Things to do in Aurangabad for a Fantastic Holiday

Things to do in Aurangabad for a Fantastic Holiday 

Aurangabad is a city located in the Indian state of Maharashtra, famous for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is also known as the "City of Gates" because of its 52 gates that were built during the Mughal period. Aurangabad is an ideal destination for those who love to explore historical monuments, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural traditions. In this article, we will discuss some of the best things to do in Aurangabad for a fantastic holiday. 

1. Visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves 

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are some of the most iconic attractions in Aurangabad. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are famous for their beautiful rock-cut temples and sculptures. The Ajanta Caves are a series of 29 caves that were built between 2nd century BC and 6th century AD. The Ellora Caves, on the other hand, are a series of 34 caves that were built between the 6th and 10th centuries AD. 

2. Explore the Bibi ka Maqbara 

The Bibi ka Maqbara is a beautiful mausoleum located in Aurangabad. It was built in the 17th century by Prince Azam Shah, son of Emperor Aurangzeb, in memory of his mother Dilras Banu Begum. The mausoleum is often called the "Taj of the Deccan" because of its striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal in Agra. 

3. Take a trip to the Daulatabad Fort 

The Daulatabad Fort is an ancient fortress located near Aurangabad. It was built in the 12th century by the Yadava dynasty and later captured by the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals. The fort is famous for its intricate architecture, underground tunnels, and a stunning view of the surrounding area. 

4. Visit the Panchakki Watermill 

The Panchakki Watermill is a 17th-century watermill located in Aurangabad. It was built during the Mughal period and is famous for its unique water management system. The watermill is powered by a stream of water that flows through a series of underground channels and then turns the grinding stone to produce flour. 

5. Shop at the Aurangabad Bazaar 

The Aurangabad Bazaar is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of the city. It is famous for its handicrafts, silk textiles, and jewelry. Visitors can also find a variety of street food vendors and restaurants serving authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. 

6. Experience the Himroo Factory 

The Himroo Factory is a handloom weaving center located in Aurangabad. It is famous for its traditional Himroo fabric, which is a blend of silk and cotton. Visitors can take a guided tour of the factory to see how the fabric is made and even purchase some souvenirs. 

7. Visit the Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary 

The Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located near Aurangabad. It is home to a variety of endangered species such as Indian leopard, sloth bear, and Indian pangolin. Visitors can take a safari tour of the sanctuary to see the wildlife up close. 

8. Take a day trip to the Bhadra Maruti Temple 

The Bhadra Maruti Temple is a Hindu temple located near Aurangabad. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is famous for its unique architecture and religious significance. Visitors can take a day trip to the temple to explore the surrounding area and experience the local culture. 

9. Enjoy the Aurangabad Heritage Walk 

The Aurangabad Heritage Walk is a guided tour that takes visitors through the historical and cultural landmarks of Aurangabad. The tour covers the city's rich heritage, including the Mughal architecture, the local cuisine, and the bustling bazaars. It is a great way to learn about the city's history and culture while enjoying a leisurely walk. 

10. Attend the Ellora Ajanta Festival 

The Ellora Ajanta Festival is an annual event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Aurangabad. The festival features performances by local artists, traditional music and dance, and food stalls serving authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. It is a great way to experience the local culture and traditions. 

11. Visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum 

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum is a museum located in Aurangabad. It is dedicated to the life and legacy of the Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The museum features a collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures that depict the life and times of the legendary king. 

12. Take a dip in the Siddharth Garden and Zoo 

The Siddharth Garden and Zoo is a popular tourist attraction located in Aurangabad. It is a beautiful garden that features a variety of plants, trees, and flowers. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, and monkeys. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden or enjoy a picnic with family and friends. 

13. Visit the Khuldabad Tomb Complex 

The Khuldabad Tomb Complex is a collection of tombs located near Aurangabad. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The complex features the tombs of several Sufi saints, including the tomb of the famous Sufi saint, Shaikh Burhan-ud-din Gharib Chisti. 

14. Explore the Lonar Crater Lake 

The Lonar Crater Lake is a natural wonder located near Aurangabad. It is a unique crater formed by a meteorite impact and is considered one of the largest and oldest impact craters on Earth. Visitors can take a guided tour of the crater and explore the surrounding area. 

15. Relax at the Aurangabad Caves 

The Aurangabad Caves are a collection of Buddhist caves located near Aurangabad. The caves are famous for their intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the caves and enjoy the serene surroundings. 

In conclusion, Aurangabad is a city that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for tourists. From exploring historical monuments and cultural landmarks to experiencing the local cuisine and wildlife, there is something for everyone in Aurangabad. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, a visit to Aurangabad is sure to provide an unforgettable holiday experience. If you're planning a holiday in Aurangabad, here are some things you can do to make your trip a fantastic one: 

Visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves: These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are a must-visit for their stunning architecture and ancient rock-cut temples. 

Explore the Bibi ka Maqbara: Often called the "Taj Mahal of the Deccan," this tomb was built in memory of Aurangzeb's wife and is known for its intricate artwork. 

Shop for handicrafts: Aurangabad is famous for its Paithani sarees, Himroo shawls, and Bidriware. You can shop for these handicrafts at local markets and stores. 

Taste the local cuisine: Don't miss out on trying the spicy Maharashtrian cuisine, including Vada Pav, Bhakri, and Puran Poli. 

Attend a festival: Aurangabad hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Eid. These festivals offer a glimpse of the vibrant culture and traditions of the city. 

Take a nature walk: Aurangabad is surrounded by lush green hills and scenic landscapes. You can take a nature walk to explore the beauty of the region. 

Visit the Aurangabad Caves: These ancient Buddhist caves are known for their rock-cut sculptures and paintings. 

Learn about history at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Marathas. 

Take a day trip to Lonavala and Khandala: These nearby hill stations are known for their scenic beauty and offer a perfect getaway from the city. 

Enjoy adventure activities: Aurangabad offers several adventure activities such as trekking, hiking, and camping. 

Explore the Ajanta and Ellora Caves - Aurangabad is home to the famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These ancient rock-cut caves have stunning sculptures and frescoes that date back to the 2nd century BC. 

Visit the Bibi Ka Maqbara - Known as the mini Taj Mahal, Bibi Ka Maqbara is a beautiful mausoleum built by Aurangzeb in memory of his wife. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Aurangabad. 

Take a heritage walk - Aurangabad has a rich history and culture, and a heritage walk is a great way to explore it. You can visit historical sites, monuments, and buildings that reflect the city's past. 

Shop at the Aurangabad Caves - Aurangabad is famous for its Paithani sarees and Himroo shawls. You can shop for these traditional textiles and other handicrafts at the Aurangabad Caves. 

Visit the Daulatabad Fort - Daulatabad Fort is a 14th-century fortification that offers stunning views of the city. It has a fascinating history and is a must-visit for history buffs. 

Enjoy local cuisine - Aurangabad is famous for its delicious food, including biryani, naan khaliya, and pithla bhakri. You can try these local delicacies at one of the many restaurants and street food stalls in the city.