From Aurangabad: 1-Day Taxi Trip to Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Traveling in India often means navigating bustling streets and crowded buses, but if you’re after a more relaxed, personalized way to explore Aurangabad’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, this private taxi tour to Ajanta and Ellora Caves is an excellent choice. Designed for those who want to maximize their day without the hassle of planning transport or worrying about navigation, this tour offers comfort, flexibility, and insight—at a very reasonable price.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the private driver ensures a stress-free, comfortable ride with no need to share space or stick to rigid schedules. Second, the flexible itineraries cater to your interests and pace, whether you want to prioritize the caves or explore nearby attractions like Daulatabad Fort or Bibi Ka Maqbara. Lastly, the value for money is undeniable, especially with the option to include guides or explore on your own. The only caveat? The tour’s flexibility requires you to plan ahead, as some sites are closed on specific days—so check your calendar before booking.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate comfort, independence, and authentic insights, whether you’re visiting for the first time or want a streamlined way to see the highlights without the chaos of public transport.

Key Points

• Private, hassle-free transportation allows you to relax and focus on the sights.
• Flexible itineraries cater to your preferences, with options for different caves and sites.
• Guides and on-site options are available, enhancing your understanding of the historic sites.
• Affordable pricing provides excellent value for a full-day private tour.
• Comfortable vehicles (sedan or SUV) keep you comfortable on the drive.
• Advance booking ensures you secure your preferred schedule and itinerary.

Visiting Aurangabad’s famous caves can be overwhelming if you try to do it on your own via public transport or taxis. This tour simplifies the process, giving you a dedicated driver who understands your schedule and preferences. It’s especially helpful because navigation and parking are all handled for you—freeing you up to enjoy the journey and the sites.

With most travelers booking 24 days in advance, it suggests a good reputation and high demand—no surprises there. The cost, approximately $20.11 per person, is exceedingly fair when you consider the convenience of private transport and the potential to customize your day.

Depending on your preference, you can choose from three main itineraries that suit different interests and schedules.

Itinerary 1: Combined Ellora and Fort Tour

Starting at 8 or 10 AM, this option takes you to the Ellora Caves, a 1-hour drive from Aurangabad. The site features 34 caves, showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut temples, each more impressive than the last. You’ll spend about 3-4 hours exploring. Afterward, there’s a chance to stop for lunch (not included but easily arranged), then visit the Daulatabad Fort and Bibi Ka Maqbara—a Mughal-era monument often called the “Taj of the Deccan.”

This itinerary offers a balanced mix of cave exploration and historical sites, ideal if you want a comprehensive day out with multiple attractions.

Itinerary 2: Focus on Ajanta Caves

This tour begins at 8:30 AM, heading for the Ajanta Caves, about 2 hours away. Famous for their Buddhist art and paintings, the 29 caves are carved into a horseshoe-shaped valley and offer a quieter, more contemplative experience compared to Ellora. You’ll likely spend 3-4 hours here, soaking up the intricate frescoes and sculptures. If time allows, the tour may include a visit to Bibi Ka Maqbara on the return.

Itinerary 3: Full-Day with Both Cave Complexes

Starting early at 7:00 AM, this full-day option covers both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, with a break for lunch in between. You’ll first visit Ajanta, then head to Ellora, giving you the chance to see the diverse rock-cut architecture and religious art of both sites in one trip.

What You’ll Love

• The timing flexibility helps you align the trip with your plans and energy level.
• The driver is knowledgeable, with reviews mentioning “good English and helpful” service.
• Bottled water is provided, keeping you hydrated on the go.
• The self-guided option at sites or hiring guides on-site can enrich your visit.

The private vehicle is a highlight of this tour. Depending on your group size, you can choose a sedan (Toyota Etios) for 1-2 people or an Innova Crysta SUV for 3-4 travelers, both air-conditioned. Reviewers mention being able to stretch out and enjoy the ride, which is a significant perk given the often-rough roads in the area.

The driver’s language skills (English and Hindi) make communication straightforward, and their local knowledge adds context to your visit. For example, one reviewer appreciated that their driver pointed out local sites and provided helpful tips, making the trip more enriching.

The timing—roughly 8 to 10 hours—allows enough time to visit the sites thoroughly without feeling rushed. And the fact that all toll, parking, and taxes are included means no hidden fees or surprises at the end.

While the tour price is quite reasonable, additional charges include entry tickets for each site:

• Ajanta Caves: INR 40 for SAARC countries, INR 600 for non-SAARC
• Ellora Caves: INR 40 for SAARC, INR 600 for others
• Bibi Ka Maqbara: INR 30 for SAARC, INR 300 for non-SAARC
• Shuttle buses at Ajanta and Ellora are small extra costs (around 100 per person).

It’s important to carry cash in Indian Rupees as cards are not accepted at the monument entrances. The reviews note that the guides and guides on-site can help you better appreciate the architecture and art, making the extra expense worthwhile.

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers. One reviewer said, “Habib was very careful when driving,” which highlights the importance of a safe journey. Another mentioned that the guides offered good context and history, making the visit more meaningful.

The self-guided experience at Ellora, where travelers enjoyed taking photos and exploring at their own pace, was also a plus. One reviewer remarked, “We liked the self-guided nature of it,” which shows the flexibility this tour offers.

Most agree that the value for money is high, especially considering the comfort and convenience provided. Travelers appreciate the well-organized pickup and drop-off service, often ending their day at their hotel or transport hub relaxed and satisfied.

If you’re after a stress-free way to see Aurangabad’s main attractions, this private taxi tour is a stellar choice. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic insights, all without breaking the bank. Whether you want to focus on the stunning Buddhist murals at Ajanta, the diverse temples at Ellora, or a mix of both, the itinerary can be tailored to fit your schedule.

Travelers keen on independent exploration will love the option to hire guides on-site or explore on their own. The affordable price point makes it accessible for all budgets, and the high ratings reflect consistent quality and satisfaction.

However, keep in mind the site closure days—Ajanta is closed on Mondays, and Ellora on Tuesdays—so plan your trip accordingly. Also, advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and itinerary.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all tolls, parking, taxes, and service charges, plus bottled water and a torch for exploring caves.

Are guides available at the sites?
Yes, you can hire guides at most of the historic sites, which can enhance your understanding of the art, architecture, and history. The tour itself does not include a guide but offers the option to contract one on-site.

What if I want to visit both Ajanta and Ellora?
You should choose the full-day itinerary that covers both caves. It’s designed to give you enough time to explore both sites comfortably within a single day.

How much are the entry tickets?
Tickets are around INR 40 for SAARC countries or INR 600 for non-SAARC visitors at Ajanta and Ellora, and INR 30 or INR 300 for Bibi Ka Maqbara, depending on nationality.

Do I need to carry cash?
Yes, because entrance tickets and local purchases often require cash in Indian Rupees; cards are usually not accepted at the sites.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 24 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and preferred schedules.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers three main options, and you can inform the provider about your preferences when booking. Additional sites or modifications are often possible based on your timing and interests.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and climbing around the caves and monuments. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.

To sum it up, this private taxi tour from Aurangabad to Ajanta and Ellora caves offers a convenient, flexible, and budget-friendly way to experience some of India’s most extraordinary monuments. Its combination of professional drivers, customizable itineraries, and authentic sites makes it ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, insightful day without the stress of navigating alone.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply seeking a hassle-free way to see Aurangabad’s UNESCO sites, this tour delivers on all fronts. The high reviews and excellent value show it’s a reliable choice for a memorable, well-organized adventure—one that respects your time, money, and curiosity.