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Discover the convenience and depth of the two-day Ellora-Ajanta tour in Aurangabad, featuring expert guides, comfortable transport, and key attractions.
This two-day taxi tour promises an efficient way to experience some of India’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites—Ellora and Ajanta Caves—plus nearby attractions like Daulatabad Fort and Bibi ka Maqbara. It’s a thoughtfully designed package that takes the headache out of planning, especially if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with the area.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the advance ticketing and private transportation mean you avoid long queues and enjoy a personalized experience. Plus, the local guides and detailed guidebooks help you truly appreciate the sites at your own pace.
However, note that the drive to Ajanta involves some bumpy roads and a shuttle bus inside the caves, which might be uncomfortable for some travelers. This tour is best suited for history buffs, cultural explorers, and those who prefer hassle-free travel without sacrificing depth or authenticity.
This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Aurangabad’s must-see sites—perfect if you want to maximize your sightseeing with minimal hassle. You get pickup from your hotel, a comfortable vehicle, and well-planned stops that balance exploration with relaxation.
The booking process is straightforward, with most travelers scheduling their trip about a month in advance, which speaks to its popularity and dependability. The consistent 5-star ratings and glowing reviews highlight its reliability and quality, making it a trusted choice among visitors.
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Starting early around 7:30 AM, the tour kicks off from your hotel—this flexibility means you can choose to extend your breakfast or depart sooner. The journey to Ajanta is roughly 3 hours, covering 110 km, with ongoing road work making the ride a bit bumpy. Travellers with back issues are advised to carry air pillows, as reviews indicate some discomfort during the bumpy stretches.
Once at Ajanta, you’ll park and hop on a shuttle bus—this is standard practice—and reach the caves after approximately 10 minutes. Here, the admission tickets are included, so no waiting in lines.
The complex comprises 17 caves, carved into a horseshoe-shaped cliff. You can explore these on your own or hire a licensed guide for a more in-depth understanding (note that guide fees are not included). Reviewers mention that guides like Mr. Vincent grew up locally and are passionate about sharing the stories behind the carvings, paintings, and religious significance, which makes the experience even richer.
A stop at the MTDC restaurant offers a chance to refresh with tea, coffee, or even beer, and some guests appreciated the relaxed atmosphere here. After wandering at your own pace, you can indulge in a delicious vegetarian or non-vegetarian meal at nearby eateries—our reviews confirm that Aurangabad’s local food scene is a highlight.
The day ends with a return trip to Aurangabad—taking about three hours—and the driver will drop you at your hotel, ready for a restful evening.
The second day begins with hotel pickup around 8:00 AM, heading toward the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO site famous for its monolithic Kailasa temple (Cave 16) and a collection of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain caves. The drive is approximately 1 hour, and the journey is smooth thanks to private transport.
At Ellora, you have about four hours to explore the three groups of caves. The Hindu caves, Buddhist monasteries, and Jain temples showcase incredible craftsmanship. Reviewers mention they appreciated the self-guided exploration supported by provided tips and options to call the tour support if needed. For Jain caves, there’s a shuttle bus or walking option (about 1.5 km), which adds a little adventure.
Post-visit, you’ll head to Daulatabad Fort, a historic and impressive fortress originally called Devgiri. If you’re feeling energetic, the fort’s dark passage, cannons, victory tower, and panoramic views are worth the climb, but some reviews note that the walk can be tiring—bring water and comfortable shoes.
The final stop is the Bibi ka Maqbara, often called the “Mini Taj Mahal.” This elegant tomb, built in the Mughal style, offers a peaceful conclusion to your sightseeing day. It’s a charming site where you can admire the intricate marble work and reflect on the historical influences.
The tour wraps up with a return to your hotel, completing a full but manageable schedule.
One of the reasons this tour receives consistent praise is the knowledgeable guides—reviewers frequently mention guides like Mr. Vincent and Mr. Ameen, who are passionate and well-informed. Their local insights make the sites come alive, providing context that you might miss if exploring alone.
The comfort of private transportation cannot be overstated. The air-conditioned vehicle keeps fatigue at bay, especially considering the long drives and bumpy roads to Ajanta. Although some travelers found the Ajanta road construction challenging, the overall smoothness of the journey, combined with bottled water and flexible schedules, makes up for it.
Including entry fees in the price is a significant plus, as there are no hidden costs, and you can focus on enjoying the sites. The guidebook provided is a helpful supplement, offering background information and tips for visiting each site at your own pace.
Reviewers consistently highlight the personalized service and attention to detail. Many mention that the guides’ local upbringing lent authenticity to their explanations, and that the trip was perfectly organized—no rushing, no waiting.
A reviewer from February 2025 shared, “Our driver Mr. Ameen was very safety and good. Our guide, Mr. Vincent, was wonderful,” emphasizing the professionalism and friendliness of the team. Another noted, “The order of visits and access was all well thought out to ensure an impressive tour,” which speaks to the meticulous planning involved.
At $60.49 per person, considering admission fees, private transport, and guided support, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a hassle-free way to see major sights without worrying about transportation logistics or tickets. Plus, the flexibility to customize visits and take your time adds to its appeal.
If you’re seeking an accessible, well-organized tour that covers major sites without the stress of planning every detail, this is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, or first-time visitors to Aurangabad wanting a comprehensive experience.
Travelers who prefer comfort and convenience will appreciate the private vehicle and included tickets, freeing them to focus on appreciating these stunning monuments. Those interested in local stories and nuanced explanations will benefit from the knowledgeable guides.
However, if you’re looking for an independent or more physically active experience, or want to explore beyond these sites, you might prefer a different arrangement or additional guides.
This two-day Ellora-Ajanta tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, authenticity, and efficiency. It’s tailored for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of logistics or waiting in lines. The inclusion of expert guides, private transportation, and entry fees provides excellent value, especially considering the significance of the sites visited.
The flexibility to explore at your own pace, combined with the friendliness and professionalism of the team, makes for a memorable experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural explorer, or simply seeking a smooth way to cover these UNESCO treasures, this tour will serve you well.
For those who prioritize comfort, local insights, and a well-organized schedule, this tour is a dependable and enriching choice. Just be prepared for some driving and walking—those are small prices to pay for such incredible sights.
Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel and drop-off at the end of each day, making it very convenient.
Are tickets to the attractions included?
Yes, the entry fees for Ellora, Ajanta, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi ka Maqbara are all covered in the price.
Can I hire a guide at the sites?
Guided tours inside the caves are available at an additional cost, but the tour provides a guidebook and local call support to help you explore independently.
How long are the drives between sites?
The Ajanta trip involves about 3 hours of driving each way, with some ongoing road work; the Ellora trip is about an hour each way, providing a comfortable experience.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but be prepared for some walking and the bumpy ride to Ajanta. It’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity.
What should I bring?
Carry comfortable shoes, water bottles, and perhaps an air pillow for the Ajanta drive. Sun protection and snacks are also recommended.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are options available at the sites and nearby restaurants, which the driver can recommend.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 6 days will incur a partial or no refund, depending on timing.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
This detailed, well-structured tour review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide if this is the right way for you to explore Aurangabad’s incredible UNESCO sites.