Early morning, Arrive at Aurangabad Airport. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided city tour of Aurangabad. Begin with a visit to the PaniChakki, a 17th-century water mill showcasing the impressive engineering of Malik Ambar, the city's architect. The surrounding garden with fish tanks adds to its charm. Continue to Bibi-ka-Maqbara, often referred to as the ‘Taj of the Deccan’, built by Aurangzeb’s son in memory of his mother, Begum Rabia-ud-Durani. This is the only significant example of Mughal architecture on the Deccan Plateau. Conclude the day with a visit to Aurangabad Caves 7 and 8, belonging to the Mahayana school of Buddhism.
Note: Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays; Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesdays.
Overnight: Aurangabad
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day excursion to the magnificent Ajanta Caves, located approximately 100 km from Aurangabad. Set in a horseshoe-shaped gorge of the Sahyadri Hills, the 30 rock-cut caves date back to the 2nd century BCE. These Buddhist caves, discovered in 1819 by British officers, were carved over 600 years using simple tools like hammers and chisels.
Ajanta served as a spiritual retreat for Buddhist monks and contains intricately carved Chaityas (prayer halls) and Viharas (monasteries). The cave murals, illustrating scenes from the life of the Buddha, are masterpieces of Mahayana Buddhist art and among India’s most precious heritage sites
.Overnight: Aurangabad
After breakfast, proceed to explore the spectacular Ellora Caves, located just 30 km from Aurangabad. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a symbol of religious harmony and features 34 cave temples representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain faiths:
- 12 Buddhist caves (550–750 CE)
- 17 Hindu caves (600–875 CE)
- 5 Jain caves (800–1000 CE)
Among them, Cave 16, the majestic Kailasa Temple, is the largest monolithic structure in the world. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it was sculpted from a single rock over 150 years by thousands of artisans and is a marvel of Dravidian architecture. Also notable is Cave 32, a Jain cave featuring an assembly hall with exquisite lotus motifs and a shrine dedicated to Lord Mahavira, the last Tirthankara.
In the afternoon, visit the formidable Daulatabad Fort, a former capital fortified with intricate defenses and once adorned with Persian tiles. The fort is known for its maze-like design and strategic hilltop location.
Overnight: Aurangabad
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back.
