From Aurangabad: 2 Day Tour of Ajanta & Ellora With All Inclusion

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta & Ellora: A Practical 2-Day Tour Review

Imagine stepping into a world carved from stone, where ancient artisans created masterpieces that still captivate visitors today. This 2-day tour from Aurangabad to the Ajanta and Ellora caves promises just that—an immersive experience into India’s artistic and spiritual heritage. Based on traveler reviews and detailed itineraries, this tour offers a seamless way to see these iconic sites without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

What we love about this experience? First, the comfortable private transportation in air-conditioned vehicles makes the journey relaxing rather than exhausting. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring the sites’ stories to life, turning stone carvings and frescoes into meaningful narratives. Third, the skip-the-line entry saves precious time, especially during busy seasons.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour’s pace involves a fair amount of walking and climbing, especially at Ajanta, which might be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. Still, the availability of electric buggies at Ellora is a thoughtful touch. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to uncover India’s ancient artistry and history without the hassle of logistics, and who value detailed guided insights.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Everything from transportation to entry fees (except meals) is covered, ensuring a smooth experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance your understanding of the sites’ cultural and historical significance.
• Flexible Accommodation: You choose your hotel in Aurangabad, tailoring your stay to your preferences and budget.
• Time-Efficient Travel: Private transfers allow you to avoid crowded buses, with door-to-door pickup and drop-off.
• Site-Specific Insights: Learn about the art, architecture, and religious symbolism behind the caves, making each visit meaningful.
• Good Value: At around $167.41 per person, this tour offers an immersive cultural experience with all logistics handled.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Day 1: The Wonder of Ajanta Caves

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup at 7:00 or 8:00 a.m. in Aurangabad. The two-hour drive to Ajanta feels like a gentle transition from city buzz to tranquil history. The caves at Ajanta are famous for their detailed frescoes, intricate sculptures, and the stories they tell of Buddha’s life and Buddhist legends. The complex comprises 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments carved into the Waghora River valley rocks and dates back to the second century BC.

What makes Ajanta particularly engaging? The artwork. Reviewers have expressed awe at the craftsmanship, with one noting that the “marvel of workmanship from more than a thousand years ago is astounding.” Your guide will point out the symbolism and techniques used, transforming the stone carvings from mere images into stories you can understand and appreciate.

The tour includes skip-the-line entry, saving precious time that can be lost in queues during peak seasons. You’ll have about 4-5 hours at Ajanta, allowing ample time to explore at a comfortable pace, absorb the art, and ask questions. Be prepared for some caves that require removing shoes, but carrying polythene socks can ease this process.

Lunch is available at a local restaurant around 1-2 p.m., giving you a chance to sample regional flavors. Many travelers appreciated the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine, adding a taste of everyday life to their cultural journey.

Day 2: The Architectural Marvel of Ellora Caves

The second day kicks off with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a scenic drive to Ellora—about 30 km from Aurangabad—around 8 a.m. The Ellora Caves are a sprawling complex of rock-cut temples and monasteries representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. This mixture of religions is a testament to India’s historical pluralism.

The highlight here is the Kailash Temple (Cave 16), a monolithic marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva and considered a feat of engineering and artistry. Many reviewers pointed out how impressive the temple is, with one mentioning that it “exceeded expectations” and that the intricate carvings and massive scale truly stand out.

Exploring Ellora involves walking among several caves, with some sections involving stairs and uneven surfaces. However, the availability of electric buggies and wheelchairs for visiting the more distant or challenging caves is appreciated by visitors with mobility concerns. The site’s size and complexity make it a memorable visit, with at least 5 hours allocated for exploration.

Post-Ellora, a visit to Bibi Ka Maqbara completes the experience, offering insight into Mughal architecture. Built by Azam Shah in memory of his mother, it’s often called the “Taj of the Deccan” due to its resemblance to Taj Mahal. This tranquil monument provides a peaceful conclusion before heading back to Aurangabad around 4 p.m.

Logistics and Comfort

The private air-conditioned transport ensures a comfortable journey, especially important given the early start and the day’s heat. Reviewers consistently mention the professional guides and drivers, who speak conversational English and Hindi, making communication smooth and engaging.

The tour covers entry fees, tolls, parking, and shoes during cave visits. The shuttle bus tickets to enter both Ajanta and Ellora are included, which helps avoid the hassle of navigating large crowds and long walks.

Additional Considerations

While the tour offers superb value and convenience, it’s worth noting that meals and accommodation are not included. Travelers often booked their own hotels, choosing options that fit their style and budget. The tour’s pace and walking involved may be challenging for some, but the availability of electric buggies at Ellora helps balance this.

Some reviews mention the importance of footwear: shoes must be removed in certain caves, but bringing polythene socks can speed up entry. The caves are closed on Mondays (Ajanta) and Tuesdays (Ellora), so plan your visit accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for history and art enthusiasts eager to see India’s most iconic cave complexes without the stress of logistics. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience with detailed insights into the sites’ significance. If you’re traveling with mobility issues, the availability of electric buggies makes it accessible, but be prepared for some walking.

It suits independent travelers who want to customize their Aurangabad stay, as the tour allows you to pick your hotel. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate organized, all-inclusive trips will find great value here. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are not comfortable with a lot of walking, consider your mobility needs.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour of Ajanta and Ellora from Aurangabad packs a lot of history, art, and architecture into a manageable itinerary. With private transport, a knowledgeable guide, and skip-the-line access, it offers an excellent way to experience these UNESCO sites without the usual stress of planning. The focus on cultural storytelling helps turn stone carvings into vivid narratives, making each site come alive.

The value is clear—covering both sites over two days allows you to appreciate the diversity of India’s religious and artistic traditions. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience, and who enjoy learning from guides with local expertise.

While some may find the walking demanding, the availability of electric buggies and the well-organized schedule makes it accessible for most. This tour strikes a good balance between cultural depth and convenience, making it a worthwhile choice for history buffs, art lovers, and curious explorers alike.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included for the entire two-day experience, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey between sites.

Can I customize my accommodation in Aurangabad?
Absolutely. The tour allows you to select and book your own hotel in Aurangabad, giving you flexibility to suit your budget and preferences.

Are entry fees included?
Entry to Ajanta Cave, Ellora Cave, and Bibi Ka Maqbara is included. However, meals are not, so you might want to plan ahead for lunch and snacks.

What should I bring for the caves?
Shoes must be removed in some caves, so bringing polythene socks can help. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water are also advisable.

Can I take the tour if I have mobility issues?
Yes, but keep in mind that some walking and climbing are involved. Electric buggies are available at Ellora to assist visitors with mobility concerns.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours won’t be refunded, so plan accordingly.

This organized, insightful tour offers a rich glance into India’s ancient craftsmanship, making it perfect for travelers who want to see these incredible sites without sacrificing comfort or convenience.