Top Historical Places to Visit in Aurangabad: A Complete Travel Guide

Aurangabad, often called the “City of Gates”, is one of Maharashtra’s most culturally rich and historically significant destinations. Known for its grand forts, ancient caves, and Mughal-style architecture, Aurangabad is a gateway to the glorious past of India. Whether you’re a history buff, spiritual traveler, or architecture enthusiast, there are countless historical places to visit in Aurangabad that will leave you spellbound.

From UNESCO heritage sites to vibrant local bazaars, every corner of Aurangabad tells a story. Let’s dive into the best attractions, things to do, and travel tips for making your Aurangabad trip memorable.

Historical Places to Visit in Aurangabad

Aurangabad’s historical landmarks offer a fascinating glimpse into India’s architectural legacy and royal heritage. Here are the must-visit sites:

1. Bibi Ka Maqbara

Known as the “Mini Taj Mahal,” Bibi Ka Maqbara was built by Prince Azam Shah in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum. The white marble mausoleum beautifully resembles the Taj Mahal in Agra but carries its own distinct Deccan charm. The monument is surrounded by lush gardens and intricate Mughal-style designs — making it one of the most photographed historical places in Aurangabad.

Timings: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (Foreigners)

2. Daulatabad Fort

Perched on a conical hill about 15 km from the city, Daulatabad Fort (also known as Devagiri Fort) is one of the most powerful fortifications in India. Its massive walls, moats, and secret escape routes make it an architectural marvel. Once considered the most impregnable fort in the Deccan region, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10

3. Aurangabad Caves

Carved out of soft basalt rock in the 6th and 7th centuries, the Aurangabad Caves are an underrated gem. These 12 rock-cut caves feature beautiful Buddhist sculptures, carvings, and meditation halls similar in style to Ajanta. The caves are divided into three groups and offer a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere away from the city crowd.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20

UNESCO Heritage Sites in Aurangabad

Aurangabad is home to two of India’s most stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves — making it a top destination for heritage tourism in Maharashtra.

1. Ajanta Caves

Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, the Ajanta Caves are a group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments known for their magnificent paintings and sculptures depicting the life of Lord Buddha. The frescoes and murals found here are among the finest examples of ancient Indian art.

Distance from Aurangabad: 100 km
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹40

2. Ellora Caves

Located just 30 km from the city, the Ellora Caves are a breathtaking combination of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples carved from volcanic basalt rock. The most remarkable structure is the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), a monolithic masterpiece dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreigners)

Together, Ajanta and Ellora make Aurangabad a must-visit destination for heritage lovers and spiritual travelers.

Things to Do in Aurangabad, Maharashtra

Beyond historical monuments, Aurangabad offers a variety of cultural, spiritual, and leisure experiences. Here are the top things to do in Aurangabad, Maharashtra:

1. Join a Heritage Walk Tour: Explore the city’s 52 gates, ancient mosques, and hidden lanes through organized heritage walk tours in Aurangabad.

2. Shop for Paithani Sarees: Visit the Paithani Weaving Center and local markets to buy the world-famous Paithani silk sarees and Himroo shawls.

3. Visit Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Located near Ellora, it’s one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India.

4. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Relish Hyderabadi-style biryani, Mughlai kebabs, and Maharashtrian sweets like jalebi and sheera.

5. Explore Nature: Relax at Siddharth Garden and Zoo or enjoy boating at Salim Ali Lake for a refreshing evening.

Best Time to Visit Aurangabad for Tourists

The best time to visit Aurangabad is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Winter is ideal for sightseeing and exploring outdoor attractions comfortably.

• Summer (March–June): Hot and dry, not ideal for travel.

• Monsoon (July–September): Refreshing greenery but occasional heavy rain.

• Winter (October–February): Pleasant temperature between 15°C–25°C — perfect for tourists.

Travelers planning photography or heritage exploration should aim for the post-monsoon or winter months.

Top Tourist Attractions in Aurangabad City

Here’s a quick list of top tourist attractions in Aurangabad city that you shouldn’t miss:

• Bibi Ka Maqbara – Mughal-era architecture masterpiece.

• Daulatabad Fort – A symbol of Maratha valor.

• Ellora Caves – Stunning rock-cut temple complex.

• Aurangabad Caves – Ancient Buddhist art and carvings.

• Panchakki (Water Mill) – 17th-century engineering marvel.

• Grishneshwar Temple – Sacred Jyotirlinga temple near Ellora.

• Salim Ali Lake & Garden – Ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Heritage Walk Tours in Aurangabad

The heritage walk tours in Aurangabad are among the best ways to experience the city’s glorious past up close. These guided tours often cover:

• The iconic City Gates (like Bhadkal Gate and Delhi Gate)

• Historical mosques and local temples

• Traditional Himroo weaving centers

• Old markets like Gul Mandi and Shahganj

These walks offer not just sightseeing, but storytelling — blending local folklore, architecture, and community life.

Famous Forts and Caves Near Aurangabad

Apart from the main UNESCO sites, several famous forts and caves near Aurangabad are worth visiting:

• Daulatabad Fort – A massive hill fort with a unique defense system.

• Pitalkhora Caves – Ancient Buddhist caves located 78 km away in the Satmala Hills.

• Khuldabad Fort – A walled town that houses the tomb of Emperor Aurangzeb.

• Aurangabad Caves – Ancient Buddhist shrines close to Bibi Ka Maqbara.

These sites combine scenic beauty with historical depth, making them perfect for explorers and photographers.