Aurangabad

Aurangabad, infamous for serving as the gateway to the world heritage site of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, has much more to offer. Located in Maharashtra, the city has many more tourist attractions like the Aurangabad Caves, Bibi ka Makbara (Mausoleum of Aurangzebs queen wife), Purwar museum, water wheel called Panchaki and many caves. The city is best visited during the months from November to march, when the climate is pleasant and cool. The historical city of Aurangzeb also offers excursions to the nearby attractions of Daulatabad Fort, Shirdi, Khuldabad, Bani Begum Garden, Paithan and Pithalcora Caves. Aurangabad has its own airport located at a distance of 16 kms from the main city. The domestic airport is connected by the other cities by daily flights. Also having a railhead, Aurangabad is very well linked with roads to the other parts of the country.

When To Go
Aurangabad generally offers moderate temperature with low humidity and the best time to visit the place is from October to March. Winters (November to February) provide very pleasant climate with minimum touching only down to 10 C. It is the perfect time for sightseeing and exploring the heritage sites of the place. Summers (March to May) are hot with the average temperature ranging between 37 C and 21 C and with the maximum soaring to around 43 C. Typically tourists avoid the hot summer months of April and May. Monsoons (June to September) provide relief to the hot climate and most of the rainfalls occur in this season. The rains make the scenic regions more beautiful. October to March, the climate is pleasant and mostly dry and suitable for sightseeing and outings. April and May are hot and the tourists who like hot days travel can keep summer clothes, sunglasses and bottle full of water. June to September is good for sightseeing for those who enjoy drizzling.

History
Aurangabad, the gateway to Ajanta and Ellora, holds a significant place in the Buddhism. Not much of Aurangabads ancient history is known except that it was founded by Malik Ambar in the year 1610 A.D. Malik Ambar, the prime minister of Murtaza Nizam Shah of Ahmadnagar discovered the city during his visit to Kharki village. The King expanded the Kharki village and included Aurangabad in its domain. Malik Ambars son succeeded his fathers throne and transformed the name from Kharki to Fatehnagar. However, after the appointment of Aurangzeb as the Viceroy of Deccan in 1633, he made the city his capital and renamed it as the present day Aurangabad. The city was also referred as Khujista Bunyad during the rule of Aurangzeb. The city of Aurangzeb deserves a special mention in the war of 1857 as it was the active ground of the British. It was the city of Aurangabad that the British moved their first cavalry to relieve their 3rd cavalry at Malegaon. It was here that the first rebellion against the British started. Aurangabad was declared as part of Maharashtra in the year 1956.

Travel within city

Getting around the city of Aurangabad is quite easy, as the city is well connected and there are many options for tourists and travelers. You can opt for auto rickshaws, buses, wonder cars, taxis and also rented cars and two wheelers in order to travel in and around Aurangabad.

Bus
Buses are a predominant mode of transport within the city of Aurangabad. Aurangabad Municipal Transport buses and Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation provide buses for tourists for sightseeing purposes in and around Aurangabad. Bus fares are very minimal and charges range around Rs 10 to 50.

Auto Rickshaw
www.mustseeindia.com

Auto rickshaws in Aurangabad are metered, and the rates hover around Rs 5 per kilometer. The metered auto rickshaws have a minimum charge of Rs 10 and night charges are one and a half times the original charge.

Taxi
Air conditioned chauffeur driven taxis are also available and these will also be available for minimal charges of around Rs 7-10 per kilometer. This is one of the safest modes of transport. Non air conditioned taxis and cabs will also be available.

Rented Vehicle
You can also rent out two wheelers and four wheelers from car agencies for charges ranging around Rs 350 to 1500 per day. You can opt for such cabs in order to go for luxurious modes of transport. Vedant Travels- Ph: 0242 2330244 Sara Tours And Travels- Ph: 0242 2475787
Attractions

The Ajanta Caves

mustsee

The Ajanta Caves have 30 rock cut Bhuddhist caves and it is 106 km from Aurangabad. The basic designs of the caves are called Chaitya grihas and Viharas. Five caves are Buddhist cathedrals and the remaining 25 are monasteries. The Chaityas are large, rectangular chambers separated by rows of pillars. They are decorated by sculptures and murals which depict the many incarnations of Buddha. The Vhharas are rectangular shaped halls. They have series of small cells which are attached on both sides. Opposite to the entrance is an image of Buddha. The caves also include a visual form of the life of Buddha and interesting stories from Jatakas. Timings: 9AM to 5:30PM Tues-Sun (closed on national holidays)

The Ellora Caves

mustsee

The Ellora Caves are listed in the world-heritage list. They are located about 30 km from Aurangabad. The Kailash Temple of the Ellora caves is the most attractive and masterpiece of the creator. The Kailash temple in the Ellora caves is one of the worlds largest and massive sculpture. It was curved out of a rock with the help of 7000 laborers and took nearly 150 years to complete. The shrines are a mix or both Hindu and Jain faiths. Cave number 32 is famous for a glorious Yakshi statue and beautiful ceiling paintings.

Aurangabad Caves

popular

Aurangabad Caves were excavated from the soft rock during the 6th and 7th century. These caves, ten in number, are divided into two separate locations - Western Group Caves having caves 1-5 and Eastern Group Caves having caves 6-10, located 1 km apart. The designing and image is molded by Tantric Hinduism. Cave 4 from Western Group group is the oldest cave. The remaining four Western caves are viharas depicting an early type of Buddhist monastery. Cave 6 which belongs to the Eastern Group has a large statute of Buddha supported with a form of Ganesh and Cave 7 has forms of women which are barely clad and bejeweled. Entry Fee is Rs 10 for Indians and Rs 100 for foreigners and the timings 9 am - 5 pm.

www.mustseeindia.com

Bani Begum Garden

popular

Bani Begum Garden is a graceful garden located about 24 km from Aurangabad. The garden is known for its lush green appearance and comforting atmosphere. It got its name from the tomb of Bani Begum who is the wife of Aurangzebs son which is located in middle of this garden. The garden is constructed in various styles. Massive domes, fountains and fluted pillars can be seen in the garden. The garden is an example of the Mughal style and architecture of the departed period. Tourists visiting Aurangabad never return before visiting the beautiful Bani Begum Gardens.

Baradari Iwaz Khan Aqueduct

popular

The ruins of Aurangabad are a place of interest to romantic tourists. The ruins have more than a ghastly interest. The Baradari Iwaz Khan Aqueduct is also a place of ruins in Aurangabad. Only rubbles of this complex remains. The years have beaten-up the walls. The force of the attacks of the Marathas also have to an extend played a role in battering up the walls. The Baradari Iwaz Khan Aqueduct shows the style of architecture and now it is also in a state of ruins in the present days.

Bibi ka Maqbara

popular

The monument Bibi Ka Maqbara was built in 1679 AD by Aurangzebs son. He built it in memory of his mother Rabia. Ata Ullah was the architect and he based the design on the Taj Mahal. The memorial is built of sandstone with plastered walls and has a marble dome. It has an flowery wall around with an entrance which provides the best view of the memorial. The enclosure of the tomb is made of marble and is octagonal. The entry fee for Indians is Rs 10 and foreigners it is Rs 100. The visitors are allowed to visit the monument from 8 am to 6 pm.

Cannought

popular

Cannought is a shoppers paradise of Aurangabad. The place has a Kam Khab, the golden and silver thread blended with cotton to make the dainty Himroo shawls and sarees. These products are available in many showrooms in and the market area. Complex patterns of flowers, peacocks, parrots and the caves of Ajanta and Ellora are used as borders of sarees. Paithan sarees are being weaved and they follow age old traditions. The shopping market of Cannought is now becoming very popular. It is making its place slowly but surely amongst the younger generation.

Daulatabad

popular

Daulatabad is situated 13 km from Aurangabad. The fort stands on a pyramid shaped hill. It was previously known as Devgiri. Bhillama, the king of the Yadav dynasty built it in the 12th century. It was Mohammed Bin Tughlaq who gave the name Daulatabad which means city of fortune. The fort of the city is built on top of a high hill. It is surrounded by thick walls and has transfixed gates. Steep slip ways and a deep ditch can also be seen. Curled network of secret, teasing and underground transitions can also be seen in the fort. Entry fee Rs 5 for Indians and $5 for foreigners. The timing is from 9 am to 6 pm.

www.mustseeindia.com

Ghrishneshwar Temple

popular

The Ghrishneshwar Temple was built during 1765 and 1795. The construction of the temple was done by Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. The temple is built of red volcanic rock and it delivers a characteristic appearance. The most impressing feature of Ghrishneshwar Temple is the 5 tier shikara. The shikara rises in decreasing height. The height is then increased with the help of the high wall component of the sanctum. An unerect bull at each corner and monkey behind it is the crown of the Shikara. The temple is of great importance as the presiding deity is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.

Gul Mandi

popular

Like all other cities in India, Aurangabad also features a large number of bazaars. Gul Mandi is also one of the largest bazaars in Aurangabad. Exchanging also takes place in these markets. Varities of goods are sold in this market. The products changes on all days and the products available depends on the day the market is visited. But these bazaars do not have genuine shopping malls. The best quality products are sold in the markets. The special products are the Paithani saris. Different varieties of garments and Himroo silk stuff is also available.

Himroo Factory

popular

The Himroo Factory is a major tourist attraction of Aurangabad. The conventional Himroo fabric is available here. The Himroo material is an amazing mix of cotton and silk and it is known for its quality. Pathani saris and conventional handloom shawals can also be seen here. The materials of other factories and Himroo material and silver threads are also available here. The designs and the patterns on these fabrics are the inspirations which is derieved from the Ajanta paintings. The locale of the Himroo Factory is ideal. The factory is near Zaffar Gate in the old town.

Khuldabad

popular

Khuldabad is a very important significant religious centre. The place is abode to 2 of the most worshiped Muhammaden saints. Burhan-ud-din and Zain-ud-din are the most worshiped Muhammaden saints and their tombs are also situated here. Khuldabad has Nagarkhana, Pangra and Langda form the three gates. The remaining four gates are Mangalpeth, Kunbi Ali, Hamdadi. The religious center also has a lattice gate called Azam Shahi. A vast tank rests to the west of the city wall and it is believed that the tank has been a major water source of the city. The significant constructions in and around Khultabad are Aurangazebs Tomb, Tombs of Azam Shah and his wife and many other tombs.

Killa Arak

popular

Aurangzeb in the year 1692 had ordered to built a palace. This palace is called the Killa Arak. The ruins of the Killa Arak extend from Delhi to Mecca gate. The Killa Arak has 4 entrances and a Nakarkhana for musicians. The Dabar hall and the Jumma Masjid are the only remains which are of some interest. For the intentions of sport a piece of ground which is close to the masjid was walled. The gate to the ground bears an inscription which dates back to 1659 AD. The throne-room of Aurangzeb is in a garden. The room has a rostral appearance. The pavilion is plain and simple. This is entered by a gallery from behind.

www.mustseeindia.com

Naukonda Palace

popular

When Nizam Ali Khan was at Aurangabad, he occupied the Naukonda Palace. The whole building is in ruins now. The palace consists of 5 zananas. It also consists a Dewan-i-Am, a Dewan-i-Khas, a masjid and a Kachari. Each section of the palace is provided with a garden and a water tank. The central part of the palace is in a good state. Also a hamam meaning hot bath which is attached to the palace is also in a fine shape. The wood work and the ornament plaster are missing. The kachari consists a gadi of the Nizams.

Sunheri Mahal

popular

The Sunheri Mahal was constructed by a Bandalkand chief who came with Auranzeb into the Dakhan. The Mahal is located in Paharsingpura, which is a suburb of Aurangabad. The structure is made of stone and lime. The Mahal has a high pedestal but it is now in dilapidations. The paintings in the Mahal were once painted of gold and so the name Sunheri Mahal. The Sunheri Mahal finishes the Mughal grandness with its remnants of glory that rejects to fade. Indians are charged Rs 10 and foreigners Rs 100 as entrance fee and the timings are from 8 am - 6 pm.

Chauki-ki-Masjid
The Chauki-ki-masjid is one of the masjids and dargahs that are scattered in and around the old city of Aurangabad. The Chauki-ki-Masjid was built by Aurangzebs uncle. It was built by Shayista Khan who was Aurangzebs uncle in 1665 A.D. The Chauki-ki-masjid has five pointed arches in front. It is two arches deep. The arches are connected by eight pillars. They support five domes. The central dome is elevated and has a metallic steeple. The other domes are hidden in the roof. Minarets at the corners can also be seen. The complete structure has a high basement which contains chambers. These chambers were used for shops and opens on the roadside.

Damri Mahal
The Revenue Office building was known as the Damri Mahal. It was built after the completion of the Barra Darri. The building was built by imposing a donation of a damri which is equivalent to a quarter of a dub. The contribution was collected from all the labourers employed. The front of the building has an arcaded verandah. This verandah just in front like a portico. The portico consists of 5 scalloped arches. Behind the verandah there are 10 rooms of varying sizes. They are arranged in a line. There are 7 chambers and antechambers to the right. The roof is arched.

Dargah of Pir Ismail

The Dargah of Pir Ismail was constructed in memory of Pir Ismail the tutor of the prince Auranzeb. The garden in the Dargah consists of many destroyed water tanks and fountains. The gate is magisterial and it has a large pointed archway. It forms sort of a portico. The actual entrance is by way of a small pointed arch which is at the extreme. The parapet is neatly decorated. The faade has 3 little windows with pointed arches. The corners of the terrace has a tower which is surmounted with a bulging dome and spire. The Dargah is square and has 5 pointed arches on each side.

www.mustseeindia.com

Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid is located near the Killa Arrak. It has 50 polygonal pillars. These pillars are arranged in 5 rows. They are connected by a system of arches. This divides the building into 27 equal compartments. Each compartment is covered by a small domical vault which is simple but elegantlly designed. Out of the 9 pointed arches in the front 5 were erected by Malik Ambar. A roomy court in front of the mosque, has open buildings on 3 sides for travellers. A water tank in the middle of the court, is provided with water from the Malik Ambar canal.

Paithan
Paithan is a village in Aurangabad. It is located 56 km south of Aurangabad. It is the ancient capital of Satvahanas. The hamlet is famous for its 6 yards silk brocade sarees. The name of the saree is also Paithan. The hamlet follows the 2000 year old convention of saree weaving. The sarees woven of silk with dainty zari borders are a feast to the eyes. Beautiful Silk from Paithani was merchandised to many countries in return for gold and precious stones. Conventional originative art and conscientious workmanship fuse to form this unparalleled cloth. The cost of the sarees range anywhere from Rs 6,000 to Rs 5,00,000.

Panchakki
Panchakki otherwise known as the water mill was built during the early years of the 17th century. The mill used to grind grains for the pilgrims. It was so designed that it generated energy through water which was brought from a spring on a mountain. These pipes are lined up at particular distances. To allow the water to flow through the pumps masonary pillars are erected. Water through the pipes flows with a force and it rises to a huge raised masonary pillar and from there it falls to make an attractive water fall. The entry fee is Rs 5 for Indians and Rs 100 for Foreigners and the time is from sunrise to sunset.

Purwar Museum
The Purwar Museum is a small museum situated in Sarafa road. The museum is housed in a fantastic old haveli. The museum has exquisite collections of a retired doctor. The personal collections of doctor Purwar is on display since the year 1970. The collections in the museum consists of a 500 year old chain maul suit, a copy of the kuran written by Auranzeb. The museum also contains an 800 year old paithani sari as exhibit. An old timer shop is located near the museum. The museum is open for visitors from Tuesdays through Sunday between 10.30 am 1.30 pm and 3 - 6 pm. An entrance fee of Rs 5 is charged.

Shah Ganj Masjid

The Shah Ganj Masjid is one of the finest buildings to be seen in any part of India. The mosque is on a elevated platform. It has shops on 3 of the outer sides. The 4th is open and can be ascended through a flight of steps. The architecture style is Indo-Saracenic. The interior contain 24 pillars out of which 6 pillars are arranged in the form of a square. The court-yard in the front comprises 2 large water tanks. The entrance is in the pattern of a little mosque and it has a pointed archway and two towers.

www.mustseeindia.com

Siddharth Garden
The Siddjartj Garden is situated in the heart of the city. It is placed near the station road. The garden is spread over a large area and it has a green outlook. The Siddharth Garden is one of the most popular outdoor recreational centers of Aurangabad. There is a small aquarium in the garden. Large areas of grass flanked by shurbs and trees is fantastic to watch. There is also a good spot for picnic. Variety of games can also be played in the garden.
Itineraries

Distances

Shirdi Pune Mumbai Indore Hyderabad Ahmedabad Bhopal

132 km 233 km 368 km 408 km 528 km 582 km 695 km

2h, 10m 4h 6h 6h, 10m 8h, 40m 9h, 40m 11h, 20m

www.mustseeindia.com