Aurangabad Travel Guide
Aurangabad has a number of attractions and could easily stand on its
own were it not overshadowed by the famous Ellora and Ajanta caves
nearby. The city is named after Aurangzeb. but earlier in its history it
was known as Khadke. Aurangabad is northern Maharashtra's largest city
though it is remarkably uncrowded and quiet except for the occasional
politicalrally
Today, it is known for some of the finest colleges and university in
Maharashtra. And it is the fastest growing industrial town in India. But
the charm and glory of its long past has not been lost. And its heritage
is rich and varied - the result of the artistic and cultural influences
of several dynasties since its first Stone Age inhabitants.
Getting There:
By Air
Aurangabad airport is 10 km east of the city and is connected by daily
flights to Mumbai and Delhi via Udaipur and Jaipur. Taxis and auto
rickshaws are available outside the airport or you could have a rented
car meet you on arrival.
By Train
Aurangabad is not located on the main route but some trains do stop
here. However, Manmad, 113km northwest of Aurangabad is the closest
junction for major trains from across the country. There are two direct
trains to/from Mumbai as well as a daily train to Hyderabad in
neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. Other direct connections are to Delhi (1395
km) and one, every five days to Amritsar via Delhi. Local trains, taxis
and buses connect the two places.
By Road
You can easily drive in as Aurangabad is well connected by road to the
towns and cities around it. State Roadways buses and private bus
companies connect Aurangabad from Pune (5 hours), Nashik (5 hours)
Indore. Overnight luxury buses connect Aurangabad from Mumbai (12 hours)
via Pune or Manmad.
Tourist Attractions:
Khuldabad
As per the wish of Aurangazeb, he was buried just a few kilometers from
Daulatabad. The monument has serene austerity. The place is also famous
for the Bhadra Hanuman or Hanuman in sleeping posture.
Pithalkora
These second century caves are 78 kms from Aurangabad. There are 13
cave sanctuaries, chaityas and viharas on a remote land cluster. The
elaborate and beautiful sculptured facade of the great vihara in an
impressive sight.
Jayak Wadi Dam
Here one can see a number of resident and migratory birds. The
Gyaneshwar Udyan is a planned garden on the lines of Bridavan gardens
and the Moghul gardens in Kashmir. Over years the place has been a
heaven for nature lovers.
Aurangabad Caves
They lie just beyond the city, nearly forgotten - the Aurangabad caves,
excavated between the 2nd and 6th centuries AD. Tantra influences echo
in the highly ornate and strikingly detailed sculptures and
architecture.
Bibi ka Maqbara
In 1679, Aurangzeb's son built a tribute to his mother, Begum Rabia-
ud- Durani - the hauntingly beautiful Bibi-Ka-Maqbara. A replica of the
Taj Mahal, it stands out as the only piece of Moghul architecture on the
Deccan Plateau.
