Discover Aurangabad’s finest highlights in one unforgettable day, beginning with the extraordinary Ellora Caves, where ancient Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut masterpieces showcase India’s artistic brilliance. Explore the mighty Daulatabad Fort, famed for its ingenious defenses, dramatic history, and breathtaking hilltop vistas. Continue your journey through the city with visits to the serene Aurangabad Caves, the elegant Mughal monument Bibi Ka Maqbara, and the historic Panchakki watermill. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll uncover stories, legends, and architectural wonders at every stop. This comprehensive tour offers the perfect blend of culture, heritage, and scenic beauty for an enriching day out.
The Best of Ellora & Aurangabad in One Day
Package price On Request
Product Code : AGORA260
8:00 AM: Your day begins with a smooth pickup from your hotel in Aurangabad by your private guide and driver. As you begin your journey, your guide will share an overview of the day’s highlights and the historical significance of Aurangabad and its surrounding heritage sites.
9:00 AM: Arrive at the remarkable Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 34 extraordinary rock-cut temples representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions. Explore the awe-inspiring Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) along with beautifully carved monasteries, shrines, and multi-storey prayer halls. Your guide will explain the architectural techniques, legends, and dynastic influences that shaped this masterpiece-filled complex.
12:00 PM: Continue to the sacred Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 holy Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire the temple’s intricately carved pillars, mythological sculptures, and traditional rituals that reflect centuries of devotion.
Note: Only Hindus may enter the inner sanctum; the temple can be crowded during peak hours.
1:00 PM (Optional): Enjoy an optional lunch break at a nearby restaurant serving fresh and flavourful local cuisine. Your guide can recommend suitable options based on your preferences.
2:00 PM: Proceed to the imposing Daulatabad Fort, one of India’s most extraordinary hilltop fortresses known for its strategic design, spiked gates, moats, and the famous “Andheri” dark passage. Discover the fort’s dramatic past as you explore its layered defenses, ancient structures, and panoramic viewpoints.
3:30 PM: Drive back toward Aurangabad city and visit the ancient Aurangabad Caves, a lesser-known yet fascinating group of Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back to the 6th–7th century. Explore meditation halls, carved sculptures, and chaitya halls while taking in wonderful hillside views of the city.
4:30 PM: Continue to the iconic Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Taj of the Deccan.” This stunning mausoleum was built by Aurangzeb’s son in memory of his mother. Stroll through its landscaped gardens, admire Mughal-style architecture, and capture beautiful photographs with the marble tomb as your backdrop.
5:15 PM: Visit Panchakki, a 17th-century watermill that once powered a flour mill for local pilgrims and travelers. Learn about its ingenious water engineering system, underground channels, and the historical dargah complex surrounding it.
6:00 PM: After a full day of exploring Aurangabad’s most iconic landmarks, heritage sites, and natural wonders, your guide will drop you back at your hotel, concluding a memorable and enriching sightseeing experience.
Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.
English speaking local guide, if option selected.
Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.
Lunch, if option selected.
Bottled water in the car.
Government Taxes.
Camera charges at monuments.
Gratuities and optional activities.
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.