From Aurangabad: 1-Day Taxi Trip to Ajanta and Ellora Caves

A 1-Day Taxi Trip from Aurangabad to Ajanta and Ellora Caves: An Honest Look

If you’re visiting Aurangabad and want to make the most of your time exploring some of India’s most famous rock-cut caves, this private taxi trip might just be your best bet. For around $20.11 per person, you get a full-day adventure that covers either the breathtaking Ajanta Caves, the impressive Ellora Caves, or both — depending on your schedule and interest. With transportation tailored exclusively for your group, a knowledgeable driver, and the flexibility to choose your itinerary, this tour offers a stress-free way to soak up history without the fuss of public transport or rigid group tours.

What we really appreciate about this service is its personalized approach — you’re picked up from your hotel or preferred location, driven comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, and have the option to hire guides at each site for extra context. Plus, bottled water is included, helping you stay refreshed under the Indian sun. The flexibility to select an itinerary that fits your pace makes this tour ideal for those seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing and comfort.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the entry tickets to the caves and monuments are not included — so you’ll need to carry cash in Indian Rupees. Also, cave closures on specific days (Ajanta on Mondays, Ellora on Tuesdays) mean your itinerary might shift slightly, so planning ahead helps. This trip suits history lovers, cultural explorers, or those on a tight schedule wanting a comfortable, guided experience with good value.

Key Points

• Private Transportation ensures comfort and flexibility during your day trip.
• Flexible Itineraries allow you to visit Ajanta, Ellora, or both, depending on your interests and schedule.
• Guided or Self-Guided Options give you control over how much information you take in at each site.
• Cost-Effective transportation and optional guides provide excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Cave Entry Tickets Not Included so plan to carry cash for tickets (INR 30-600).
• Traveler-Centered Service with friendly drivers, bottled water, and pick-up convenience.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

How the Tour Is Structured

This private taxi service offers three main itinerary options, each designed to give you a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic sites near Aurangabad. The choice depends on your schedule, interest, and which caves are open on the day of your tour.

Itinerary No. 1 takes you from Aurangabad to Ellora Caves, then to Daulatabad Fort and Bibi Ka Maqbra. Starting around 8:00 or 10:00 AM, this route emphasizes the rock-cut temples of Ellora, a UNESCO World Heritage site that combines Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves — remarkable for their scale and artistry. Afterwards, visiting Daulatabad Fort offers a chance to walk through a well-preserved medieval fortress, and Bibi Ka Maqbra provides a peaceful, Mughal-era monument.

Itinerary No. 2 begins slightly later, at 8:30 AM, heading straight to the Ajanta Caves. These Buddhist caves are famed for their exceptional murals and sculptures. After exploring for 3-4 hours, you may visit Bibi Ka Maqbra if time allows, rounding out your cultural day.

Itinerary No. 3 offers a full day starting at 7:00 AM, covering both Ajanta and Ellora, giving you the chance to see both UNESCO sites — a busy but rewarding day. You’ll visit the 29 Buddhist caves at Ajanta, then head over to the rock-hewn Ellora Caves, marveling at the diversity of religious sculptures and temples.

What the Transportation Feels Like

The vehicles are air-conditioned, a huge plus in the Indian summer heat, and are reserved solely for your group — whether 1 person or 4. The Toyota Etios sedan is perfect for couples or solo travelers, while the Innova Crysta SUV comfortably fits small groups. The driver speaks good English and Hindi, which eases communication and allows for local insights along the way.

Travel times are reasonable — around 1 hour to Ellora, about 2 hours to Ajanta, with plenty of bottled water provided to keep you hydrated. The private setup means you can stretch out and enjoy the scenery without the rush or discomfort of public buses or crowded groups.

The Cave Visits: What to Expect

At Ajanta, you’ll encounter 29 caves carved into the hillside, filled with fresco murals and Buddhist sculptures. These caves are renowned for their vibrant paintings depicting Jataka tales, along with serene Buddha statues. Many reviewers mention how the caves are “beyond imagination,” and the guides (if hired) can help interpret the murals, making the visit even more meaningful.

Ellora Caves are a different story — a sprawling complex cut into the rock, featuring Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples and monasteries. The scale and variety here are stunning, with some caves dating back to the 6th century. Visitors describe Ellora as phenomenal, with many being struck by the intricate carvings and vast temples.

Bibi Ka Maqbra and Daulatabad Fort offer additional historical context. The former, a Mughal-era tomb, provides a tranquil break, while the latter offers panoramic views of the landscape and a sense of medieval military ingenuity.

The Authenticity and Value

This tour truly shines because of its personalized service and local guide options. Several reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides or the driver himself provided interesting insights, making the experience more engaging. The cost per person is quite reasonable considering the full-day private transport, especially when you factor in the cost of entry tickets and potential guide fees.

The flexibility to choose your stops means you can tailor your day — a big plus if you want more time at the caves or prefer a leisurely pace. The included bottled water and air-conditioned vehicle keep you comfortable, even in the heat.

Considerations and Tips

• Entry tickets are not included, so budget around INR 30-600 per site, payable in cash as cards are not accepted.
• Be mindful of cave closure days: Ajanta is closed on Mondays, and Ellora on Tuesdays, so plan your trip accordingly.
• Comfortable shoes and sun protection are essential, as you’ll be walking and exploring in the open.
• If you want a more interpretive experience, hiring a guide at the site is recommended, as the package allows that flexibility.
• The tour is most suitable for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic insights over rigid schedules.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private day trip is ideal for history and culture enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, comfortable experience without the hassle of navigating public transport. It suits those with a tight schedule but still eager to see the highlights, especially if you’re interested in both Ajanta and Ellora.

Travelers looking for value for money will appreciate the cost-effective transportation and the option to hire guides for added depth. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples seeking a personalized, relaxed day exploring some of India’s most iconic caves.

If you prefer a guided, all-in-one experience with the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off, this tour provides a balanced mix of professional service and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are the cave visits included in the price?
No, the entry tickets for Ajanta, Ellora, and Bibi Ka Maqbra are not included. You’ll need to purchase these separately in Indian Rupees at each site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers three different itineraries, so you can choose to visit either Ajanta, Ellora, or both, depending on your interests and schedule.

What if the caves are closed on my planned day?
Ajanta caves are closed on Mondays, and Ellora caves on Tuesdays. The tour will then be adjusted to visit the open sites, such as Daulatabad Fort or Bibi Ka Maqbra.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The vehicle capacity ranges from 1 to 4 people, making it an excellent option for solo travelers seeking comfort and flexibility.

How long does each site visit last?
Most travelers spend about 3-4 hours exploring the caves, depending on whether they hire guides or explore independently.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring cash in INR for tickets, sunscreen, hat or cap, comfortable shoes, and a water bottle. The included bottled water helps beat the heat.

Is the driver knowledgeable about the sites?
The driver speaks good English and Hindi, and reviews mention that drivers are careful, friendly, and helpful, enhancing the overall experience.

Final Thoughts

This private taxi tour from Aurangabad delivers a convenient, flexible, and authentic way to explore the incredible Ajanta and Ellora caves, along with other historic sites. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, personalized service, and the ability to tailor their sightseeing experience. The balance of professional transportation, optional guides, and cultural highlights makes this a smart choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free day of discovery.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or just curious about India’s ancient rock-cut architecture, this tour offers a value-packed, memorable journey. Just remember to plan around cave closure days and carry enough cash for tickets — after that, it’s smooth sailing through some of India’s most awe-inspiring monuments.