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Places to visit in Aurangabad
Bibi Ka Maqbara
Bibi Ka Maqbara is a magnificent Mughal-era mausoleum commissioned by Emperor Aurangzeb in memory of his wife. Often referred to as the “Taj of the Deccan,” it showcases beautiful Mughal architecture with its grand dome, intricate minarets, and surrounding gardens.
While inspired by the iconic Taj Mahal, it possesses a distinct charm and historical significance of its own. The central tomb is set within a charbagh complex with pathways, water channels, and fountains. It stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Deccan region and is a primary landmark of Aurangabad. Wiki
Aurangabad Caves
Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves featuring intricate sculptures and excellent city views.
Panchakki
A 17th-century water mill complex known for its ingenious underground water channel system.
Soneri Mahal
A historic golden-hued palace now housing an archaeological museum with local artifacts.
Himroo Factory & Showroom
Witness the creation of Aurangabad’s famous Himroo shawls and fabrics.
Siddharth Garden & Zoo
Siddharth Garden & Zoo is a popular recreational spot located in the heart of Aurangabad, ideal for families and children. The expansive garden features lush lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and shaded walkways perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Its zoo section houses a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, deer, and numerous bird species. The park also offers boating facilities on a small lake and has play areas for kids. It serves as a green oasis for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful break from the city’s hustle.
Khadkeshwar Hanuman Temple
A highly revered ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
Shahganj Masjid
A large and historically significant mosque built by the city’s founder, Malik Ambar.
Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary
A protected sanctuary offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and trekking.
Aurangabad Beer Brewery
Take a tour of one of India’s oldest and most famous breweries (check availability).
Prozone Mall
Prozone Mall is Aurangabad’s largest and most modern shopping, entertainment, and dining destination. It hosts a wide array of national and international retail brands, catering to all fashion and lifestyle needs.
The mall features a state-of-the-art multiplex cinema, a spacious food court with diverse cuisines, and a dedicated play zone for children. Its contemporary architecture, clean environment, and air-conditioned comfort make it a favourite hangout spot for all ages. Prozone provides a complete urban experience, especially enjoyable during evenings and weekends.
Bani Begum Garden
A serene Mughal-style garden perfect for an evening stroll away from the crowds.
Jama Masjid
A centrally located mosque known for its simple yet imposing architectural style.
Kali Masjid
Another historic mosque from the Mughal period, noted for its distinctive black stone.
Ellora Caves
The Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an unparalleled marvel of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture. This spectacular complex features over 34 monasteries and temples carved side-by-side into the Charanandri hills, dating between 600 and 1000 CE.
They represent a stunning harmony of three religions: Buddhism, Brahmanism, and Jainism. The crowning achievement is the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), a massive structure carved top-down from a single rock. Ellora is a testament to the artistic brilliance and religious tolerance of ancient India.
Ajanta Caves
Ancient Buddhist cave monuments famous for their breathtaking and detailed fresco paintings.
Daulatabad Fort
A formidable 12th-century hill fort renowned for its brilliant and complex defense structures.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
One of the 12 sacred Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva, located near Ellora.
Lonar Crater Lake
A unique saline lake formed by a meteorite impact, creating an alien-like ecosystem.
Pitalkhora Caves
The Pitalkhora Caves are an ancient group of 14 Buddhist rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE, making them some of the oldest in the region. Located in a remote and scenic setting, they are nestled within a rugged gorge and offer a serene, offbeat historical experience.
The caves are renowned for their early architectural style and some of the finest and most well-preserved paintings and sculptures from that era. Key highlights include elaborate carvings of elephants, Yaksha figures, and remnants of vibrant frescoes. They provide a fascinating glimpse into the early development of cave architecture in India.
Mhaismal
A scenic hill retreat offering cool weather, lush greenery, and panoramic views.
Paithan
An ancient capital city famous for its exquisite Paithani silk sarees and historical significance.
Shulibhanjan
A popular local picnic spot with a small waterfall, especially lively in the monsoon.
Ghrishneshwar Temple Museum
The Ghrishneshwar Temple Museum is a small but significant archaeological museum located near the sacred Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga temple. Managed by the Archaeological Survey of India, it houses a valuable collection of stone sculptures, inscriptions, and artifacts excavated from the surrounding regions.
The exhibits primarily date back to the medieval period and showcase exquisite iconography of Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Goddess Durga. A visit to this museum provides a deeper historical context to the religious and artistic heritage of the area. It serves as a quiet complement to the spiritual experience of the temple, enriching the understanding of ancient craftsmanship.
Sillod
A scenic hill retreat offering cool weather, lush greenery, and panoramic views.
Dnyaneshwar Udyan
A beautifully landscaped garden in the nearby city of Jalgaon, inspired by Mughal designs.
Verul
The small village at the base of the Ellora Caves, offering a glimpse into local rural life.
Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary
Gautala Autramghat Sanctuary is a protected wildlife reserve spanning the rugged terrain of the Satmala and Ajantha hill ranges. It serves as a vital habitat for diverse flora and fauna, including leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, and numerous bird species. The sanctuary is characterized by its dry deciduous forest, deep valleys, and steep slopes, offering a pristine natural environment.
It is a fantastic destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and bird watchers seeking solitude and adventure. The sanctuary also holds historical significance with ancient temples and the ruins of a Buddhist university within its bounds.
Explore Maharashtra
Aurangabad Blogs
- Maharashtra’s Historical Guide
- Places to visit in Aurangabad
- Places to visit nearby Aurangabad
India’s architectural marvels - India’s ancient cave capital
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