Top Activities & Experiences

Top Activities & Experiences

Aurangabad is a blend of history, adventure, spirituality, and cultural experiences. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an adventure lover, or a spiritual seeker, this city has something for everyone! Here are the top things to do in Aurangabad.

 1. Explore the Ajanta & Ellora Caves (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)

• Witness 2,000+ year-old paintings & rock-cut temples.
• See the magnificent Kailasa Temple (Ellora), carved from a single rock.
• Ajanta’s caves come alive with murals depicting Buddhist stories.

 Tip: Start early to avoid crowds & heat. Wear comfortable shoes for walking!

 2. Trek to Daulatabad Fort (Devgiri Fort)

• A challenging climb to the top of a steep volcanic hill.
• Marvel at its maze-like tunnels & secret escape routes.
• Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over Aurangabad.

 Tip: Carry water & visit in the morning or evening to avoid heat.

3. Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara – The Mini Taj Mahal

• A stunning replica of the Taj Mahal, built by Aurangzeb’s son.
• Admire the intricate marble work & Mughal architecture.
• Best visited in the evening for golden hour photography.

 Tip: Less crowded than the Taj Mahal, so take your time to explore!

 4. Cycling & Hiking at Aurangabad Caves

• A lesser-known Buddhist cave complex with rock-cut sculptures.
• Offers a peaceful and scenic trail for cycling or hiking.
• Panoramic views of Aurangabad City from the top.

 Tip: Go early morning for a quiet & refreshing experience.

 5. Try Aurangabad’s Famous Food

• Must-try dishes:
  •  Naan Qalia – A delicious mutton curry.
  •  Aurangabadi Biryani – Spicier than Hyderabadi biryani!
  •  Paya Soup & Sheermal Roti – A Mughal-era delicacy.
  •  Mawa Jalebi – A unique, crispy & juicy dessert.

 Best places to eat:

•  Yalla Yalla (for biryani).
•  Kareem’s (for kebabs & Mughlai food).
•  Tandoor Restaurant (for traditional dishes).

 6. Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard

• While Nashik is known for wine, Aurangabad has hidden vineyards too!
• Raghunandan Wines & Flamingo Wines offer wine-tasting experiences.
• Enjoy grape stomping (seasonal) & vineyard walks.

 Best time to visit: November to March (harvest season).

 7. Seek Blessings at Grishneshwar Temple

• One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
• A beautifully carved temple located next to Ellora Caves.
• A spiritual retreat for devotees & history lovers.

 Tip: Avoid rush hours (early morning or late evening visits are best).

 8. Boating & Birdwatching at Salim Ali Lake

• A hidden gem for nature lovers & birdwatchers.
• Spot migratory birds like flamingos & herons (best in winter).
• Relaxing boat rides available.

 Best time to visit: October to February.

 9. Shop for Paithani Sarees & Bidriware

• Paithani Sarees – Handmade silk sarees with gold zari work.
• Bidriware – Black metal handicrafts with silver inlays.
• Himroo Shawls – A unique fabric blending cotton & silk.

 Best places to shop:

•  Paithani Silk Weaving Centre
•  Gul Mandi & Nirala Bazaar
•  Connaught Place Market

 10. Attend a Cultural Show or Light & Sound Show

• Enjoy a live cultural performance showcasing Aurangabad’s history.
• Daulatabad Fort occasionally hosts light & sound shows about its past.

 Tip: Check local event schedules before visiting.

 Bonus Experiences Nearby

If you have extra time, consider these amazing nearby experiences:

 Camping at Bhandardara (160 km)

• A beautiful lakeside camping experience.
• Enjoy stargazing, bonfires & waterfalls.

 Visit Shirdi (125 km)

• Home to Sai Baba Temple, a famous pilgrimage spot.

 Explore Lonar Crater Lake (150 km)

• A unique lake formed by a meteor impact.
• Perfect for nature lovers & adventure seekers.

 Travel Tips for a Perfect Aurangabad Trip

✔️ Best time to visit: October – March (pleasant weather).
✔️ Carry cash for shopping (markets may not accept digital payments).
✔️ Start early for Ajanta & Ellora (they take 3-4 hours each).
✔️ Try local food at traditional dhabas.
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes (you’ll be walking a lot!).