Your Guide to Exploring Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad)

Aurangabad Airport (IXU) has flights connecting major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad.

Nearest major airport: Pune (236 km) or Mumbai (350 km) for more connectivity.

Well-connected via NH 52 & NH 753.

Mumbai to Aurangabad: 6-7 hours drive (350 km).

Pune to Aurangabad: 5-6 hours drive (236 km).

From Mumbai/Pune: Train or Flight (fastest and convenient).

From nearby cities: Bus or private taxi is a good option.

Auto-rickshaws & Taxis (Convenient for short distances).

City Buses (Budget-friendly but less frequent).

Rental Cars & Bikes (Great for exploring attractions at your own pace).

April – June (Very hot; not suitable for travel).

July – September (Monsoon; caves may be slippery).

Summers (March–June): 25°C – 42°C (Extremely hot).

Monsoon (July–September): 20°C – 30°C (Moderate rainfall).

Winters (November–February): 10°C – 25°C (Pleasant & cool).

3-4 days

Day 1: Explore Ajanta Caves and soak in the ancient Buddhist artistry.

Day 2: Visit Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar Temple, and Daulatabad Fort for a blend of religion and history.

Day 3: Discover Bibi-ka-Maqbara, shop for Paithani Sarees, and relish Mughlai cuisine.

₹2,000–₹10,000+ per day

Budget Travelers: ₹2,000–₹4,500 per day (budget hotels, local transport, street food).

Mid-Range Travelers: ₹5,000–₹8,000 per day (3-star hotels, guided tours, restaurant dining).

Luxury Travelers: ₹10,000+ per day (heritage hotels, private transport, fine dining).

Aurangabad offers options for all types of travelers. Budget-friendly stays and local street food make it an affordable city, while luxury heritage hotels and private tours add comfort for those willing to splurge.

Marathi (Primary language), Hindi and English are widely spoken. Urdu is also spoken by the local Muslim population.

Fake or Unofficial Guides (Ajanta–Ellora), People approach tourists claiming to be “government-approved” guides without ID and quote inflated prices. Some also share incorrect historical info.
Overcharging Auto-Rickshaws & Taxis, Meters are often refused, especially near railway station, airport, and monuments. Tourists are quoted 2–3× local rates.
Ellora/Ajanta Transport Bundling Scam, Drivers promise “full-day package” including waiting time, but later demand extra money claiming parking, overtime, or toll charges.
Fake Handicrafts & Paithani Silk, Low-quality powerloom saris or machine-made souvenirs sold as “authentic Paithani” at premium prices.
Hotel-to-Guide Commission Trap, Some budget hotels push specific drivers/guides who inflate costs and split commission—resulting in poor service and higher prices.
Temple Donation Pressure (Grishneshwar Area), Self-proclaimed priests insist on compulsory puja or donation and may block access unless paid.
Parking Fee Scam near Monuments, Unauthorized people collect parking money near Ellora, Bibi Ka Maqbara, or Daulatabad without issuing receipts.
“Closed Section” Entry Scam, At Ajanta/Ellora, someone claims parts are closed and offers “special access” for a fee—this is false.
Fake Travel Agents near Station, Agents offering cheap Ajanta–Ellora tours or hotels disappear after taking advance payments.