Ellora caves and 3 Sightseeing Tour

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Aurangabad and want an efficient way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights, the Ellora Caves and 3 Sightseeing Tour offers a practical option. For just $30 per group (up to 4 people), you get a private vehicle with an English-speaking driver who can provide some basic insights about each stop. While the driver isn’t a guide, they do help make logistics smoother, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace using the included guidebook.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is the flexibility it offers. You can choose to spend more or less time at each location, and the private setting means less crowdedness than group tours. However, it’s worth noting that admission fees to the monuments are not included**, so budget accordingly. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of cultural history and scenic sites, especially those who appreciate a personalized, relaxed pace without the high cost of guided tours.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary and private vehicle allow for a personalized experience.
• Historic sites like Ellora Caves and Daulatabad Fort showcase diverse architectural styles.
• Self-guided exploration with a provided tour book gives freedom but requires some initiative.
• Cost-effective at $30, but be prepared for additional monument entry fees.
• Comfortable transport with amenities like WiFi, bottled water, and air conditioning.
• Limited guide interaction—driver provides basic info but isn’t a guide.

Exploring the Ellora Caves

The main highlight of this tour is the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s often described as one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple complexes in the world. With over 100 caves carved into the hillside, the site presents a stunning mix of Jain, Buddhist, and Hindu monuments dating from approximately 600 to 1000 CE.

The standout attraction is Cave 16, home to the Kailasha Temple—the largest monolithic sculpture on Earth. It’s shaped like a chariot and dedicated to Lord Shiva. The carvings and relief panels here depict gods, goddesses, and mythological stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, along with representations of Vaishnavism and Shaktism.

From the photos, you’ll see the intricate detailing on the sculptures, which are as impressive today as they were a millennium ago. The scale of the Kailasha Temple is breathtaking—imagine a single, colossal piece of rock meticulously sculpted into a temple. The fact that it was carved from a single stone makes it a marvel of ancient engineering.

The tour notes that admission to the caves isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. If you’re into archaeology and architecture, taking time to walk through these caves is worthwhile, but be aware that the tour itself is more about seeing the sites from the outside and reading about their significance rather than a guided in-depth explanation.

Daulatabad Fort: A Historical Marvel

Next up is Daulatabad Fort, about an hour from Ellora, which is a fortress with a rich history. Originally built around 1187 by the Yadava king Bhillama V, it later served as the capital of the Delhi Sultanate between 1327 and 1344. Its strategic location atop a hill made it a formidable defensive site, and the triangular layout offers much to explore.

You’ll love the panoramic views from the top and the maze-like pathways through the fort walls. The fort’s walls are thick and rugged, evidence of medieval warfare, and exploring them gives a real sense of the fortress’s importance in Indian history. The review mentions that the fort was initially built around 1187, highlighting its long-standing significance.

Since admission isn’t included, you might find it handy to have some change ready for entry fees. The experience here is less about intricate artwork and more about the sense of history and the commanding views of the surrounding landscape.

Bibi Ka Maqbara: An Iconic Mughal Mausoleum

The next stop offers a touch of Mughal architecture with Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Taj of the Deccan” because of its striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal. Built in 1660 by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in memory of his wife, it’s considered a symbol of Aurangzeb’s conjugal fidelity.

Though smaller than the Taj Mahal, Bibi Ka Maqbara enchants visitors with its delicate marble work and symmetrical layout. It’s a peaceful spot to appreciate Mughal architecture without the crowds that flock to the Taj Mahal. The review notes that Aurangzeb, who commissioned the mausoleum, was not particularly interested in architecture, which makes the elegance of this tomb even more remarkable.

Admission isn’t included here either, so plan accordingly. The site’s beauty lies in its simplicity and the serene atmosphere, making it a lovely place for a leisurely walk or photo session.

Panchakki: A Water Mill and Scientific Wonder

The final stop is Panchakki, a water mill that demonstrates medieval Indian engineering. Built to generate energy using spring water from nearby mountains, this monument was part of a larger complex including a mosque, madrassa, and other buildings.

We loved the way Panchakki shows a different side of Indian history—more about ingenuity and science than temples or forts. The water-driven mechanism and the accompanying gardens create a peaceful, almost contemplative environment. The review mentions that the structure displays “scientific thought put in medieval Indian architecture,” which is a reminder of how advanced Indian engineering was centuries ago.

This stop is relatively short—around 20 minutes—but packs an interesting punch, especially if you’re into the technological aspects of historical sites.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation is a key part of this experience. The vehicle is air-conditioned, equipped with WiFi, and includes parking fees, which makes for a comfortable ride between sites. The flexibility to read the provided guidebook and explore independently is great for those who enjoy self-guided touring but want reliable transport.

Timing-wise, the tour lasts around 7 to 9 hours, so it’s quite a full day. Starting early will give you a better chance to beat midday crowds and enjoy the sites at a relaxed pace.

Since admission tickets are not included, you’ll need to prepare for additional costs—typically, entry fees to the caves, fort, and mausoleum will be separate. Budgeting around 200-300 INR per site is advisable, depending on what and how much you want to see.

Reviews suggest that the service is generally reliable, with one traveler mentioning that their driver, Fahim, was helpful and punctual. The ease of booking and the private nature of the tour make it suitable for small groups or families wanting a flexible day out.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This Ellora caves and sightseeing tour offers a balance of history, architecture, and scenic views suitable for travelers who prefer a self-guided style but with the convenience of private transport. The cost is reasonable, especially if you’re comfortable paying for monument entries separately, which allows you to tailor your visits.

The flexibility is a major plus—if you like exploring at your own pace, reading about each site, and soaking in the atmosphere without a guide’s commentary, this setup works well. Plus, the vehicle amenities, including WiFi and bottled water, add a touch of comfort to a day filled with historical discovery.

However, if you’re someone who prefers guided tours with detailed explanations at each site, or if you’re looking for a tour that includes entry fees, you might want to explore other options. It’s also worth noting that the driver provides basic information, so don’t expect an in-depth guide—good background reading or a guidebook is recommended.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience best suits independent travelers, small groups, or families who want to explore Aurangabad’s highlights without the hassle of navigating alone. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy self-directed sightseeing and want the comfort of private transport. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordable price point and the ability to choose which sites to visit.

If you’re looking for a more guided or inclusive experience with entry fees covered, or if you prefer a very structured schedule, consider alternative options. But if you’re happy to read up a bit and explore at your pace, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see some of the most fascinating sites in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entry fees included in the price?
No, the tour price does not include monument entry fees. You’ll need to pay separately at each site.

Is the driver a guide?
No, the driver is not a guide. He provides basic information and helps with logistics, while you explore using the guidebook provided.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at each site.

What transportation is provided?
An air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, parking fees, and bottled water are included for comfortable travel.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can spend more or less time at each stop, but the overall itinerary is fixed.

Are there any reviews of this tour?
Yes, a reviewer noted “Good service” and appreciated the overall experience, especially mentioning the helpfulness of the driver.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved at each site.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 15 days in advance is typical, especially during peak seasons.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, some cash for entry fees, water, and your curiosity.

What makes this tour a good value?
The private vehicle, flexibility, and access to prominent sites at an affordable price make it a great choice for budget-conscious explorers.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the Ellora Caves and 3 Sightseeing Tour offers an accessible, flexible way to experience some of Aurangabad’s most treasured sites without the high costs of guided tours. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a DIY approach, with the comfort of private transport and a helpful driver. While you’ll need to handle monument entry fees separately, the overall experience provides a solid balance of convenience, affordability, and cultural insight.

If your goal is to see highlights like the Kailasha Temple, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi Ka Maqbara in a single day without feeling rushed, this tour delivers. Just be prepared to read up a bit beforehand and budget for some entrance fees. For those seeking a relaxed, independent exploration of India’s historical gems, this tour hits the right notes.

Note: Always check current conditions and availability when booking, as details may change.