Budget Trip to Aurangabad

Budget Trip to Aurangabad: Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Maharashtra on a Shoestring

If you're looking for a destination that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Maharashtra without breaking the bank, Aurangabad is the perfect choice. The city is home to some of the finest examples of ancient Indian architecture, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, and is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, bustling bazaars, and vibrant street life. In this article, we'll take you on a budget trip to Aurangabad, providing tips and tricks to help you make the most of your time and money.

Planning Your Trip: Best Time to Visit and How to Get There

Before embarking on your budget trip to Aurangabad, it's essential to plan ahead to ensure that you get the most out of your visit. The Best time to visit Aurangabad is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city's attractions. To get there, you can either take a flight to Aurangabad Airport or a train to Aurangabad Railway Station, both of which are well-connected to major cities in India.

Accommodation: Where to Stay on a Budget

Aurangabad offers a range of Accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. If you're on a tight budget, we recommend staying at one of the many budget guesthouses or hostels in the city, such as Zostel Aurangabad, The Backpacker's Hostel, or Hotel New Samrat. These budget-friendly options offer comfortable beds, clean facilities, and a chance to meet fellow travelers from all over the world.

Exploring the City: Must-Visit Attractions on a Budget

One of the main reasons why Aurangabad is such a popular destination among budget travelers is its wealth of cultural and historical attractions that can be visited without spending a lot of money. The top attractions include:

Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are a series of 29 rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The caves are renowned for their intricate rock-cut sculptures and paintings that depict scenes from the life of Buddha and other religious figures. The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 30, while foreign nationals have to pay INR 500.

Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves are a complex of 34 caves that were carved out of the Charanandri Hills between the 6th and 10th centuries CE. The caves are a unique example of the coexistence of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist art and architecture. The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 30, while foreign nationals have to pay INR 500.

Bibi Ka Maqbara

Bibi Ka Maqbara is a mausoleum built by Emperor Aurangzeb's son, Prince Azam Shah, in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum. The mausoleum is often referred to as the "Taj Mahal of the Deccan" due to its resemblance to the iconic Mughal monument. The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 15, while foreign nationals have to pay INR 200.

Panchakki

Panchakki is a water mill that was built in the 17th century to harness the power of water to grind grains and generate electricity. The mill is now a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can see the complex system of channels, dams, and water wheels that powered the mill. The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 5, while foreign nationals have to pay INR 100.

Food: Where to Eat on a Budget

No trip to Aurangabad is complete without indulging in the city's delicious cuisine. From spicy curries to sweet desserts, Aurangabad's food scene is a gastronomic delight. If you're on a budget, head to the city's bustling bazaars and street food stalls, where you can sample local delicacies at affordable prices. Some must-try dishes include:

• Naan Qalia: A spicy mutton curry served with soft naan bread.
• Tandoori Chaap: Grilled lamb chops marinated in a spicy yogurt marinade.
• Sheermal: A sweet bread made with saffron and milk.
• Khichda: A spicy meat and lentil stew.
• Sutarfeni: A flaky dessert made with thin layers of dough and sugar syrup.

Getting Around: Best Ways to Explore the City

To explore Aurangabad on a budget, we recommend using public transport or hiring a bike or scooter. The city's public transport system includes buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis, which are affordable and convenient. You can also hire a bike or scooter from one of the many rental companies in the city, which offer daily or weekly rentals at reasonable prices.

Shopping: Best Places to Buy Souvenirs

Aurangabad's bazaars and markets are a Shopper's paradise, offering everything from traditional textiles and handicrafts to spices and souvenirs. Some of the best places to shop on a budget include:

• Paithani Silk Weaving Center: A cooperative of local weavers who produce high-quality silk sarees and shawls.
• Himroo Factory: A textile factory that produces the traditional Himroo fabric, which is made by weaving silk and cotton together.
• Aurangabad Caves Craft Center: A craft center that sells a range of handicrafts and souvenirs, including pottery, jewelry, and wooden carvings.

Transportation: The cheapest way to reach Aurangabad is by train. You can also look for budget flights to Aurangabad if you book in advance. Once you reach Aurangabad, you can hire a local bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi to get around the city.

Accommodation: There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Aurangabad that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation. You can also look for homestays or hostels to save on your accommodation costs.

Food: Aurangabad is famous for its street food, which is both delicious and affordable. You can try local specialties such as the Naan Qalia, a spicy mutton curry served with naan bread, or the Sheermal, a sweet bread. You can also find vegetarian options such as the Misal Pav, a spicy lentil curry served with bread.

Sightseeing: The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a must-visit attraction in Aurangabad. You can also visit other historical sites such as the Bibi Ka Maqbara and the Daulatabad Fort. Most of these sites have a nominal entry fee.

Shopping: Aurangabad is famous for its silk fabrics, Paithani saris, and Himroo shawls. You can buy these items at the local markets or shops. Make sure to bargain for the best price.

Conclusion

Aurangabad is a budget-friendly destination that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Maharashtra. With its ancient caves, delicious cuisine, vibrant bazaars, and affordable accommodation options, the city is perfect for budget travelers who want to explore India's cultural heritage without spending a fortune.