From Aurangabad: Budget-Friendly Taxi Service to Ajanta & Ellora.

Discover the Heritage of Aurangabad in Two Days — Affordable, Private, and Authentic

If you’re visiting Aurangabad, there’s no better way to explore its ancient wonders than with this cost-effective, private two-day tour. For just around $51 per person, you get hotel pickup, private transport, and visits to some of India’s most iconic UNESCO-listed sites. The tour includes the Ajanta Caves, with their elaborate Buddhist frescoes from 2nd century BC to 5th century AD, and the Ellora Caves, renowned for their remarkable rock-cut temples and monasteries.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s flexible—you can choose between a transport-only option or a guided tour, making it adaptable to your interests and budget. Second, the comfortable private transportation ensures you won’t get lost or rushed, allowing you to enjoy each site at your own pace. The reviews highlight excellent service, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and hassle-free logistics.

On the downside, note that admission tickets and guides are extra, so you’ll want to budget for those. Also, the itinerary is quite full, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or deeper immersion at each location, you might find the schedule a little tight.

This tour suits travelers who love history, culture, and convenience. Especially if you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small family, you’ll appreciate the personalized touch and the chance to tick off multiple must-see sites without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

Key Points

• Affordable and value-packed at $51.21 per person for two days.
• Flexible options for transport, with a private driver and optional guide.
• Visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Ajanta and Ellora caves.
• All logistics covered: pickup, fuel, tolls, and bottled water.
• Extra costs include admission tickets and guides.
• Ideal for those wanting convenience without sacrificing authenticity.

Exploring Aurangabad with Ease and Authenticity

We all know exploring India’s ancient sites can be complicated—transport, timing, navigating crowds. This tour simplifies all that, offering a smooth, private experience that lets you focus on soaking in the sights rather than stressing over logistics.

The tour covers major highlights efficiently. The first day takes you to Ajanta Caves, set about 100 km from Aurangabad, a journey of roughly two hours. On the way, you’ll enjoy a tea or coffee break, a small but appreciated touch. Once at Ajanta, you’re allotted about three hours to explore the 30 caves, which date back to the 2nd century BC and served as a Buddhist monastery. The well-preserved frescoes and sculptures are a jaw-dropper, and the guided commentary (if you opt for it) can make the history come alive.

We loved the way the tour balances history and practicality. The driver’s hospitality and comfort, with bottled water and a torch for cave exploration, keep the experience hassle-free. As one reviewer said, “He provided the best service,” and “It was spent with maximum efficiency,” which is exactly what many travelers look for on a short trip.

Next, the second day kicks off early to beat the crowds at Ellora Caves. These rock-cut temples and monasteries are truly impressive, and you’ll need about 2-3 hours to appreciate their grandeur. The UNESCO designation assures you’re visiting something truly special—structures carved out of solid rock, blending Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religious architecture into a stunning visual mosaic.

From Ellora, your tour continues with a visit to the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 sacred Shiva shrines. Expect about an hour for darshan and exploring the temple’s peaceful grounds. The experience here is more than sightseeing; it’s a glimpse into spiritual devotion still practiced today.

Lunch is planned as a break for local cuisine, an excellent opportunity to taste authentic flavors of Maharashtra. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, the driver can point you toward nearby eateries, which many travelers found enjoyable—some even described the food as “delicious.”

The afternoon visits include Daulatabad Fort, a formidable medieval fortress with a complex layout, commanding views, and a fascinating history. You’ll likely spend 1-2 hours wandering its ramparts, tunnels, and battlements. The fort’s strategic location and military architecture make it one of the most impressive sites in the region.

Finally, you’ll conclude with a visit to Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Taj of the Deccan.” Built as a memorial, its delicate marble work and lush gardens make for a picturesque end to a busy day. Expect about an hour here to soak in the architecture and tranquil surroundings.

Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

The reviews highlight several reasons why this tour is popular. Many praise the guide’s knowledge—“Mr. Suleman provided the best service,” said one reviewer—adding depth and context that can transform a sightseeing trip into an enriching experience. Others appreciated the hassle-free logistics, especially the early morning pickup and comfortable drive, which help you start your day smoothly.

Plus, travelers find the value for money compelling—your modest fee covers private transport, fuel, tolls, and bottled water, making it a good deal for those who want to avoid the expense and hassle of organized group tours or DIY arrangements. The flexibility of choosing optional guides and transport types—sedan, SUV, or mini-van—means you can tailor the experience to your group size and comfort preferences.

The reviews also mention the quality of the experience, with comments like “Hassle free and relaxing” and “We really enjoyed safety and comfortable drive,” indicating a stress-free environment that lets you focus on the sites.

However, some should be aware that admission fees and guides are not included, so budget accordingly if you want a more guided experience at each location. Also, with a packed 2-day agenda, you’ll need to be prepared for a full schedule, especially if you want to absorb every detail.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Ajanta Caves

The journey begins with a two-hour drive from Aurangabad, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way. The first major stop is Ajanta, home to 30 caves that once functioned as a Buddhist monastery. These caves are carved into a horseshoe-shaped cliff face, offering a dramatic setting that’s as much about the landscape as the art.

Once inside, you’ll encounter frescoes, sculptures, and monasteries that date from the 2nd century BC to the 5th century AD. The detailed paintings depict stories from Buddha’s life, and many caves feature intricate statues. We loved the way the guide can bring the history to life, explaining the symbolism behind the art and architecture, turning a walk through caves into a storytelling experience.

After the sightseeing, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to sample regional flavors like Maharashtrian thali or spicy street snacks. The driver then returns you to Aurangabad, wrapping up day one.

Day 2: Ellora Caves, Temples, and Forts

Early morning, you’ll head to Ellora, about 30 km from Aurangabad. Here, 34 monasteries and temples are carved into the rock—an incredible feat of engineering and artistry. Highlights include the Kailasa Temple, a monolithic marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva, and other structures representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain faiths. As one traveler noted, “The rock-cut temples are stunning, and the mix of religious styles makes it a fascinating visit.”

Next, the Grishneshwar Temple, a sacred Shiva shrine, offers a peaceful atmosphere for worship and reflection. Expect about an hour here for darshan and exploring the surrounding gardens.

Lunch provides a break before heading to Daulatabad Fort. This fortress’s massive walls, tunnels, and hilltop views offer insight into medieval military design. Exploring its ramparts and underground passages typically takes about an hour or two, making it a highlight for history buffs.

Finally, the day concludes at Bibi Ka Maqbara, an elegant mausoleum that resembles the Taj Mahal, but on a smaller scale. Its marble domes and lush gardens provide a serene setting to end your trip.

Ending the Tour

After your sightseeing, the driver will drop you back at your hotel, railway station, or even the airport. The entire experience is designed to be convenient, with timed pickups and drops that maximize your sightseeing time without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Aurangabad’s highlights. If you appreciate guided insights, enjoy comfort and flexibility, and prefer to avoid the stress of organizing transport and tickets yourself, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for small groups or solo travelers who want a personalized experience, as many reviews emphasize the attentive service and knowledgeable guides.

It’s also ideal if you value good value for the price, given the inclusion of private transport, bottled water, and the convenience of a well-organized schedule. However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into each site with guided commentary included, you’ll need to budget for additional guide fees.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic look at Aurangabad’s cultural treasures. The combination of private transport, flexible options, and the inclusion of major UNESCO sites means you can enjoy these incredible sights comfortably and efficiently. Travelers praise the professional drivers and the clear communication that ensures a smooth journey.

The value for money is particularly compelling; for a modest investment, you gain access to iconic heritage sites, comfortable transportation, and the chance to learn from guides who genuinely care about sharing their knowledge.

While it is a packed itinerary, many find the experience well worth the effort—especially those with limited time or who want a straightforward, reliable way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each step.

This tour would suit history enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and first-time visitors who want a memorable, stress-free introduction to Aurangabad’s ancient marvels.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation with options for sedan, SUV, or mini-van, depending on your group size.

Are admission tickets included?
No, admission fees for sites are not included, so you should budget for these separately.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour offers a transport-only option or guided tour, but additional customization (like extra sites) isn’t specified, so check with the provider.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup is included, and you can be dropped off at your hotel, airport, or railway station after the tour.

How long is the drive to Ajanta and Ellora?
The drive to Ajanta is about 2 hours, and to Ellora, it’s a shorter trip of roughly 30 km from Aurangabad.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat or umbrella for sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and art.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned, the itinerary’s design suggests it’s manageable for older children who enjoy history and don’t mind walking.

In essence, this private tour provides a well-organized, affordable, and enriching way to experience Aurangabad’s most treasured sites. It balances convenience with authenticity—perfect for travelers who want a memorable visit without the fuss.