Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra known for its cultural heritage and educational institutions, serves as a popular starting point for travelers heading to the Ajanta Caves. These ancient rock-cut Buddhist monuments, located in Aurangabad district, attract history buffs and tourists eager to explore their intricate murals and sculptures.

This route is favored by weekend travelers, history enthusiasts, and those on cultural tours. In this guide, you will find detailed information on various transport options from Pune to Ajanta Caves, including train, bus, car, and flight, along with practical travel tips to help you plan your visit efficiently.

Getting from Pune to Ajanta Caves – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for reaching Ajanta Caves from Pune. Although there is no direct train to Ajanta, Aurangabad Railway Station serves as the nearest major railhead, about 100 km away.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from Pune Junction (PUNE) to Aurangabad (AWB), which is well connected by several express and passenger trains daily. The journey covers approximately 230 km.

• Duration and cost:

  Trains take around 5 to 6 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class (Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC). Booking through IRCTC is recommended for confirmed seats.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Multiple trains run daily, including the Ajanta Express and Sachkhand Express. 3AC and 2AC coaches offer comfortable travel, especially during summer and monsoon seasons.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Aurangabad station, you can hire taxis or take state transport buses to Ajanta Caves. The road journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours on NH52, which is well maintained but can be winding near the caves.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid late evening arrivals at Aurangabad to ensure availability of taxis. Booking a private cab from Aurangabad for a day trip to Ajanta is common and convenient.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly and widely used option for traveling from Pune to Ajanta Caves, though the journey requires a change at Aurangabad.

• Bus routes:

  MSRTC operates regular Volvo and non-AC buses from Pune to Aurangabad. From Aurangabad, local buses or shared taxis run to Ajanta Caves.

• Travel time and fares:

  Pune to Aurangabad by bus takes about 6 to 7 hours, costing ₹300 to ₹600 depending on the bus type. The Aurangabad to Ajanta leg takes around 2.5 hours with fares under ₹100.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo buses offer a comfortable ride with air conditioning, while non-AC buses are cheaper but less comfortable. Buses depart frequently from Pune’s Swargate bus station.

• Seasonal considerations:

  During monsoon, road conditions can slow travel, so plan extra time. Booking tickets online via MSRTC’s portal or apps helps avoid last-minute hassles.

• Challenges:

  The bus journey is long and may involve crowded conditions. Direct buses to Ajanta from Pune are rare, so expect a transfer at Aurangabad.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Ajanta Caves offers flexibility and the chance to explore scenic routes at your own pace. This is ideal for families or groups.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH60 and NH52, covering approximately 330 km. The drive takes about 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are generally in good condition, with tolls en route. The stretch near Ajanta involves hilly terrain and winding roads, so drive cautiously.

• Rest stops and amenities:

  Several dhabas and restaurants are available along the way, including popular stops near Ahmednagar and Aurangabad. Fuel stations are frequent on highways.

• Travel tips:

  Start early morning to avoid city traffic and reach Ajanta before afternoon heat. Avoid night driving on the hilly approach to Ajanta due to limited street lighting.

• Parking and local commute:

  Ajanta Caves has designated parking areas. Hiring a local guide or using shared electric carts inside the site enhances the experience.

Flight

While Pune has an airport, the nearest airport to Ajanta Caves is Aurangabad Airport, which connects to Pune via flight and road.

• Flight details:

  Daily flights operate between Pune Airport (PNQ) and Aurangabad Airport (IXU), with a flight time of about 45 minutes. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India offer multiple flights.

• Cost and booking:

  Airfares range from ₹1500 to ₹3500 depending on the season and how early you book. Use airline websites or apps like MakeMyTrip for best deals.

• From Aurangabad to Ajanta:

  Upon arrival, taxis and buses connect you to Ajanta Caves, approximately 100 km away. A private cab is recommended for convenience and time-saving.

• Advantages:

  Flying saves significant time compared to road or train, ideal for short trips or business travelers.

• Considerations:

  Flight schedules may be limited on weekends or holidays. Plan ground transport in advance to avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Ajanta Caves, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your transport tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, reserve your tickets at least a week in advance via IRCTC, MSRTC, or airline portals to secure preferred timings.

• Start early from Pune:

  Begin your journey before 7 AM to avoid city traffic and maximize daylight hours for sightseeing at Ajanta.

• Reach Aurangabad or Ajanta on time:

  If traveling by train or bus, plan to arrive in Aurangabad by noon to allow sufficient time for the onward journey to Ajanta.

• Arrange last-mile transport:

  Pre-book a taxi or use local buses from Aurangabad to Ajanta. Private cabs offer flexibility and can be hired for a full-day tour.

• Carry essentials for the caves visit:

  Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes as the caves involve moderate walking and limited food options inside.

• Plan your return:

  Schedule your return trip in the late afternoon or early evening to avoid night travel on winding roads and to catch connecting trains or flights smoothly.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Use prepaid or app-based taxis like Ola or Uber in Aurangabad for reliable and safe local transport. Avoid unlicensed cabs, especially after dark.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options near Ajanta Caves are limited and sometimes expensive. Eat at trusted eateries in Aurangabad before heading to the caves.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC for buses to avoid scams. For flights, book through airline websites or reputed travel apps.

• Local commute:

  Inside Ajanta, electric carts are available for elderly or differently-abled visitors. Walking is the best way to explore the caves thoroughly.

• Luggage:

  Travel light, especially if using public transport. Most buses and trains have luggage compartments, but keep valuables close.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid monsoon months (July-September) for road travel due to slippery roads near Ajanta. Summers can be hot; carry hats and sunscreen.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Ajanta Caves from Pune is during the cooler months from October to March. Weather is pleasant, making outdoor exploration comfortable.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains that can disrupt road travel and cause slippery conditions near the caves. Summer months can be hot, so early morning visits are advisable.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi or Diwali when roads and trains are crowded.

• Depart early morning to bypass Pune’s rush hour traffic and reach Ajanta with ample daylight.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling during monsoon to avoid delays or roadblocks.

• Plan your visit on weekdays if possible, as weekends attract large tourist crowds at Ajanta.

Arrival at Ajanta Caves & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Ajanta Caves, travelers are greeted by a serene environment surrounded by lush greenery and the impressive rock-cut Buddhist monuments. The site is well maintained with clear pathways and informative signage.

Local transport options include electric carts and guides available near the entrance. Nearby Aurangabad offers a range of accommodations from budget hotels to luxury stays. For local commuting, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are reliable choices.

Conclusion

Among the various options, traveling by train to Aurangabad followed by a private taxi to Ajanta Caves is the most balanced choice in terms of cost, comfort, and convenience. It allows travelers to enjoy a relaxed journey with scenic views and easy access to the caves.

With proper planning and early bookings, you can confidently explore the historic Ajanta Caves from Pune. This guide equips you with all the necessary information to make your trip smooth and memorable.