surroundings.

Emerging Destinations within the Region

Paithan City

Located about 56 km from Aurangabad, this ancient city is renowned for its exquisite Paithani silk sarees.

Jayakwadi Dam

Close to Paithan, this dam is a significant water body. It includes a a protected area for birds, offering opportunities for nature observation.

Worthwhile Day Trip

Paithan has a great choice for a day trip from Aurangabad, combining cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Tips for Exploration

Plan your routes to maximize your time at every location. Stay hydrated, notably in summer. Wear comfortable shoes as many sites involve walking and climbing steps.