Aurangabad is a historic city located in the Maharashtra state of India. The city is renowned for its 17th-century Bibi ka Maqbara, a marble mausoleum inspired by the Taj Mahal. The Shivaji Maharaj Museum in the city showcases artifacts related to the Maratha king, including weapons and coins. To the north, the Aurangabad Caves offer rock-cut Buddhist shrines, while west of the city stands the medieval Daulatabad Fort, surrounded by impressive battlements. Northwest of Aurangabad, the Ellora Caves, dating back over 1,500 years, feature Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu temples, symbolizing the region’s religious diversity. Nearby, the Grishneshwar Mandir, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is known for its detailed architecture.
In the northeast, the Ajanta Caves, some over 2,000 years old, present beautiful depictions of the life of Buddha through paintings and rock carvings. South of the city, the Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary is a popular destination for migratory birds like flamingos, glossy ibises, and cranes.
places to visit in Aurangabad
Bibi Ka Maqbara
Bibi Ka Maqbara is a tomb located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. It was built by Azam, the son of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum. The tomb is often referred to as the “Taj of the Deccan” due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal.
Panchakki
Panchakki, also known as the water mill, was built to grind grain for pilgrims. Located in Aurangabad, this historic site showcases the advanced engineering and architectural techniques of medieval India, highlighting the scientific thought that went into its construction.
Aurangabad Caves
The Aurangabad Caves are a series of twelve rock-cut Buddhist shrines situated on a hill near the city of Aurangabad. These caves date back to around the 6th to 7th centuries and are known for their beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum is dedicated to the great Maratha king, Shivaji. It displays various artifacts from the Maratha Empire, including war weapons, coins, and other historical items, giving visitors insight into the kingdom’s rich history.
Chand Minar
Chand Minar is a towering 14th-century minaret located in Daulatabad Fort, near Aurangabad. It offers panoramic views from the top and is one of the prominent features of the medieval fort city.
Salim Ali Sarovar
Salim Ali Sarovar, also known as Khiziri Talab, is a serene water body located near Delhi Gate in Aurangabad. Named after the famous ornithologist Salim Ali, it is a peaceful place for birdwatching and relaxation.
Siddharth Garden and Zoo
Siddharth Garden and Zoo is a family-friendly spot featuring a spacious garden and a zoo that houses various animals such as tigers, elephants, and more. It is an ideal place for a day out with children.
Himayat Bagh
Himayat Bagh is a historic 17th-century garden located near Delhi Gate in Aurangabad. The garden is now home to the Fruit Research Station and Nursery, making it both a tranquil spot and an agricultural research site.
Soneri Mahal
Soneri Mahal, built in 1650, is a former royal residence with beautiful landscaped gardens. The structure now hosts a small museum showcasing the area’s history.
Paithan Gate
Paithan Gate is one of the historic city gates of Aurangabad, built in the late 16th century. It stands as a significant landmark, now surrounded by bustling shops and market areas.
Best Time To Visit Aurangabad
The ideal time to visit Aurangabad is from July to March. By the end of February, the weather starts to heat up as the days get longer and the sun becomes stronger. March and April mark the beginning of the hot season, with temperatures averaging around 40°C. May is typically the hottest month of the year. The monsoon season begins in mid-June, with temperatures remaining high and the air becoming more humid.
The rains continue until September, with an average rainfall of over 700 mm annually. During the monsoon, temperatures fluctuate between 20°C to 35°C. For the most comfortable experience, visit Aurangabad between late November and early February, when temperatures range from 15°C to 26°C, offering pleasant daytime weather and cooler nights.
