Aurangabad, is a city in Maharashtra which is officially known as Chatrapati Shambhaji Nagar. It is a city where history, culture and spirituality come together beautifully. This city is known for its ancient caves, grand monuments and peaceful sites, the city offers a perfect mix of heritage and devotion. Tourist sites such as the Ajanta & Ellora caves make the city a popular tourist destination and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here is the list of the best places to visit in Aurangabad, helping you plan a meaningful and memorable trip.
Bibi Ka Maqbara (Tomb of the Lady) is a tomb located in the city of Aurangabad which was commissioned in 1660 by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s son, Prince Azam Shah in the memory of his mother Dilras Banu Begum. It holds a strong similarity to the Taj Mahal, the mausoleum of Aurangzeb’s mother, Mumtaz Mahal and that is why it is also called the Taj of Deccan. It is the second largest structure built by Aurangzeb.
Entry Fee : Rs,25 for Indians; Rs.300 for foreigners
Timings: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Distance From Aurangabad Bus Stand: 1.3 KM
Distance From Shirdi : 107 KM
The Aurangabad caves are twelve rock cut Buddhist shrines located on a hill extending east to west, close to the city of Aurangabad. These caves were dug out of soft black stone during the 6th & 7th century. The caves are divided into three separate groups called the “Western Group” with Caves I to V, the “Eastern Group” with caves VI to IX and a “Northern Group”, with caves X to XII. The carvings at these caves like Hinayana style Stupa, Mahayana art work and Vajrayana goddess are the highlights.
Entry Fee : Rs. 25 for Indians; Rs.300 for foreigners
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Distance From Aurangabad Bus Stand: 5.5 KM
Distance From Shirdi : 109 KM
The Siddharth Garden & Zoo is a popular recreational spot in Aurangabad, ideal for families and children. The garden includes well maintained lawns, a musical fountain, and a peaceful environment for relaxation. The zoo houses a variety of animals and birds, making it an enjoyable place for nature and wildlife lovers. It is a perfect place to spend quality time while exploring the city.
Entry Fee : Rs.20 for Garden entry; Rs.50 for person for Zoo entry; Rs.10 per person for aquarium entry
Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Closed on Tuesdays
Distance From Aurangabad Bus Stand: 1.3 KM
Distance From Shirdi : 104 KM
Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum also known as Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is one of the popular art & history museums in India. This museum has a collection of 70,000 historic and artistic works of different materials and techniques. It displays weapons, paintings, sculptures and historical exhibits related to the Maratha Empire.
Entry Fee : Rs.85 for adults; Rs.20 for kids; Rs.40 for college students; Rs.500 for foreigners
Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:45 PM; Closed on Thursdays
Distance From Aurangabad Bus Stand: 2.9 KM
Distance From Shirdi : 107 KM
Goga Baba Hill is a peaceful place in Aurangabad, known for its spiritual significance, scenic views & peaceful surroundings. This shrine on the top of the hills, is dedicated to Goga Baba (the North India God Gogaji Maharaj or Jaharveer Baba). Goga Baba is a warrior worshipped as a saint and a protector against snake bites. It is a popular place for short treks, evening visits and sunset views.
Entry Fee : Free
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Distance From Aurangabad Bus Stand: 4.5 KM
Distance From Shirdi : 107 KM
Not only in Aurangabad, but also nearby Aurangabad, there are other must visit heritage sites which are listed here.
The Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Aurangabad city which is one of the largest rock-cut cave complexes. It includes more than 100 caves out of which 34 are open to visit. In those 34 caves 17 are Hindu caves, 12 are Buddhist caves and 5 are Jain caves. All of the Ellora monuments were built during the Rashtrakuta dynasty and Yadava dynasty.
Entry Fee: Rs.40 for Indians; Rs.600 for foreigners
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Distance From Auranagabad Bus Stand: 27.4 KM
Distance From Shirdi: 101 KM
Aurangabad is a destination where history, culture and spirituality come together beautifully. Places like historic forts, museums and peaceful gardens, the city offers something for every traveler. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a devotee or a leisure traveler, exploring the best places to visit in Aurangabad promises a rich and memorable experience, making it a must visit destination.