A Day Tour of Ajanta & Ellora Caves with Bibi Ka Maqbara

A Day Tour of Ajanta & Ellora Caves with Bibi Ka Maqbara
Location: Maharashtra, India
Country: India
Price: $58 per person
Supplier: Jee Tours

Quick Thoughts on This Tour

This full-day adventure offers a well-rounded peek into some of India’s most stunning ancient sites. We’re particularly drawn to the seamless visit to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Ellora and Ajanta — both renowned for their rock-cut art and architecture. The inclusion of Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Mini Taj Mahal,” adds a Mughal touch that rounds out the cultural experience.

We love how flexible the tour seems, allowing you to explore at your own pace, and the fact that all transfers are handled comfortably in a private vehicle. The price feels quite reasonable considering the number of highlights packed into a single day.

One aspect to keep in mind is the long day’s schedule — you’ll need to be prepared for a busy, yet rewarding journey. This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, art, and a bit of adventure, but might not be ideal for those seeking a slow, relaxed pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Visit both Ellora and Ajanta caves, plus Bibi Ka Maqbara, in a single day.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Private transport with the option for a guide allows for a customized pace.
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Explore iconic caves with centuries-old carvings, frescoes, and sculptures.
• Exclusive Access: Get a chance to see the Kailasa Temple, the largest monolithic excavation of its kind.
• Cultural Variety: Discover Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art within the same tour.
• Affordable Value: At $58, the comprehensive nature of this tour offers excellent value.

Exploring the Ellora Caves

Our journey begins in Aurangabad, where your pickup is arranged from a location of your choice — hotel, airport, railway station, or bus stand. From there, the comfortable drive to Ellora Caves sets the tone for the day.

Ellora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts 34 rock-cut caves spanning from the 6th to 10th centuries. These caves showcase an incredible mix of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions, making it a fascinating place to see multiple religious styles in one location.

What really makes Ellora special is the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16). It’s known as the world’s largest monolithic rock excavation, carved entirely out of a single stone. Its intricate carvings and grand sculptures make it a true marvel, even for those who aren’t usually impressed by architecture. As one reviewer puts it, “The Kailasa Temple is breathtaking — the detail, the scale, the craftsmanship—it’s like a giant stone puzzle you can’t help but admire.”

Next, you might explore Cave 10 (Vishvakarma), a Buddhist prayer hall with a ribbed ceiling that has an almost musical symmetry, or Cave 32 (Indra Sabha), a Jain temple with delicate carvings. These caves reveal the technical skill of ancient artisans, and many visitors note how well-preserved the carvings are after centuries of weathering.

The Magic of Ajanta Caves

After a bit of time at Ellora, the journey continues to Ajanta, another UNESCO site, famous for its breathtaking murals and sculptures. These 30 caves are carved into a horseshoe-shaped gorge, creating a tranquil setting that seems to have preserved the art in a kind of time capsule.

The paintings here tell stories from Jataka tales and the life of Buddha, with intricate frescoes that have stood the test of time. We loved the way the art provides a window into everyday life and spiritual stories from over 2,000 years ago. One reviewer mentions, “The murals are so vibrant and detailed — you can almost hear the monks chanting as you walk through.”

You’ll notice the prayer halls and sculptures are carefully arranged, and many mention the serene atmosphere that remains even amidst a busy tourist day. The craftsmanship in the murals is described as “incredible,” with some saying they appear almost alive due to their vivid colors and fine details.

Visiting Bibi Ka Maqbara

Before heading back to Aurangabad, the tour makes a stop at Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Mini Taj Mahal.” Built in the 17th century by Aurangzeb’s son, it’s a Mughal-era monument that doesn’t quite rival its famous namesake but is still stunning with its white marble domes, intricate carvings, and landscaped gardens.

Many visitors appreciate the peaceful setting and the chance to snap photos of the semi-precious stone inlay work and the beautiful gardens. One review highlights that “Bibi Ka Maqbara offers a more relaxed experience than the busy Taj, and the views of the sunset from here are fantastic.”

This site acts as a gentle, almost poetic end to a day filled with ancient art, architecture, and history, providing a nice contrast to the more monumental caves.

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Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Timing: All transfers are by private vehicle, ensuring comfort and ease. The day is designed for efficiency but also flexibility if you choose to explore longer at any site. Expect the full tour to take around 10 hours, depending on your pace.

Guided or Self-Guided: The tour offers the option of a professional guide, which enhances understanding of the sites’ historical context and details about the carvings and frescoes. Many reviewers mention that guides are knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing stories behind the carvings they wouldn’t discover on their own.

Cost & Value: Priced at $58, this tour provides access to some of India’s most significant UNESCO sites, including entry tickets, tolls, parking, and driver allowances — all included. Considering the cost of independent transport, tickets, and guides, this is a compelling package.

What to Bring: Travelers should wear slippers or easily removable shoes, as many cave entrances require shoe removal. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses), an umbrella, flashlight, and snacks are recommended since the day can be long. Some reviewers say bringing bottled water and dry fruits helps keep energy levels high.

Accessibility & Group Size: The private vehicle setup means a more personalized experience, with some reviews noting that small groups or private arrangements make a significant difference in comfort and pace.

Authentic Experiences & Insider Tips

• Visitors recommend hiring a guide if you want a deeper understanding of the complex carvings and murals, especially at Ajanta, where stories behind the art are layered and nuanced.
• The Kailasa Temple at Ellora is so large that some find it worth spending extra time exploring every corner. Don’t rush — the craftsmanship warrants slow viewing.
• Photographers will love the stunning vistas, particularly at Bibi Ka Maqbara during sunset, when the white domes glow with warm light.
• Several reviewers highlight how the caves are well-preserved, but suggest arriving early to avoid crowds, especially in peak season.
• Travelers praise the smooth organization and punctual pickups, making the day stress-free despite the busy schedule.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an engaging and accessible way to see some of India’s most iconic cultural treasures. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to tick off UNESCO sites without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets independently. The inclusion of Bibi Ka Maqbara also adds a touch of Mughal history, creating a well-rounded cultural experience.

The value for the price is particularly good given the comprehensive itinerary, private transport, and guided options. For history buffs, art lovers, or anyone curious about India’s diverse religious traditions, this day trip offers a meaningful and beautiful snapshot of the region’s heritage.

While the schedule is full, the experience is enriching and thoughtfully designed to fit into one day, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but a passion for discovery. Those who enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path insights will find this tour rewarding.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
All transfers, sightseeing by private vehicle, tolls, parking, driver allowance, fuel, optional professional guide, entry tickets, and sometimes breakfast and same-day flight tickets from Mumbai are included.

Can I choose to have a guide?
Yes, guide options are available, and many reviews note that guides are knowledgeable, enhancing the experience with context and stories.

Where does the tour start and end?
Pickup is arranged from your desired location in Aurangabad, such as your hotel, airport, railway station, or bus stand. The tour concludes back at your starting point.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves some walking and site exploration, which may be tiring for very young children or elderly guests. It’s best to assess individual stamina.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes (slippers recommended for cave visits), sun protection, an umbrella, flashlight, snacks, bottled water, and perhaps a camera for capturing the sights.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 10 hours, depending on pace and time spent at each site.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, but travelers are encouraged to carry snacks and water for the day.

Is this tour accessible for those with mobility challenges?
While the caves are rock-cut and can involve some uneven surfaces, the private transport and flexibility provide some convenience, but accessibility may vary.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is structured for efficiency, but some flexibility may be available if booked directly with the provider.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least a few days ahead is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and guide options.

In short, this full-day tour offers a practical, immersive way to explore Maharashtra’s most famous ancient sites. It balances rich history with comfort and value, perfect for travelers eager to experience India’s diverse cultural tapestry without the fuss of independent planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: