Aurangabad City 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
Aurangabad is an ancient city with historical importance and situated in the west Indian state of Maharashtra. Named after Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, it was founded in the year 1610 and there was a village called Khadki where the existing Aurangabad city is standing. Aurangabad city has always been among prime tourist destinations of India as it is surrounded by hilly mountains and historical monuments namely Ajanta Caves and Ellora (world heritage site), Bibi Ka Maqbara, the Ghrishneshwar Shiva temple and the Daulatabad fort. As per the historical evidences the city of Aurangabad was a major trading center in ancient times and was famous for its silk and cotton textile productions.
Lying along the right bank of the Kham River, the city is the district headquarters, which offers visitors all the modern comforts and amenities. There are several luxury and budget hotels, shopping centres and banks. In the city are three museums housing the art treasures of the region such ad the Sunheri Mahal Museum, the University Museum and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum. You can also spent your hours in the pleasant confines of the Bani Begum Gardens.
Places of interest
Bibi Ka Maqbara is an excellent example of Persian architecture. This monument was built around 1657-1661, by the last Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, for his wife named Rabia Durrani. Panchakki is an impressive pre-Mughal watermill harnessed to operate large grain-grinding stones. It was built in 1624 to commemorate the memory of the Sufi saint Baba Shah Musafir, whose tomb lies nearby. Panchakki takes its name from the mill which was considered a marvel of engineering at that time. Aurangabad Caves are situated 3 km north of Aurangabad. They were excavated out of a south facing hill side overlooking the town. These caves fall into two groups about 1.5km apart. These are ten caves belong to Buddhist era, built around 3-11th century. Pithalkora caves, 78 km from Aurangabad and Mhaismal, 25 km from Aurangabad, are the other tourist spots you will be able to explore while on your tour to Aurangabad.
Accommodation & Best Time to Visit Aurangabad
Aurangabad has several excellent hotels and a number of good restaurants, making a convenient base for visits to the famous rock cut temples of Ajanta and Ellora. Although this historical city can be visited throughout the year, days between July to March are the best to visit it.
Things to see
Bibi ka Maqbara
Aurangabad Caves
