Ajanta Ellora Caves 2 Day Tour from Mumbai via Aurangabad

Experience one of India’s most iconic heritage journeys on this 2-Day Ajanta & Ellora Caves sightseeing tour from Mumbai via Aurangabad. Discover the ancient UNESCO World Heritage rock-cut cave complexes carved between the 2nd century BCE to 1000 CE, marvel at intricate Buddhist murals at Ajanta and the monumental Kailasa Temple at Ellora — all with the comfort of private transportation and convenient hotel pick-ups. 

This trip is perfect for travellers who want a deep cultural experience without the stress of planning transport or logistics. Enjoy scenic drives and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Highlights

• An ideal two-day outing to visit the mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage sites, namely the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
• Take a brief sightseeing tour of Aurangabad.
• Spend time and explore the gems of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
• Service of an experienced driver and a well-maintained car.
  
  

Why Choose This Tour?

• Direct travel from Mumbai with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Comfortable private vehicle with experienced driver 
• Visit both Ajanta and Ellora UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Explore Aurangabad city sights en route
• Ideal for families, couples, and cultural travellers

Detailed overview

• Ajanta Caves are a group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves believed to have been built during the period of the 2nd century BCE to 480 CE. These caves are considered to be one of the finest pieces of ancient Indian architecture, which includes paintings and rock-cut sculptures. These caves were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
• The Ellora Caves, located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, are one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world. These are considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Ellora Caves feature Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments and artwork dating from the 600–1000 CE period.
• Aurangabad is a city in Maharashtra and is one of the major tourist hubs. It is also home to the Bibi ka Maqbara, also known as the 'Mini Taj Mahal.' This city was founded by Malik Ambar in the year 1610 AD. Aurangabad has a semi-arid climate.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 — Mumbai to Aurangabad & Local Sightseeing

• Early pickup from your Mumbai hotel or residence
• Drive to Aurangabad: Approx. 7-hour scenic journey (around 330 km) 
• Aurangabad city tour highlights:
• Bibi ka Maqbara – Mughal-era “Mini Taj Mahal”
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
• Soneri Mahal & Himayat Bagh Gardens
• Overnight stay in Aurangabad
• This relaxed pace ensures you arrive refreshed and ready to explore the heritage sites the next day. 

Day 2 — Ajanta & Ellora Caves Exploration

• Departure early from hotel to maximize cave time

Ajanta Caves:

• 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves with stunning murals & sculptures
• Believed to date back over 2,000 years
• UNESCO World Heritage Site with serene surroundings 

Ellora Caves:

• 34 monuments showcasing Buddhist, Hindu & Jain artistry
• Home to the Kailasa Temple, the largest single-rock excavation in the world 
• Return to Mumbai by evening or night
• Drop-off at your hotel or place of residence

Tip: Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays and Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesdays. Plan your travel dates accordingly.

What You’ll See

Ajanta Caves

• Ancient Buddhist complex featuring beautifully preserved murals
• Carved prayer halls, monasteries, and stone sculptures
• Revered for its storytelling paintings depicting Jataka tales
• Only reachable via a scenic drive from Aurangabad (approx. 105 km) 

Ellora Caves

• A remarkable rock-cut temple complex of Buddhist, Hindu & Jain influence
• Home to the awe-inspiring Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)
• Spread over ~2 km, featuring 34 caves carved into basalt hills

Best Time to Visit

• October – March: Cool, pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing.
• April – June: Warm but still suitable with early starts.
• Monsoon (July – September): Nature is beautiful but some paths may be slippery. 

Useful Travel Tips

•     Start early each day to avoid crowds & heat.
•     Wear comfortable footwear — both caves need a fair bit of walking.
•     Carry sunscreen, hats & water bottles.
•     Consider hiring a local guide at the caves for richer historical insights.