AURANGABAD – AJANTA – ELLORA

AURANGABAD – AJANTA – ELLORA



Founded by Malik Amber in 1610 AD, the original name of the city was Fatehnagar. However, in 1653 AD, Aurangzeb captured the city and renamed it Aurangabad. The mausoleum of his wife, Queen Rabia, is here, popularly known as Bibi-ka-Maqbara. The city is also the perfect halt station to take trips to the illustrious Daulatabad Fort and the world heritage Ajanta and Ellora Caves.

About 5kms south of the city lounge 10 Buddhist caves dating back to the 6th century, overshadowed by their famous cousins of Ajanta and Ellora. Known as Aurangabad Caves, one must visit these caves on their visit to this city. The Bibi-ka-Maqbara lies another 3kms south. The 12th century Daulatabad Fort, situated atop a hill about 13kms north-west on the way to Ellora Caves, provides a glaring reflection of the history of the place over a period of time  that dates from its inception to that of the 17th century, when it was taken over by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.

The Ajanta Caves, believed to be built throughout a period ranging from 200 BC to 650 AD, has, in total, 29 caves in a crescent formation, all facing the east. They are full of spellbinding Buddhist cave paintings and frescoes, discovered only in 1819 AD by a group of British hunters. The caves are situated 107kms north-east of Aurangabad.

The Ellora Caves have 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu and 5 Jain caves, all dating between 600 AD and 1000 AD. These caves, situated 29kms north-west of Aurangabad, are equally famous for their sculptures cut out of rocks depicting sublime artistry.

Accessibility: Aurangabad is well connected by air, rail and road. The Ajanta Caves are 107kms away in the north-east and the Ellora Caves are 29kms away in the north-west.

Accommodation: There are good Hotels in Aurangabad along with a Tourist Lodge. There are good accommodations in Ajanta as well in the form of Hotels and Tourist Lodge. Accommodation in Ellora is rather paltry in relation to Ajanta and Aurangabad. There are a few Hotels here along with a Government Guest House.

Season: October to June.

Location: Maharashtra, India

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