From Aurangabad: Budget-Friendly Taxi Service to Ajanta & Ellora.

Planning a trip to Aurangabad and eager to explore its UNESCO-listed wonders without the hassle of organizing transport or logistics? This 2-day private tour offers a convenient, affordable way to soak in some of India’s most captivating heritage sites, from ancient caves to majestic forts. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a small group, this tour promises a mix of comfort, cultural insight, and authentic experiences.

What we love about this tour? First, the flexibility of private transport—no crowded buses or confusing schedules. Second, the knowledgeable guides who seem to make history come alive, often sharing fascinating details that aren’t in the guidebooks. Third, the value for money, considering the comprehensive itinerary, private pickups, and all costs included—especially at a price of just over $50 per person. On the flip side, a consideration might be that admission fees and guides are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those extras.

This tour is an excellent fit for travelers seeking authentic, hassle-free access to Aurangabad’s key sites without breaking the bank. If you love history, architecture, and immersive cultural experiences, this is a smart choice.

Key Points

• All-in-one convenience with private transportation and hotel pickup
• Flexible options for guided or transport-only experiences
• Authentic insights from guides who share stories beyond the standard facts
• Cost-effective way to visit multiple UNESCO sites in two days
• Comfortable transport suited for small groups or families
• Well-organized itinerary balancing sightseeing, culture, and local flavor

Why Choose This Tour?

This private two-day trip from Aurangabad breaks down the usual stress of sightseeing by offering door-to-door service with a driver and options for a guide. For travelers who dislike navigating public transport or dealing with language barriers, this setup means you can relax and focus on soaking in the sights. The group sizes are small—up to five people—making for a cozy, intimate experience that allows plenty of personal attention.

The cost of around $51 per person is very reasonable given the extensive itinerary, especially considering that entry fees, lunch, and guide services are not included. This means you have the flexibility to choose your preferred eateries and explore at your own pace, or add an optional guide for a more in-depth experience.

Daily Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Ajanta Caves

Your adventure begins early with a hotel pickup in Aurangabad around 8:00 am. The drive to Ajanta covers roughly 100 km, taking about two hours. During the trip, your driver is happy to stop for a quick tea or coffee, letting you stretch your legs and enjoy the rural scenery.

Ajanta Caves are the first stop—an astonishing complex of 30 rock-cut caves, dating from the 2nd century BC to the 5th century AD. Once a vibrant Buddhist monastery, these caves are adorned with beautiful murals, sculptures, and inscriptions. Expect to spend about 3 hours exploring the caves—a good amount of time to appreciate the artwork and soak up the atmosphere. One reviewer notes that the guide “guided not only tourism but also history, culture, and living information,” which hints at how much more enriching the experience can be with a knowledgeable guide.

After visiting Ajanta, your driver will take you to a local restaurant for lunch, giving you the chance to sample some regional favorites. Post-lunch, you’ll head back to Aurangabad, arriving in the late afternoon.

Day 2: Ellora Caves & Other Highlights

Early start again, this time heading to the Ellora Caves, about 30 km from Aurangabad. These caves are famous for their rock-cut temples and monasteries spread across a sprawling site. You can expect to spend 2-3 hours exploring the intricate carvings, sculptures, and the vast monolithic structures that have made Ellora a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Next, there’s a visit to the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 sacred Shaivite shrines, where you can experience local religious fervor and admire the temple’s architecture. The darshan usually takes about an hour, and many reviewers mention the peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.

Following this, you’ll stop at Daulatabad Fort, a formidable structure with impressive defensive walls, tunnels, and panoramic views. This stop typically lasts around 1-2 hours—enough to explore the ramparts and learn about its strategic importance. One reviewer emphasizes the “defense architecture and historical significance,” which highlights how much history is packed into this site.

Finally, you’ll visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Taj of the Deccan.” Built as a memorial to Aurangzeb’s wife, this elegant monument offers lovely gardens and a chance to enjoy a moment of calm before heading back to your hotel or transfer point.

Post-Trip Drop-off & Flexibility

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, airport, or railway station, depending on your schedule. This personalized service means you can plan your day without worrying about transportation logistics afterward.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in the price:

• A suitable vehicle (Sedan, SUV, or Mini Van depending on group size)
• A professional driver fluent in Hindi and English
• Toll charges, parking, taxes, and fuel
• Bottled mineral water and a torch for cave exploration

Not included:

• Entry fees for the monuments (these are extra and payable on-site)
• Guide services and meals (lunch is optional and at your expense)

The flexibility of choosing your transport type makes a difference—smaller vehicles for solo or duo travelers offer comfort and privacy, while larger vans are ideal for families or groups.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

From actual travelers, we learn that guides are highly appreciated for their storytelling—one reviewer “highly recommends Mr. Suleman,” noting he offered “maximum efficiency” and shared engaging cultural insights. Another mentions that their driver had “good manners” and maintained a clean, comfortable ride, which can greatly enhance the overall experience.

Many reviewers highlight the value for money, especially given the full itinerary and private setup. The hassle-free logistics—early pickups, smooth drives, and careful planning—are praised, making it clear that this tour reduces stress and maximizes sightseeing time.

Final Thoughts

This private, budget-friendly tour of Aurangabad’s most famous sites offers an excellent blend of convenience, cultural richness, and affordability. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience Ajanta and Ellora without the complexity of independent planning, but still desire flexibility and personal attention.

If you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or simply someone eager to see India’s ancient marvels comfortably and affordably, this tour will fit your needs well. With knowledgeable guides, thoughtful logistics, and a well-paced itinerary, it’s an experience worth considering.

For travelers who prioritize authentic moments, seamless transportation, and value, this tour checks all the boxes. Just remember: entry fees and guides are extras, so plan accordingly. But overall, you’re set for a memorable journey into India’s historical heart.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from your chosen location in Aurangabad.

What transportation is used?
Depending on your group size, you’ll be transported in a Sedan, SUV, or Mini Van, all driven by a professional driver.

Can I choose to have a guide?
Guides are optional; the tour offers a guide service—many reviews praise the guides for their storytelling and insights.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, admission tickets are not included in the tour price and are payable at each site.

How long do the visits typically last?
Ajanta Cave visit: about 3 hours; Ellora Caves: 2-3 hours; other sites like the fort and temples: 1-2 hours each.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially with the Mini Van option for larger groups or families, making it comfortable for children as well.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water bottles (provided), sun protection, and possibly a guidebook or camera.

Are the caves closed on specific days?
Yes, Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays, and Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesdays.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the standard route is set, you might be able to discuss additional stops with the tour provider.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 10 days ahead, ensuring availability and proper planning.

This tour offers a practical, relaxed way to experience some of India’s most treasured sites, making it a smart choice for curious travelers eager for an authentic, well-organized adventure.