Maharashtra
Ajanta & Ellora Travel Guide
UNESCO rock-cut cave temples and monasteries near Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
- Best months Oct–Mar
- Ideal trip length 2–3 days
Ajanta and Ellora are two UNESCO World Heritage cave complexes in Maharashtra, usually visited from the city of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, formerly known as Aurangabad. Ajanta is known for Buddhist cave monasteries with ancient paintings and sculpture, while Ellora has Buddhist, Hindu and Jain caves carved side by side, including the great Kailasa temple. Plan two to three days to see both caves and the city sights without rushing.
Best time to visit
Recommended
October to March is the most comfortable season, with cooler weather for walking between caves. Summers are hot, so go early in the day. In the monsoon the surrounding hills are green and waterfalls may flow, but paths can be slippery and access may be affected, so check current conditions. Weekly closure days apply at these monuments, traditionally Monday for Ajanta and Tuesday for Ellora, so check the current closure day with the Archaeological Survey of India before you plan.
How to reach
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) has its own airport with flights from major cities. Mumbai and Pune are other options, followed by a rail or road journey.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar railway station, still often listed as Aurangabad, is the main railhead, with connections from Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and other cities. From there taxis, buses and tours reach both cave sites.
Ellora is roughly 30 km from the city, and Ajanta is farther, a little over 100 km. Both are reached by road, and taxis or organised day tours are common. Allow a full day for each site.
Where to stay
Most visitors stay in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, which has a wide range of hotels and is a convenient base for both sites and the city sights. Basic stays and a few lodges are available closer to the caves, but options are limited, so book ahead in peak season.
Top things to see and do
- 1
Ajanta Caves
A series of rock-cut Buddhist monasteries and prayer halls in a horseshoe-shaped gorge, famous for ancient wall paintings and carved sculpture.
- 2
Ellora Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)
A huge temple dedicated to Shiva, carved out of a single rock from the top down, and one of the most remarkable feats of rock-cut architecture.
- 3
Ellora Buddhist, Hindu and Jain caves
Dozens of caves from different faiths in one cliff face, showing the religious diversity of the region over many centuries.
- 4
Daulatabad Fort
A large hill fort between the city and Ellora, with massive walls, a moat and a dark tunnel passage inside, and wide views from the top.
- 5
Bibi ka Maqbara
A Mughal-era tomb in the city, often compared to the Taj Mahal in design, set in a walled garden.
- 6
Aurangabad Caves
A smaller group of Buddhist caves on a hillside near the city, good for visitors short on time.
Food to try
The region has a distinct style of Marathwada and Mughlai-influenced food. Try naan with local curries, mutton or vegetarian dishes, jowar bhakri, pithla and thecha. Pick clean, busy eateries and drink only bottled or purified water.
Travel tips
- Check the weekly closure day of each monument with the Archaeological Survey of India before fixing your plan, as it can be different for each site.
- Do not touch the paintings or carvings, and follow the rules on lighting and flash photography to protect the artwork.
- Wear comfortable shoes, and carry water and sun protection, as there are steps, uneven paths and not much shade.
- Dress modestly at places of worship, hire official guides, and avoid litter at the sites.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are needed for Ajanta and Ellora?
Two days are ideal, one for each cave complex, with a third day for Daulatabad Fort and the city sights if you wish.
Are Ajanta and Ellora open every day?
No. There is a weekly closure day at each monument, traditionally Monday for Ajanta and Tuesday for Ellora. Check the current day with the Archaeological Survey of India before you travel, as schedules can change.
Is the city called Aurangabad or Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar?
The city has been officially renamed Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Many maps, signs, timetables and older bookings may still show Aurangabad, so look for both names.
Official sources
- Incredible India (Ministry of Tourism)
- Maharashtra Tourism
- Archaeological Survey of India
- UNESCO World Heritage List
Timings, fees, permits, closures and transport change often. Please confirm current details with the official sources above before you travel.