Aurangabad

About Aurangabad

A historic city in the state of Maharashtra, Aurangabad is famous for its magnificent Mughal-era architecture, ancient Buddhist caves, medieval monuments, traditional crafts and rich cultural heritage. The city, at the heart of the Deccan, is a significant place in the history of Maharashtra and is closely linked with the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, the namesake of the city. The city has two of the most important places of interest in India, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Over centuries, these cave complexes have been carved into rock and include amazing statues, paintings, temples and monasteries of the Buddhist, Hindu and Jain faiths. The famous Kailasa Temple at Ellora is notable for being carved out of a single rock.
Aurangabad is also blessed with some remarkable heritage sites like Bibi Ka Maqbara, known as the "Taj of the Deccan", and the medieval Daulatabad Fort, which stands majestically above the rest of the landscape. The city is also known for its traditional Himroo textiles and Paithani weaving, which are also a part of its heritage. Present-day Aurangabad provides a unique blend of history, architecture, archaeology, handicrafts and Maharashtrian cuisine. Visitors can go through the ancient caves, imposing forts, Mughal monuments, historic gates and traditional markets and discover the cultural heritage of the Deccan. Historical, architectural, archaeological, photographic, cultural and crafts people are all well catered for at Aurangabad.

Best Time to Visit Aurangabad

October to March is the best time to visit Aurangabad as the weather is milder, making it easier to enjoy the city's monuments, caves, forts and other attractions. The very cold winter time is ideal for visiting Ajanta and Ellora and spending time outdoors.
Early morning and late afternoon hours are more pleasant to see the sights in the summer (April-June) when it can be very hot. July – September is the monsoon season, and during this time it rains, which means that the environment is greener and lusher, but may affect outdoor visits to the caves and forts.

Aurangabad: Places, Experiences & Food

Places to Visit in Aurangabad

• Ajanta Caves
• Ellora Caves
• Kailasa Temple
• Bibi Ka Maqbara
• Daulatabad Fort
• Panchakki
• Aurangabad Caves
• Soneri Mahal
• Goga Baba Hill
• Salim Ali Lake
• Himayat Bagh
• Jama Masjid
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum
• Siddharth Garden
• Bhadkal Gate
• Delhi Gate
• Paithan
• Jayakwadi Dam
• Grishneshwar Temple
• Pitalkhora Caves
• Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary

Things to Do in Aurangabad

• Explore the ancient Ajanta Caves
• Magnificent rock-cut temples of Ellora
• Admire the Kailasa Temple at Ellora
• Explore the historic Daulatabad Fort
• Bibi Ka Maqbara, the famous Mughal monument
• Explore the ancient Aurangabad Caves
• Panchakki and learn about historic water-management system
• Historic gates of Aurangabad
• Discover traditional Himroo weaving
• Shop for authentic Himroo textiles
• Paithani sarees and traditional weaving
• Visit local handicraft markets
• Take a day trip to Paithan
• Visit Jayakwadi Dam
• Grishneshwar Temple near Ellora
• Buddhist heritage of the Deccan
• Explore the ancient Pitalkhora Caves
• Visit Soneri Mahal
• Panoramic views from Goga Baba Hill
• Rock-cut architecture at Ajanta and Ellora
• Heritage tour through Aurangabad's historic sites
• Explore the city's Marathwada food culture
• Aurangabadi and Maharashtrian cuisine

What to Eat in Aurangabad

• Naan Qalia
• Aurangabadi Biryani
• Tahari Pulao
• Mutton Qorma
• Marathwada-style Mutton Curry
• Shev Bhaji
• Bhakri with Mutton Curry
• Seekh Kebab
• Shikampuri Kebab
• Boti Kebab
• Haleem
• Dahi Wada
• Misal Pav
• Sabudana Vada
• Puran Poli
• Bharli Vangi
• Kesar Shrikhand
• Basundi
• Kulfi