[2025 Aurangabad Attraction] Travel Guide for Ajanta Caves (Updated Apr)

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.

North India: 4. Taj Mahal 5. Agra Fort 6. Sarnath 7. Sarnath Museum 8. Varanasi 9. Ganges Aarti 10. Khajuraho Temples 11. Orchha Fort 12. Rajasthan Forts 13. Jaipur 14. Jantar Mantar 15. Delhi 16. Qutub Minar 17. Thousand Pillar Temple 18. Rani ki Vav 19. Fatehpur Sikri South India: 20. Konark Sun Temple 21. Ajanta Caves 22. Ellora Caves 23. Hampi 24. Belur Temple 25. Halebidu Temple 26. Somnath Temple 27. Elephanta Caves Ellora Caves are located about 25–30 km northwest of Aurangabad, Maharashtra. There are 34 caves, including 12 Buddhist caves, 17 Hindu caves, and 5 Jain caves, stretching for about 2 km. They were inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1983. The Ellora Caves are religious buildings from the 7th to 11th centuries, during the early Chalukya and Rashtrakuta dynasties. The caves are famous for their carvings, which show the characteristics of late Mahayana Buddhism. Cave 16, the Kailasa Temple, is a perfect example of the unity of heaven and humanity, and is a masterpiece of architectural art. Info: Located about 25–30 km northwest of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, there are 34 caves, including 12 Buddhist caves, 17 Hindu caves, and 5 Jain caves, stretching for about 2 km.

Travel guide for Aurangabad, India: 1. Transportation Aurangabad Airport is close to the new city and a little further from the old city. The airport has taxi services at moderate prices. You can also ask your hotel in advance if they offer free airport transfers. In addition, the airport also offers car rental services, which are convenient for tourists to visit nearby attractions. 2. Accommodation Aurangabad offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget hotels to high-end hotels. For budget travelers, you can choose budget hotels located in the city center or close to major attractions. For example, Green Olive Hotel and Hotel Rajwada are both cost-effective options. If you want a more comfortable stay, you can consider high-end hotels such as Vits Aurangabad and Keys Select Hotel Aures. 3. Attractions 1. Ajanta Caves: This is one of the most famous attractions in Aurangabad and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The caves preserve exquisite murals and sculptures, which are treasures of Buddhist art. It is recommended to rent a car to get there, as the road conditions may be bumpy. 2. Ellora Caves: As famous as the Ajanta Caves, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many religious relics here, with grand scale and exquisite architecture. 3. Bibi Ka Maqbara: Known as the "Little Taj Mahal", its design is similar to the Taj Mahal, but on a smaller scale. The tomb is exquisite and elegant, representing the architecture of the Mughal Dynasty. 4. Daulatabad Fort: This is an Indian-style fort located in the western suburbs of Aurangabad. The fort is large, and it takes about 1 hour to walk from the entrance to the top, where you can overlook the scenery of the Deccan Plateau. 4. Food Aurangabad's cuisine combines the characteristics of various parts of India, and you can taste authentic Indian dishes. It is recommended to try local street food or go to local restaurants to taste authentic food. At the same time, you can also choose Chinese restaurants or other international cuisines according to your taste. 5. Precautions 1. Safety: When traveling in India, pay attention to the safety of your personal belongings, especially in crowded places. 2. Diet: Pay attention to food hygiene, try to choose clean restaurants for dining, and avoid raw and cold food. 3. Climate: Aurangabad has a hot climate, so be sure to take sun protection and hydration measures. Also, bring enough drinking water when visiting outdoor attractions such as forts in summer. 4. Cultural etiquette: Understand and respect local culture and etiquette customs to avoid unnecessary trouble. In conclusion, Aurangabad is a city full of history and culture, with many attractions and delicacies worth visiting. When planning your itinerary, you can arrange it reasonably according to your interests and time, and enjoy an unforgettable trip to India.

#getgoing2025 Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra Ancient Cave Temples: The Ajanta and Ellora Caves, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are ancient rock-cut cave temples showcasing Indian rock-cut architecture. Ajanta's Buddhist Art: Ajanta is famous for its murals and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha and Jataka tales. Ellora's Religious Harmony: Ellora features a unique blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain cave temples, showcasing religious harmony. Architectural Marvels: The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora, carved out of a single rock, is an architectural marvel.

📍Location: Approximately 360km northeast of Mumbai. 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: The Ajanta Caves stretch about 600 meters along a cliff and consist of over 30 caves. The caves are divided into early caves from the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE and later caves from the mid-5th century to the 7th century during the Gupta period. 💞Recommended Reason: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ajanta Caves are incredibly impressive. It's a place where you can spend hours admiring the magnificent caves.

It was a most memorable journey by Indian train. Everyone says that riding an Indian train is very exciting.

Happy every time I travel to Ajanta Ellora

The Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Maharashtra, India, are a marvel that transcends time. These rock-cut caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, represent an astonishing fusion of art, history, and spirituality. In this review, we explore the captivating essence of the Ajanta Caves. **Architectural Splendor:** The Ajanta Caves consist of 30 rock-cut Buddhist monastic cells adorned with exquisite paintings, sculptures, and ornate facades. The architecture and artistry of these caves are a testament to the skill and devotion of their creators. **Historical Significance:** The caves offer a glimpse into the life and times of ancient India. They provide insights into Buddhist culture, rituals, and daily life during the Gupta and Vakataka dynasties. **Artistic Marvel:** The cave paintings at Ajanta are unparalleled. They depict stories from the Jataka tales, the life of Buddha, and various other mythological and secular themes. The vibrant colors and intricate details are a testament to the artistic excellence of the time. **Spiritual Aura:** Ajanta's tranquil setting, with caves nestled amidst lush forests, creates a serene and spiritual atmosphere. It's easy to see why monks chose this location for meditation and worship. **Accessibility:** While the caves are a bit remote, they are accessible by road from nearby cities like Aurangabad. The journey to the site adds to the sense of adventure and anticipation. **Preservation Efforts:** Efforts to conserve and protect the Ajanta Caves have been ongoing. Visitors are no longer allowed to take photographs inside the caves to prevent damage to the paintings. **Crowds and Timing:** Due to its popularity, Ajanta Caves can get crowded, especially during tourist seasons. Visiting during weekdays and early morning hours can offer a quieter experience. **Overall Experience:** ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ The Ajanta Caves are a timeless treasure that transports you to ancient India. They are a must-visit for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a profound connection with India's rich cultural heritage. These caves are not just a site to see; they are an experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul, a journey through time and artistry that lingers long after your visit.#timetotravel

Aurangabad India

The Ajanta cave in India was built in 200 BC and gradually abandoned in the 5th century AD. It was accidentally discovered by a British colonist in 1819, allowing the cave to be seen again by the world. Did Master Xuanzang also come here? ! The Journey to the West records Master Xuanzang's journey to India to seek Buddhist scriptures. The description of the geographical environment, architectural structure and stone elephant carvings are consistent with the 16th cave in the Ajanta cave in India. The 29 caves have Buddha, exquisitely carved patterns and murals depicting the life of Buddha. Now most of the murals are still preserved, especially the murals in the 18th cave, which are amazing. This shows that Buddhism was once very prosperous in India.

Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, are the most beautiful and oldest Buddhist caves in the world. They were built in 350 BC by drilling holes in the mountain to create huts, churches, temples, etc. There are 30 caves in total, using only hammers and chisels to drill. Inside the caves, there are beautiful carvings of both Buddhism and Buddha images. Later, the Ajanta Caves became deserted caves covered with vines and trees until 1819 when John Smith, a British soldier, went into the forest to hunt animals until he reached the mountain range of Ajanta village and accidentally discovered this cave. It has become another important place that remains beautiful to this day. For those who want to visit and pay homage to the Buddha images inside the cave and want to take beautiful pictures without being disturbed, it is recommended to go in the morning, the first trip. If there are more tourists and locals, the entrance fee for Thai passports is the same as for Indians.

The Ajanta Caves, a group of Buddhist grottoes hidden in the deep mountains of Aurangabad in central India, were built around the 2nd century BC to the 7th century AD, and are older than the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes in China. Because the traffic is not convenient, this world intangible cultural heritage is relatively unfamiliar to most Chinese people. Even the Chinese materials available on the Internet are scarce, but there are still a lot of beautiful Indian ancients. Buddha statues and murals are amazing! If you have the opportunity to come and see for yourself, you will not have to spend a trip to India. It is really a "living Indian Buddhist site."

The Ajanta Caves are considered by many historians to be the best painting grotto in the world. The art that attracts attention is considered to be the most important representative of ancient Indian murals. Xuan Zang used to pilgrimage to Ajanta in the early 7th century and made the earliest record of it. Ajanta has a total of 30 grottoes, built from the 2nd century BC to the 7th century AD, including 5 temples and 25 meditation rooms, distributed in a semicircle in the valley, which was just Indian Buddhism. In the heyday, carvings and murals were masterpieces, and the entire tour took about 3 hours. Traffic Strategy: It is easy to find a bus to Aurangabad at the Jalgang Bus Station, while the Ajanta Caves are halfway between them and the ticket to Ajanta is 65 rupees. The journey takes one and a half hours, there are many shifts, there is no shift for more than half an hour, and the driver is told before the train, they will call you. Attractions Raiders: The entrance of the Ajanta Caves is on the side of the road. After getting off the bus for 10 rupees, you enter a park and walk to a market to see one. Clock Room, you can store your own large luggage here, 10 rupees (must be stored here with big luggage, no branch), then take a sightseeing car to enter the grotto (air conditioning 20 rupees, no air conditioning 10 Rupee, the two cars are rotated, there is no option), the next car is the scenic ticket office, as always 250 rupees. Ajanta Caves are closed every Monday, please be careful to avoid this time.