Private 3 days Ajanta, Ellora caves and Aurangabad city tour

A trip to Maharashtra isn’t complete without exploring some of India’s most awe-inspiring monuments—the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. This private three-day tour from Aurangabad offers a well-rounded mix of ancient artistry, history, and local flavor, all at an incredible value of just $68 per person. Led by friendly guides and comfortable transportation, this experience promises to unlock the secrets of some of India’s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances stunning architecture with insightful storytelling, especially how the guide shares tales about the last Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb, adding a layer of context many tours overlook. Plus, the visit to the not-to-miss Aurangabad city sights like Bibi Ka Maqbara adds a nice touch of local culture. That said, it’s a physically active itinerary—think lots of stairs at the caves—so good walking shoes are a must.

One thing to consider is that this is a full, busy schedule, with back-to-back sightseeing and some long drives, meaning it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy packed days and are comfortable with a little movement. If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re eager to see the highlights efficiently, this tour delivers.

This tour appeals most to history buffs, architecture lovers, and budget travelers looking for an authentic experience without sacrificing comfort or depth. It’s ideal for those who want a guided, informative trip that combines ancient wonders with local stories and scenery.

Key Points

• Unparalleled Access: Private transportation and guided commentary make visiting Ajanta, Ellora, and Aurangabad’s key sites easier and more enriching.
• Historic Sites: Highlights include UNESCO heritage sites, a replica of the Taj Mahal, and the impressive Daulatabad Fort.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides share insightful stories, including tales about the last Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb.
• Value-Driven: At just $68, it offers an affordable way to see major attractions with included transportation and guiding.
• Active Experience: Expect lots of walking and stair climbing at caves; proper shoes are recommended.
• Authentic Local Flavor: Enjoy good restaurant options for lunch and a glimpse into local life in Aurangabad.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: From Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves

The adventure kicks off with a drive from Aurangabad—whether from the airport, railway station, or your hotel—to the famous Ajanta Caves, about 110 km away. The drive takes roughly two hours, giving us time to settle in and enjoy the scenery of rural Maharashtra, dotted with small villages and lush greenery. On the way, the guide might point out historic details and offer local insights.

Once at Ajanta, we spend 3 to 4 hours exploring the caves, famous for their intricate Buddhist murals and sculptures carved into the hillside. The caves are a marvel of ancient Indian artistry, featuring centuries-old paintings that vividly depict stories from Buddha’s life. The guide’s commentary brings these images to life, making the experience more than just a visual feast.

We appreciate the ease of visiting with a private car, freeing us from the crowds and schedules of a larger tour group. After soaking in the artistry, we’ll stop for lunch at a recommended local restaurant, which offers traditional dishes—an excellent chance to taste authentic Indian flavors.

Day 2: Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar Temple, and Daulatabad Fort

The next morning starts with breakfast at the hotel before heading out to Ellora Caves, about an hour’s drive from Aurangabad. These caves are extraordinary, carved into a massive volcanic hillside, and represent Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain faiths side by side. The scale and detail of the monolithic rock excavations are staggering, especially the famous Kailasa temple, which looks as if it was “built” out of a single stone.

After exploring Ellora, we travel a short distance to the Grishneshwar Temple, a revered Hindu temple near Ellora that’s less crowded but equally beautiful. It offers a peaceful atmosphere and is a great example of traditional Indian temple architecture.

Our journey continues to Daulatabad Fort, a site that served as a Mughal capital under Mohammad Bin Tughlaq. The fort’s strategic location atop a volcanic hill offers sweeping views of the region and a chance to walk through centuries of history. Our guide might share stories about Mughal rulers and the fort’s military significance, enriching our understanding of the landscape.

Returning to Aurangabad in the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at a local spot, reflecting on the day’s impressive sights.

Day 3: Aurangabad City Highlights

On the final day, we focus on Aurangabad’s local attractions. The Aurangabad Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara (often called the “Taj of the Deccan”), and Panchakki are on the itinerary. Each site offers a different flavor of local history and architecture, from ancient rock-cut caves to Mughal-era mausoleums and water-powered mills.

The city tour is a relaxed way to get a sense of local life, complemented by a good lunch. Our guide’s commentary may include stories about Aurangzeb, the last Mughal emperor, providing contextual depth to these historical sites.

When the tour wraps up, we’ll be dropped at our chosen location—be it airport, railway station, or bus stop—ready to carry the memories of an incredible journey through Maharashtra’s ancient and modern worlds.

This private tour offers a robust, well-organized exploration of some of India’s most significant archaeological sites, with the convenience of private transport and guides. The inclusion of local stories and historical context makes it more engaging than just ticking off sights from a checklist.

The value for money is clear—$68 covers transportation, guiding, and entry to major attractions, which would cost more if booked separately or through larger tour groups. The experience is tailored, flexible, and intimate, ideal for those who prefer an immersive, hassle-free approach.

However, be prepared for a fast-paced schedule; the long drives and walking involved mean this tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy sightseeing and don’t mind a busy itinerary.

This experience suits history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and travelers on a budget who want a comprehensive yet affordable introduction to Maharashtra’s ancient marvels. If you’re keen to learn stories behind the stones and enjoy authentic local food, this tour ticks all those boxes.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, guided journey through Maharashtra’s most iconic caves and historic sites, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets, trusting knowledgeable guides to enrich their experience. The price makes it an excellent value, especially given the inclusion of private transport and personalized service.

Travelers who like a mix of history, culture, and scenic drives will find this tour rewarding. It’s suitable for individuals, couples, or small groups comfortable with some walking and stair climbing—so pack good shoes and a camera.

Most importantly, if you enjoy hearing stories about India’s past, marveling at ancient craftsmanship, and experiencing local life in Aurangabad, this tour offers a memorable, manageable adventure with a friendly guide leading the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with walking and stairs, this tour is suitable for most age groups. Keep in mind that some sites involve climbing stairs.

What’s included in the price?
The $68 covers private transportation, a professional guide (depending on your booking option), driver services, tolls, parking, fuel charges, and water bottles during the journey.

Are the guide and driver bilingual?
The driver speaks both Hindi and English, ensuring clear communication. The guide’s language depends on your booking, but English is typically available.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No, the tour includes all monument tickets, so you don’t need to worry about waiting in lines or purchasing tickets separately.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to stairs and uneven surfaces. Light, breathable clothing for the daytime heat is recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you may discuss and tailor some aspects with your guide, especially the sites visited on the final day.

Is there free time during the tour?
The schedule is fairly packed to maximize your time, but there might be brief moments for photos or to browse local shops.

How long is each day’s drive?
Day 1 involves about two hours to Ajanta, Day 2’s drives between sites are approximately one hour each, and the third day is mainly city sightseeing.

What about food?
Lunch is not included but can be arranged at local restaurants recommended by your guide. You can also bring snacks along.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
It involves climbing stairs at caves and sites, so mobility may be limited; travelers should consider their comfort level with stairs and uneven terrain.

This private tour strikes a good balance between comprehensive sightseeing and manageable pacing, offering a glimpse into Maharashtra’s ancient marvels with personalized attention. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, this experience is a worthwhile way to spend three days exploring India’s cultural treasures.