Aurangabad, located in the northern part of Maharashtra lies at a distance of 375 kms from Mumbai and is considered a city that preserves a rich cultural heritage. Aurangabad is generally referred as the gateway to the ancient caves of Ajanta and Ellora. Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who ruled the country from the place till his death, is credited of building many architectural gems that still adorn the landscape of this historical city of Maharashtra. Moreover, Aurangabad gets its name from Aurangzeb itself and is famous all over the country for the hand woven brocades of gold and silver known as Himroo.


Reaching There
» By Air : The nearest airport is in Aurangabad and is 10 Kms from the city center. Both Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate daily flights to Mumbai which is a major destination for national and international flights.

» By Rail : Aurangabad railway station is easily accessible by rail from Hyderabad (554 km ), Mumbai ( 403 km )and New Delhi ( 1209 km). Regular trains are available on South Central Railway to reach Aurangabad.

» By Road : Aurangabad is well connected with a metal road, which is comfortable and suited to all weathers. The distances for some of the major cities from Aurangabad are Pune (214 km), Nasik (218 km), Indore (402 km) and Mumbai (403 km).


Sightseeing in Aurangabad
» Ajanta and Ellora Caves : The caves of Ajanta and Ellora are located at a comfortable distance from Aurangabad. Aurangabad is the nearest airport and the nearest railhead from Ajanta and Ellora caves thus making former an anchor for the visitors to these caves. These splendid caves are a specimen of the ancient Indian art forms and have been declared as World Heritage sites. Images from Hindu epics and Jataka tales have been exquisitely carved out in these rocks. All the three religions namely Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism have laid claim to the caves. The caves of Ajanta are located at a distance of 110 km from the city of Aurangabad and the Ellora caves are located at a distance of 30 km from Aurangabad.

» Aurangabad Caves : Excavated between the 2nd and 6th century AD, these caves are situated on the fringes of the city of Aurangabad. Tantric influences are depicted in these caves and there are twelve caves in total. Some of the caves portray scenes from Jataka tales where one of the caves houses an imposing sculpture of a Bodhisattva, praying for deliverance.

» Pan Chakki : This is the name given to the indigenuous watermill built by Malik Ambar in the year 1695. It was designed to generate energy from water brought down from a spring on a mountain. A mesmerising garden along with a fish tank around the place serve as a memorial to Malik Ambar, a Sufi saint much respected by Aurangzeb.

» Grishneshwar Temple : This temple is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus and is located in a village named Verul near Ellora caves. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of India, where Lord Shiva is worshiped.

» Bani Begum Gardens : Situated at distance of few kilometres from Aurangabad, lie the Bani Begum Gardens, which encircle the tomb of one of Aurangzeb's queens. Tourists who come to the ancient city of Aurangabad should never miss a chance to visit these well laid gardens known for their lush greenery and soothing ambience.


Shopping in Aurangabad
Aurangabad, an ancient city is well known for its woven Himroo shawls, Mashru and Kimkhab weaves. The Paithani sarees are adorned with a wide variety of semi precious stones displayed in rough, polished and jewelry form which lure women from all parts of the world for their unique charm. One who visits the city of Aurangabad should never miss the chance of buying these sarees and shawls.


Accommodation in Aurangabad
There are various kinds of accommodation facilities available in the city of Aurangabad ranging from budget to luxury category. Some of the hotels mentioned below provide a comfortable stay to the visitors with all the amenities and facilities available.
These are :
» Taj Residency ( 5 Star)
» Ajanta Ambassador ( 5 Star)
» Ambassador Ajanta ( 5 Star)
» Hotel Aurangabad Ashok ( 5 Star)
» Hotel Classic ( 3 Star)