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Aurangābād

Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India

Journey Through Time in Aurangabad: Caves, Forts, and Mughal Grandeur Aurangabad, a city steeped in history and adorned with architectural marvels, beckons travellers seeking a taste of India's rich heritage. More than …

#Historical sites#Cultural heritage#Archaeological monuments#Tourist destination#Maharashtra attractions

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Aurangābād.

Top Hotels in Aurangābād

Top Flights to Aurangābād

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Aurangābād.

Tours

Explore Ellora Caves

Discover the ancient rock-cut caves of Ellora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing stunning architecture and spiritual history.

Bibi Ka Maqbara Visit

Visit the majestic Bibi Ka Maqbara, known as the 'Taj of the Deccan', and explore its beautiful gardens and Mughal architecture.

Ajanta Caves Excursion

Take a day trip to the Ajanta Caves, another World Heritage Site known for its detailed frescoes and ancient murals.

Panchakki Tour

Explore the historical Panchakki, a water mill showcasing engineering brilliance from the Mughal era.

Siddharth Garden and Zoo Tour

A relaxing day spent at Siddharth Garden, an oasis of greenery and a small zoo.

Shopping

Shopping at Connaught Market

Enjoy a shopping spree at Connaught Market, offering a variety of local goods and eateries.

Shopping at Prozone Mall

Experience modern retail therapy at Prozone Mall with a variety of international and local brands.

Outdoor

Hiking at Daulatabad Fort

Embark on a trek to Daulatabad Fort, an architectural marvel with an illustrious history.

Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary Visit

Visit the Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary for a serene bird-watching experience amidst nature.

Goga Baba Hill Trek

Trek the Goga Baba Hill to enjoy panoramic views of Aurangabad and lush landscapes.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Aurangābād.

Currency
₹ | INR | Indian Rupee
Population
Information not available.
Languages
Marathi, Hindi, Urdu, English
Average weather
Aurangābād
Jan
clear
29°11°
Feb
clear
31°13°
Mar
hot
35°17°
Apr
hot
38°21°
May
hot
40°24°
Jun
rain
34°24°
Jul
rain
30°23°
Aug
rain
29°22°
Sep
rain
30°22°
Oct
cloud
31°20°
Nov
clear
30°16°
Dec
clear
28°12°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Aurangābād.

What people love

Traveling to Aurangābād in the state of Maharashtra, India, offers a variety of attractions and experiences that make it a worthwhile destination. Here are some of the pros of visiting Aurangābād:

  1. Historical Significance: Aurangābād is steeped in history and is known for its historical monuments. It was named after the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and served as an important city during his reign.

  2. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The city is a gateway to the famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Ajanta Caves are renowned for their ancient Buddhist frescoes and sculptures, while the Ellora Caves are famous for their monumental rock-cut architecture representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions.

  3. Bibi Ka Maqbara: Often referred to as the "Taj of Deccan," this mausoleum was built by Aurangzeb's son, Azam Shah, in memory of his mother. It resembles the Taj Mahal and is a significant attraction in Aurangābād.

  4. Daulatabad Fort: Located a short distance from the city, this formidable medieval fort is known for its strategic importance and architectural brilliance. It's a great spot for history buffs and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

  5. Cultural Diversity: Aurangābād is a melting pot of cultures and religions, offering a variety of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore different cuisines, festivals, and traditional crafts.

  6. Panchakki: This is an ancient water mill that demonstrates the ingenuity of medieval Indian engineering. It's an interesting site that shows how water power was harnessed for grinding grain.

  7. Grishneshwar Temple: Located near the Ellora Caves, this is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

  8. Local Cuisine: Aurangābād offers a range of delectable dishes, influenced by Mughal and local culinary traditions. You'll find a variety of biryanis, kebabs, and sweets unique to the region.

  9. Accessibility: The city is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it accessible from major cities in India. This ease of access adds to its appeal as a travel destination.

  10. Shopping: Aurangābād is famous for its Himroo and Paithani sarees, which are beautiful examples of traditional Indian textiles. The city's markets offer a variety of local handicrafts and textiles that are perfect for shopping enthusiasts.

Overall, Aurangābād is a city that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture, making it an attractive destination for travelers interested in exploring India's heritage.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Aurangābād in Maharashtra, India, include:

  1. Extreme Weather: Aurangābād experiences hot summers with temperatures reaching over 40 degrees Celsius, which can be uncomfortable for travelers not accustomed to such high heat.

  2. Monsoon Season: The monsoon season in Aurangābād, typically from June to September, can bring heavy rainfall and potential flooding, which may disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities.

  3. Crowded Tourist Sites: Popular attractions in Aurangābād, such as the Ajanta and Ellora caves, can get crowded with tourists, especially during peak travel seasons, leading to long queues and difficulty in enjoying the sites peacefully.

  4. Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, travelers may encounter communication challenges in more remote or local areas where the local language, Marathi, is predominantly spoken.

  5. Health Concerns: Travelers to Aurangābād should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and malaria, as well as ensure they have access to clean drinking water to avoid waterborne diseases.

  6. Infrastructure: Some areas in Aurangābād may have limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities, which could affect the quality of accommodation, transportation, and overall travel experience.

It's important to note that these cons are general considerations and may vary depending on individual preferences and circumstances. It's advisable to research further and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Aurangābād.

Aurangābād, located in the state of Maharashtra, India, is a city with a rich and varied history, marked by its significance in the Deccan region and its cultural heritage.

Early History

  • Foundation: The city was originally known as Khadki, founded in 1610 by Malik Ambar, a prominent minister of the Nizam Shahi dynasty of Ahmadnagar. Malik Ambar was an Ethiopian slave who rose to prominence in the Deccan region.
  • Renaming and Expansion: In 1653, the city was renamed Aurangābād by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb when he was appointed Viceroy of the Deccan. He used the city as a base to consolidate Mughal power in the region.

Mughal Era

  • Aurangzeb's Rule: Under Aurangzeb, Aurangābād became an important military and administrative center. He constructed several structures, including the Bibi Ka Maqbara, a mausoleum resembling the Taj Mahal, built in memory of his wife, Dilras Banu Begum.
  • Cultural Influence: The Mughal influence brought Persian culture and architecture to the city, which is evident in the monuments and the city’s layout.

Post-Mughal Period

  • Nizam's Rule: After the decline of the Mughal Empire, Aurangābād became part of the Hyderabad State under the Nizams. The city continued to flourish as a center of trade and culture.
  • Colonial Period: During British rule, Aurangābād was part of the princely state of Hyderabad until the integration of princely states into the Indian Union in 1948.

Modern Era

  • Post-Independence: After India gained independence, Aurangābād became part of the newly formed Maharashtra state in 1960. The city saw rapid industrial growth in the late 20th century.

Significant Landmarks

  • Bibi Ka Maqbara: Often called the "Taj of the Deccan," it is one of the most famous landmarks in the city.
  • Aurangabad Caves: These are a set of 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries.
  • Daulatabad Fort: Located nearby, this fort is known for its strategic location and formidable defenses.
  • Panchakki: An ancient water mill that showcases the engineering skills of the time.

Important Figures

  • Malik Ambar: The founder of the city, known for his administrative acumen and for introducing guerrilla warfare tactics.
  • Aurangzeb: The Mughal emperor who expanded the city and left a lasting architectural legacy.

Cultural Impact

Aurangābād has been a melting pot of cultures due to its historical significance and location. The city's cuisine, architecture, and festivals reflect a blend of Hindu, Muslim, and other cultures.

Today, Aurangābād is a bustling urban center, known for its historical monuments, educational institutions, and as a gateway to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Aurangābād continues to hold importance both as a historical city and as a modern industrial hub in Maharashtra.