Aurangabad

Aurangabad: Places to visit in Aurangabad, Private Day Tours, City Sightseeing, Aurangabad Tour Packages, Excursion & Activities

Aurangabad Tour Packages & Aurangabad Travel Guide, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, historically known as Aurangabad, is a prominent tourism hub in Maharashtra, celebrated for its rich heritage and architectural legacy. The city is famously called the “City of Gates” due to its 52 historic gateways built during the Mughal era, each carrying its own story. Recognized for its cultural significance, it was declared the tourism capital of Maharashtra in 2010 and continues to attract millions of visitors every year.

Among its most iconic attractions are the Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Ajanta Caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, are renowned for their exquisite Buddhist paintings and sculptures depicting Jataka tales. The Ellora Caves, built between the 5th and 10th centuries, showcase an extraordinary blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut architecture carved into the Charanandri hills.

Within the city, notable monuments include Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the “Mini Taj,” and the Aurangabad Caves, which reflect ancient Buddhist artistry.

Nearby, Daulatabad Fort stands as a formidable 14th-century fortress. Once known as Devgiri, it briefly served as the capital under Muhammad bin Tughluq, who attempted to shift Delhi’s population there. Another spiritually significant destination is Khuldabad, known as the “Valley of Saints,” housing the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb along with several revered Sufi shrines.

For nature lovers, Mhaismal offers a serene hill station experience with lush greenery, scenic valleys, and a temple dedicated to Goddess Girija. The Grishneshwar Temple, located near Ellora, is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and an important pilgrimage site.