Bangalore, the bustling tech hub of India, is located in the southern state of Karnataka. The Ajanta Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for ancient rock-cut Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments, lie in Maharashtra, near Aurangabad. This route is popular among history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and weekend travelers eager to explore these magnificent caves.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Bangalore to Ajanta Ellora Caves, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You’ll find detailed information on timings, routes, costs, and tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Bangalore to Ajanta Ellora Caves – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a popular and economical option for this long-distance journey, connecting Bangalore to Aurangabad, the nearest major railhead to Ajanta Ellora. Indian Railways offers several trains, though direct options are limited, requiring some planning.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) to Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB), approximately 1,200 km away. Aurangabad is about 30 km from the caves.

• Duration and cost:

  Journey time ranges from 24 to 30 hours depending on the train, with sleeper class tickets costing around ₹600–₹900 and AC classes ₹1,200–₹2,000.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Trains like the Ajanta Express and Aurangabad Express run weekly or bi-weekly. Book tickets well in advance on IRCTC to secure preferred classes.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Aurangabad station, taxis and buses are available to reach Ajanta or Ellora caves. Prepaid taxis at the station offer fixed fares around ₹800–₹1,000 for a round trip.

• Travel tips:

  Night trains are preferable to save daytime hours. Carry snacks and water as catering options can be limited on some trains.

By Bus

Buses provide a budget-friendly option but involve longer travel times and less comfort. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private operators connect Bangalore to Aurangabad, though direct buses are rare.

• Route and operators:

  Most travelers take a bus from Bangalore to Pune or Mumbai, then transfer to Aurangabad via MSRTC buses. Total travel can exceed 30 hours.

• Ticket prices:

  Bus fares vary from ₹800 to ₹1,500 depending on the class and operator. Volvo AC buses offer more comfort but are limited on this route.

• Road conditions:

  The NH48 highway is the main route, generally in good condition. Expect tolls and occasional traffic near major cities.

• Rest stops:

  Frequent stops at highway dhabas and restaurants allow breaks. Avoid night travel during monsoon due to slippery ghats near Pune.

• Last-mile travel:

  From Aurangabad bus stand, local taxis or shared autos can take you to the caves. Pre-booking taxis for the day is recommended.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bangalore to Ajanta Ellora offers flexibility and the chance to explore scenic routes. The journey covers around 1,200 km and takes approximately 20–22 hours by road.

• Route details:

  Take NH48 via Pune and Ahmednagar to Aurangabad. The roads are mostly four-lane highways with tolls en route.

• Travel time and breaks:

  Plan for at least two days of travel with overnight stops in Pune or Ahmednagar to avoid fatigue.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Numerous petrol pumps and restaurants like Cafe Coffee Day and local eateries are available along the highway. Avoid night driving in rural stretches.

• Local driving:

  Once near Aurangabad, roads to Ajanta and Ellora caves are well-marked but can be narrow. Parking is available at both sites.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion near Pune and Aurangabad during peak hours can delay travel. Carry a physical map or GPS as network coverage may be patchy in some areas.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest way to cover the long distance between Bangalore and Aurangabad. Several airlines operate direct and connecting flights, making it a convenient option for time-sensitive travelers.

• Airports:

  Depart from Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore to Aurangabad Airport (IXU), located about 30 km from the caves.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Direct flights take around 2 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 depending on the season and booking time.

• Frequency:

  Daily flights are available, but booking early is essential during peak tourist seasons.

• Local transport:

  From Aurangabad Airport, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available to reach Ajanta or Ellora caves.

• Travel tips:

  Flights save time but factor in airport transfers and local travel. Carry a printed or digital copy of your tickets for smooth check-ins.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Bangalore to Ajanta Ellora Caves efficiently, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether train, bus, or flight, secure your bookings on IRCTC, MSRTC, or airline websites at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons.

• Pack essentials:

  Carry light luggage, water bottles, snacks, and a power bank. Ajanta Ellora involves walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Bangalore City Railway Station or Kempegowda Airport at least 1.5 hours before departure to avoid last-minute rush.

• Plan local transport:

  Pre-book taxis from Aurangabad to the caves or use reliable app-based cabs. Avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

• Schedule cave visits:

  Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and afternoon heat. Allocate at least 4–5 hours to explore both Ajanta and Ellora.

• Stay overnight if needed:

  Aurangabad has numerous hotels ranging from budget to premium. Booking in advance ensures availability during festivals or holidays.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC and ticketing:

  Use the official IRCTC app or website for train bookings. Avoid third-party sites to prevent scams and last-minute cancellations.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially when traveling by train or bus. Local eateries near Aurangabad offer hygienic Maharashtrian cuisine.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Aurangabad, providing safe and affordable rides. Always check fare estimates before booking.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep valuables in a carry-on bag. Train stations and airports have luggage storage facilities if needed.

• Safety precautions:

  Avoid traveling alone at night on highways. Keep emergency contacts handy and inform family about your itinerary.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Monsoon rains can cause delays on roads near Pune and Aurangabad. Carry rain gear and check weather forecasts before departure.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Ajanta Ellora Caves from Bangalore is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather for sightseeing and comfortable travel conditions.

Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi or Diwali when trains and flights are crowded, and local accommodations fill up quickly.

• Avoid peak traffic hours near Pune and Aurangabad, typically 8–10 AM and 5–7 PM, to save travel time.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause slippery roads and occasional flight delays; plan accordingly.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and provide cooler temperatures for road travel.

• Winter mornings can have fog near Pune and Aurangabad; allow extra time for flights and trains.

Arrival at Ajanta Ellora Caves & What to Expect

Upon arriving at Aurangabad, travelers find a well-connected town with multiple transport options to reach the caves. Prepaid taxis and local buses operate regularly to Ajanta and Ellora, located 30 km and 29 km away respectively.

The caves are situated in rugged terrain requiring some walking and climbing. Facilities include ticket counters, guides, and refreshment stalls. Nearby Aurangabad offers comfortable hotels and eateries serving local and international cuisine.

For local commuting, Ola and Uber are reliable, but prepaid taxis booked at the station or airport counters offer fixed rates and hassle-free rides. Many visitors prefer to hire a cab for the entire day to cover both cave sites efficiently.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying from Bangalore to Aurangabad combined with a prepaid taxi to Ajanta Ellora Caves is the most efficient and comfortable choice, especially for travelers with limited time. It significantly reduces travel time and offers flexibility for sightseeing.

However, train travel remains a budget-friendly alternative for those who enjoy scenic journeys and don’t mind longer travel durations. With proper planning and early bookings, you can confidently explore the magnificent Ajanta Ellora Caves from Bangalore and immerse yourself in India’s rich heritage.