Mumbai to Aurangabad: Ajanta & Ellora with Return Flights

A Detailed Look at the Mumbai to Aurangabad: Ajanta & Ellora with Return Flights Tour

Traveling from bustling Mumbai to the historic city of Aurangabad to see the famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves sounds like a dream for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. This 3-day tour offers a chance to explore some of India’s most treasured UNESCO sites, with the convenience of flights included to cut down on travel time. While it sounds promising, it’s worth unpacking the details to see if it suits your style.

What we appreciate about this tour is its focus on key highlights like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, combined with visits to charming local landmarks such as Bibi ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort. The inclusion of guided tours, entrance fees, and transportation makes it a solid choice for those seeking a hassle-free experience. However, a potential downside could be the somewhat limited time at each site, especially if you’re eager to explore more deeply.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to Maharashtra’s cultural heritage without the stress of planning internal flights or transportation. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided sightseeing, historical architecture, and a mix of religious and medieval landmarks. Keep in mind, it’s designed for moderate physical activity and those comfortable with group travel.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Return flights, guides, entrance fees, and transfers are included, offering good value.
• Focused Itinerary: Highlights iconic sites like Ajanta, Ellora, and Daulatabad Fort, perfect for first-time visitors.
• Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing insights into the significance of each site.
• Time Management: The 3-day schedule balances sightseeing with travel, though some may find it a bit rushed.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to caves and temples reveal the diverse religious history of the Deccan region.
• Travel Ease: Group transfers and organized logistics reduce stress, making it suitable for those new to India.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Mumbai to Aurangabad and the city tour

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel in Mumbai, followed by a flight to Aurangabad. Once you arrive, there’s a smooth transfer to your hotel, allowing you to settle in comfortably. The first sight on your agenda is Bibi ka Maqbara, often called the “Mini Taj” of the Deccan. Built in 1678 by Azam Shah as a tribute to his mother, this stunning white marble mausoleum is set amidst landscaped gardens, ponds, and fountains. It’s a peaceful spot, and the intricate carvings display impressive craftsmanship for its era.

Next, you’ll visit the Aurangabad Caves, about 5 km from the city center. These 12 Buddhist caves date back to around 3 A.D., making them some of the oldest religious sites in the region. Reviewers have particularly appreciated the way the caves reflect Tantric influences in their iconography and architecture, giving a glimpse into early Buddhist practices. There’s also a small archaeological museum on-site that offers further context. Expect about two hours exploring these caves, which, despite their age, still retain impressive sculptures and carvings.

Day 2: Ajanta Caves – The Buddhist masterpieces

Day two is dedicated to the Ajanta Caves, a full-day excursion that’s the highlight of this tour. The caves were discovered by British officers in 1819, and their artistic treasures have wowed visitors ever since. As you travel, the guide will likely share stories of the caves’ historical significance and the stories depicted in the paintings.

The Ajanta Caves encompass 30 caves carved into the cliffs, with five serving as Chaityas (worship halls) and twenty-five as Viharas (monasteries). You’ll see sculptures and murals illustrating Buddha’s life, previous births, and various Jataka tales, all remarkably well-preserved considering their age. Many reviewers note that the caves are visually mesmerizing and offer a real sense of spiritual serenity.

One guide mentioned that Ajanta’s art is older than Ellora’s, dating from around 200 B.C. to 650 A.D., providing a layered history of Buddhist monastic life. You’ll spend roughly 8 hours here, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking and climbing.

Day 3: Ellora, Grishneshwar Temple & Daulatabad Fort

The final day begins with an early breakfast before heading out to Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple. This shrine is one of the 12 sacred Shiva temples, and its construction, credited to Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, features striking red and black stones with intricate carvings. Visitors often find this site deeply reverent and culturally significant.

Next, you’ll explore the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With 34 monasteries and temples carved from the rock, Ellora spans from 600 to 1000 AD. The site features structures dedicated to Brahmanism, Jainism, and Buddhism, showcasing the religious diversity of the period. The stonework here is particularly noted for its precision and grandeur, especially the temples associated with Lord Shiva, like the famous Kailasa temple. Expect around three hours exploring these remarkable monuments, which combine religious devotion with extraordinary craftsmanship.

On the way back, a visit to Daulatabad Fort offers a glimpse into medieval military architecture. Its double and triple rows of fortifications made it virtually impregnable, and the views from the top are spectacular. It’s a fitting conclusion—a reminder of the region’s strategic importance historically.

Finally, you’ll be transferred to Aurangabad airport for your flight back to Mumbai, ending your journey through some of India’s most captivating historical sites.

What the Experience Means for You

This tour offers a well-organized way to see key Maharashtra landmarks without the hassle of individual bookings. The flights included mean you spend less time in transit and more time exploring, which is especially valuable if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a straightforward travel experience.

The inclusion of guides and entrance fees in the price helps ensure you don’t get lost or overcharged, and the group setting provides an opportunity to share insights and ask questions. However, some reviews indicate that guide changes can be unsettling—one traveler noted being left to their own devices after a guide change near the caves. This suggests that while guides are knowledgeable, flexibility in expectations might be wise.

Transport-wise, the tour uses private air-conditioned vehicles, making long drives more comfortable. The schedule is fairly packed, with full days of sightseeing, so if you prefer slow mornings or more leisure time, this might feel a bit rushed.

Value for Money

At $449 per person, this tour packs in flights, guided sightseeing, and entry to major sites, making it a competitive option. Private guided tours can often be expensive, but this package balances cost with convenience—great for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the stress of planning every detail.

Authenticity and Comfort

Visit places that are still active religious sites, like the Grishneshwar Temple, where local pilgrims add a layer of authenticity. The accommodations and transportation are designed for comfort, but the focus remains on sightseeing, so don’t expect luxury hotels or gourmet meals included.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you are fascinated by ancient architecture, religious art, and Indian history, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a structured, guided experience that covers major attractions efficiently. It’s also suitable for those who prefer organized travel with minimal hassle, especially since flights are taken care of.

FAQs about the Mumbai to Aurangabad Tour

Are flights included in the price?
Yes, return economy class flights from Mumbai to Aurangabad are included, making travel between the two cities quick and easy.

What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses private air-conditioned cars or vans for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions, providing comfort during long travel days.

How many nights will I stay in Aurangabad?
You will stay 2 nights in Aurangabad, with accommodations included if that option is selected, providing a comfortable base for exploring.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking, climbing stairs, and spending time on-site.

What sites are included in the itinerary?
Key sites include Bibi ka Maqbara, Aurangabad Caves, Ajanta Caves, Grishneshwar Temple, Ellora Caves, and Daulatabad Fort.

What happens if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 6 days prior for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 6 days before are not eligible for refunds.

Are meals included?
Only breakfast is included; other meals, snacks, and drinks are not covered in this package.

Final Thoughts

This guided 3-day Mumbai to Aurangabad tour offers a practical and immersive way to experience some of India’s most iconic historical sites. The combination of flight convenience, guided insights, and well-selected landmarks makes it ideal for travelers seeking a curated cultural adventure. While the schedule is busy, the value lies in seeing major attractions without the hassle of logistics, making it suitable for first-timers or those with limited time.

The sites themselves—ranging from the ancient Buddhist caves of Ajanta to the religiously significant temples and formidable medieval forts—are genuinely impressive, promising plenty of photo opportunities and moments of awe. The tour’s focus on authenticity through guided storytelling and access to active religious sites enriches the experience further.

If you’re after a trustworthy, well-organized introduction to Maharashtra’s ancient treasures and prefer traveling with a group to ease logistics, this tour will most likely meet your expectations. Just prepare for a full, active schedule, and remember that some guide changes have been noted, so flexibility and patience will enhance your experience. Overall, it offers good value and a chance to connect with India’s spiritual and architectural legacy in a manageable, enjoyable way.

Note: Always check current availability and confirm inclusions when booking, as details may change.