Aurangabad, a medieval city named after Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, is immensely blessed with beauty, culture, ancient caves and sanctity. The places to visit in Aurangabad attract a heap of national as well as international tourists every year. Regarded as one of Maharstra’s perfect weekend getaways, this quaint medieval city is a perfect city to explore with your friends, family or alone.You may recall Aurangabad from the beautiful and famous Bibi ka Maqbara but it’s not the only place that puts this city in Maharashtra on map. There are so many other attractions, historically important and admirable, that deserve your time and attention on your vacation.
Top 30 Places To Visit In Aurangabad Maharashtra
Here is a list of top Aurangabad places to visit that are absolutely worth visiting for an enthralling vacation like never before. Some of these places show excellent Mughal architecture and hold some religious significance that will give you a great insight into the history and heritage of Aurangabad. Let’s get started!
- Ajanta & Ellora Caves – To Seek Enlightenment
- Bibi Ka Maqbara – A Replica Of Taj Mahal
- Daulatabad Fort – One Of The Seven Wonders Of Maharashtra
- Grishneshwar Temple – For A Divine Holiday
- Pitalkhora Caves – Buddhist Architecture
- Siddharth Garden and Zoo – A Famous Picnic Spot
- Shivaji Maharaj Museum – Relish The History
- Goga Baba Hill – For Some Peace & Tranquility
- Sunheri Mahal – The Purest Form Of Royal Architecture
- Gul Mandi – For Shopaholics
- Bani Begum Garden – Marvel At The Mughal Architecture
- Panchakki – An Ideal Hangout Spot For Picnickers
- Khuldabad – The Valley Of Saints
- Salim Ali Lake – Ideal For Bird-Watching
- Bhadra Maruti – An Ancient Temple
- Himroo Factory – For Ancient Handweaving
- Dargah Of Pir İsmail – In The Memory Of Pir Ismail
- Killa Arak – The Throne Room Of Aurangzeb
- Jayakwadi Dam – A beautiful sightseeing spot
- Aurangabad Caves – For A Religious Tour
- Connaught Place – For A shopping Spree
- Jama Mosque – A Religious Structure
- Dargah Baba Shah Musafir – In Memory Of Baba Shah Musafir
- Himayat Bagh – A Natural Wonder
- Naukhanda Palace – An Ancient Architecture
- Zainuddin Shirzai’s Maqbara – An Historic Affair
- Lonar Crater Lake – Serene Spot
- Parli Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple – Seek Blessings
- Prozone Mall – Shop Till You Drop
- Tulja Bhavani Temple – A Blend Of Architecture & Religion
-
1. Ajanta & Ellora Caves
Image Source
Murals, paintings, and carvings on the walls of these caves represent three different religions, namely Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism, it is one of the best tourist places in Aurangabad. Historians believe that ancient Buddhist monks used these caves for seeking enlightenment. The Ajanta Caves itself have around 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments while Ellora Caves have around 34 cave monuments.
The Kailasa in Ellora Cave 16 is regarded as the world’s largest megalith unearthing, which is carved out of a single rock. It is a splendid epitome of Dravidian architecture showcasing the skilled workmanship of that period. Other prominent caves that are popular among tourists include Vishwakarma (cave 10) Dashavatara ( cave 15), Rameshvara (cave 21) and IndraSabha (cave 32), these caves are also amongst one of the best places to visit near Shirdi.Location: Ellora Cave Rd, Ellora, Maharashtra 431102
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: NAMust Read: 6 Best Places For Water Sports In Maharashtra You Must Experience In 2020!
2. Bibi Ka Maqbara
Image Source
Bibi Ka Maqbara is a replica of the famous love symbol Taj Mahal and is one of the most historical places to visit in Aurangabad. Looked after by the Archeological Survey of India, this mausoleum was built by Prince Azam Shah, who was Aurangzeb’s son, in memory of his beloved mother Begum Rabia Durani. Called Mini Taj, this tomb will leave you awestruck with its exquisite marbles adorned up to the dado level.
These marbles are said to be brought from the mines of Jaipur. As per the inscription laid on the main entrance, Bibi Ka Maqbara was erected by Ata-ullah and Hanspat Rai, two famous architects of the Mughal Empire.The mausoleum is erected on a square platform and is embraced by four minarets at its corners. There is also a mosque in and an archaeological museum just behind making it one of the best tourist places in Aurangabad.
Location: Begumpura, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431004
Timings:8 am to 8 pm
Entry fee: INR 10Suggested Read: The Staircase Waterfall In Maharashtra: A Hidden Gem That We Bet You’d Love To Explore!
3. Daulatabad Fort
Image Source
Also known as Devagiri Fort, this glorious fortress stands tall on a 200 metres conical hill that is perched about 200m above the sea level. Constructed during the 12th century, this powerful ancient fortification is known as one of the ‘seven wonders of Maharashtra’ and is undeniably one of the top places to visit in Aurangabad.
Perhaps one of the most alluring features of Daulatabad Fort is the staggering views of the entire city from the summit. One need to climb around 750 odd steps up to reach the pinnacle and enjoy the views. Representing the cultural heritage of Maharashtra, this fortress also houses some of the most wonderful monuments like Chini Mahal, Chand Minar, and Elephant Tank make this attraction one of the best tourist places in Aurangabad.
Location: MH SH 22, Daulatabad, Maharashtra 431002
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: Starts from INR 10Suggested Read: 18 Absolutely Breathtaking Places To Visit In Monsoon In Maharashtra In 2020
4. Grishneshwar Temple
Image Source
Located just around 1km away from Ellora caves, this ancient temple is considered to be a significant shrine among Hindu devotees and also one of the best Aurangabad places to visit. Grishneshwar Temple is said to be the 12th ‘Jyotirlinga’ on earth. Legends believe that the hot spring flowing inside the sanctum within the temple holds the divine power to cleanse one’s heart and soul. This revered Hindu temple is one of the must-visit places to visit in Aurangabad for couples and one of the best temples in Maharashtra to visit.
Built in pre-historical architectural style with red bricks, this holy shrine is composed of a five-tier shikara and exudes spirituality and divinity, it is one of the best Aurangabad tourist places. The temple was demolished in the 14th century by the Delhi Sultanate, but was reconstructed by Maloji Bhosale in the 16th century and later again by Rani Ahilyabhai Holkar in the 18th century. Be ready to get hypnotised with the ancient carvings and sculptures of Hindu deities inside the temple.
Location: Mahesh Hospital, Verul, Maharashtra 431102
Timings: 5:30 am to 9:30 pm
Entry fee: NILSuggested Read: Top 10 Restaurants In Maharashtra For Tasting The Best Foods Of This Indian State
5. Pitalkhora Caves
Image Source
The Pitalkhora Caves are an ancient rock cut cave belonging to 2nd century BC and are one of the finest examples of Buddhist architecture in India. These cave monuments were carved out of basalt rock, which are highly susceptible to weather and hence most of the caves have been severely damaged over the years. Set in the Western Ghats alongside a mesmerizing waterfall, Pitalkhora Caves also known as “Brazen Glen” is a must-visit place for capturing and witnessing the surreal beauty of Maharashtra as it’s one of the best Aurangabad tourist places.
Location: 20 kms away from Kannad
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: NILSuggested Read: Choose The Best Travel Insurance In India In 2019 With Our Guide
6. Siddharth Garden and Zoo
Image Source
Located just 3 kms away from Aurangabad Railway Station, Siddharth Garden & Zoo is one of the major crowd pullers in the evenings, especially on weekends. The zoo is a refuge to a number of wild animals & reptiles like crocodiles, hyenas, tigers, lions, snakes, foxes and many more.
Do remember to click a selfie by standing next to the musical fountain and statue of Buddha located in the middle of the park. One of the best Aurangabad destinations, the garden is furthermore replete with a wide variety of flowering plants and trees and also there is a beautiful aquarium. Overall, this is a nice picnic spot and of course one of the best places to visit in Aurangabad for families travelling with kids.
Location: Central Bus Stand Road, Mhada, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001
Timings: 9 am to 7 pm
Entry fee: Garden – INR 20 / Zoo – INR 50Suggested Read: 7 Impeccable Food Trucks In India That Serve Scrumptious Food With A Twist!
7. Shivaji Maharaj Museum
Image Source
Just about 5.5 km from Aurangabad Railway Station, you will find the Shivaji Maharaj Museum, which showcases the glorious reign of the great Maratha ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj through different visuals and displays. There are a total of 6 exhibition galleries that exhibit weapons and other war artifacts used during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj. One of the main exhibits at the museum includes the 500 year old war armour, a 400 year old Paithani sari and a handwritten copy of Quran by Aurangzeb.
Location: B-14, A St, NRPC Colony, Block B, Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi, Delhi 110016
Timings: 10:30 am to 6 pm (Closed on Thursdays)
Entry fee: INR 5Suggested Read: Raneh Falls: A Detailed Guide On Exploring The Grand Canyon Of India!
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
8. Goga Baba Hill
Image Source
One of the best Aurangabad destinations, is it known for its serene and tranquil environment, Goga Baba Hill is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Aurangabad for couples. One has to trek to reach the hilltop and admire the jaw-dropping views of the entire city. Goga Baba Hill houses a small white colored temple adding to the ambiance of this place.It is one of the best hill stations near Thane to plan a getaway.
Location: Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University Campus, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431004
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry fee: NASuggested Read: Go Karting In India: A Thrill Ride Awaits At These Exciting Venues Across The Country In 2020
9. Sunheri Mahal
Image Source
At a distance of 6 km from Aurangabad Railway Station, is a lustrous palace of lime and stone. This grand palace is spread across two floors and reflects the purest form of royal Indian architecture. A well-manicured garden and a beautifully done arches at the entryway of the palace further adds to the magnificence of this place and Aurangabad sightseeing is incomplete without a visit to this place.
Location: Pandariba Rd, Mahavir Chowk, Shahgunj, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: INR 10 per personSuggested Read: 16 Exotic Places To Visit In Jalgaon, The ‘Banana City’ Of India In 2020
10. Gul Mandi
Image source
Gulmandi is the famous bazaar in Aurangabad that is known for trading of Himroo shawls and beautiful saree. The market is famous for the cloth material, intricate designs and more. It is one of the largest markets that is a favourite haunt for shopaholics in Aurangabad.
Location: Shahgunj, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001
Timings: 7 am to 10 pm
Entry Fee: NASuggested Read: 27 Honeymoon Destinations Near Mumbai For Those Romantic Short Trips In 2020
11. Bani Begum Garden
Image source
Situated at a distance of 24km from Aurangabad, this stunning garden features beautiful fountains, massive domes and intriguing pillars. It’s a place where you can go for relaxation, to get a breath of fresh air and marvel at Mughal architecture. A comforting ambience and the ancient architecture, both make this garden a must visit place in Aurangabad.
Location: Khuldabad, Maharashtra 431101
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: FreeSuggested Read: 9 Best Places To Visit In Pune In Summer For A Cool Vacation In 2020
12. Panchakki
Located near Bibi ka Maqbara, Panchakki is a water mill complex that features a court, a madrasa, the house of a minister, a mosque and houses dedicated to females and a sarai. The shades of blue and green will enchant you and make you want to stay here for longer. Panchakki is an ideal picnic hangout spot that has encapsulated by scenic beauty and serene surroundings.
Location: Panchakki, Panchakki Rd, Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Timings: 6:30 am to 9:30 am
Entry Fee: INR 5Suggested Read: 20 Road Trips From Mumbai That Must Be On Every Traveler’s Bucket List In 2020
13. Khuldabad
Image source
Khuldabad is a small town that is located about 13 km from Aurangabad, this city holds a significant religious value and it is known to be the valley of saints as it was visited by several Sufi saints in the 14th century. This ancient holy city is home to several important historic monuments like Aurangzeb’s Tomb, Dargah of Zari Zar Baksh, Shaikh Burhan uddin Gharib Chisti and Shaikh Zain-ud-din Shirazi.
Location: Khuldabad, Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Timings: NA
Entry Fee: NASuggested Read: Shirdi Travel Tips: Keep This Handy Guide And Know What To Do Before Visiting The City!
14. Salim Ali Lake
Image source
Famous for migratory birds, this lake is ideal for bird-watchers and nature enthusiasts that is located in the heart of Aurangabad. This stunning lake is a serene spot that boasts a well-maintained bird sanctuary. It’s one of the best places for Aurangabad sightseeing for photographers, nature enthusiasts and bird watchers and one of the best places to visit in May in Maharashtra.
Location: Chatrapathi Nagar, N 12, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431003
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: No entry feeSuggested Read: 5 Beautiful Islands In Maharashtra One Must Visit To Enjoy A Tropical Vacation!
15. Bhadra Maruti
Image source
Dedicated to lord Hanuman, this temple is located in Khuldabad and one of the only three temples in India where Lord Hanuman is seen in the sleeping posture. The legend has it that the ruler of Khuldabad, was known as Bhadravati in ancient times. The king was a devotee of Lord Ram who got noticed by Lord Hanuman who lied down in a sleeping posture to listen to the king sing melodious tuned for Lord Ram.
Location: Khuldabad Rd, Khuldabad, Maharashtra 431101
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: NASuggested Read: 28 Places To Visit In Winter In India In 2020
16. Himroo Factory
If you want to witness the ancient hand weaving process and buy handicrafts of Aurangabad then you’ve got to visit the Himroo Factory for this unique and authentic experience in Aurangabad. This factory is almost 150 year old and promotes the traditional weaving methods till date. You can also buy some textiles like Paithani sarees, handloom shawls, furnishings, bed covers, cloaks and coats.
Location: Old Mondha Rd, opp. Kabir Temple, Nawabpura, Mondha, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001
Timings: 11 am to 8:30 pm
Entry Fee: NASuggested Read: 10 Top Entrancing Things To Do In Shirdi
This post first appeared on Bullet Train In India: Here’s How It’s Going To Change Our Train Travel, please read the originial post: here
