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Places to Visit in Aurangabad

While searching for all the Aurangabad places to visit, Ajanta Caves will be one of the first and foremost names. A group of around 30 Buddhist caves that are carved out of rocks, these caves date back to the 2nd century and is considered as an epitome of ancient architecture and considered as the most brilliant form of Indian art.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ajanta Caves is further divided into many different caves that were meant for various purposes. From the architecture, shape, and form of the caves, it is pretty evident that the ancient Buddhist monks used these caves for studying, living and worship purposes. The murals, paintings, and carvings on the wall reveal many unknown facts about the way of living, the cultures and traditions of a bygone era.

Location: Ajanta Caves Road, Ajanta 431001

Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM

Entry fee: Starts from INR 30

If you still think only Taj Mahal is the ultimate symbol of love, you must visit 'Bibi Ka Maqbara', one of the historic places that must be visited while in Aurangabad called the. Though not as huge and popular like the Taj, this historic monument also symbolize the love of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb for his wife DilrasBanu Begum.

Built on an elevated platform, it is guarded by four minarets along its four corners and can be reached by a series of steps from three different sides. Studded with exquisite marbles and ornamented with intricate designs, carvings and showcasing the immortal love, this ancient monument truly deserves a visit while you are planning to cover all the major places to visit in Aurangabad.

Location: Begumpura, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431004

Timings: 8 AM to 8 PM

Entry fee: None.

Another architectural brilliance of a bygone era, Ellora Caves is also among the not to miss places to visit near Aurangabad. Located around 29 km from the city center, this chain of caves were built by the Rashtrakuta dynasty of the Buddhist clan and Yadav group of the Jains.

A must visit UNESCO World Heritage site in Maharashtra, this series of caves also showcases the perfection and epitome of the pre historic times of the Indian culture. With detailed and intricate carvings, the caves are now given distinct numbers.

Among all these, the Vishwakarma; cave number 10, Dashavatara; cave number 15, Kailasanatha Temple; cave number 16, Rameshvara; cave number 21 and IndraSabha; cave number 32, are the most prominent and sought after in the Ellora Cave. The glimpses of a bygone era, the diverse history, architectural brilliance and the grandeur of this chain of caves make it one of the most popular tourist places near Aurangabad.

Location: Ellora Cave Road, Ellora, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431005

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

Entry fee: Starts from INR 40

An important pilgrimage for the Hindus, this ancient temple is located in a quaint hamlet that is around 30 km from Aurangabad and also lies within the limits of the historic Ellora Caves. A major name in the list of tourist places near Aurangabad, the temple is considered as a pious destination by the Hindu devotees. It is also said that it is the last or the 12th 'Jyotirlinga' on earth.

Built-in pre-historical architectural style and in red bricks with the walls showcasing the carvings of several Hindu Gods and Goddesses, the temple was later renovated during the 18th century. According to the legends, holy water springs out from inside the temple and purifies one heart and soul.

Location: Grishneshwar, Ellora, Aurangabad.

Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM

Entry fee: None.

One of the most commanding and undefeatable forts in the entire country, Daulatabad Fort in Daulatabad; or Devagiri as it was known earlier, is among the must-visit places near Aurangabad. Around 11 km north-west of Aurangabad, this glorious fortress stands strong on a conical hill that stands around 200 m above the sea level.

Looking back into the history of the fort, you will realize its importance and strength. Compared to the other forts within or far from the region, the defense of Daulatabad Fort was very strong.

Talking about the architecture of this fort, it is three layers of defensive walls, and its moat, scrap and the sub-terranean passage are made out of solid rocks. A large pit of fire in its upper outlet gave hard times to the enemies and also helped in their progression. Chand Minar, Chini Mahal, and Baradari are three of the most popular and significant structures within the fort.

Location: MH SH 22, Daulatabad, Maharashtra 431002

Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

Entry fee: Starts from INR 10

One of the best places to visit in Aurangabad is Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum which is dedicated to the fearless legendary Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji's life and contribution. The museum has 6 halls for exhibition where multiple historically significant things are on display.

Take a walk back into the history by browsing through various old war weapons, ancient rifles, sword shields and artifacts used to defeat the Mughals. The galleries also have several old pictures of the forts that Shivaji conquered and built during his lifetime.

Other attractions include Copy of holy Quran written by Aurangzeb, war suit dating back to 500 years, Paithani Saree which is 400 years old and so much more. A tour of this museum will educate you with the glorious past of the Marathas.

Location: Himayat Bagh, Aurangabad

Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

Entry fees: INR 50 per person

If you prefer calm places with scenic beauty over bustling markets and touristy sites, Salim Ali Lake is one of the best tourist places in Aurangabad for you. Fringed with lush green vegetation, this large water body is, owing to its serene aura, a nature lover’s delight where one could listen to uninterrupted music of nature.

A great diversity of birds can be spotted in the bird sanctuary around the lake, making it a favourite spot for bird watching among a large number of bird enthusiasts. Whether you would like to spend your day gazing at the natural splendour of the lake, capturing it on your camera, or exploring it on a boat, this place is worth a visit.

Location: Chhatrapati Nagar, Aurangabad

Timings: 8 am to 5 pm

Entry Fee: Free Entry

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Every year Bhadra Maruti Temple attracts devotees of the Hindu deity Lord Hanuman from all over the country. According to the folklore, Khuldabad was once known as Bhadravati and was ruled by the King Bhadrasana.

Once the king was singing a devotional song for Lord Rama, as he was a devotee of the lord, Hanuman came there and was so happy to listen to the melody  that he slept there. That is why the idol in the temple of Lord Hanuman is in sleeping posture.

Bhadrasana asked the lord to give blessings to this place. This serene temple is one of the best places to visit in Aurangabad, for it is serene as well as charismatic.

Location: khuldabad, Aurangabad

Timings: 5 am - 12 pm and 4 pm - 9 pm

Entry fees:  Free entry

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Dating back to 3rd century BCE, magnificent Pitalkhora Caves are carved out of the rocks making them one of the finest examples of rock-cut Architecture in India. These 14 ancient Buddhist caves are set in the Western Ghats right next to a gushing waterfall which enhances the beauty of the caves.

Chaityas and Viharas are two types of caves where monks used to pray and stay. Now Archaeological Survey of India looks after this site that showcases many motifs, structures, paintings and so much more from the ancient times.

Location: Kannad, Maharashtra

Timings: 9 am to 5 am

Entry fees: INR 10 per person

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One of those Aurangabad tourist places that promise to turn an ordinary day into a delightful one, Siddharth Garden and Zoo is an ideal place to visit with family. It is a landscaped garden replete with a large variety of flowering plants and trees, an aquarium, and, unlike the usual gardens, a zoo – all in all, a favourite weekend spot for locals.

While the garden provides plenty of space with calm atmosphere for relaxation, the zoo has some exotic species on display ranging from tigers and elephants to crocodiles and snakes. So, whether you want to take your kids out to educate them about wildlife or you are looking for a pretty spot for family picnic, this garden cum zoo must fit the bill.

Location: Central Bus Stand Road, Mhada, Aurangabad

Timings: 9 am to 7 pm

Entry Fee: Garden: INR 20 per person; Zoo – INR 50 per person

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If there is any place in Aurangabad where you can experience its true spirit, it is Gul Mandi – the largest market in the city. Though the literal translation of Gul Mandi is Flower Market, you can find almost everything from clothes to sweets here.

However, Gul Mandi is best known for Paithani Saree, pulling in saree lovers from all over the country. This traditional style market remains busy during all days. So if you wish to avoid rush, visit before sunset. Beside shopping, you can also spend some moments remembering god at Supari Hanuman Temple which is situated in the market area.

Location: Gul Mandi, Aurangabad

Timings: 10:30 am to 9 pm

Entry Fee: Free Entry

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Another not to miss Aurangabad places to visit is the fascinating Jayakwadi Dam. Known to be one of the largest irrigation dams in the entire of Maharashtra and one of the largest earthen dams in Asia, it contributes mainly to irrigation and other agricultural purposes in the Marathwada vicinity which is mainly a drought-prone area.

During your visit to Jayakwadi Dam, also visit the Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary that comprises of 30 tiny islands formed by the Nath Sagar and serves as one of the major tourist places near Aurangabad.

Shallow water, favorable conditions and the availability of food make this sanctuary an ideal shelter for a large number of local and migratory birds. On a whole, it serves as an abode to more than 200 species of rare and exotic birds including cranes, flamingos, wigeons, brahminy and several others.

Location: North Jaikwadi Flyover, Sant Dynaneshwar Udyaan, Paithan, Maharashtra 431107

Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM

Entry fee: None.

Teeming with an air of serenity and royalty, Bani Begum Garden is, without a doubt, one of the finest places to visit in Aurangabad. The garden is named after Bani Begum, Aurangzeb's daughter-in-law, whose tomb is located in the heart of the site.

In addition to a refreshing ambience created by the presence of lush grass, swaying trees, and beautiful fountains, the site also exhibits specimens of Mughal architecture through gracefully constructed domes and pillars. If not to learn about the history of Aurangabad, visit this place to spend an easy day in its calm surroundings.

Location: 24 km from Aurangabad City

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm

Entry Fee: Free Entry

More than a tourist destination, Aurangabad is known for its diverse history and pious saints. One among such saints, Syed Zain-ud-Din, who was born in Shiraz, Hijri, came to Delhi and became the disciple of Maulana Kamaluddin in Samana. Along with his teacher, he finally came to Daualtabad and began the 'Chistia Order'.

All along his life, he dedicated himself for the preaching and well-being of the people. After his death, a cenotaph was built to commemorate his great contributions to society. A maqbara called the Zainuddin Shirzai's Maqbara was built in Khuladabad, which now is visited by the Muslims of the Dakhan region and also by visitors from all over the world.

Location: Near Emperor Aurangzeb, Hamal Wadi, Dargah, Maharashtra 431101

Timings: 8 AM to 7 PM

Entry fee: None.

Around 3 hours from Aurangabad, the Lonar Crater Lake in Buldhana district of Maharashtra is also among the important places to visit near Aurangabad. A study point of several geologists, ecologists, archaeologists, naturalist, astronomers, and aspiring students, this lake was created due to the impact of a meteor that is known to be the largest of its kind.

Huge mass and velocity of the meteor, after it hit the ground, created a saline soda lake that measures around 1.2 km in diameter and 137 m in depth. Though in the beginning, the origin of this fascinating lake was believed to be due to a volcanic eruption, later studies on the Lonar Crater Lake confirmed that it is the impact of a meteor that created it.

Oval in shape, it is surrounded by a series of low lying hills and lush greeneries. In addition to the amazing outlook of the lake, the surrounding also adds to its captivating beauty and charm.

Location: Lonar, Maharashtra 443302

Timings: All day.

Entry fee: None.

Today, we might be living in a world, where science and technology have achieved giant milestones. However, looking at the Panchakki in Aurangabad, we cannot deny the fact, medieval India was also up to date with science and technology of their own kinds.

Also known as the 'Water Mill'; the origin of the name is associated with the mill that used to grind grains for the pilgrims to the sight, Panchakki was built to meet up the energy requirement by bringing down the water of a spring in a nearby mountain. An underground conduit feeds the mill with an uninterrupted supply of water, which then descends down to a cistern from a considerable height and produces the required power to operate the mill.

Around the mill, you can find the Baba Shah Musafir Dargah, a sprawling garden, and several other monuments. It also offers amazing views of the Kham River and the cenotaph of Baba Shah Musafir and a few graves that belong to his disciples. One of the scientific marvels of the olden times, it is truly one of the not to be missed places to visit in Aurangabad!

Location: Sahjeevan Colony, Nutan Colony, Samarth Nagar, Aurangabad 431001

Timings: All day.

Entry fee: None.

Located on the slopes of the Meru and Naganarayana mountains, Parli is an ancient and quaint village situated near Brahma, Venu and Saraswati rivers. It is often said that if a straight line is drawn between the Kanyakumari and Ujjain, this village would fall on this line and will also be clearly seen. 

Located in this village is the fifth ‘jyotirlinga’ called the Parli Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga; a major site for the Hindu pilgrims, this temple is considered as a pious and sacred among the Hindus and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. 

Location: Parli Vaijnath, Aurangabad.

Timings: All day.

Entry fee: None.

Take a break from sightseeing? and visit this happening spot in Aurangabad to spend a memorable evening with your family. India's first horizontally built mall spread over the area of 20 acres, Prozone Mall is one of the best places to visit in Aurangabad.

Shop til you drop in this mall which offers you all the famous national and international brands to choose from. For foodies, there are plenty of restaurants and eateries to eat delicious delicacies. Or catch some entertainment by watching movies and play fun games which will definitely make your day.

Location: Chilkalthana, Aurangabad

Timings: 11:30 am to 9:30 pm

Entry fees: Free

Around 268 km from the city limits, is the city of Tuljapur in the Osmanabad district of Maharashtra. Located in this city, the Tuljapur Bhavani Temple is one of the holiest and sacred temples dedicated to Goddess Bhavani; it also makes it to the list of important places to visit near Aurangabad.

Built during the 12 century CE, this temple is considered a holy pilgrimage by the Hindus and is regularly visited by the devotees. The architecture of the temple showcases the intricate work form of Hemadpanti style of the early Indian era. With two large gates called the 'mahadwars', the entry to the main courtyard of the Tulja Bhavani Temple offers the glimpses of the KalloTirtha.

Gomukh Tirtha within the temple serves as the source of the holy water and ahead of this lies the Siddivinayaka Temple, and after crossing few more temples and gates, you can reach the main room of the temple where the Goddess is seated opposite to Lord Shankara.

Location: Mahadwar Rd, Jijamata Nagar, Tuljapur 413601

Timings: 4 AM to 10 PM

Entry fee: None.

One amongst the five takhts in Sikhism, Hazur Sahib Nanded is considered as a holy place for the Sikhs and is thronged by a large number of devotees every year. Among all the pious places to visit near Aurangabad, this seat of temporal authority sits on the banks of the gurgling Godavari River in the Maharashtrian city called Nanded.

Built to commemorate the death of the Sikh leader Guru Gobind Sahib, the gurdwara was built during 1832 and 1837 by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Visit this historic and religious place, discover and revisit the glorious history of the Sikhs! Among the many different Aurangabad places to visit, this is, in fact, the only place that will get you acquainted with the valorous tales of Guru Gobind Sahib.

Location: Gurudwara Rd, Sharda Nagar, Hyder Bagh, Dashmesh Nagar, Harsh Nagar, Nanded 431601

Timings: All day.

Entry fee: None.

A short hike to Goga Baba Hill will reward you with panoramic views of Aurangabad city. Famous among trekkers, photographers, devotees and nature lovers, this hilltop undoubtedly makes for one of the best places to visit in Aurangabad.

One can pay their respects to lord at the temple located on the foothills of the Goga Baba Hill as well as at a small temple at the top of the hill. Spend some time in the company of nature and enjoy the serenity that surrounds you.

Watch the sun go down as it leaves behind the colourful hues which is truly a sight to behold and capture. The tranquility of this place will leave you spellbound and you would definitely wish to come back to this place.

Location: Kanchanwadi, Aurangabad

Sunehri Mahal was built in 1651-53 AD, and is a testimony of the unique craftsmanship and Indian Architecture. Once, the interiors of the palace were adorned by gold paintings, that is why it was named Sunehri Haveli.

There are numerous carvings and decorations on the walls which give this Rajput style palace a unique touch. Now developed into a museum, made of limestone, this haveli exhibits rare collections of artefact, dresses, sculptures, pottery, paintings and whatnot.

A lush green garden around the Mahal enhances its beauty and splendor. This place is one of the best Aurangabad tourist places which one shouldn't miss out on their trip.

Location: Paharsingpura, Aurangabad

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Entry fees: INR 10 per person

If you are interested to learn about the history of Sufism in India, Khuldabad would be an apt choice. Located at a short distance from Aurangabad, Khuldabad is a place of historical and spiritual significance.

Also fondly called Valley of Saints, this town in Maharashtra was once chosen as abode by numerous Sufi saints. Most importantly, this is the place where the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb breathed his last.

An unpretentious tomb of the emperor along with the tomb of his spiritual guide and the great Sufi saint, Moinuddin Chishti is one of the most frequented attractions in the town. Besides, Kailasa Temple and Government Botanical garden are also popular choices among sightseers visiting Khuldabad.

Location: 27 km from Aurangabad City

Counted among the most iconic historical structures in the city, Chauki Ki Masjid is one of the most recommended places to visit in Aurangabad. Located within the bounds of the old city area, this mosque was built by the maternal uncle of Aurangzeb, Shaista Khan in 1665, and is among the oldest mosques in Aurangabad.

With large arches, numerous pillars, spiralling minarets, and elegant domes, the mosque appears to be an exquisite illustration of Mughal style architecture. Whether your objective is to learn about the history of Mughals in the region or you want to get away from the city’s commotion for a while, this mosque complex will serve the purpose.

Location: Old City, Aurangabad

Timings: Sunrise to After Sunset

Entry Fee: Free Entry

Mhaismal is crowned as one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra situated in the Sahyadri Hills at an elevation of 1067 meters. Lush green vegetation and undulating hills make this place look majestic and paradisiacal. Mhaismal is a perfect place where one can enjoy the tranquillity of nature and solitude.

There is a botanical workshop which exhibits an impressive collection of flora species which is a must visit. Also, If you like birding and photography then this is a great place to be. With numerous food options serving regional dishes, it is a paradise for foodies as well. Visit various historical sites, prestigious shrines and many scenic places and make lifelong memories in Mhaismal.

Location: 40 km from Aurangabad

Timings: Not applicable

Entry Fees: Not Applicable

An abode of serenity in the bustling city of Aurangabad, Jama Masjid is a gem of a monument built in 1612 soon after the foundation of the city. With beautifully designed arches, 50 polygonal pillars, domical vaults, and sleek minarets, the mosque stands tall as a proud specimen of Mughal Architecture, and is celebrated as one of the top Aurangabad tourist places.

A broad band featuring intricately inscribed verses of Quran is the highlight of the visual appeal of the mosque. To take an unhindered tour of Jama Masjid and capture its beauty in peace, visit soon after sunrise when there are not too many tourists and prayers.

Location: Station Road, Naralibag

Timings: Always Open

Entry Fee: Free Entry

Dating back to 16th century, Naukhanda Palace was built by Malik Ambar, and now finds its name among prestigious Aurangabad tourist places. This palace is a true specimen of Mughal architecture and craftsmanship.

Adorned with a big gateway, Barkal, takes you inside the palace. There are nine apartments build for the royal clans with five Zananas- kacheri, masjid, hot baths with cisterns and gardens in the palace.

Get a taste of the regal lifestyle by going through  the ornaments, Gaddi, equipement and so much more. It is a perfect place for tourists who wants to experience the rich history through the remains of this palace and appreciate the craftsmanship of those times.

Location: Paithan village, Aurangabad

Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pm

Entry fees: No information

Once known as the 'Mughal Garden', Himayat Bagh in Aurangabad is another delightful reminiscent of the past. Sprawling over an area of 300 acres, this lush and verdant garden of the 17th century is now the home to the Fruit Research Station and Nursery.

In the present time, the opulent greeneries, the bucolic ambiance around and the different species of plants, trees and herbs around the garden have made it one of the important places to visit in Aurangabad. Visit this gorgeous garden, take a walk through the well-manicured lawns, rediscover the bits and crunches of a bygone era while cuddling your senses along with the cool breezes!

Location: Plot no- 77, 439, Al-Hilal Colony, Himayat Bagh, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431004

Timings: All day.

Entry fee: None.

Explore the market area of Connaught place to enjoy your trip to the fullest. Famous among tourists as well as locals, this place has everything that you need. Shopping malls, numerous restaurants, hotels, street food stalls, multiplex, car showrooms and a lot more is here.

Go on a shopping spree here as this market offers you a chance to buy rare Himroo saree and shawls that feature silver and golden thread work in cotton. Additionally, you can get your hands on the traditional Paithani Sarees whose embroidery work will definitely amaze you.

Whether you want to shop or just have a fun dinner night with your family, this place will cater to you requirements.

Location: Cidco Road, Aurangabad

Timings: Open 24 hours

Entry fees: No

Add a spiritual experience to your Aurangabad tour by visiting this holy shrine dedicated to the memory of Pir Ismail, a sufi saint who tutored the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb. This elegantly constructed 17th Century white complex houses the grave of the saint, and is frequented by sufis from all across the country in great numbers.

A large pointed archway along with a fascinating façade and dome make the site appear soothing to one’s eyes. If you do not mind the crowd, thursday is believed to be the most auspicious day to visit the tomb. To get better insights into the life of Pir Ismail, hire a guide when you reach here.

Location: Harsul, Aurangabad

Timings: 5 am to 8 pm

Entry Fee: Free Entry