How to plan your Ajanta Ellora Caves Combo- 2 Day Guided Tour

Are you short on time and want to explore the best of Maharashtra? This two-day guided tour offers a perfect opportunity to visit the UNESCO-listed Ajanta and Ellora cave complexes, the Daulatabad Fort, and the Bibi Ka Maqbara, also known as the “Mini Taj Mahal.” In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your Ajanta Ellora Caves Combo- 2 Day Guided Tour.

Overview

This two-day guided tour offers a hassle-free experience to explore the best of Maharashtra. The tour includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Ajanta and Ellora cave complexes, Daulatabad Fort, and the Bibi Ka Maqbara. A professional guide will accompany you and encourage you to explore at your own pace. The tour also includes climate-controlled round-trip transportation, all admission tickets, and meals.

Itinerary

Here’s a detailed itinerary for the Ajanta Ellora Caves Combo- 2 Day Guided Tour:

Day 1: Ajanta and Daulatabad

The tour will begin at 7:30 AM, and our driver will pick you up from your hotel or any other preferred location in Aurangabad. We’ll then proceed towards the Ajanta Caves, which are situated around 105 kilometers from Aurangabad. It will take around 2.5 hours to reach the Ajanta Caves.

At Ajanta Caves, you’ll explore the Buddhist rock-cut caves that date back to the 2nd century BC. These caves belong to the Mahayana Buddhism sect and are characterized by impressive sculptures and wall paintings that illustrate the life of Buddha.

After the Ajanta Caves, we’ll proceed towards Daulatabad Fort, which is situated around 15 kilometers from the Ajanta Caves. This fort is considered to be one of the most imposing forts in India, and you’ll enjoy exploring the various historical structures within the fort complex.

After the Daulatabad Fort, we’ll return to your hotel in Aurangabad around 5 PM.

Day 2: Ellora and Bibi Ka Maqbara

On the second day, we’ll pick you up from your hotel at 9:00 AM and proceed towards Ellora Caves, which are situated around 30 kilometers from Aurangabad. These caves are known for their unique architecture, which combines Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain elements. You’ll also visit Kailash Temple, which is the centerpiece of the Ellora Caves.

After the Ellora Caves, we’ll proceed towards Bibi Ka Maqbara, which is an epitome of Mughal architecture and is also referred to as the “Mini Taj Mahal.” The monument was built by Aurangzeb in the memory of his wife.

After visiting Bibi Ka Maqbara, we’ll drop you back to your hotel in Aurangabad. The tour ends here with lots of unforgettable memories.

Inclusions

• Round-trip transportation in a climate-controlled vehicle
• Professional guide services
• Admission tickets to all attractions
• Lunch and dinner on day one and breakfast on day two
• All taxes, fees, and handling charges
• Insurance

Meeting/Pick-up Location

We’ll pick you up from your hotel or any other preferred location in Aurangabad. The pickup for day one is at 7:30 AM and for day two is at 9:00 AM.

Additional Information

• Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking.
• If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, please inform us in advance.
• The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, and it may not be suitable for people with mobility issues.
• The tour is conducted in English, but we can arrange guides who speak other languages for an additional charge.

Book the tour here

If you’re interested in experiencing the Ajanta Ellora Caves Combo- 2 Day Guided Tour, you can book it here: https://viator.com/tours/Aurangabad/Ajanta-Ellora-Combo-2-Day-Only-Guided-Tour/d23226-71085P13. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the best of Maharashtra in just two days.

Unveiling an Insider’s Guide to Aurangabad

Are you planning a trip to Aurangabad and looking for more than just the standard itinerary? As a local, I am here to share my insider knowledge and take you on an unforgettable journey through this culturally rich city. Let’s get started:

Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems

Besides the Ajanta Ellora Caves, Aurangabad boasts numerous lesser-known attractions that will add a unique touch to your trip.

First, head to the Bibi Ka Maqbara, a beautiful mausoleum designed to mimic the famous Taj Mahal. Unlike the overcrowded tourist hotspot ‘Taj Mahal,’ here, you can observe the intricate details of the architecture in peace.

Next, visit the Panchakki, an ancient water mill that used hydraulic power to grind grain. Explore the intricate water channels carved with scripts and marvel at the centuries-old engineering that still works today.

Finally, don’t miss visiting the Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum to learn about the Maratha Empire’s significant role in Indian history. You can examine the weapons, armor, paintings, and more significant historical artifacts.

Dining Spots: Savor the Local Cuisine

Aurangabad is renowned for its delectable food, and the biryani is the crowning jewel of the local cuisine. You might have tasted it elsewhere in India, but here you will find it done to perfection. In Aurangabad, try the ‘Naan Qalia,’ a unique dish consisting of succulent mutton served with soft naan bread.

If you are looking for something sweet, try the local dessert, ‘Shira.’ It is made of semolina, ghee, sugar, cardamom, and saffron. You can often find it being served as breakfast.

Cultural Experiences: Embrace Local Traditions

Aurangabad is famous for its celebrations of festivals like the ‘Ellora Ajanta Festival,’ where you can enjoy classical performances of music, dance, and theater under the starry night sky.

Another exciting cultural experience is the Aurangabad Heritage Walk, which takes you through the city’s narrow lanes and provides historical insights into Aurangabad’s architecture and lifestyle.

Local History: Uncovering Fascinating Stories

Behind Aurangabad’s familiar landmarks lies a rich history. One such story is the story of Chand Bibi, the brave 16th-century queen who ruled the Deccan plateau. In 1595, she led the troops in the defense of the Ahmednagar Fort against the formidable Mughal army and thwarted their efforts to capture the fort. The same fort is now a famous tourist spot providing insights into medieval architecture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Go Beyond the Conventional

Do you want to enjoy Aurangabad’s natural beauty off the beaten path? Head towards the nearby Khuldabad village to witness the stunning views of mountains, medicinal waterfalls, and an apple orchard with an aesthetic landscape.

Suppose you want an adrenaline rush. In that case, you could do coracle rides near the Jayakwadi dam located 30 km from Aurangabad. You can enjoy mesmerizing sunsets with a sail over the stunning backwaters of the dam.

In Conclusion:

Aurangabad has much more to offer than the Ajanta Ellora Caves, and its hidden gems will leave you enthralled. Whether it be the scrumptious food, intriguing culture, fascinating history, or the unconventional experiences, Aurangabad has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to this majestic city!