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Stays in Aurangabad
Aurangabad, in Maharashtra's Marathwada region, is a city defined by its medieval legacy. It grew around a 17th-century water system built by Malik Ambar and later served as a base for the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, whose name it bears. The city is now the usual starting point for the UNESCO World…
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About Aurangabad
Bibi Ka Maqbara, often compared to the Taj Mahal, was commissioned by Aurangzeb's son Azam Shah in memory of his mother. The Aurangabad Caves, a group of Buddhist rock-cut temples, are cut into a hillside just outside the city. Panchakki, a 17th-century water mill, and the Daulatabad Fort, a hilltop stronghold about 15 kilometres away, add to the historical depth.
Modern Aurangabad is a centre for engineering and automotive manufacturing, with a growing hospitality scene that serves both business travellers and tourists. The city's identity remains closely tied to its medieval monuments, its Mughal-era name, and its position as the gateway to the Deccan's most famous cave sites. It was renamed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar in 2023, though both names are in common use.
Where to stay in Aurangabad
Station Road. This central area around Aurangabad railway station has several mid-range and budget hotels, and it is convenient for arrivals by train. It is also close to the old city and the road to Ellora.
Jalna Road. A main artery running east from the city centre, Jalna Road is home to many of Aurangabad's larger hotels and business addresses. It offers easy access to the airport and the Cidco industrial area.
CIDCO. A planned residential and commercial zone north of the city centre, CIDCO has a cluster of newer hotels and is near the airport. It is a practical base for business travellers.
Old City. The area around the 17th-century city walls, including Begumpura and the markets near Bibi Ka Maqbara, has smaller guesthouses. Staying here puts you within walking distance of several monuments.
Getting there and around
Aurangabad Airport (Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Airport) has direct flights from major Indian cities. The city is also well connected by rail, with regular trains from Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad. By road, it lies on the Mumbai–Nagpur highway and is about a five-hour drive from Pune. Within the city, auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs are the usual way to get around; taxis can be hired for day trips to Ajanta and Ellora.
When to go
The best time to visit Aurangabad is from October to March, when the weather is dry and mild. The monsoon months from June to September bring rain, which can make the cave sites slippery. April and May are the hottest months, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, so sightseeing is best done early in the day if you visit then.
Questions, answered
What are the main attractions in Aurangabad?
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora are the primary draws, along with Bibi Ka Maqbara, the Aurangabad Caves, Panchakki, and Daulatabad Fort.
How far are the Ajanta and Ellora caves from Aurangabad?
The Ellora caves are about 30 kilometres from the city, while the Ajanta caves are roughly 100 kilometres away. Both can be visited as day trips.
Is Aurangabad the same as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar?
Yes, the city was officially renamed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar in 2023. Both names are used interchangeably, though Aurangabad remains common in travel contexts.
What is the local cuisine of Aurangabad?
The city is known for its Mughlai-influenced dishes, including biryanis, kebabs, and the sweet called 'Aurangabadi halwa'. Naan qalia is a local specialty.
Do I need a car to get around Aurangabad?
Not necessarily; auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for city travel. For trips to Ajanta and Ellora, hiring a car or joining a tour is recommended.
What is the closest major city to Aurangabad?
Pune is about 250 kilometres away, and Mumbai is roughly 350 kilometres. Both are connected by road and rail.