Explore Aurangabad, the cultural heart of India, and unlock the ultimate travel guide
Aurangabad, a city located in central Maharashtra, is like a shining pearl hidden in the long river of Indian history, exuding a unique and charming cultural charm. Located 330 km east of Mumbai, its strategic location makes it an excellent gateway to explore India's diverse culture.
1. Head to Aurangabad
- Geographical location: Located in the central part of Maharashtra, at the core of Indian cultural integration, it is an ideal place to experience the charm of Indian culture.
- Transportation: From Mumbai, take the Duronto Express, which takes only 4.5 hours, and you can enjoy the scenery of India along the way in a comfortable journey; if you want to save time, take a direct flight in just 1 hour, easily starting your cultural journey.
- Best season: October to March is the best time to visit Aurangabad. The climate is cool and pleasant, and all the famous caves are open, allowing you to fully appreciate the historical charm of this city.
2. Top 5 must-visit epic attractions
Ellora Caves: This is a breathtaking artistic wonder. The 34 caves bring together the essence of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, and can be called a cultural holy place where the three religions converge. Among them, the Kailasa Temple in Cave 16 is even more stunning. Its magnificent architectural scale and exquisite carving craftsmanship are enough to make every visitor's legs go weak. Let me tell you in secret: there is a secret passage here. You can enter by finding the secret door with a carving of dancing Shiva. However, this secret is usually only known by local tour guides!
Ajanta Caves: Ajanta Caves is like a treasure house of art. The mural of "Bodhisattva Holding a Lotus Flower" in Cave 1 shows the Bodhisattva's expression vividly, and the colors are still bright and eye-catching after thousands of years. The Nirvana Buddha statue in Cave 26 is serene and peaceful, as if telling the ancient Buddhist principles. When visiting, please be sure to note that the museum is closed on Mondays. Remember to bring a flashlight so that you can appreciate the details of the murals and Buddha statues more clearly.
Bibi Ka Maqbara (Little Taj Mahal): Known as the "Little Taj Mahal", this building costs only one-seventh of the Taj Mahal, but it exudes the same charming charm. At sunrise, the sunlight shines on the building and is reflected in the clear water, creating a beautiful picture. When taking photos, wear a solid-colored long skirt with the Mini Taj Mahal as the background, and every shot will be a blockbuster.
Daulatabad Fort: For travelers who like challenges, Daulatabad Fort is definitely a place not to be missed. Climb the five-story fortifications to experience the wisdom and majesty of ancient military architecture; enter the bat secret passage and experience a thrilling adventure. However, please note that some of the steps in the castle are inclined at 70°, so those who are afraid of heights should proceed with caution.
Paithan, a hand-woven village: A one-hour drive from Aurangabad will take you to Paithan, a hand-woven village full of artistic atmosphere. Here, you can learn to weave Paithani silk, which is exclusive to the royal family, and experience the unique charm of traditional handicrafts. You might as well be bolder when bargaining. Start by halving the price, and then try to reduce it by 20%. You might get an unexpected surprise.
3. Deccan Plateau on the Tip of the Tongue
Bhoj Thali (Imperial Set Meal): If you want to experience the dining experience of an emperor, you must try the imperial set meal of Bhoj Thali. Jowar Bhakri whole grain pancakes are paired with spicy and rich mutton stew. Every bite is full of the unique flavor of the Deccan Plateau, allowing your taste buds to immerse in this gourmet feast.
Hatti Fast Food Restaurant: This fast food restaurant is a popular local snack bar. The god-level snack Mirchi Pakoda fried green pepper is definitely not to be missed. The fried green peppers are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, paired with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce. When you take a bite, the spicy and cool flavors intertwine in your mouth, creating a rich and memorable experience.
Night Market Naan Khaliya: When night falls, the night market Naan Khaliya becomes lively. The soft and glutinous beef tendon stewed with saffron is full of flavor in the rich soup; the clay pot milk tea exudes the mellow aroma of milk and tea, adding a touch of warmth and comfort to your night.
4. Blockbuster Shooting Guide
Silhouette of the Ellora Caves Arch: At 4 pm, the sunlight shines obliquely through the arch of the Ellora Caves, forming a beautiful silhouette. Taking pictures at this time can add a mysterious and unique atmosphere to the photos.
Reflection in the mirror pool of the Little Taj Mahal: Standing in front of the mirror pool of the Little Taj Mahal, with the building and reflection as the background, you can easily take beautiful photos, as if you are in a dream world.
360° cliff view from the top of the fort: Climb to the top of Daulatabad Fort and overlook the surrounding cliffs. The 360° wide field of view allows you to take in the magnificent natural scenery and take magnificent photos.
Colorful loom matrix in the silk workshop: Walking into the silk workshop in Paithan hand-weaving village, you will see colorful looms arranged neatly to form a unique matrix. Taking photos with it as the background is full of rich artistic atmosphere.
Close-up of cave murals + hand interaction: Get close to the cave murals, take close-ups of them, and then cleverly add hand interactions to make the photos more story-telling and interesting.
5. Accommodation Red List
Heritage lovers: Lemon Tree Hotel, which has a swimming pool with a view of the grottoes. While you are swimming, you can also take in the ancient grottoes and feel the perfect fusion of history and modernity.
Literary style: The Meadows, a colonial-style garden villa, is full of literary atmosphere. Strolling through the garden, it feels like traveling back in time to old times, enjoying a peaceful and relaxing stay.
Backpackers: Zostel not only offers rooftop yoga where you can relax your body and mind, but also local cooking classes where you can gain an in-depth understanding of the local food culture. It is a great place for backpackers to communicate and relax.
6. Survival Guide
No food is allowed in the grotto area, but you can hide some energy bars in case of emergency.
If girls want to climb the castle, it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes, which can not only ensure safety but also allow you to enjoy the fun of adventure more easily.
Every Thursday night, you can go to the Gurudwara Temple to participate in the Dāntaṭhāra ceremony, feel the solemn religious atmosphere, pray with the locals, and experience unique cultural customs.
When taking a tuk-tuk, be sure to ask for "by meter" in advance and pay according to the meter to avoid being ripped off.
The scenic area is very dusty, so remember to carry wet wipes with you to keep it clean at all times.
7. Royal-level souvenirs
Paithani silk sarees (look for the golden peacock pattern): Paithani silk sarees are the favorite of the Indian royal family. Look for the iconic golden peacock pattern. Its exquisite craftsmanship and gorgeous patterns are very suitable for wearing yourself or giving as gifts to relatives and friends.
Ebony miniature cave carvings: The essence of the Ellora Caves and Ajanta Caves is concentrated in the ebony carvings, which are small, exquisite and highly commemorative, making them ideal for collection and gift giving.
Ajanta mural replica notebook: The exquisite Ajanta murals are reproduced in a notebook, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of this ancient art anytime and anywhere, and record every detail of your trip.
Tibetan medicine spice bag (miraculous for treating joint pain): The Tibetan medicine spice bag has magical effects. It can not only relieve joint pain, but also has a unique aroma. It is a practical and special souvenir.
Aurangabad, a city that houses a world heritage site more stunning than the Taj Mahal, brings together the essence of three thousand years of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain civilizations.