TheeraYatra

Quick Overview

Best Time to Visit: October to February
Weather: Pleasant winters, hot summers, moderate monsoons
Budget: ₹1,500–₹8,000/day
Speciality: Tourism Capital of Maharashtra

Plan Your Trip

Getting There

Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Airport, ~10 km from city center
By Train: Aurangabad Railway Station connects to Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Pune, and other major cities
By Road: Well-connected via NH211 and NH160; state and private buses available from Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik

Where to Stay?

Jalna Road and CIDCO – modern hotels, restaurants, and easy access to the airport
Station Road and Central Aurangabad – budget accommodations, local markets, and convenient transport links

Packing List

• Light cotton clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light woolens for winter evenings
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle

Top Places to Visit

Ajanta Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 30 ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves with exquisite paintings and sculptures dating back to the 2nd century BCE.

Ellora Caves

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing 34 rock-cut monasteries and temples representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions, including the magnificent Kailasa Temple.

Bibi Ka Maqbara

Often called the Taj of the Deccan, this beautiful mausoleum was built by Aurangzeb’s son in memory of his mother and bears striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal.

Daulatabad Fort

A 14th-century hill fortress with ingenious defense systems, stunning architecture, and panoramic views from the top.

Grishneshwar Temple

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva features beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.

Panchakki

A 17th-century water mill complex showcasing ancient engineering brilliance, with serene gardens and historical significance.

Aurangabad Caves

A group of 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating from 3rd to 7th century, set amidst scenic hills near the city.

Salim Ali Lake and Bird Sanctuary

A peaceful lake named after the renowned ornithologist, perfect for birdwatching and boating, especially in winter.

Must-Try Experiences

Attend the Ellora Ajanta Festival

Experience classical music and dance performances against the backdrop of illuminated caves, held annually in November or January.

Heritage Walk Through Old City

Explore the historic gates, narrow lanes, and Mughal-era monuments of Aurangabad’s old quarter.

Visit Paithani Weaving Centers

Witness the creation of traditional Paithani silk sarees, a craft unique to the region.

Explore Himroo Factory

Discover the ancient art of Himroo weaving, a blend of cotton and silk producing intricate traditional textiles.

Food Tour of Buddi Lane

Savor authentic Aurangabadi cuisine at street stalls serving Naan Qalia, kebabs, and other Mughlai delights.

Local Cuisine

Breakfast: Thalipeeth, jhunka with bhakri, misal pav
Lunch: Naan Qalia, tahri, Aurangabadi biryani, patodi rassa
Snacks: Vada pav, bhalla tikki chole, samosas
Desserts: Mawa jalebi, shrikhand, sheermal

Culture & Local Life

Aurangabad is known as the Tourism Capital of Maharashtra and was named after Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The city blends Mughal heritage with Maratha culture, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. The city celebrates major festivals including Ganesh Chaturthi, Eid, and the famous Ellora Ajanta Festival showcasing classical arts. Local markets like Gul Mandi offer traditional handicrafts including Paithani sarees and Himroo textiles. The old city’s 52 historic gates tell stories of bygone eras, while modern areas showcase contemporary development.

Local Insights

Languages: Marathi (official), Hindi, Urdu, English widely spoken
Getting Around: Auto-rickshaws, city buses, taxis, and app-based cabs; special MTDC buses for Ajanta and Ellora
Safety Tips: Carry water when visiting caves, wear comfortable shoes for climbing, book guides at heritage sites, avoid touts

Enjoy Your Yatra!