Aurangabad, India Travel Guide

Aurangabad, known as the 'City of Gates,' is a treasure trove of Mughal architecture, ancient caves, and vibrant local markets, making it a must-visit destination in India.

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Aurangabad

Aurangabad, often referred to as the 'City of Gates,' offers a fascinating blend of ancient history and Mughal architecture. The city is a gateway to the World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, which are renowned for their stunning rock-cut architecture and intricate carvings. These ancient caves, dating back to between the 2nd century BCE and 6th century CE, are a must-see for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike. Within the city, you'll find the Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the 'Taj of the Deccan.' This mausoleum, built by Aurangzeb in memory of his wife, is a fine example of Mughal architecture. The city's numerous gates, such as Paithan Gate and Delhi Gate, add to its historical charm, each telling its own story of the city's storied past. Aurangabad is also known for its vibrant local markets, where you can shop for traditional Himroo shawls, Paithani sarees, and more. The city's cuisine is a delectable mix of Mughlai and Hyderabadi influences, offering dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're exploring ancient caves or savoring local delicacies, Aurangabad promises a rich and memorable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Aurangabad.

Visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
Hire a local guide at the Bibi Ka Maqbara for insightful historical details.
Try the local dish, Naan Qalia, a traditional meat curry, at one of the city's famous eateries.
Shop for Himroo shawls and Paithani sarees at the local markets for authentic souvenirs.
Carry a water bottle and wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven at historical sites.

Neighbourhoods in Aurangabad

Begumpura

CIDCO Colony

Cidco

Osmanpura

Nirala Bazar

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Aurangabad

Explore Aurangabad: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Aurangabad

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Soneri Mahal

Discover the grandeur of Soneri Mahal, a historic monument in Aurangabad showcasing exquisite Mughal architecture and rich cultural heritage.

4.2

Ellora Caves

Explore the Ellora Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the harmony of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism through ancient rock-cut architecture.

4.7

BIBI KA MAQBARA

Discover the Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad, a beautiful mausoleum and testament to Mughal love, often called the 'Taj of the Deccan'.

4.2

Jama Masjid Aurangabad

Explore Aurangabad's Jama Masjid: A historic Mughal-era mosque with stunning Islamic architecture and a serene atmosphere.

4.7

Best landmarks in Aurangabad

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BIBI KA MAQBARA , Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Explore the breathtaking Bibi Ka Maqbara, a magnificent Mughal mausoleum in Maharashtra, showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.

4.2

BIBI KA MAQBARA

Explore Bibi Ka Maqbara, a stunning Mughal mausoleum in Aurangabad, showcasing exquisite architecture and a rich historical legacy.

4.2

Daulatabad Fort

Discover the grandeur of Daulatabad Fort, a historical marvel in Maharashtra, offering stunning views and a rich tapestry of Indian heritage.

4.5

Siddharth Garden and Zoo

Discover the harmony of nature and wildlife at Siddharth Garden and Zoo, a serene escape in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, perfect for families and nature lovers.

4.0

Best restaurants in Aurangabad

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Green Leaf Vegetarian Cuisine

Discover the vibrant flavors of vegetarian cuisine at Green Leaf Vegetarian Cuisine in Aurangabad – where Indian meets Chinese in every delicious bite.

4.4

Indiana's Red Velvet Veg Restaurant

Discover the vibrant vegetarian flavors at Indiana's Red Velvet Veg Restaurant in Aurangabad – where every dish is a celebration of taste.

4.6

Indiana Veg Restaurant and Cake Boutique

Explore the delightful flavors of vegetarian cuisine at Indiana Veg Restaurant and Cake Boutique in Aurangabad - a must-visit dining experience.

4.7

Kailash Veg. Restaurant

Discover authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine at Kailash Veg. Restaurant in Aurangabad - a flavorful journey awaits!

4.0

Best bars in Aurangabad

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Tandoor Restaurant & Bar

Experience authentic Indian flavors at Tandoor Restaurant & Bar in Aurangabad, famous for its delicious tandoori dishes and vibrant atmosphere.

3.8

Shail

Experience the blend of sports, culture, and culinary delights at Shail, Aurangabad's premier sports bar and restaurant.

3.9

Vishal's Floating Spirit Bar & Restaurant

Discover the exquisite flavors and lively ambiance of Vishal's Floating Spirit Bar & Restaurant in Aurangabad, where dining meets delightful experiences.

4.2

New Banjara Bar and Family Rasto.

Experience the vibrant flavors of India at New Banjara Bar and Family Rasto in Aurangabad, where delicious grilled dishes and a family-friendly atmosphere await.

3.5

Best nightclubs in Aurangabad

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Aurangabad Gymkhana Club Hotel

Discover luxury and leisure at Aurangabad Gymkhana Club Hotel, your gateway to Maharashtra's cultural heritage and modern comfort.

4.1

Uptown501 Cafe Lounge

Experience the vibrant dining scene at Uptown501 Cafe Lounge, serving a fusion of Asian, Indian, Italian, and Lebanese cuisines in Aurangabad.

4.1

Fusion Restro Lounge

Experience the perfect blend of global cuisines and stylish ambiance at Fusion Restro Lounge in Aurangabad.

3.9

Harry's Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful cuisine at Harry's Bar in Aurangabad, a perfect blend of dining and nightlife.

3.5

Best shops in Aurangabad

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Fashion Factory

Discover the latest fashion trends at Fashion Factory, your go-to clothing store in Aurangabad for stylish apparel and accessories.

4.3

Shopper's Stop

Discover fashion and style at Shopper's Stop, Aurangabad's premier department store offering a diverse selection for the whole family.

4.2

Magicalprints & gifts

Explore the charm of Aurangabad with unique gifts and personalized creations at Magicalprints & Gifts, a must-visit for every tourist.

4.8

RANGOLI COLLECTION EXCLUSIVE. रंगोली कलेक्शन एक्सक्लसिव्ह

Explore a diverse range of clothing and accessories at Rangoli Collection Exclusive in Aurangabad, where tradition meets modernity for every fashion enthusiast.

4.5

Explore Aurangabad on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Aurangabad, mapped for you.

Aurangabad Essentials

Aurangabad is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is the Aurangabad Airport (Chikkalthana Airport), with regular flights from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad. The city is also served by Aurangabad Railway Station, which connects to major cities such as Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad. By road, Aurangabad is accessible via National Highway 52 and State Highways, with regular bus services from neighboring cities.
Within Aurangabad, several transportation options are available. Auto-rickshaws and taxis can be hired for short distances or day trips. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates buses within the city and to nearby tourist spots. For a more personalized experience, consider renting a car. Ride-sharing apps like Ola and Uber are also operational in Aurangabad.
The official currency in Aurangabad is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, but it's a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash in urban areas before heading to more remote sites.
Aurangabad is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places like markets and bus stations. Certain neighborhoods, particularly near railway stations and bus terminals, may have higher petty crime rates targeting tourists. Always use registered transportation services and avoid accepting unsolicited help from strangers.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and several hospitals, including the Government Medical College and Hospital, provide emergency services. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues, and many offer 24-hour service.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious practices. Remove your shoes before entering temples and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' or a handshake. Avoid overly familiar gestures. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Aurangabad like a local, visit the vibrant local markets such as Gul Mandi and Aurangpura for fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals; they are friendly and often eager to share stories about the city's rich history. Don't miss visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. For a unique experience, try the local street food and take a walk along the Siddharth Garden and Zoo for a leisurely day out.

When is the best time to visit Aurangabad?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Aurangabad

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Aurangabad. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloनमस्कार
  [namaskar]
- Goodbyeअलविदा
  [alvida]
- Yesहाँ
  [haan]
- Noनहीं
  [nahin]
- Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [krupaya]
- Thank youधन्यवाद
  [dhanyavad]
- Excuse me/Sorryक्षमा कीजिए
  [kshama keejiye]
- How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [aap kaise hain?]
- Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। आप?
  [theek hoon. aap?]
- Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोलते हैं?
  [kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
- I don't understandमुझे समझ में नहीं आया
  [mujhe samajh mein nahin aaya]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनू दिखाइए
  [krupaya menu dikhaiye]
- I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता
  [main maans nahin khata]
- Cheers!चियर्स!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मैं भुगतान करना चाहूँ
  [krupaya main bhugtan karna chaahoon]
- Help!मदद!
  [madad!]
- Go away!चले जाओ!
  [chale jao!]
- Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [police ko bulaao!]
- Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [doctor ko bulaao!]
- I'm lostमैं खो गया हूँ
  [main kho gaya hoon]
- I'm illमैं बीमार हूँ
  [main bimaar hoon]
- I'd like to buy...मैं खरीदना चाहूँगा...
  [main khareedna chaahunga...]
- I'm just lookingमैं बस देख रहा हूँ
  [main bas dekh raha hoon]
- How much is it?यह कितने का है?
  [yah kitne ka hai?]
- That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [yah bahut mahnga hai]
- Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]
- What time is it?अब कितने बजे हैं?
  [ab kitne baje hain?]
- It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [ek baje hain]
- Half past (10)दस बजे तक
  [das baje tak]
- Morningसुबह
  [subah]
- Afternoonदोपहर
  [dopahar]
- Eveningशाम
  [shaam]
- Yesterdayकल
  [kal]
- Todayआज
  [aaj]
- Tomorrowकल
  [kal]
- 1एक
  [ek]
- 2दो
  [do]
- 3तीन
  [teen]
- 4चार
  [chaar]
- 5पांच
  [paanch]
- 6छह
  [chhah]
- 7सात
  [saat]
- 8आठ
  [aath]
- 9नौ
  [nau]
- 10दस
  [das]
- Where's a/the...?...कहाँ है?
  [...kahan hai?]
- What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [pata kya hai?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं (नक्शे पर)?
  [kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain (naksha par)?]
- When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [agli (bas) kab hai?]
- A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (.... के लिए)
  [ek ticket (... ke liye)]

History of Aurangabad

Aurangabad, originally known as Khadki, was founded in 1610 by Malik Ambar, the Prime Minister of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate. It was later renamed Fatehnagar by his son, Fateh Khan, and finally Aurangabad by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1653, when he made it his capital during his Deccan campaign.
Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal Emperor, is a significant figure in the history of Aurangabad. The city served as his capital during his reign in the Deccan region from 1653 to 1707. During this period, Aurangzeb commissioned several structures, including the Bibi Ka Maqbara, which is often referred to as the 'Taj of the Deccan' due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal.
Bibi Ka Maqbara, built between 1651 and 1661, is a mausoleum dedicated to Dilras Banu Begum, Aurangzeb's first wife. This architectural marvel was designed by Ata-ullah, the son of Ustad Ahmad Lahauri, the principal designer of the Taj Mahal. It stands as a testament to Mughal architecture in the Deccan region.
Aurangabad came under the control of the Marathas in the early 18th century after the decline of the Mughal Empire. The city was part of the Nizam's dominions, which later became the princely state of Hyderabad. The Maratha period saw the construction of several forts and temples in and around Aurangabad.
During the British colonial period, Aurangabad was part of the Hyderabad State under the Nizam's rule. The city modernized with the introduction of railways and other infrastructure developments. The Nizam's loyal association with the British Empire ensured that Aurangabad remained a significant administrative and cultural hub.
After India's independence in 1947, Aurangabad became part of the Indian state of Maharashtra. The city has since developed into an industrial and educational center, known for its textile industry and educational institutions like Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University.
Aurangabad is renowned for its proximity to the Ellora and Ajanta caves, UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Ellora Caves, dating from 600 to 1000 AD, feature rock-cut monasteries and temples representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. The Ajanta Caves, older and dating from the 2nd century BCE to 480 CE, are famous for their stunning murals and sculptures that depict the life of the Buddha.
Aurangabad is a melting pot of cultures, influenced by various dynasties and rulers. The city celebrates a variety of festivals, including the vibrant Ellora-Ajanta Festival, which showcases classical Indian dance and music. The local cuisine, including the famous Naan Qalia, reflects the rich culinary traditions inherited from the Mughal and Nizam eras.