Ellora caves and 3 Sightseeing Tour
Non-refundable - Your booking can not be cancelled, modified or refunded.
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Highlights
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora Caves
- Visit the historic Daulatabad Fort
- Marvel at the striking Bibi Ka Maqbara tomb
- Discover the fascinating Panchakki Water Mill
- Experience the religious harmony in ancient India
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Private Tour experience
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Duration 7 to 9 hours
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English-speaking driver
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Bottled water included
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WiFi on board
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Air-conditioned vehicle
Experience the captivating beauty of Ellora caves and other enchanting sights on this private tour. Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ellora, one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world. Explore the Jain, Buddhist, and Hindu monuments, dating back to the 600–1000 CE period, and witness the grandeur of the Kailasha temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Immerse yourself in the religious harmony of ancient India as you visit over 100 caves, each representing different deities and mythologies. Discover the historical Daulatabad Fort, once the capital of the Yadava dynasty and the Delhi Sultanate. Be awe-inspired by the Bibi Ka Maqbara, a stunning tomb commissioned by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in memory of his wife. Lastly, visit the Panchakki, a unique water mill that showcases medieval Indian architectural brilliance. Let the English-speaking driver provide basic information as you explore these magnificent sites and delve deep into the rich history of Aurangabad.
At a Glance
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7 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves and more on a private, guided sightseeing tour in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, with comfortable transport and refreshments.
Included
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In-vehicle air conditioning
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Parking fees
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On-board wifi
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Bottled water
Excluded
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Monuments entry fees
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Gratuities
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Ellora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. It is one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world, featuring Jain, Buddhist and Hindu, monuments, and artwork, dating from the 600–1000 CE period. Cave 16, in particular, features the largest single monolithic rock excavation in the world, the Kailasha temple, a chariot shaped monument dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Kailasha temple excavation also features sculptures depicting the gods, goddesses and mythologies found in Vaishnavism, Shaktism as well as relief panels summarizing the two major Hindu Epics. There are over 100 caves at the site, all excavated from the basalt cliffs in the Charanandri Hills, 34 of which are open to public. These consist of 12 Buddhist (caves 1–12), 17 Hindu (caves 13–29) and 5 Jain (caves 30–34) caves, each group representing deities and mythologies prevalent in the 1st millennium CE, as well as monasteries of each respective religion. They were built close to one another and illustrate the religious harmony that existed in ancient India. All of the Ellora monuments were built during Hindu dynasties such as the Rashtrakuta dynasty, which constructed part of the Hindu and Buddhist caves, and the Yadava dynasty, which constructed a number of the Jain caves. Funding for the construction of the monuments was provided by royals, traders and the wealthy of the region.
Daulatabad Fort, also known as Devagiri or Deogiri, is a historical fortified citadel located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. It was the capital of the Yadava dynasty (9th century–14th century CE), for a brief time the capital of the Delhi Sultanate (1327–1334), and later a secondary capital of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate (1499–1636). Around the sixth century CE, Devagiri emerged as an important uplands town near present-day Aurangabad, along caravan routes going towards western and southern India. The historical triangular fortress in the city was initially built around 1187 by the first Yadava king, Bhillama V. In 1308, the city was annexed by Sultan Alauddin Khalji of the Delhi Sultanate, which ruled over most of the Indian subcontinent. In 1327, Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq of the Delhi Sultanate renamed the city as "Daulatabad" and shifted his imperial capital to the city from Delhi, ordering a mass migration of Delhi's population to Daulatabad. However, Muhammad bin Tughluq reversed his decision in 1334 and the capital of the Delhi Sultanate was shifted back from Daulatabad to Delhi. In 1499, Daulatabad became a part of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate, who used it as their secondary capital. In 1610, near Daulatabad Fort, the new city of Aurangabad, then named Khadki, was established to serve as the capital of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate by the Ethiopian military leader Malik Ambar, who was brought to India as a slave but rose to become a popular Prime Minister of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate. Most of the present-day fortification at Daulatabad Fort was constructed under the Ahmadnagar Sultanate.
The Bibi Ka Maqbara (English: "Tomb of the Lady") is a tomb located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. It was commissioned in 1660 by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in the memory of his first and chief wife Dilras Banu Begum (posthumously known as Rabia-ud-Daurani) and is considered to be a symbol of Aurangzeb's 'conjugal fidelity'.It bears a striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal, the mausoleum of Aurangzeb's mother, Mumtaz Mahal.[6] Aurangzeb was not much interested in architecture though he had commissioned the small, but elegant, Pearl Mosque at Delhi. Bibi Ka Maqbara is the largest structure that Aurangzeb has to his credit.
Panchakki (Water Mill)
Panchakki, known as the water mill. This monument is located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, displays the scientific thought process put in medieval Indian architecture. It was designed to generate energy via water brought down from a spring on a mountain. The building, attached to the dargah of Baba Shah Musafir a Sufi saint is located in a garden near the Mahmud Darvaza and consist of a mosque, a madrassa, a kacheri, a minister's house, a sarai and houses for zananas.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Visit the caves early to avoid crowds
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Pack a light lunch to enjoy at Daulatabad
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Explore nearby local crafts at Aurangabad
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Check out the sunset view at Bibi Ka Maqbara
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking
More About this Experience
Introduction:
Experience the wonders of the Ellora Caves and other captivating sights with the Ellora Caves and 3 Sightseeing Tour. This private tour offers an English-speaking driver who will provide basic information about each destination, although please note that the driver is not a guide. Fear not, as we will provide you with a guidebook, allowing you to delve into the rich history and marvel at the stunning architecture of the caves and other places.What to expect:
Embark on a journey through time as you explore the mesmerizing Ellora Caves and other points of interest. Admire the intricate carvings and architectural marvels that date back to ancient times. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra and witness the scientific thought process embedded in medieval Indian architecture. Marvel at the Panchakki, a water mill that was designed to generate energy using water from a mountain spring. This tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with awe-inspiring sights and fascinating historical insights.Who is this for:
The Ellora Caves and 3 Sightseeing Tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone seeking a unique and immersive experience. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour caters to all. Don't miss the chance to explore the wonders of India's ancient past and gain a deeper understanding of its rich heritage.Why book this:
Uncover the hidden gems of Ellora and indulge in a journey of discovery like no other. This tour offers the convenience of a private vehicle with an English-speaking driver, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience. With bottled water, WiFi on board, and an air-conditioned vehicle, your comfort is our top priority. Leave the logistics to us as we take care of parking fees, allowing you to focus solely on immersing yourself in the captivating sights and sounds of the Ellora Caves and other breathtaking landmarks.Good to know:
Please note that the tour excludes monument entry fees and gratuities, so be sure to budget accordingly. However, we provide a guidebook that will enhance your experience and help you navigate through the caves and other places of interest. Don't forget to bring a sense of adventure and curiosity as you embark on this incredible journey through time.Reviews:
Travelers who have experienced the Ellora Caves and 3 Sightseeing Tour have been left in awe of the stunning architecture and historical significance of the sites visited. They praised the convenience of having a private vehicle and an English-speaking driver who provided valuable insights along the way. Many were impressed with the detailed guidebook provided, which enhanced their understanding of the caves and other landmarks. Overall, reviews highlight the tour as a must-do for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is