Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey with our Aurangabad Heritage Tour, where history, art, and culture converge seamlessly. Starting from Mumbai, a morning flight takes you to Aurangabad, where you’ll be enchanted by the treasures of the past. Begin your exploration with a city tour of Aurangabad, discovering its historical significance.
The highlight of your journey unfolds as you venture to the Ajanta Caves, a testament to the artistic prowess of Buddhist monks from the 2nd century. Admire the intricate frescoes, wall paintings, and sculptures that adorn these ancient caverns. The following day, immerse yourself in the architectural marvels of the Ellora Caves, where Cave 16 stands as a magnificent tribute to Lord Shiva. Your adventure continues with a visit to the Pithalkora Caves, where finely sculpted facades await your admiration.
Conclude your expedition by exploring the Daulatabad Fortress, an embodiment of historical intrigue, and paying homage to Aurangazeb’s wife at the Bibi-ka-Maqbara. The journey ends as you fly back to Mumbai, leaving you with memories of a remarkable journey into India’s rich heritage.
Duration: 4 days / 3 Nights
Places: Mumbai > Aurangabad > Mumbai
Destinations Covered
Aurangabad: The tour commences in the vibrant city of Aurangabad, renowned for its historical significance. As you step into this cultural hub, you’ll be enveloped by a blend of the past and present. Explore the city’s intriguing heritage, which reflects the rule of various dynasties and emperors, leaving behind a tapestry of architectural wonders, bustling bazaars, and a rich cultural ambiance.
Ajanta Caves: Embarking on a full-day excursion to the Ajanta Caves, you’ll be transported back to the 2nd century. These UNESCO World Heritage-listed caves hold the secrets of Buddhist monks who carved their devotion and artistic brilliance into the rock-cut structures. Marvel at the intricate frescoes, vivid sculptures, and profound narratives that adorn the walls, showcasing the zenith of ancient Indian artistry and spirituality.
Ellora Caves: Another day of exploration leads you to the awe-inspiring Ellora Caves, where an array of rock-cut sanctuaries, monasteries, and chapels beckon. The crown jewel, Cave 16, features an extraordinary sculpture of Lord Shiva, an awe-inspiring monolith carved right into the rock. A testament to human ingenuity, these caves are a harmonious blend of religious devotion and architectural prowess.
Pithalkora Caves: The journey takes you further to the Pithalkora Caves, a hidden gem near Aurangabad. These lesser-known caves boast intricately sculpted facades that captivate with their exquisite craftsmanship. As you explore the site, you’ll discover the fine artistry of these rock-cut structures, each revealing stories of a bygone era through their unique designs and details.
Daulatabad Fortress: The tour weaves history into every step, as you visit the Daulatabad Fortress. Once a Hindu stronghold, it was transformed by Emperor Mohammed-bin-Tughlaq into the second capital of the Delhi Sultanate. The fortress is renowned for its ingenious defense mechanisms, labyrinthine passages, and a rich historical narrative that unfolds as you explore its fascinating architecture.
Bibi-ka-Maqbara and Panchakki: Pay tribute to history’s romantic chapter at the Bibi-ka-Maqbara, a stunning monument built in memory of Emperor Aurangazeb’s wife. Often referred to as the “Taj of the Deccan,” this mausoleum echoes the grandeur of the iconic Taj Mahal. Nearby, the Panchakki Water Mill unveils the ingenuity of Mughal engineers who harnessed water to power grinding stones, an early marvel of technology.
Mumbai: Concluding your journey, you return to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai. Reflect on your exploration of Aurangabad’s heritage as you savor the dynamic energy of this coastal city. With a myriad of experiences at your fingertips, from cultural landmarks to modern delights, Mumbai encapsulates India’s diverse essence, leaving you with lasting memories of an enriching adventure.
Detailed Tour Plan
Day – 01 Mumbai – Aurangabad by air
We will take a morning flight from Mumbai to Aurangabad.
Arrive Aurangabad & transfer to hotel at Aurangabad.
City tour of Aurangabad.
Overnight stay at Hotel.
Day – 02 Aurangabad – Ajanta
Breakfast at the Hotel. After breakfast proceed for full day excursion to Ajanta Caves – (closed on Monday)
These 2nd century caves are fine achievements by Buddhist monks. Beautiful frescoes, wall paintings and vivid sculptures reflect the peak of ancient Indian art and architecture. The horseshoe shaped gorge has 30 caves dividend in two phases.
Return back to Hotel. Overnight stay at Hotel.
Day – 03 Aurangabad – Ellora Caves – Pithalkora
Breakfast at the Hotel. After Breakfast proceed for sightseeing of Ellora Caves (closed on Tuesday)
Ellora Caves – The World Heritage site, one of the finest examples of rockcut caves , there are 34 caves, Cave 16 is the most famous and has Lord Shiva sculpted on the rocks-the largest monolith in the world.
After Ellora Caves, further proceed for Pithalkora Caves:-Pithalkora caves are about 78 kms. From Aurangabad. The intricate work on the sculptured facades in these caves is definitely worth a visit.
Return back to Hotel. Overnight stay at Hotel.
Day – 04 Aurangabad – Mumbai – Delhi
Breakfast at the Hotel. After breakfast proceed to Daulatabad fortress was an old Hindu stronghold originally called Devgiri Fort.
Emperor Mohammed-bin-Tughlaq captured and plundered it in the 13th century and made it the second capital of the Delhi Sultanate renaming it Daulatabad. It is famous for its series of trick defenses, secret escape routes etc.. Bibi-ka-Maqbara, built in memory of Aurangazeb’s wife Rabia Durrani.
Panchakki or Water Mill, an ingenious creation of Mughal engineers who used it to harness water to run large grinding stones which served as a flour mill. The tomb of a muslim saint lies in the garden beyond the which served as a flour mill.
Proceed to Aurangabad airport to catch onward flight to Mumbai.
Mumbai arrival, transfer to Hotel/Airport.
End of Tour
FAQs about the Tour
q: What is the starting point of the tour?
a: The tour starts in Mumbai, India.
q: What are the main attractions in Aurangabad?
a: In Aurangabad, you will explore the city’s historical sites, including Bibi-ka-Maqbara, Daulatabad Fortress, and Panchakki Water Mill.
q: What is the significance of Ajanta Caves?
a: Ajanta Caves are 2nd-century rock-cut caves that showcase Buddhist art, frescoes, sculptures, and monastic structures, representing a peak of ancient Indian craftsmanship.
q: Are the Ajanta Caves open every day?
a: The Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays.
q: What can be expected at Ellora Caves?
a: Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer 34 rock-cut caves with stunning sculptures, including the famous Cave 16 featuring a colossal Lord Shiva sculpture.
q: Are there any day trips included in the tour?
a: Yes, there are day trips to Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, and Pithalkora Caves, each showcasing unique rock-cut architectural wonders.
q: What can be experienced at Pithalkora Caves?
a: Pithalkora Caves feature intricate sculptured facades and rock-cut architecture, offering a glimpse into the artistic craftsmanship of the past.
q: How does the tour conclude?
a: The tour ends with a return to Mumbai, where you can reflect on your journey and explore the vibrant city.
q: What historical significance does Aurangabad hold?
a: Aurangabad has a rich history with landmarks like Daulatabad Fortress, which was once a Hindu stronghold and later transformed into a capital by Emperor Mohammed-bin-Tughlaq.
q: Is the tour suitable for all age groups?
a: The tour involves historical and cultural exploration, which can be enjoyed by travelers of various age groups interested in art, architecture, and history.
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