5 ways to explore Aurangabad

Aurangabad’s brush with fame might have been all too brief – when Aurangzeb made it his capital between 1653 and 1707 – but traces of its grandeur linger even today, making this city a popular weekend haunt with tourists. The fact that it’s a stone’s throw away from the Ajanta and Ellora caves only adds to the attraction.

Go cave exploring at the Aurangabad Caves

Head out to the Aurangabad Caves and get exploring: the centuries’ old caves highlight early Buddhist architecture and carvings. Don’t miss Cave No 7 – with its figures of scantily clad, heavily ornamented lovers, it’s a delight.

Visit the Daulatabad Fortress and discover its many secrets

The 12th-century hilltop fortress of Daulatabad has multiple gates at odd angles, spiked doors and a pitch-black spiralling tunnel – all of which were intended to keep enemies at bay. The ascent to the fortress could be slightly challenging for kids and the elderly.

Visit Bibi ka Maqbara and marvel at the resemblance to the Taj Mahal

Located 3km from the city, Bibi ka Maqbara bears a strong resemblance to the Taj Mahal. Even though rising expenses at the time resulted in a 1678 structure in much cheaper lime mortar, the monument is still imbued with great sentiment.

Go Paithani Sari shopping

Aurangabad is known for its intricately deisgned hand-woven saris. The fine silk saris with gold thread can take over a year to make – which is why a genuine Paithani sari can run into several thousands (or lakhs) of rupees. Drop by the Paithani Silk Weaving Centre and take your pick!

Head out of the city to Ajanta and Ellora

Aurangabad makes a great base from which to explore the world heritage monuments of Ajanta and Ellora. Ellora is a fine lesson in rock-cut architecture and serves up 17 Hindu and 12 Buddhist and five Jain temples and monasteries to the art-hungry visitor. Ajanta is much older and comprises Buddhist caves that continue to cocoon some fine ancient paintings.