Ajanta & Ellora Tour by private AC SUV(6 pax) from Aurangabad

Traveling to India and eager to explore its stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites? This Ajanta & Ellora Tour by private AC SUV offers a balanced mix of comfort, convenience, and authentic sightseeing. Designed for groups of up to six people, this all-inclusive experience promises to take the stress out of planning and waiting, letting you focus on absorbing the mesmerizing sights.

What we love about this tour is its seamless logistics, thanks to private transport with skip-the-line benefits. The itinerary is packed with iconic stops—Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, and more—each bursting with visual and cultural interest. Plus, the ability to customize with optional guide services makes it ideal for those who want to deepen their understanding of these historical marvels.

However, a potential caveat is that the admission fees for each site aren’t included**, so budget accordingly. Also, the two-day schedule may feel tight for some travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace, especially considering the distances involved. But overall, this tour is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to see the highlights without the hassle of driving or navigating.

This experience works best for solo travelers, couples, and families who value convenience, comfort, and an authentic, well-organized adventure.

Key Points

• All-inclusive private tour with transportation, skip-the-line entry, and bottled water.
• Flexible itinerary covering major sites like Ajanta and Ellora caves, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi Ka Maqbara.
• Comfortable air-conditioned SUV with a small group (up to 6 people), ensuring intimacy and personalized attention.
• Cost of approximately $134 per group, offering good value given the private setup and all logistics handled.
• Admission fees are additional, so budget around 1,600 INR per person for the sites.
• Optional guided services available at an extra cost if you want to deepen your experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1: Ajanta Caves & Breathtaking Views

Your journey begins with a visit to the Ajanta Caves, one of India’s most celebrated UNESCO sites. These caves are carved into the rugged cliffs along the Waghora River, and their intricate murals and sculptures tell stories of Buddha’s life, Buddhist symbolism, and ancient monastic life. Expect to spend around 8 hours here, exploring the caves’ detailed artwork and frescoes, though admission isn’t included in the tour fee.

One reviewer mentioned how the views along the river gorge are truly spectacular, making the entire experience more than just visiting caves: it’s about witnessing a slice of history set against a stunning natural backdrop. The drive itself winding through Maharashtra’s rugged terrain offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Post-Ajanta, you’ll head to the nearby Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Taj of the Deccan,” which is a beautiful mausoleum built in the 17th century. The architecture and tranquil courtyard provide a peaceful pause after your Cave explorations.

Day 2: Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort & More

The second day begins with a visit to the Ellora Caves, another UNESCO-listed site, but vastly different from Ajanta. Spread over two kilometers, these 34 caves encompass Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples—all carved from solid rock, bringing to life the religious diversity of India. Expect to spend around 8 hours here, marveling at the monolithic Kailasa Temple, which is carved from a single rock and is considered one of the world’s greatest rock-cut structures.

One reviewer praised the impressive scale and detail of the caves, especially noting how the rock-cut temples’ architecture seems almost impossible to recreate today. You’ll also see the Greenery-lined paths and panoramic views that make the site even more enchanting.

Afterward, a visit to Daulatabad Fort offers a look at one of India’s most formidable hill forts. Sitting atop a 200-meter-high conical hill, this site was once the capital of the Delhi Sultanate. Expect to spend about 2 hours exploring its ramparts, tunnels, and commanding views over the landscape.

Finally, a quick stop at Sheikh Zainuddin’s dargah and Aurangzeb’s tomb provides insight into Mughal history and spirituality. The serene atmosphere here offers a peaceful conclusion to your sightseeing.

Practical Details: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a private air-conditioned SUV makes a huge difference, especially given the distances between sites. The small group size (up to six) ensures a comfortable, personalized experience, with room for luggage, snacks, or spontaneous photo stops. The vehicle handles all tolls, parking, and fuel, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs or navigation.

Timing and Pacing

The day-long excursions are structured to maximize sightseeing while allowing some flexibility. The 8-hour visits to Ajanta and Ellora give ample time to explore without rushing. The inclusion of refreshing chai during the return from Ajanta adds a nice touch of local flavor.

Cost and Value

At about $134 per group, this tour offers good affordability for a private, all-inclusive experience. The fee covers transportation, bottled water, and skip-the-line entry, making it a convenient package. Keep in mind, admission tickets are extra, totaling around 1,600 INR per person, which is a reasonable addition considering the sites included.

Guides and Additional Services

While the basic package includes transportation and site visits, guided tours can be arranged for an extra fee. One reviewer highlighted how Asim, the guide, was very organized, punctual, and took lots of photos—adding a personal touch to the experience.

What Reviewers Say

The only published review describes the tour as “fabulous” with high praise for the guide, Asim, who was said to be very organized and punctual and kept in touch to ensure a smooth experience. The reviewer appreciated the photo opportunities and the overall well-managed schedule, emphasizing how much they enjoyed the visit without worrying about logistics.

Other comments highlight the spectacular views and the ease of skip-the-line entry, making the experience more relaxed and enjoyable. The tour’s well-organized nature appears to be its biggest selling point for many travelers.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This Ajanta & Ellora private tour is perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, hassle-free way to see some of India’s most iconic sites. If you’re new to the region or prefer not to drive, the private SUV and organized itinerary take the stress out of travel. It’s especially well-suited for those with limited time, wanting to get the highlights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Families and small groups will appreciate the personalized service, while solo travelers benefit from the structured yet intimate experience. It also works for couples seeking a romantic, stress-free sightseeing adventure.

While the additional admission fees mean a slightly higher outlay, the convenience and quality of the experience justify the cost. For those who appreciate stunning views, well-rounded sightseeing, and expert organization, this tour checks many boxes.

FAQ

Are the transportation and vehicle private? Yes, you’ll be traveling in a private, air-conditioned SUV exclusively for your group.

What’s included in the tour price? The cost covers private transportation, all tolls, parking, fuel, bottled water, and the services of a dedicated driver.

Are site admission fees included? No, admission fees are extra, totaling around 1,600 INR per person, payable on-site.

Is this tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, and given the small group size, it’s suitable for families with children who can handle walking and sightseeing.

Can I opt for a guide? Yes, guided services are available at an additional cost of 7,500 INR per booking if you want detailed insights at each site.

How long are the visits at Ajanta and Ellora? Expect to spend about 8 hours at each UNESCO site, including walking and exploring time.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? The sites involve some walking and uneven terrain, so consider this if mobility is a concern.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended to make the most of your sightseeing.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, allowing full refunds.

To sum it up, this private Ajanta & Ellora tour offers a fantastic balance of comfort, efficiency, and authentic experience. It’s ideal for travelers wanting to see the highlights without the stress of planning or navigating unfamiliar terrain. Expect stunning views, a well-organized schedule, and the flexibility of private transport—making these two days in Maharashtra both memorable and manageable.