Honestly, I perceive Aurangabad as a location to stay in between travels. It appeared to be a simple plan. Visit the Ajanta Caves at some point. After that, visit the Ellora Caves. Maybe go to the Daulatabad Fort if you have time. Then continue.
However, after a few days in the city, I realised that Aurangabad was more than just a destination on my hotel reservation list. In a way that few cities can, it connected centuries of Indian history, architecture, culture, and craftsmanship. There is much to see here and quiet places that have earned Aurangabad its name.
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It sits at the heart of an incredible heritage circuit
Looking at a map makes Aurangabad’s importance evident. The Ajanta Caves and the Ellora Caves, two of India’s most well-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are easily accessible by road. If you add Daulatabad Fort, Bibi Ka Maqbara, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, and a few other lesser-known locations to your itinerary, it will fill up fast.
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I was amused at how well everything connected. Instead of spending hours commuting between distant attractions, I could return to the city every night, enjoy a leisurely dinner, and depart for another historical adventure the next morning. It made Aurangabad appear less like a destination and made it more prominent as a perfect base.
Ellora left me speechless
Everyone says you should visit Ellora Caves. No one can adequately prepare you for their scope. I kept looking up as I explored the cave complex. It was nearly incredible that the elaborately carved temples, monasteries, and prayer halls were built by hand centuries ago.
Next was the Kailasa Temple.
I began to view this massive structure in greater awe when I learnt that it was carved from a single rock rather than constructed stone by stone. You find it hard to believe that humans could create some monuments because of their breathtaking beauty. Ellora does both.
Ajanta was an entirely different experience
If Ellora is renowned for its stunning architecture, the Ajanta Caves have a serenity that urges you to slow down. These historic Buddhist caves are serene and tucked away in a horseshoe-shaped canyon. The murals, many of which date back more than 2,000 years, retain remarkable detail even after centuries have passed.
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I ended up spending much more time inside the caves than I had intended, studying the expressions on painted faces and the elaborate patterns and stories from Buddhist traditions painted on the walls. I was reminded that history isn’t only etched in stone. At times, it is painted with exceptional patience.
I found history in unexpected places
The fact that Aurangabad’s history was not limited to well-known landmarks was one aspect of the city that I valued. As I explored parts of the ancient city, I observed busy markets selling traditional handicrafts, mediaeval gates that were once part of the city’s defences, and places where the old and the new coexisted together.
Centuries-old buildings could frequently be seen on a daily drive around the city. Aurangabad’s past is not always recalled. It simply coexists with it.
Even the food reflected the city’s influences
Days spent seeing forts and subterranean temples were followed by nights which were devoted to Aurangabad’s food. The city’s cuisine blends its Mughal legacy with the robust tastes of Maharashtra.
I indulged in flavourful biryanis, spicy Maharashtrian curries, enticing sweets, and aromatic Naan Qalia, a traditional dish closely linked to Aurangabad. Every meal seemed to reflect the many ethnicities that had shaped the city throughout the past. It turns out that history is not just visible but also palatable.
Final thoughts
Aurangabad may not be as popular as the prime tourist destinations in India, but it is a connection to some of the country’s best traditions. From the stunning rock-cut wonders of Ajanta and Ellora to the grace of Bibi Ka Maqbara, the strength of Daulatabad Fort, the artistry of Paithani weaving, and a cuisine influenced by centuries of history, the city provides much more than just a convenient place to stay. Visit the renowned monuments. Spend enough time exploring the city that unites them all. At that point, Aurangabad makes the biggest impression.