2 Days Private Tour in Ajanta and Ellora

Exploring Aurangabad’s UNESCO Heritage Treasures: A 2-Day Private Tour of Ajanta and Ellora

If you’re planning a visit to Aurangabad, this 2-day private tour of Ajanta and Ellora caves promises an in-depth look at two of India’s most celebrated archaeological sites. With a reputation for personalized service, knowledgeable drivers, and flexible itineraries, this tour offers a practical way to see some of Maharashtra’s most iconic monuments without the hassle of navigating on your own.

What really caught our eye is the customizable experience. Unlike cookie-cutter group tours, this private setup is tailored to your pace and interests, giving you the opportunity to soak in the history at your own speed. The highlight? Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are renowned for their intricate carvings, murals, and spiritual significance.

That said, a potential consideration is that admission tickets are not included, so budgeting for entrance fees is necessary. The tour is best suited for travelers who love history, culture, and having a more intimate, flexible experience. Families, history buffs, and solo explorers alike will find this private tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your preferences
• Expert drivers and local guides ensure smooth, insightful visits
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites with stunning rock-cut architecture and murals
• Cost-effective at just over $35 per group (up to 4 people)
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles with toll and parking included
• Flexible itinerary with options to explore additional sites like Khuldabad and Bibi Ka Maqbara

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Ajanta Caves – An Artistic and Spiritual Marvel

Your journey begins with a pickup in Aurangabad, where the friendly team at Liberty Travel House greets you. From there, it’s about a 2-hour drive (roughly 100 km) to the Ajanta Caves, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves are famous for their breathtaking murals, sculptures, and monastic structures dating from the 2nd century BCE to around 480 CE.

Once you arrive, your guide will assist with getting tickets for entry and the shuttle bus (which runs every 15 minutes). The 30 caves are spread out over a 4 km complex, but you’ll have approximately 3 hours to explore the main features. The caves include chaityas (prayer halls) and viharas (monastic dwellings), each packed with finely detailed murals and sculptures depicting Buddha’s life and Jataka stories.

This site is a favorite for those fascinated by ancient art—reviewers mention the “intricate murals” and “exceptional artistry” as highlights. One traveler noted how the guide’s explanations added depth to the experience, making the murals come alive with stories. After your sightseeing, the guide will recommend a local restaurant for lunch, giving you a chance to sample regional flavors.

In the afternoon, you’ll head back to Aurangabad to check into your hotel, giving you the evening to relax or explore local markets.

Day 2: Ellora Caves and Additional Heritage Sites

The second day kicks off with breakfast, followed by a trip to the famous Ellora Caves, about a 30-minute drive from Aurangabad. This site is renowned for its monumental rock-cut temples and monasteries, carved between the 5th and 10th centuries.

Unlike Ajanta’s primarily Buddhist focus, Ellora features Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples, all within a sprawling complex that showcases amazing engineering and artistry. Expect to spend around 4-5 hours here, exploring caves like the Kailasa Temple—a rock-cut marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva—among others.

If the schedule allows, your driver might take you to nearby sites like Khuldabad, known as the “Valley of Saints,” and Daultabad (Daulatabad Fort), a historic fortress with commanding views and a rich past. There’s also a chance to visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Taj of the Deccan,” a beautiful Mughal tomb commissioned by Aurangzeb’s son.

The day wraps up with your transfer to the airport or railway station, depending on your travel plans. The entire day is approximately 9 hours, but the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay relaxed.

Why Choose This Tour?

We loved the flexibility and personal touch that comes with this private experience. The drivers and guides are praised for their professionalism and helpfulness—reviewers mention their “helpful and sensible” nature and “polite, caring” attitude. Many also highlight how the guides enrich the visit with detailed insights, making the experience far more meaningful than just walking through caves with a map.

The value for money is notable, especially considering the private transportation, tolls, parking, and the bespoke approach. For just over $35 per group (up to four people), it offers an affordable way to see these world-famous sites without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

However, one small caveat is that admission tickets are not included—so be prepared to purchase those separately. The flexibility to customize your itinerary means you could spend more or less time at each site, and even add side trips like Khuldabad, which some reviewers appreciated for its serene, spiritual atmosphere.

This tour is an excellent option for those seeking a stress-free, intimate, and comprehensive visit to Ajanta and Ellora, especially if you value local knowledge, comfort, and the ability to tailor your experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour caters perfectly to travelers who want an authentic, flexible experience without the chaos of large group tours. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts eager to explore UNESCO sites with insightful guides, as well as families or small groups looking for a cost-effective yet personalized journey. If you prefer to avoid the hassle of logistics and want a comfortable, well-organized visit, this tour hits the right notes.

Those who appreciate good value but also want a culturally rich experience will find this tour a great fit. Keep in mind, if you’re on a tight schedule or seeking a more budget-conscious approach, you might want to compare this with group options, but for a relaxed, tailored adventure, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Are tickets for Ajanta and Ellora included in the tour price?
No, the admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately on-site.

Is transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, the tour includes a private, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire duration, ensuring comfort during your drives.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour emphasizes the “liberty of the traveler,” meaning you can tweak the schedule or add sites like Khuldabad or Daultabad if time permits.

What’s the group size?
It’s a private tour for up to 4 people, which means personalized attention and the flexibility to go at your own pace.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 34 days ahead, indicating good availability if planned early.

What’s the overall duration?
It spans roughly 2 days, with each day dedicated to exploring key heritage sites and local attractions.

Is pickup offered from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is included, making the start of your day hassle-free.

What kind of reviews has this tour received?
It’s received excellent ratings, with many praising the professionalism of the guides and drivers, as well as the quality of the experience.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour of Ajanta and Ellora offers a well-balanced blend of comfort, flexibility, and cultural depth. The knowledgeable guides help bring these ancient marvels to life, making your visit more meaningful. The private transportation ensures you avoid the crowds and long waits, while the customizable itinerary allows you to tailor your experience to your interests.

If you’re seeking a stress-free way to explore Maharashtra’s UNESCO sites with a personal touch, this tour is a fantastic option. It’s particularly suited for those who value authentic insights, convenience, and a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a history buff, a small family group, or a couple looking for an intimate cultural trip, this tour promises a memorable journey through some of India’s most impressive heritage sites.

The only thing left to do is to book early, plan for the entrance fees, and prepare for two days of awe-inspiring discoveries in Aurangabad.