Best Places to visit in Aurangabad

Aurangabad is a beautiful city situated in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra in India. It is named after Aurangzeb, a Mughal Emperor of the 17th century. Aurangabad has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many majestic monuments built in the time of the Mughal rule. The city is surrounded by several ancient temples, monuments, and forts and offers visitors a unique blend of historical and modern sights. When you visit Aurangabad, you will be exposed to many different cultures, religions, and people.

The city is packed with innumerable attractions, which are the perfect source of entertainment, exploration, knowledge, and fun. From stunning lakes to architectural marvels, there is something to explore in every corner of the city. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation and want to go somewhere truly exciting and special, Aurangabad is the right place for you.

10 Best Places to visit in Aurangabad

Here is a list of the top 10 places to visit in Aurangabad that you must add to your itinerary.

1. Bibi ka Maqbara

Bibi ka Maqbara is an impressive example of Mughal architecture. It was built in 1679 CE by Azam Shah, the son of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, in honor of his mother. It is often referred to as the "Taj Mahal of the Deccan" due to its resemblance to the iconic TajMahal. The building is composed of marble and stands on an elevated platform surrounded by lush greenery. There is a lotus pond in the complex and a number of tombs that have beautiful inscriptions etched on them.

2. Ellora Caves

Ellora Caves is a complex of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut cave shrines located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. The group of caves is one of the largest of its kind in India and dates back to 600-1000 AD. The caves feature impressive sculptures and numerous ornate carvings. The most unique feature of this site is the Kailash Temple, which is the world’s largest monolithic rock excavation. The temple itself is built in the form of a mountain and depicts scenes from Hindu mythology.

3. Aurangabad Caves

The Aurangabad Caves are a group of 12 Buddhist cave shrines dating back to the 2nd century BC. The caves feature intricate designs and sculptures that represent various aspects of Buddhism. Each cave is decorated with various inscriptions and figures believed to have spiritual significance. The main attraction here is Cave No. 10, also known as the "Cave of Brahmans", which features stunning rock-cut water tanks.

4. Panchimukhi Hanuman Temple

The Panchimukhi Hanuman Temple is a large temple complex situated at the foothills of a mountain. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the God of strength and courage. The temple is a peaceful and serene place and attracts pilgrims from all over the world. It is a popular place of worship due to its location and holy atmosphere.

5. Daulatabad Fort

Daulatabad Fort is one of the best forts in India and is also known as the "City of Fortune." It was built in 1287 CE by the Yadava Dynasty and was later occupied by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The fort stands atop a conical hill and is surrounded by a deep moat. It features an impressive array of features such as towers, fortifications, and gates that testify to its timeless beauty and grandeur.

6. Salim Ali Lake

Salim Ali Lake is a picturesque lake located near Aurangabad in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. The lake is named after Salim Ali, who is a famous ornithologist and an environmentalist. The lake is home to various species of migratory birds and is a great place for bird watching. Surrounded by lush greenery, the lake looks especially stunning when the sun sets.

7. Ghrishneshwar Temple

Ghrishneshwar Temple is situated in the village of Verul in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. It is dedicated to the Lord Shiva and is the 12th Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The temple has an impressive architecture with a number of carvings featuring scenes from the Hindu mythology and epics. There is also a large pond near the temple which is believed to have healing powers.

8. Bhandardara

Bhandardara is a scenic and tranquil hill station in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. It is situated on the banks of the Pravara River and is surrounded by lush green hills. The place is a popular destination for campers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts. Some of the best places to visit here include Wilson Dam, Agasti Rishi Ashram, Randha Falls, and the Amruteshwar Temple.

9. Lonar Crater Lake

The Lonar Crater Lake is a saline soda lake located in the Buldhana district in Maharashtra. It was formed as a result of an asteroid collision with the Earth around 50,000 years ago. It is the only known hypervelocity meteor crater in basaltic rock and is a famous tourist spot. The lake has a circumference of 1.2 km and features numerous different species of plants and birds.

10. Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves are a series of 29 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. The caves were created between the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD and feature many beautiful sculptures, paintings, and frescoes. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most popular amongst tourists for the depiction of the life of Buddha and Bodhisattvas.

Conclusion

That's it! These are the top 10 places to visit in Aurangabad, which you must add to your itinerary. So, get ready to enjoy a holiday full of fun, adventure, and knowledge while exploring the beautiful city of Aurangabad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the solutions to the most commonly asked questions regarding the best places to visit in Aurangabad.

What is the most popular tourist destination in Aurangabad?

The most popular tourist destination in Aurangabad is the Bibi ka Maqbara. It is a majestic example of Mughal architecture and is often referred to as the “Taj Mahal of the Deccan”.

What are some must-visit religious places in Aurangabad?

Some of the must-visit religious places in Aurangabad are Bibi ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort, Panchimukhi Hanuman Temple, Ghrishneshwar Temple, Ajanta Caves, and Ellora Caves.

Is Aurangabad a safe city to visit?

Aurangabad is a safe city to visit. There is a low crime rate, and the city has good infrastructure and public transport. Visitors should still take basic safety precautions while traveling in the city.