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Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

India

Where ancient caves meet Mughal grandeur – a history lover's paradise.

3 Group Tours·2 Operators·from ₹4,999

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, formerly Aurangabad, is Maharashtra's hidden gem, home to the UNESCO-listed Ajanta and Ellora caves, grand Mughal-era gates, and a bustling old city. It'...

Best forHistory buffsPhotographyBudget travelWeekend getawayBackpackers
Moderate
|Good walking stamina required for cave climbing and long walks.
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Top Operators

Mumbai Weekenders
Mumbai Weekenders
2 trips
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TTrikon
1 trip4.8(1,143)

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See all 3 trips in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

When to Go

Oct
3 trips
₹5.0K
Nov
3 trips
₹5.0K
Dec
3 trips
₹5.0K

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From Mumbai
2 trips available
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1 trip available

What to Expect

Expect to be awestruck by the rock-cut artistry of Ajanta and Ellora, wander through the imposing Bibi Ka Maqbara (a poor man's Taj), and explore the city's lively bazaars. You'll find a mix of heritage hotels, budget lodges, and great local food. The city is relatively compact, but the caves are spread out, so plan your transport.

Things to Do

Ajanta Caves
Full day·₹40 entry + travel
Group
Ellora Caves
Half day·₹40 entry
Group
Daulatabad Fort
3-4 hours·₹25 entry
Group
Bibi Ka Maqbara
1-2 hours·₹25 entry
Group
Panchakki (Sun Dial)
1 hour·₹5 entry
Group
Siddharth Garden & Zoo
2 hours·₹10 entry
Group
Grishneshwar Temple
1-2 hours·Free
Group
Prozone Mall
2-3 hours·Free entry
Group

Plan Your Trip

Travel Tips
1Start early to avoid crowds and heat at the caves.
2Hire a licensed guide at Ajanta/Ellora for deeper insights (₹500-800).
3Carry cash; many small vendors don't accept cards.
4Use app-based cabs for safe and transparent pricing.
5Avoid visiting on Mondays as the caves are closed.
6Try the local 'Kacchi Dabeli' from street stalls for a quick snack.
7Book trains in advance during peak season.
8Respect the no-photography rules inside the caves to preserve the paintings.

Local Guide

Food & DiningVeg friendly

Must try: Naan Qalia – a spicy mutton curry with flatbread, Puran Poli – sweet lentil-stuffed flatbread, Khaman – a savory chickpea snack, Marathwadi chicken or mutton thali, Sheer Kurma – a sweet vermicelli dessert

Eat at local 'hotels' (restaurants) for authentic flavors. Try 'Naan Qalia' at Bhoj or 'Puran Poli' at any sweet shop. Avoid eating at roadside stalls to prevent stomach issues.

FAQs

How many days are enough to see Ajanta and Ellora?
At least 2 days: one for Ellora (closer to the city) and one for Ajanta (about 100 km away). Add an extra day for the city's other sights like Bibi Ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort.
Is it safe to travel to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar as a solo female?
Yes, it's generally safe. Stick to well-lit areas at night, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs, and avoid deserted places after dark. Dress modestly at religious sites.
What is the best way to reach Ajanta caves from the city?
You can hire a private cab (₹2,500-3,000 for the day) or take a state transport bus from Central Bus Stand to Ajanta village (around 2.5 hours). Shared jeeps are also available.
Are the caves accessible for people with mobility issues?
Ellora has some wheelchair-friendly paths, but Ajanta requires climbing many stairs. If you have mobility issues, consider hiring a porter or skip Ajanta and focus on Ellora.
What is the entry fee for Ajanta and Ellora?
For Indians: ₹40 for Ajanta, ₹40 for Ellora. For foreign nationals: ₹600 for Ajanta, ₹600 for Ellora. Additional charges for video cameras and vehicle parking.
Is there any dress code for visiting the caves?
No strict dress code, but wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. Since these are ancient sites, modest dressing is appreciated.
Can I visit the caves during monsoon?
Yes, the caves are open, but be prepared for rain and slippery paths. Some areas might be closed if there's a risk of falling rocks.
What are the must-try local foods?
Try the famous 'Naan Qalia' (a mutton curry with naan), 'Puran Poli' (sweet flatbread), and 'Marathwada-style' spicy snacks. Also, don't miss the local 'Khaman' and 'Sheer Kurma' during festivals.
Is it worth visiting Bibi Ka Maqbara?
Yes, it's a beautiful monument often called the 'Taj of the Deccan'. It's less crowded than the Taj Mahal and has a serene garden. Entry is ₹25 for Indians.
How far is Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar from Mumbai?
It's about 350 km. By train, it takes around 6-7 hours (overnight trains available). By road, it's a 6-8 hour drive via the Mumbai-Nashik highway.

Group Trips to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Group trips to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, previously known as Aurangabad, are a perfect blend of history and culture for Indian travelers. This Maharashtra city is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora caves, which are a must-visit for any history buff. Group tour packages from TripzSearch start at just ₹4,999, making it an affordable weekend getaway. The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for exploring. Whether you're a photographer capturing the intricate carvings, a budget traveler seeking off-season deals, or a group of friends looking for a cultural road trip, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar offers something for everyone. With direct flights from major metros and overnight trains from Mumbai, reaching this historical hub is convenient. Don't miss the Bibi Ka Maqbara, often compared to the Taj Mahal, and the mighty Daulatabad Fort. Group tours ensure you have a hassle-free experience, with transport and guides arranged. So, pack your bags and get ready to uncover the hidden treasures of the Deccan Plateau with TripzSearch's curated group itineraries.

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