Ajanta Ellora Caves, located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, are among India's most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These ancient rock-cut caves attract history buffs, art lovers, and spiritual seekers from across the globe. The route to these caves is popular for weekend trips, cultural tourism, and educational visits.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Ajanta Ellora Caves, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best time to visit, ensuring a hassle-free and memorable journey.

Getting from Major Cities to Ajanta Ellora Caves – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a convenient and economical way to reach Aurangabad, the nearest major railhead to Ajanta Ellora Caves. Indian Railways connects Aurangabad with many metropolitan and regional cities, making it a popular choice for travelers.

• Key stations:

  Aurangabad Railway Station is the closest major station, approximately 30 km from the caves. From here, local transport options are available to reach the site.

• Travel time and cost:

  Depending on your origin, trains to Aurangabad can take 6 to 12 hours. Ticket prices vary from INR 200 for sleeper class to INR 1500+ for AC classes, booked via IRCTC.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Several daily trains connect Aurangabad with Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad. Trains like the Sachkhand Express and Ajanta Express offer comfortable journeys with catering services.

• Seasonal tips:

  Book tickets well in advance during peak tourist seasons (October to March). Avoid traveling during monsoon months due to occasional delays and slippery last-mile roads.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Aurangabad station, pre-paid taxis and shared jeeps are available to Ajanta and Ellora caves. Negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based cabs like Ola for convenience.

Bus

Buses provide an affordable and flexible option to reach Aurangabad and the caves. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates regular services connecting major cities to Aurangabad.

• Bus terminals:

  Aurangabad Central Bus Stand is well connected to Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Jalgaon. From here, local buses and taxis can be hired to reach the caves.

• Travel duration and fares:

  Bus journeys from Mumbai take around 6-7 hours, costing between INR 300 and INR 700 depending on the bus type (ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC).

• Service quality:

  Volvo and deluxe buses offer comfortable seating and air conditioning. Night buses are available but may be crowded during festivals.

• Route details:

  Buses typically use NH52 and NH61, passing through scenic rural landscapes. Avoid traveling during peak monsoon hours due to occasional roadblocks.

• Local transport:

  From Aurangabad bus stand, shared autos and private taxis are available for the 30 km trip to the caves. Confirm fares or use prepaid counters.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Ajanta Ellora Caves offers flexibility and the chance to explore nearby attractions at your own pace. The roads are generally in good condition, making self-drive a popular choice among domestic tourists.

• Route overview:

  From Aurangabad, take NH52 towards Jalgaon and then state highways leading to Ajanta and Ellora. The total driving distance is about 30-35 km.

• Travel time and tolls:

  The drive takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Expect tolls on NH52, so keep cash handy or use FASTag for seamless payment.

• Road conditions:

  Roads are mostly two-lane highways with occasional potholes. Avoid night driving during monsoon due to slippery conditions and limited lighting.

• Parking and facilities:

  Both Ajanta and Ellora caves have designated parking areas with security. Facilities like restrooms and food stalls are available near parking zones.

• Scenic stops:

  Consider stopping at nearby attractions like Bibi Ka Maqbara or Aurangabad Caves en route for a richer experience.

Flight

The fastest way to reach Ajanta Ellora Caves is by flying into Aurangabad Airport, which is well connected to major Indian cities. This option is ideal for travelers short on time or coming from distant locations.

• Airport details:

  Aurangabad Airport (IXU) is about 13 km from the city center and 40 km from the caves. It handles daily flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, and Hyderabad.

• Flight duration and fares:

  Flights from Mumbai take around 1 hour, with fares ranging from INR 1500 to INR 4000 depending on booking time and airline.

• Connectivity:

  From the airport, taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are readily available. The drive to the caves takes about 1 hour.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early during peak tourist seasons to secure better rates. Check for special offers on airline websites and aggregator apps.

• Airport facilities:

  The airport has basic amenities including ATMs, cafes, and car rental counters for a smooth start to your journey.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

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

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets in advance via IRCTC, MSRTC, or airline websites to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Reach Aurangabad early:

  Arrive in Aurangabad by morning to maximize your time at the caves and avoid afternoon heat and crowds.

• Arrange local transport:

  Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs from Aurangabad station or airport to Ajanta or Ellora caves. Shared jeeps are cheaper but less comfortable.

• Carry essentials:

  Pack water, sunscreen, and light snacks as facilities inside the caves are limited. Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain.

• Plan your visit order:

  Start with Ajanta Caves, which open at 9 AM, then proceed to Ellora in the afternoon. Both sites close by 5:30 PM.

• Return safely:

  Book your return transport or tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, to avoid last-minute rush.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Avoid isolated areas near the caves after sunset. Stick to marked paths and follow guide instructions to prevent accidents on rocky terrain.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks. Local eateries near the caves offer basic meals but hygiene standards vary, so choose carefully.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and MSRTC for buses. For flights, compare prices on aggregator apps and book early for discounts.

• Local commute:

  Ola and Uber operate in Aurangabad city but may not cover remote cave areas. Prepaid taxis and shared jeeps are reliable for last-mile travel.

• Luggage handling:

  Travel light as the caves require walking on uneven surfaces. Secure your belongings and avoid carrying valuables unnecessarily.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon months (June to September) bring heavy rains causing slippery paths and occasional closures. Plan visits in dry months for safety and comfort.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Ajanta Ellora Caves is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making exploration comfortable and enjoyable.

Avoid the intense heat of summer and the heavy monsoon rains which can hinder access and cause safety concerns on rocky paths.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Aurangabad city, especially mornings and evenings, to save travel time to the caves.

• Plan visits on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and long queues at the ticket counters.

• Early morning departures are ideal to enjoy cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography inside the caves.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling during monsoon to avoid disruptions due to rain or roadblocks.

Arrival at Ajanta Ellora Caves & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Ajanta or Ellora caves, travelers are greeted by serene surroundings and impressive rock-cut architecture. The entry areas have ticket counters, guides, and basic amenities.

Local transport options include shared jeeps and taxis that can take you between the two sites, which are about 30 km apart. Nearby Aurangabad offers a range of accommodation from budget hotels to heritage stays.

Use prepaid taxis available at Aurangabad Railway Station or Airport for hassle-free transfers. Inside the caves, expect uneven steps and some walking, so plan accordingly. Nearby attractions like Bibi Ka Maqbara and Aurangabad Caves can be included for a fuller itinerary.

Conclusion

For most travelers, reaching Ajanta Ellora Caves via Aurangabad by train or flight is the most efficient and comfortable option. It combines ease of access with good local transport connectivity, allowing you to focus on exploring the heritage sites.

With proper planning and the tips shared here, you can confidently embark on your journey to these magnificent caves. Whether you choose the scenic drive or the convenience of a flight, the timeless beauty of Ajanta Ellora awaits your discovery.