Aurangabad: Ajanta & Ellora Caves Journey

Aurangabad: Ajanta & Ellora Caves Journey — An Authentic Glimpse into India’s Ancient Art

This two-day tour takes you from the bustling city of Aurangabad through some of India’s most extraordinary ancient monuments. For $114 per person, you’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, renowned for their intricate carvings, frescoes, and monolithic temples. The tour, offered by Jee Travels and rated 4.4, combines historical marvels with the chance to enjoy the peaceful early mornings away from crowds. Expect a carefully curated experience that balances guided insights with personal exploration.

What we really love about this tour is its early start, which lets you beat the crowds and enjoy the serenity of Ajanta’s ancient Buddhist caves in the gentle morning light. The second day’s visit to Ellora’s monumental Kailasha Temple is equally impressive, showcasing extraordinary craftsmanship carved from a single mountain. Plus, the option to unwind in Aurangabad with a visit to Bibi Ka Maqbara at sunset adds a nice touch of local charm.

A possible consideration is the tight schedule, especially if you like to linger longer at each site. With at least 3-4 hours dedicated to each site, the focus is on seeing the highlights rather than exhaustive exploration. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized overview of these two key sites without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. If you appreciate guided insights and a straightforward itinerary, this experience fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Expert-guided tours enrich your understanding of the sites’ history and art.
• Early mornings help avoid crowds and allow for a peaceful experience at Ajanta.
• Flexible itinerary with options for individual exploration and relaxation in Aurangabad.
• Inclusive transport from your hotel, airport, or station simplifies logistics.
• Cultural variety with Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments showcasing India’s religious diversity.
• Authentic experience with a focus on historical significance and artistic detail.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta & Ellora

Starting with Ajanta Caves—a 2-hour early-morning drive from Aurangabad—sets the tone for this experience. The drive begins around 6:00 AM, giving you a head start to beat the tourist rush. The Ajanta Caves are a series of 30 rock-cut Buddhist monasteries and temples, with frescoes and sculptures dating from the 2nd century BCE to the 5th century CE. We loved the way the early light hits the ancient stone, casting shadows that make the frescoes come alive.

A guided visit here—ideally with a licensed guide—can turn what might seem like just old carvings into a vivid story of Buddha’s life, teachings, and the monastic life of centuries past. One reviewer mentions, “Our guide, Ravi, brought these caves to life with stories that made the frescoes resonate.” Expect to spend around 3-4 hours wandering through the caves, admiring the intricate artwork, and learning about their spiritual significance.

What makes Ajanta truly special is its combination of natural tranquility and artistic brilliance. Because the caves are carved into a horseshoe-shaped cliff overlook, the setting feels almost timeless. The frescoes, depicting Buddha’s Jataka tales, are remarkably well-preserved, offering insight into the spiritual life of ancient India.

After a satisfying lunch, your journey continues with a 2-hour drive back to Aurangabad, giving you time to relax or explore local spots like Bibi Ka Maqbara. This Mughal-style mausoleum, often called the “Taj of the Deccan,” offers a lovely sunset scene and a taste of Mughal architecture.

On Day Two, we head to Ellora, just 30 km northwest of Aurangabad. The journey is brief but filled with anticipation for the architectural wonder of the Kailasha Temple, carved from a single mountain side over several centuries. As you approach the site, the sheer scale of the rock-cut temples becomes apparent—ranging from Buddhist monasteries to Hindu and Jain temples.

Ellora’s 34 caves showcase a variety of religious art forms, but the true highlight is the Kailasha Temple—a towering monolith that’s considered one of the most extraordinary rock-cut structures in the world. We loved the guide’s explanation of the temple’s construction and symbolism, which added depth to the experience.

Exploring Ellora involves walking through a sprawling complex of caves, courtyards, and temples. You’ll marvel at the detailed sculptures, intricate carvings, and the sheer effort it took to carve these structures from solid rock. The site takes around 3-4 hours to explore thoroughly, especially with a guide to highlight key details.

A bonus for many visitors is the chance to relax in Aurangabad in the evening. Visiting Bibi Ka Maqbara or simply strolling through the city’s markets provides a chance to unwind after two busy days of sightseeing.

Practical Details and Tips for Your Tour

Transportation and Timing:
Your tour includes pickup from your hotel, airport, railway station, or bus stand in Aurangabad, making logistics simple. Starting early around 6:00 AM on Day One allows you to avoid crowds at Ajanta, enhancing your experience. The 109 km drive takes about 2 hours, giving you ample time to explore the caves with your guide before returning to the city.

Guided Experience:
A licensed guide is included in the tour, which is vital for understanding the historical, artistic, and religious significance of each site. Many reviewers emphasize the value of knowledgeable guides, with one stating, “Our guide, Ravi, made history come alive with stories and details that I wouldn’t have known on my own.” The tours are available in multiple languages—English, Hindi, Spanish, and Japanese—which broadens accessibility.

Price and Value:
At $114 per person, the tour offers an affordable way to cover two UNESCO sites with transportation, guided insights, and some flexibility. Considering the cost of individual entry tickets, transport, and guide fees if booked separately, this package offers good value, especially for travelers seeking a hassle-free experience.

Schedule Considerations:
Note that Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays, and Ellora on Tuesdays. If you’re traveling on these days, the options change slightly—either focusing on Ellora on Monday or Ajanta on Tuesday. Planning ahead ensures you get the most out of your trip.

Additional Recommendations:
– Wear comfortable walking shoes; both sites involve a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces.
– Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as much of the exploration is outdoors and exposed to the sun.
– A camera is a must to capture the intricate carvings and expansive views.

Authenticity and Experience: What Sets This Tour Apart

This tour isn’t just about ticking off sights; it’s about understanding what makes Ajanta and Ellora so special. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the stories behind the art and architecture accessible. We loved hearing how the frescoes at Ajanta are “preserved beautifully,” and how the Kailasha Temple’s scale and craftsmanship evoke awe.

Travelers also appreciate the early start, which results in a calmer, more peaceful experience at Ajanta. One review said, “Getting there early meant we saw the caves before the crowds, and the atmosphere was almost spiritual.” The inclusion of free time in Aurangabad for relaxation or local exploration balances the busy sightseeing days.

This tour offers a practical, well-organized way to experience India’s artistic highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The combination of guided storytelling, stunning views, and comfortable transportation is genuine value for those wanting an authentic taste of India’s ancient spiritual art.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates history, art, and architecture, and prefers guided tours that deepen your understanding, this experience is perfect. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of arranging transport and guides themselves. With a moderate price point and a focus on UNESCO sites, it’s ideal for those with limited time but big curiosity.

Those who value peaceful early mornings to beat crowds will find this tour particularly rewarding. Travelers keen on experiencing a mix of spiritual art, grand structures, and local flavor in Aurangabad will also enjoy adding a relaxed evening visit to Bibi Ka Maqbara.

However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or want to linger longer at each site, this tour’s tight schedule might feel rushed. Also, travelers with mobility issues should consider the walking involved across uneven rock surfaces.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your pickup from your preferred location in Aurangabad and transportation to each site are included. The drive between Aurangabad and Ajanta is about 2 hours, and Ellora is just 30 km away.

What is the best time to take this tour?
You’ll want to start early around 6:00 AM for Ajanta to avoid crowds. Be aware that Ajanta is closed on Mondays and Ellora on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides can speak English, Hindi, Spanish, and Japanese, making the experience accessible for international travelers.

How long do the visits last at each site?
Expect to spend around 3-4 hours exploring each cave complex, including guided commentary.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is structured as a private group with a set itinerary, but the flexible schedule allows you to unwind at your own pace during free time in Aurangabad.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. The sites involve walking on uneven surfaces and outdoor exposure.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While the tour suits those interested in history and art, families should consider the walking involved and the early start.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, the Aurangabad: Ajanta & Ellora Caves Journey offers a balanced mix of guided insight and personal discovery. It’s a reliable choice for travelers eager to see India’s most revered rock-cut temples without the fuss of planning every detail. The early mornings, expert guides, and stunning vistas make it a memorable experience—perfect for those who want to understand the depth of India’s spiritual and artistic heritage, all while enjoying a comfortable, organized trip. If you’re looking to tick off two UNESCO sites in one go, appreciate expert storytelling, and prefer a schedule that respects your time, this tour delivers excellent value.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply eager to see India’s ancient marvels, this experience is a well-rounded way to connect with the country’s soul through its extraordinary monuments.

You can check availability for your dates here: