From Aurangabad: 3-Day Tour of Shirdi Sai Baba, Ajanta, & Ellora.

Planning a trip to Aurangabad and wondering how to make the most of your time? This 3-day guided tour offers an excellent mix of spiritual sites, archaeological marvels, and historic landmarks—all with the comfort of private transportation and expert guides. Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or just someone eager to see India’s UNESCO treasures, this tour packs in a lot without feeling rushed.

What we love about this experience? Firstly, the well-organized itinerary that balances sightseeing with enough breathing room. Secondly, the personalized touch of a private tour—no crowded buses here. And thirdly, the insightful guides who make each site come alive with stories, especially the ones who speak your language. The only thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly if you want full access.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see Aurangabad’s top sights, especially if they prefer a guided experience over self-exploration. It also works well for those looking for good value—at just under $87 per person, it offers premium transportation and expert insights, making it a pretty cost-effective way to tick off multiple major attractions.

Key Points

• Private guided experience ensures personalized attention and flexible scheduling.
• UNESCO heritage sites like Ajanta and Ellora caves are major highlights offering stunning carvings and murals.
• Convenient round-trip transfers from Aurangabad eliminate logistical worries.
• Includes Shirdi Sai Baba temple visit, perfect for spiritual travelers.
• Affordable price point offers excellent value, especially with private transport.
• Guides speak your language, making complex history more accessible.
• Optional VIP pass for faster temple entry enhances your spiritual experience.
• Not included: entrance fees, meals, and guides—so plan for those extras.

Day 1: Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

Your journey begins with a drive of about 2 hours from Aurangabad to the famous Shirdi Sai Baba Temple. The temple is a major pilgrimage site, and you’ll get the chance to soak in its spiritual ambiance. Many reviews mention the convenience of the VIP pass—which, for an extra 200 rupees per person, lets you skip the long lines for darshan, a real time-saver during busy days.

Once there, you can expect a calm, devotional atmosphere. Most visitors spend 1-2 hours here, taking in the prayer sessions and exploring the temple complex. Afterward, you’ll have a chance to enjoy lunch at local eateries, with driver recommendations ensuring a taste of authentic cuisine.

The return trip to Aurangabad in the late afternoon means you’re back in the comfort of your hotel by evening. This part of the tour is straightforward but meaningful, especially for those interested in spiritual sites or wanting a quick cultural insight.

Day 2: Ajanta Caves

Breakfast at your hotel kicks off a day that’s often highlighted as the tour’s star attraction. The Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a stunning series of 30 rock-cut caves carved between the 2nd century BCE and 5th century CE. You’ll be driven about 2 hours from Aurangabad, with opportunities to stop for tea or coffee, making the journey comfortable.

Inside, you’ll find ornate buddhist murals and carvings that reflect centuries of devotion. Reviewers note that the artwork is intricate and well-preserved, making it a must-see for history lovers and art enthusiasts alike. Guided explanations help you grasp the symbolism and history behind each mural—it’s a chance to learn more than just what you see.

Since entrance fees are not included, you might want to budget for those if you wish full access. After exploring, a local restaurant provides a well-earned lunch. Returning to Aurangabad in the evening, you’ll have time to relax or revisit favorite sites.

Day 3: Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi Ka Maqbara

The final day is packed but well-paced. It starts with a short drive (about 35 km, roughly an hour) to the Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga temple, one of India’s revered Shiva shrines. Interestingly, this temple is near the Ellora Caves, another UNESCO site, renowned for its monolithic rock-cut monasteries and temples.

At Ellora, you’ll explore 34 caves flaunting a blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain architecture. Travelers often mention the size of the monolithic Kailasa temple as a jaw-dropping highlight. Guides here are praised for their knowledge, making the complex carvings more understandable.

Afterward, a short drive takes you to Daulatabad Fort, a massive 12th-century military fortress. The reviews note the impressive stonework and the strategic location, offering sweeping views and a tangible sense of history. Exploring the fort takes about two hours, providing plenty of photo ops and insights into medieval India.

Finally, your tour concludes at Bibi Ka Maqbara, a stunning mausoleum built in the 17th century, often called the “Mini Taj Mahal”. Many reviews highlight its beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens, making it a fitting end to your trip. The guided commentary adds depth to this experience, making the visit more meaningful.

You will then be transferred to your preferred drop-off point—hotel, railway station, or airport—ready to reflect on a day full of history and spirituality.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

The cost, at around $87 per person, offers exceptional value when you consider private transportation, an experienced driver, and guided tours of major sites. Plus, the all-inclusive nature of the transfer service means you avoid the hassle of navigating local transport, which can be confusing and time-consuming.

The tour is described as private, meaning only your group participates, creating a more relaxed, personalized experience. During reviews, travelers mention the professionalism of the guides and drivers, with many appreciating the multilingual communication—especially guides who speak Hindi and English fluently.

Timing-wise, the tour starts early at 8:00 am, allowing for a full day of sightseeing. The itinerary is designed to minimize waiting time and maximize your time at each site—although entrance fees are not included, so budget for those separately.

Transport is by air-conditioned car, with bottled mineral water provided throughout. The tour’s flexible pickup options—airport, railway station, hotel—are particularly handy for travelers arriving or departing in Aurangabad.

What We Love & What to Consider

Pros:

• The well-structured itinerary covers all major highlights efficiently.
• Guided tours help contextualize the sights, especially for first-time visitors.
• Private transport makes for a comfortable, stress-free experience.
• Affordable pricing offers a lot of value for the quality of the experience.
• The inclusion of remote sites like Ajanta and Ellora makes it an excellent cultural package.

Potential Considerations:

• Entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for access to caves and temples.
• The tour does not include guides at the sites, so some visitors might prefer hiring local guides for deeper insight.
• The timing might be tight for some, especially if you want to explore more leisurely or take extensive photos.

The Sum Up

This 3-day guided tour of Aurangabad offers a well-rounded experience for travelers wanting to see some of India’s most iconic sites without the stress of organizing logistics. The blend of spiritual, archaeological, and historical attractions caters to various interests, making it versatile and rewarding. The private approach, knowledgeable guides, and included transportation make it great value, especially for those new to the region or short on time.

While entrance fees are extra, the overall package—covering transportation, key sites, and local insights—justifies the modest cost. It’s perfect for those seeking a seamless, informative journey with a personal touch. If you’re after a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore Aurangabad’s highlights, this tour fits the bill.

For travelers eager to connect with India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, this experience provides both depth and comfort. Just remember to carry some cash for entrance fees, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your curiosity along for the ride.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour?
No, the tour price does not include monument entrance fees. You might want to budget extra for those if you wish full access.

Is transportation private or shared?
Transportation is private, meaning only your group will use the vehicle, allowing for a more relaxed and flexible schedule.

What languages do the guides speak?
Guides speak both Hindi and English fluently, making it easier for international travelers to understand the history and stories behind each site.

Can I get a VIP pass for the Sai Baba Temple?
Yes, you can opt for a VIP pass for quicker darshan, costing 200 rupees per person. You can buy it online or at the temple.

What is the duration of each day’s sightseeing?
Day 1: about 8 hours, including Shirdi. Day 2: around 8 hours for Ajanta. Day 3: approximately 8 hours for Ellora, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi Ka Maqbara.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. The tour includes recommended local restaurants for lunch.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 41 days in advance, but it’s wise to confirm early for availability and preferred dates.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers feeling safe and satisfied, especially with the private, guided setup.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. Entrance fees are extra, so carry some cash if you wish to visit all sites thoroughly.

This detailed look at the 3-day Aurangabad tour hopefully helps you decide whether it fits your travel style. It’s a fantastic way to see highlights comfortably and learn about India’s fascinating past and spiritual heritage—all without breaking the bank.