Aurangabad
Overview

The
city of Aurangabad, located in the state of Maharashtra, is firstly known to
be the base to explore the World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora caves.
And secondly for the medieval architectural heritage that it boasts itself.
During the rule of Aurangzeb, the city also served as the seat of Mughal
empire for a short span of time. Besides, the city is also known for its
exclusive textile products like pathani, himroo and kimkhwab.
Climate & Best Time
Aurangabad has a temperate climate. Summer extends from April till June,
with temperature ranging between 39 degrees and 21.5 degrees centigrade.
Winters, from November to February, is moderate. The minimum temperature
during winters records 10 degrees centigrade. The climate not being harsh,
you can make a trip to the city anytime of the year. Though, the ideal time
is between October and March.
Places to Visit
Tourists can spend good time in the city exploring the treasures of the
medieval era. You can experience some good pieces of history styled in the
Mughala and Persian styles of architecture. You would surely like to visit
the following.
» Bibi Ka Maqbara
The Persian styled mausoleum was erected back in 1679 by Aurangzeb's son as
a loving tribute to his mother Rabia Durrani. The structure seems to
be smaller version of the Taj Mahal at Agra.
» Aurangabad Caves
These caves, carved between the 6th and 7th centuries, lie at just a couple
of kilometres from the Bibi Ka Maqbara. The patterns and the iconography of
the caves speak of the Tantric cult.
» Pan Chakki
The watermill was constructed in the 17th century to grind the grains for
the pilgrims. The complexa also houses the tomb of sufi saint Baba Shah
Muzaffar, Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's spiritual mentor.
» Ajanta & Ellora Caves

The
biggest lure for tourists, however, are the rock-cut monuments of Ajanta and
Ellora. The Ellora caves are located 30 km northwest of the city whereas the
Ajanta caves are at 99 km northeast of it.
Stay Options
Aurangabad has hotels of all classes and categories. Famous 5 stars include
Taj Residency, Hotel Ambassador Ajanta and Hotel Rama International. Hotel
President Park is a leading 4 star hotel in the city. Quality Inn The
Meadows (3 star) and Aurangabad Gymkhana Club (2 star) are the other
options.
Getting There
The Aurangabad Airport, 10 km from the city, has regular flights from New
Delhi and Mumbai. The railhead at Aurangabad has trains to places like
Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad. Hyderabad and Secunderabad are the other
convenient railheads. A well-established road network connects the city with
the key destinations of Maharashtra and the country.