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Aurangabad

A complete tourist and cultural guide

Aurangabad, a city steeped in medieval history, serves as the tourism capital of Maharashtra. Founded in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, it’s famously known as the “Gateway to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.” The city boasts a unique blend of Mughal grandeur, Deccan heritage, and modern industry, offering visitors a journey through ancient art, powerful forts, and vibrant local culture.
Wiki Link: Aurangabad wiki page

Must-Visit Attractions in Aurangabad

Panchakki

A 17th-century Mughal engineering marvel that grinds grain using water channeled from an underground source.

Ajanta Caves

Ancient Buddhist cave monuments world-famous for their exquisite and well-preserved murals depicting the Jataka tales.

Bibi Ka Maqbara

A majestic 17th-century Mughal mausoleum built by Aurangzeb, often called the ‘Taj of the Deccan’.

Daulatabad Fort

A formidable 12th-century hill fort renowned for its brilliant defense architecture and impregnable history.

Major Attractions Nearby Aurangabad

Ellora Caves

Explore three distinct groups of caves showcasing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain artistry, including the colossal Kailasa temple.

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga

An immensely sacred Shiva temple and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, located just a kilometer from the Ellora Caves.

Lonar Crater Lake

A unique national geo-heritage site featuring a massive saline lake created by a meteorite impact over 50,000 years ago.

Pitalkhora Caves

Among India’s oldest Buddhist caves, featuring ancient sculptures and paintings in a serene, less-commercialized setting.

Things to do in Aurangabad

Experience the historical, cultural, and culinary essence of the Deccan. From exploring ancient caves to savoring local flavors, Aurangabad offers a diverse journey.

Cave Exploration

Spend a day mesmerized by the ancient rock-cut wonders of Ajanta and Ellora.

Shop for Himroo and Paithani

Browse luxurious markets for iconic Paithani silks and handmade Himroo shawls.

Taste Aurangabadi Cuisine

Savor the city’s famed Mughlai flavors like Naan Qalia and Tahri.

Visit Aurangabad Caves

Discover the 3rd-century Buddhist shrines carved into the hills within the city.

The Performing Art of Aurangabad

Aurangabad’s cultural scene is influenced by its Mughal history and its location in Maharashtra. It serves as a hub for traditional Marathi theatre (Natyasangeet) and folk music. The city’s proximity to the cultural centers of Hyderabad and Marathwada also brings in influences of Qawwali and Dakani music. While classical dance forms like Kathak and Bharatanatyam are appreciated, the local performing arts are deeply rooted in the folk traditions of the region.

Music Forms

Natyasangeet

Lavani

Qawwali

Aurangabad echoes with the devotional poetry of the Sufi saints and the powerful rhythms of the Deccan. The region’s folk traditions, like the spirited Bhajan and Gondhal, tell stories of local deities and heroes. While influenced by the broader Hindustani classical tradition, its sound is uniquely shaped by its Marathi and Mughal heritage. The music is a spiritual and historical tapestry, heard in dargahs, temples, and village squares.

Dance Forms

Lavani

Dhangari Gaja

Koli

The dance forms here are a vibrant expression of rural life and religious fervor. Dhangari Gaja, a dynamic shepherd’s dance, celebrates nature with energetic leaps and spins. The ritualistic Gondhal is performed to appease the goddess, combining narrative storytelling with hypnotic rhythm. These art forms preserve the ancient folklore and agricultural spirit of the Marathwada region.

City Vibes - Where History Meets Modernity

Aurangabad is a city of contrasts, where ancient cave art coexists with a growing industrial sector. The vibe is less about spiritual rituals (like Varanasi) and more about exploring monumental history. The pace is relaxed yet purposeful. The evenings are lively at local food streets, and the days are for historical exploration. The city truly acts as a comfortable basecamp for the awe-inspiring wonders that lie at its doorstep.

Heritage of Aurangabad

Aurangabad’s heritage is a tapestry woven with threads from the Satavahana era, the Yadava dynasty, the Delhi Sultanate, and most prominently, the Mughal Empire. This layered history is visible in its forts, mausoleums, and the world-famous cave temples that represent the pinnacle of Indian rock-cut architecture.

Cuisine of Aurangabad

Aurangabadi cuisine is a rich and flavorful legacy of the Mughals, known for its aromatic spices and unique preparations, especially its non-vegetarian dishes.

Naan Qalia

Tender mutton in a robust, spiced gravy, paired perfectly with soft, fluffy baked naan.

Tahri

A fragrant one-pot rice dish cooked with meat and local spices, a simpler cousin of biryani.

Jalebi with Rabdi

Crispy, syrup-soaked spirals served warm with a side of rich, sweetened condensed milk.

Aurangabadi Sherbet

A refreshing traditional drink crafted from ingredients like rose, sandalwood, or lemon.

Shopping in Aurangabad

Shopping in Aurangabad is synonymous with its exquisite handloom textiles. The city’s markets are a treasure trove for those seeking authentic traditional wear and handcrafted souvenirs.

Paithani Silk Sarees

Heirloom silk sarees woven with real gold and silver zari, famed for their vibrant peacock motifs.

Himroo Shawls and Fabrics

Luxurious Mughal-era fabric blending silk and cotton, featuring intricate Persian-inspired patterns.

Bidriware Metal Craft

Distinctive black metalware ornamented with stunning inlaid silver wire designs.

Mughlai Style Jewelry

Jewelry inspired by Mughal grandeur, featuring elaborate Kundan and Polki stone work.

Tourist's Handbook

The best season to visit Aurangabad is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is cool, dry, and perfect for extensive outdoor exploration. This is the ideal time for visiting the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, exploring forts, and enjoying heritage walks around the city. The pleasant climate enhances the experience of sightseeing and local festivals. Avoid the peak summer months of April to June due to intense heat and the monsoon season from July to September due to heavy rainfall.

Choose Authorized Guides – Only hire guides who are government-approved at the caves and forts to avoid misinformation and overcharging.
Secure Your Belongings – Keep your wallet, phone, and passport safe in crowded markets and tourist sites to prevent pickpocketing.
Be Cautious on Roads – Traffic can be chaotic; use pedestrian crossings and be extra alert when walking or driving.
Stay Hydrated & Protected – The sun can be intense; carry water, use sunscreen, and wear a hat during daytime explorations.
Verify Shopping Authenticity – Purchase high-value items like Paithani sarees only from reputable, government-certified shops to avoid counterfeits.

Navigating Aurangabad is relatively straightforward, with the city acting as a central hub for exploring the wider region. Auto-rickshaws are the most common and economical mode for getting around the city; always insist on the meter or agree on a fare beforehand. For day trips to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, hiring a private cab or taxi for the day is the most convenient and reliable option. App-based services like Ola and Uber are also available for shorter intra-city journeys. While the city center is navigable by car, the best way to experience the local markets and historic gates is often on foot.

Overpriced Boat Rides – Always negotiate rates in advance or book through trusted sources.

Fake Guides – Use only licensed or hotel-recommended guides.

Donation Scams by Priests – Agree on any ritual charges beforehand.

Silk Shop Pressure Sales – Compare prices or buy from government emporiums.

Fake Aarti Fees – Watching the Ganga Aarti is free from the ghats; avoid “entry fee” scams.

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