1. Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Aurangabad, is a remarkable rock-cut complex featuring 34 caves carved between the 6th and 10th centuries. Showcasing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples and monasteries, the site is best known for the stunning Kailasa Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This architectural marvel, entirely hewn from a single rock, highlights ancient India's artistic and engineering brilliance. Ellora attracts history and architecture enthusiasts worldwide, making it a must-visit cultural and heritage destination.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 06:00 PM (Closed on Tuesday's)
Entry Fee: Rs. 40/-
2. Daulatabad Fort (Devgiri Fort)
Daulatabad Fort, located near Aurangabad, is a historic hilltop fortress known for its formidable defenses and strategic importance. Originally called Devagiri, it was renamed Daulatabad (meaning "City of Fortune") by Muhammad bin Tughlaq in the 14th century when he briefly made it the capital of the Delhi Sultanate. The fort is famous for its intricate architecture, massive walls, steep pathways, and a unique defense system, including a maze-like entrance to confuse enemies. It offers breathtaking views and is a popular tourist attraction showcasing India's rich medieval history.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 10/-
3. Bhadra Maruti Temple
Bhadra Maruti Temple is a famous Hindu shrine, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is one of the few temples where Hanuman is depicted in a reclining or sleeping posture. According to legend, Hanuman went into a deep meditative state here after hearing the devotional songs of King Bhadrasena, a great devotee of Lord Rama. The temple attracts devotees, especially during Hanuman Jayanti and Ashwin Chaturdashi, making it a significant spiritual destination in the region.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Aurangabad, are a group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Renowned for their stunning murals, intricate sculptures, and detailed frescoes, these caves depict Jataka tales and Buddhist teachings. Carved into a horseshoe-shaped rock face, Ajanta served as a monastic retreat for Buddhist monks. The caves showcase a blend of Therav?da and Mah?y?na art, making them a significant cultural and historical landmark.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 05:00 PM (Closed on Monday's)
Entry Fee: Rs. 35/-
5. Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, located near Ellora Caves, is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is considered the last Jyotirlinga in the series and holds great spiritual significance. The temple, built in red basalt stone, showcases beautiful carvings and intricate architecture. It is closely associated with the legends of Goddess Parvati and devotee Kusuma. Pilgrims visit this sacred site for blessings and to witness its deep-rooted historical and religious importance, especially due to its proximity to the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 08:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
6. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum in Aurangabad, is a historical museum showcasing the rich heritage of the Maratha Empire and Mughal era. Established in honor of the great Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the museum houses artifacts, weapons, coins, paintings, and rare manuscripts related to his life and times. It also features exhibits on local history, including the Mughal and Nizam periods. The museum provides valuable insights into Aurangabad's cultural and historical significance, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Timings: 10:30 AM to 06:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 85/-
7. Bibi Ka Maqbara
Bibi Ka Maqbara is a stunning mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s son, Azam Shah, in 1668 in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum. Often called the "Taj of the Deccan," it resembles the famous Taj Mahal but on a smaller scale. The monument features intricate Mughal architecture, a grand dome, and beautifully landscaped gardens. It stands as a symbol of love and Mughal craftsmanship, attracting tourists with its historical significance and elegant design.
Timings: 08:00 AM to 08:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 25/-
8. Soneri Mahal
Soneri Mahal is a historic palace located in Aurangabad. Built in the late 17th century by a Bundela Rajput chief, it is known for its golden-painted frescoes, which gave it the name "Soneri" (meaning golden). The palace is now a museum displaying ancient artifacts, sculptures, and paintings from the Mughal and Maratha periods. Set against the backdrop of the Aurangabad caves, it offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural heritage.
Timings: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 10/-
9. Aurangabad Caves
The Aurangabad Caves are a group of 12 rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to the 6th–7th century CE. Carved into soft basalt rock, these caves showcase intricate sculptures, detailed carvings, and stunning Buddhist iconography, including depictions of Bodhisattvas and celestial figures. Divided into two main groups—Western (Caves 1–5) and Eastern (Caves 6–10)—they reflect the influence of Mahayana Buddhism. The caves are less crowded than Ajanta and Ellora but offer a serene and historically rich experience for travelers.
Timings: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 10/-
10. Panchakki
Panchakki, also known as the Water Mill, is a historic site in Aurangabad. Built in the 17th century, it is an engineering marvel that uses water power to grind grain for pilgrims. The system channels water from a distant spring through underground pipes to drive a grinding mill. The site also features a serene garden, a mosque, and the tomb of a Sufi saint, Baba Shah Musafir. Panchakki is a popular tourist attraction, showcasing medieval technology and Mughal-era architecture.
Timings: 07:00 AM to 08:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 5/-
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