Same Day Tour of Ajanta & Ellora Cave’s from Mumbai.

Traveling from Mumbai to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora caves in a single day sounds ambitious, but it’s entirely doable with the right tour. This particular package, offered by Jee Tours, has garnered a solid 5/5 rating based on four reviews, highlighting its efficiency, knowledgeable guides, and overall value. Whether you’re a history buff or just eager to see some of India’s most iconic rock-cut monuments, this tour promises an immersive experience packed into a manageable day.

What makes this tour especially attractive is its convenience—flights from Mumbai to Aurangabad are included, which saves hours of travel planning. Plus, the price of around $51 per person offers a competitive way to access two incredible sites without the need for overnight stays or complicated logistics. The tour is ideal for those with limited time but a strong desire to see extraordinary ancient architecture and art. Keep in mind, it’s a long day—so be prepared for early mornings and a lot of walking.

One thing to consider is that the tour is quite structured, and some travelers noted that guides could be more engaging or explanatory. If you prefer a more relaxed, unhurried pace with deep stories at each site, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for many, the organized nature and expert guides make this a hassle-free way to tick off two UNESCO sites in one go. If you’re keen on exploring India’s marvels without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an efficient, guided overview of these historic caves, especially if they’re pressed for time or prefer to travel comfortably with logistics handled. It’s also great for first-time visitors eager to get a snapshot of India’s ancient art and architecture in a single, cost-effective day.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience with flights, transfers, and entry tickets.
• Expert guides enrich the experience with insights into the sites’ history and art.
• Comfortable transportation suits small groups, with air-conditioned cars.
• Time-efficient—visit both Ajanta and Ellora on the same day, from Mumbai.
• Long but rewarding day—early start, late finish, so bring snacks and patience.
• Authentic experiences with detailed artifact descriptions and stories from knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: Mumbai to Aurangabad

The day kicks off early, with a 5:15 AM flight from Mumbai to Aurangabad. That might sound grueling, but the included flight ticket takes the hassle out of travel planning and lets you focus on the adventure ahead. Arriving at Aurangabad Airport around 6:15 AM, you’ll be greeted by your representative, who introduces you to your driver or guide. From this point, the journey is smooth, with your private, air-conditioned vehicle ready for the day.

The first stop is Ellora Caves, about a 35-kilometer drive from the airport—roughly a 45-minute to 1-hour ride, depending on traffic. These caves are a marvel: 34 monasteries and temples carved from single stones, showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religious art. The Kailasa Temple is the star of the show—a massive, intricately detailed rock-cut Shiva temple that took centuries to carve. Visitors can marvel at its towering façade and the detailed sculptures that depict deities, legends, and daily life from over a thousand years ago.

Exploring Ellora Caves

You’ll spend around two hours here, guided by a knowledgeable expert (if you choose the guided option). Reviewers note that guides are generally very well-informed, sharing stories behind the carvings and the significance of each sculpture. As one traveler said, “Extremely knowledgeable guide. Thank you”—highlighting how the right guide can deepen your appreciation of these ancient sites.

While the guided tour takes you through the main highlights, don’t forget to bring your flashlight and umbrella—suggested essentials—since some caves can be dark and the weather unpredictable.

The Long Drive to Ajanta

After Ellora, it’s a roughly 100-kilometer drive to Ajanta Caves, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The roads can be bumpy, and there’s ongoing construction, so expect a somewhat rugged ride. However, this part of the trip offers a chance to see rural Maharashtra and get a glimpse of local life.

Many reviewers appreciated the organized transfer, with one noting, “The whole trip was very well organized,” and that booking in advance saved them time and hassle. They also mentioned that the driver was friendly and courteous, making the long drive more comfortable.

Discovering Ajanta’s Artistic Treasure

The Ajanta Caves are famed for their exquisite frescoes, depicting the life of Buddha, Jataka tales, and the vibrant spiritual life of ancient India. The 30 rock-cut caves are relatively smaller than Ellora but packed with intricate murals, sculptures, and scenes that are still vivid after centuries. Visiting Ajanta is like stepping into a living museum, with each cave revealing a different aspect of Buddhist art and stories.

One traveler shared that they had “seen enough” after exploring the caves, but even then, they appreciated the effort to include a visit to local markets like the Crystal Market or the bustling Cloth Market in Aurangabad—adding some local flavor to the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return Journey and Flight Back to Mumbai

After a full day of exploration, the group heads back to Aurangabad for dinner and final sightseeing, depending on time. The tour includes a private transfer back to the airport for your evening flight—Indigo 6E-5383 at 9:25 PM. Many reviewers emphasize how seamless this process is, allowing travelers to maximize their time without worrying about transportation logistics.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• Transfers and sightseeing by private air-conditioned vehicle
• Flight tickets from Mumbai to Aurangabad and back (if selected)
• Entry tickets to Ajanta and Ellora caves (if selected)
• Professional driver and optional guide
• Bottled mineral water during the journey
• Taxes, tolls, and parking fees

Not Included

• Meals and drinks
• Accommodation or hotel stays
• Personal expenses or souvenirs

This package offers good value, especially considering the cost of $51 per person. It combines major attractions with the comfort of private transport and flight, saving you both money and time.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes and Sleeppers: You’ll need to remove your footwear at many points inside the caves, so easy-to-slip-on shoes are best.
• Bring essentials: Umbrella, sunglasses, flashlight, snacks, and bottled water are recommended, considering the long day and outdoor exploration.
• Prepare for a long day: Early start and late return mean you’ll be out for roughly 16 hours—plan accordingly.
• Book in advance: The tour operates Wednesday to Sunday, and booking ahead helps secure spots and ensures the smoothest experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

From the feedback, it’s clear that guides can make or break the experience. One reviewer called the guide “extremely knowledgeable,” which greatly enhanced their understanding of the sites. Conversely, another mentioned that their guide was somewhat reserved, only explaining things when asked, so it’s worth clarifying your expectations beforehand.

Travelers also appreciated the organized logistics—from ticketing to transportation—saving them hours of planning. Several reviews noted that the drive was rough due to road construction but understood that this is part of traveling in rural India. The inclusion of local markets and optional sightseeing adds a touch of local culture, making the trip more than just a sightseeing dash.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a convenient, guided way to see two of India’s most spectacular cave complexes in one day, this tour hits the mark. It suits travelers who appreciate expert commentary, value hassle-free logistics, and aren’t afraid of a long, full day on the road. The inclusion of flights from Mumbai makes it especially appealing for those wanting to avoid complicated travel arrangements.

Keep in mind, it’s a fast-paced experience—not ideal if you prefer slow, immersive visits or traveling with young children or elderly who may need more relaxed timing. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and appreciate a guided overview of history and art, this tour offers strong value and memorable sights.

In summary, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to maximize their time and see two UNESCO sites with minimal fuss—an excellent way to remember Maharashtra’s incredible ancient monuments.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins with a flight from Mumbai at 5:15 AM, arriving in Aurangabad around 6:15 AM, so your day kicks off very early.

Are flights included in the tour price?
Yes, if you select the options, round-trip flight tickets from Mumbai to Aurangabad are included, saving you the hassle of booking separately.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit Ellora Caves, famous for their temples carved from single stones, and Ajanta Caves, known for their murals and sculptures. Optional visits to local markets are also possible.

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
It’s generally not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or seniors over 95, mainly because of the long travel and walking involved.

What should I bring on the trip?
Comfortable shoes or slippers, an umbrella, sunglasses, flashlight, snacks, and bottled water are advised to enjoy the day fully.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is structured, but you can opt for guides and additional sightseeing if available. However, certain options like meals or accommodation are not included.

This comprehensive tour offers a practical, engaging way to see two of India’s most famous cave complexes in one day. With professional guides, smooth logistics, and the advantages of included flights, it’s a tempting option for those eager to tick off a major cultural highlight without the fuss of additional planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: