Echoes of Stone: A 5-Day Journey through Ajanta, Ellora & Aurangabad's Heritage

Travel Adventure

Echoes of Stone: A 5-Day Journey through Ajanta, Ellora & Aurangabad's Heritage

Embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with amazing experiences

5
Days
26
Activities
1
Traveler
1

Day 1: Arrival & The 'Taj of the Deccan'

Thursday, October 30, 2025
+2
Activities
6

Arrival in Aurangabad

Chikalthana Airport (IXU) / Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB)
Pre-booked taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber/Ola are readily available for transfer to your hotel.

Check-in to Hotel

Aurangabad City
Consider hotels like Lemon Tree Hotel, Vivanta Aurangabad, or Welcomhotel by ITC for a comfortable mid-range to luxury stay.

Authentic Maharashtrian Thali Lunch

Bhoj Thali Restaurant, Aurangabad
This is a great way to sample a wide range of local vegetarian dishes in one sitting. Come with a healthy appetite!

Bibi Ka Maqbara: The 'Taj of the Deccan'

Bibi Ka Maqbara, Begumpura, Aurangabad
The best time to visit is late afternoon when the light is soft, making for beautiful photos. The monument is less crowded than its Agra counterpart.

Panchakki (Water Mill)

Panchakki, Begumpura, Aurangabad
The complex also houses the tomb of a Sufi saint, Baba Shah Musafir. It's a peaceful place to understand the region's history.

Dinner with Mughlai Flavors

Kream N Krunch or similar restaurant
Naan Qalia is a traditional Aurangabadi dish of slow-cooked mutton curry served with a special type of leavened bread (naan). A must-try for non-vegetarians.
2

Day 2: The Painted Caves of Ajanta

Friday, October 31, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Early Start for Ajanta Caves

Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves
The caves are closed on Mondays. Starting early helps you beat the crowds and the midday heat. Pack water, snacks, and a hat.

Explore the Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra
Hire an official guide at the entrance for a deeper understanding of the Jataka tales depicted in the paintings. Don't miss Caves 1, 2, 16 & 17 for paintings and Caves 19 & 26 for sculptures. Use of flash photography is prohibited to protect the ancient murals.

Lunch near the Caves

MTDC Restaurant, Ajanta Caves
This is the most convenient place to eat. Alternatively, you can pack your own lunch for a picnic at a designated spot.

Return to Aurangabad

Ajanta Caves to Aurangabad
The drive back offers a chance to see the rural landscape in the golden light of the setting sun.

Relaxed Dinner

Green Leaf Vegetarian Cuisine, Aurangabad
This restaurant is highly rated for its pleasant ambiance and wide variety of vegetarian dishes, perfect for unwinding.
3

Day 3: Ellora's Monolithic Marvels & a Mighty Fort

Saturday, November 1, 2025
+2
Activities
6

Journey to Daulatabad Fort

Aurangabad to Daulatabad Fort
This day trip is shorter than Ajanta. The same private car will take you to all three sites: Daulatabad, Ellora, and Grishneshwar.

Climb the Daulatabad Fort

Daulatabad Fort, Maharashtra
Wear sturdy shoes as the climb is steep. Carry a flashlight for the dark passage. Allow at least 2-3 hours for a thorough exploration.

Explore the Ellora Caves

Ellora Caves, Verul, Maharashtra
The highlight is Cave 16, the Kailasa Temple, the world's largest single monolithic excavation. It's an architectural marvel. The caves are closed on Tuesdays.

Lunch with a View of Ellora

Kailash Restaurant or Hotel Kailas, Ellora
These restaurants are conveniently located and offer good food with views of the surrounding area.

Visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

Grishneshwar Temple, Verul, Maharashtra
Dress modestly. Men are required to remove their shirts to enter the inner sanctum (garbhagriha). Leather items and mobile phones are not allowed inside.

Dinner and Relaxation

That's My Place, Aurangabad
This place is known for its good food and lively ambiance, a nice contrast to the ancient sites visited during the day.
4

Day 4: Local Crafts & Hidden Histories

Sunday, November 2, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Aurangabad Caves

Aurangabad Caves, Aurangabad
The caves are divided into two main groups. While not as grand as Ajanta or Ellora, they are worth visiting for their intricate sculptures and tranquility.

Himroo Weaving Workshop

Paithani Silk Weaving Center, Aurangabad
This is an excellent place to buy authentic, high-quality souvenirs like shawls, sarees, and bedspreads directly from the artisans.

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Smile Masala, Aurangabad
A good spot to relax and reflect on the morning's activities before heading out for some shopping.

Shopping at Gulmandi Market

Gulmandi, Shahgunj, Aurangabad
Bargaining is common here. It's a great place for people-watching and experiencing the local way of life. Look for Bidriware, a unique metal handicraft from the region.

Farewell Dinner

Latitude - Vivanta Aurangabad
Consider making a reservation in advance. This is a great opportunity to try any local dishes you may have missed.
5

Day 5: Last Souvenirs & Departure

Monday, November 3, 2025
Activities
4

Traditional Local Breakfast

A local eatery in the city center
This is a light, flavorful, and authentic way to begin your last day in Aurangabad.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Prozone Mall or local markets
Focus on unique local items like Paithani sarees, Himroo shawls, or Bidriware artifacts.

Check-out from Hotel

Your Hotel
Most hotels have a 12 PM check-out time. You can request to store your luggage if your flight is later in the day.

Departure from Aurangabad

Aurangabad
Plan to reach the airport at least 2 hours before your flight's departure time.