2 Days Journey Through Time : Ajanta, Ellora and Aurangabad

Experience the Ancient Wonders of Maharashtra in Just Two Days

This 2-day journey through the heart of Maharashtra offers a compelling glimpse into India’s spectacular past, blending UNESCO World Heritage Sites with Mughal architecture and medieval forts. The tour, offered by Jee Tours, is designed to give travelers an immersive yet manageable snapshot of Aurangabad’s historical landscape. It’s a package that balances guided sightseeing with enough free time to soak in the atmosphere, making it ideal for those wanting a taste of India’s artistic and military grandeur without feeling overwhelmed.

One thing we particularly love about this experience is the seamless transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles. The comfort and convenience mean you don’t have to stress about navigating busy streets or figuring out transport logistics. Plus, the inclusion of entry tickets and optional guide service helps keep the experience informative and hassle-free. That said, a possible consideration is the pacing—if you’re not a fan of long touring days, the schedule might feel a bit packed, especially with some sites requiring removal of shoes or careful walking.

This tour suits travelers who crave a balanced mix of history, architecture, and local culture, especially those who appreciate detailed storytelling and authentic sights. It’s also perfect if you’re on a tight schedule but don’t want to miss the highlights of Aurangabad’s heritage.

Key Points

• Comprehensive and Balanced: Combines UNESCO sites, Mughal monuments, and medieval forts for a well-rounded experience.
• All-Inclusive: Entry tickets, private transport, and hotel accommodations (if booked) are included, offering great value.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private air-conditioned vehicle and optional guides make for an easy, comfortable trip.
• Authentic Cultural Insights: You’ll learn about the art, architecture, and history of each site from knowledgeable guides.
• Long but Rewarding Days: Be prepared for 8- to 8-hour touring days, with early mornings and some walking involved.
• Limited Flexibility: The tightly scheduled itinerary means less room for spontaneous exploring or extra time at sites.

Exploring the Highlights: A Deep Dive into Your 2-Day Tour

Day 1: Embracing the Buddhist Past and Mughal Elegance

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel in Aurangabad, usually in a private air-conditioned vehicle. We loved how the transportation set the tone for a comfortable day, especially on hot days when a cool seat makes all the difference. Your first stop is the legendary Ajanta Caves—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves, carved into the hills between the 2nd century BCE and the 6th century CE, are a window into India’s Buddhist monastic life.

The caves are famous for their stunning murals, sculptures, and paintings. The intricate carvings depict Buddha’s life and Jataka tales, revealing the artistic mastery of ancient craftsmen. If you’re a history buff or an art lover, you’ll find yourself marveling at the preservation and detail of these centuries-old works. A notable insight from reviews is that the caves are closed every Monday, so planning your visit accordingly is key.

Expect to spend about 7 hours at Ajanta, including the drive and exploration time. The entry tickets are included, meaning no fuss about buying tickets on-site. Guides, if booked, enhance the experience with stories and context you might miss on your own.

Post-Ajanta, the tour takes you to the Bibi Ka Maqbara—often called the “Mini Taj Mahal.” Built by Prince Azam Shah in memory of his mother, this mausoleum reflects Mughal craftsmanship with its delicate white marble, domed roof, and lush Charbagh gardens. Many reviewers mention how peaceful and scenic the setting is—ideal for a leisurely stroll and photos. The structure’s beauty is best appreciated in the soft light of late afternoon, especially with the hill backdrop.

After this, you’ll return to your hotel to relax, or explore Aurangabad’s lively Old City at your leisure, soaking in the local ambiance. This optional evening walk is a good chance to see street markets or try local cuisine.

Day 2: Temples, Fortresses, and Architectural Marvels

The second day is dedicated to more dramatic sights, starting with the Ellora Caves—another UNESCO site, famous for their monolithic Kailasa Temple (Cave 16). Carved from a single rock, this 6th-century Hindu temple is a jaw-dropping feat of engineering. The intricate sculptures, detailed carvings, and the sheer scale of the temple leave visitors in awe. The caves also include Buddhist monasteries and Jain temples, illustrating religious harmony and architectural innovation from the 6th to 10th centuries.

Expect about 3 hours at Ellora. The entry tickets are included, and guides can help explain the symbolism behind each sculpture or structural feature. A standout review mentions how the Kailasa Temple’s “massive size and craftsmanship truly get your jaw dropping,” making it clear why this site is a must-see.

Next, the tour moves to Daulatabad Fort, a medieval marvel perched atop a hill. Known for its steep climb and clever defenses, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Key sights include the tall Chand Minar and the fort’s complex maze of gateways, trenches, and secret traps—fascinating for history enthusiasts. Reviewers highlight how the fort’s strategic design made it nearly impregnable, and the views from the top are well worth the climb.

The day ends with a relaxed return to your hotel or a walk through local markets, where you can pick up handcrafted souvenirs or sample street foods.

Day 3: Local Markets and Departure

The final morning can be spent wandering Aurangabad’s markets or relaxing at your hotel. It’s a great chance to pick up last-minute gifts or simply enjoy the local vibe before your transfer to the airport or railway station. It’s a brief but sweet wrap-up to your heritage adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $113.60 per person, this package packs in a lot—two UNESCO sites, a Mughal monument, a medieval fort, all with transportation, some sightseeing guidance, and entry tickets included. For those wanting a thorough cultural experience without the hassle of planning each detail, it’s a smart choice. The convenience of private transport means you avoid crowded buses or confusing public transit, especially important in a place where sites can be spread out.

Having the option for hotel stays and guided commentary means the experience is both comfortable and informative. Many reviews note that guides help bring the sites to life with stories and explanations you might miss solo. The included entrance tickets also save time and money, making this a more straightforward option than DIY trips.

The Experience in Practice

Travelers have appreciated that the tour offers a good balance between sightseeing and free time, with the flexibility to relax or explore as you wish. The long touring days may be tiring, but the sites themselves are rewarding enough to justify the effort. Expect walking shoes (or slippers, as recommended), sun protection, and a flashlight for caves—small details that make a big difference.

Some reviewers pointed out that the tour is quite packed, especially with sites like Ajanta and Ellora, but that’s part of the charm if you’re eager to see a lot in a short time. The guides, when available, are knowledgeable and friendly, adding depth to the visits.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Aurangabad’s highlights in a manageable timeframe. It’s ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts, family groups, or those with limited days but big curiosity. If you enjoy detailed stories about art, religion, and military engineering, you’ll find plenty to love.

However, if you prefer a slower pace, more spontaneous exploration, or traveling with very young children, this tour might feel a bit regimented. It’s best suited for those who value comfort, convenience, and cultural depth in equal measure.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private tour offers an impressive snapshot of Maharashtra’s historical riches. With well-organized visits to Ajanta and Ellora caves, a Mughal monument, and a medieval fort, it ticks many boxes for art, architecture, and history lovers. The inclusion of private transport, tickets, and optional guides heightens its value, making it a stress-free way to explore these UNESCO sites.

While the schedule is intensive, most travelers will come away with a genuine appreciation for India’s ancient craftsmanship and strategic ingenuity. The views, especially at sites like Daulatabad Fort and Bibi Ka Maqbara, leave lasting impressions—perfect for capturing memories or simply marveling at human achievement.

This tour suits those eager to see a lot in a short span, who appreciate detailed storytelling, and prefer the comfort of private transport. It’s a reliable and enriching way to connect with Maharashtra’s storied past without the logistical headache.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all age groups?
Yes, most travelers can participate; just keep in mind the long days and some walking, especially at sites like Daulatabad Fort.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entry tickets to Ajanta, Ellora, and Bibi Ka Maqbara are included, making the experience more streamlined.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes or slippers are recommended since shoes need to be removed at some sites. Also bring an umbrella, sunglasses, and a flashlight for caves.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you can discuss with your guide or driver about slight modifications, depending on your interests and pace.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so you’ll need to plan for lunch and dinner separately.

What is the booking cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.