Ellora-Ajanta two days taxi service with other attractions

When it comes to India’s historic marvels, the caves of Ajanta and Ellora often top the list—and for good reason. This two-day taxi service from Aurangabad offers a convenient and immersive way to experience these UNESCO World Heritage sites along with nearby attractions like Daulatabad Fort and Bibi ka Maqbara. Though I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews paint a picture of an experience packed with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and genuine value.

Many travelers appreciate the way this tour takes the hassle out of planning, especially with tickets secured in advance and transportation arranged. The flexibility to explore at your own pace, combined with the opportunity to see multiple sites in just two days, makes it attractive. However, the road to Ajanta can be bumpy due to ongoing construction, so bring a neck pillow or be prepared for some rough patches. This experience seems best suited for history enthusiasts, busy travelers looking for efficiency, or anyone wanting a well-organized introduction to Aurangabad’s treasures.

Key Points

• Seamless Planning: All entry tickets are included, and tickets are secured in advance, saving valuable time.
• Comfortable Travel: Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water, making long drives more pleasant.
• Flexible & Customizable: The tour is private, allowing you to adapt the schedule or explore sites on your own.
• Expert Local Knowledge: Guides provide insightful tips, and reviews highlight courteous, professional drivers.
• All-Inclusive Value: For a reasonable price of around $60 per person, you get access to major sites plus transportation.
• Potential Road Bumps: The road to Ajanta is under construction, so expect some rough patches on the journey.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Ajanta Caves and Nearby Attractions

Starting your adventure early—around 7:30AM—you’re picked up from your hotel, providing a smooth start to the day. The first major destination is the Ajanta Caves, located approximately 110 km away. The drive takes about three hours, and reviews mention ongoing road construction causing a somewhat bumpy ride. Travelers who have experienced this suggest bringing extra cushioning, such as air pillows, especially if you’re prone to back discomfort.

Once you arrive, you’ll transfer via shuttle bus to the site. This logistical detail is a bonus because it avoids the hassle of parking and makes the transition smoother. Upon reaching the caves, you can relax at the MTDC restaurant, where many reviewers enjoyed a refreshing tea or coffee—some even had a beer, describing it as a perfect way to unwind before exploring.

Choosing to hire a licensed guide at cave number 1 is optional but recommended; guides are affordable and provide context that enhances your visit. Reviewers who have gone this route praise the guides for their local knowledge, which makes a significant difference in understanding the intricate carvings and historical significance. The caves themselves—famous for their exquisite Buddhist paintings and sculptures—are undeniably impressive. One reviewer called their visit “a very fulfilling and inspiring tour,” emphasizing the caves’ magical atmosphere.

Day 2: Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi ka Maqbara

The second day begins with a hotel pickup around 8AM, heading towards Ellora Caves. This site is equally fascinating, showcasing caves dedicated to Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism—each with unique architecture and carvings. Once on site, you are free to explore at your own pace. The tour offers tips beforehand, which reviewers appreciated, and the option to go sightseeing independently or with guides if desired. Notably, the Jain caves are about 1.5 km from the main complex, and visitors can walk or take a shuttle bus.

One of the highlights here is the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), a massive monolithic rock-cut shrine that leaves many visitors in awe. Reviewers describe Ellora as “wonderful,” with some noting that the site’s scale and craftsmanship are beyond words.

While leaving Ellora, the journey continues to Daulatabad Fort, originally known as Devgiri. This fortress, with its massive walls, victory towers, and cannons, offers spectacular views from the top. Some reviewers mention passing through a dark passage—an adventure in itself—and exploring the fort’s various sections adds to the experience. If you’re feeling energetic, the top viewpoint is a must-see for panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Finally, the day concludes with a visit to Bibi ka Maqbara. Often called a “mini Taj Mahal,” this mausoleum is a fitting end to a day of historical discovery. Reviewers rave about its serene beauty and well-preserved architecture, making it a peaceful spot for reflection.

Logistics and Transportation

The private vehicle service ensures a smooth ride, with air conditioning and bottled water provided, which is especially appreciated during the hot months. The driver’s professionalism and helpfulness are highlighted in reviews, with many praising them for punctuality and friendliness. The entire trip is planned thoughtfully, with time allotted for rest, meals, and spontaneous exploration.

Cost and Value

At approximately $60 per person, the tour offers substantial value considering the inclusions—entry tickets for four major attractions, private transportation, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The reviews confirm that many travelers found this to be more affordable than arranging individual tickets, guides, and transport separately. The option to customize the tour adds further flexibility, ensuring it suits different interests and energy levels.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Multiple reviews emphasize the guides’ local knowledge and the helpfulness of drivers, with some mentioning guides like Mr. Vincent and Mr. Ameen, whose insights made the visits more meaningful. Guests also note the convenience of tickets being handled in advance, avoiding long lines, and the opportunity to enjoy the sites without the usual crowds.

Tasteful touches like recommendations for good local eateries and the opportunity to relax with tea or beer at Ajanta’s cafeteria are appreciated. Travelers who have been on similar tours mention the importance of good logistics and attentive customer service, which this tour seems to deliver.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re a history buff eager to see India’s ancient caves without the stress of planning logistics or waiting in line, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an efficient yet personalized experience, especially since it’s private and customizable. Budget-conscious visitors will find the cost reasonable given the inclusions, and those with limited time in Aurangabad can cover multiple attractions in just two days. It also suits travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation to make their sightseeing both enjoyable and educational.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This two-day taxi tour packs in some of India’s most iconic sites—Ajanta, Ellora, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi ka Maqbara—into a manageable schedule, making it ideal for those who want to see a lot without the hassle. The private vehicle, inclusive tickets, and flexible itinerary create a seamless experience, while the reviews reveal that the guides and drivers are well-trained, friendly, and attentive.

For travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and expert insights, this tour offers excellent value at around $60 per person. It’s particularly well-suited for history lovers, busy travelers, or those new to Aurangabad who want a curated experience with just the right amount of adventure and relaxation.

If you enjoy exploring historical sites at your own pace with the benefit of local tips and hassle-free logistics, this tour could very well be one of your highlights in India.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get tickets to all four attractions (Ajanta, Ellora, Daulatabad Fort, Bibi ka Maqbara), private air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and a guidebook for self-guided exploration.

Are guides available on site?
Guides are not included in the package but can be hired at Ajanta Cave 1 for a more in-depth visit. Many reviewers recommend this for a richer understanding of the carvings and history.

How long are the travel days?
Day 1 involves around 3 hours of driving to Ajanta, plus time exploring the caves and enjoying a meal. Day 2 includes similar travel time to Ellora and additional site visits, with a return to Aurangabad in the evening.

What should I bring for the trip?
To cope with the road conditions, especially the bumpy drive to Ajanta, travelers recommend bringing extra neck or back pillows. Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water are also essential.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might find the uneven terrain at some sites and the long drives challenging.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, so you can adapt the schedule or focus more on certain sites if you wish, making it flexible to your interests.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 6 days are not refundable, with partial refunds available if canceled earlier.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, the tour includes options at Ajanta’s cafeteria, where you can choose vegetarian meals. Non-veg options and beers are also available where permitted.

This tour offers a fantastic way to experience Aurangabad’s must-see sights comfortably and efficiently. With a proven track record of satisfied travelers praising the logistics, guides, and value, it stands out as a top pick for those wanting an authentic yet hassle-free exploration of these ancient marvels.