Ajanta and Ellora Caves, located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites famous for their ancient rock-cut Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments. Starting from Chennai, a major metropolitan city in Tamil Nadu, this route is popular among history buffs, cultural tourists, and weekend explorers eager to experience India's rich heritage.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Chennai to Ajanta Ellora Caves, including trains, buses, flights, and self-drive options. You'll find detailed travel times, costs, tips on booking, and advice on local transport to help plan your visit confidently.

Getting from Chennai to Ajanta Ellora Caves – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a popular and economical choice for this long-distance journey, connecting Chennai with Aurangabad, the nearest major railway station to Ajanta Ellora. Indian Railways offers several trains, though direct options are limited, so planning is essential.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from Chennai Central (MAS) to Aurangabad (AWB), approximately 1,400 km away. The journey typically takes 26 to 32 hours depending on the train.

• Train options and fares:

  Trains like the Chennai Central–Hazrat Nizamuddin Rajdhani or Chennai–Aurangabad Express run weekly or bi-weekly. Sleeper class fares range from ₹700 to ₹1,500, while AC 3-tier costs ₹1,500 to ₹2,500.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Trains are generally clean and comfortable, but booking in advance via IRCTC is crucial, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during monsoon months (July–September) due to occasional delays from track maintenance and weather disruptions.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  Aurangabad station is about 30 km from Ajanta Ellora. Prepaid taxis and local buses are available but confirm timings as services may be sparse early morning or late night.

Bus

Long-distance buses from Chennai to Aurangabad or nearby cities are less common and not recommended for this route due to the extensive distance and travel time. However, buses can be used for the last leg from Aurangabad to Ajanta Ellora.

• Intercity buses:

  No direct buses run from Chennai to Aurangabad; travelers must break the journey into segments, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient.

• Local buses:

  Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates frequent buses between Aurangabad and Ajanta Ellora, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Comfort and cost:

  MSRTC buses are affordable (₹100–₹150) but basic. Private tourist taxis offer more comfort for the last leg.

• Timing tips:

  Start early from Aurangabad to maximize time at the caves, as buses reduce frequency in the evening.

• Booking advice:

  Tickets for local buses can be bought at the station or bus stand; no advance booking is needed.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Chennai to Ajanta Ellora is a long but scenic option for those who enjoy road trips and want flexibility. The route covers around 1,400 km via NH44 and NH52, passing through Telangana and Maharashtra.

• Route details:

  The most common route is Chennai – Kurnool – Hyderabad – Nanded – Aurangabad, primarily on NH44 and NH52, with well-maintained highways and toll plazas.

• Travel time and distance:

  Expect 26 to 30 hours of driving, typically split over 2 or 3 days. Plan overnight stops in Hyderabad or Nanded for rest.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are generally in good condition, but watch for heavy traffic near Hyderabad and Aurangabad. Avoid night driving in rural stretches due to limited lighting.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Numerous fuel stations and eateries like Indian Oil pumps with attached restaurants are available en route. Popular rest stops include Kurnool and Nanded.

• Local driving tips:

  Use GPS navigation apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia for real-time traffic updates and toll information.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Aurangabad from Chennai, followed by a short road trip to the caves. Although there is no direct flight to Ajanta Ellora, Aurangabad Airport serves as the nearest air hub.

• Flight options:

  Direct flights from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Aurangabad Airport (IXU) are limited but available a few times a week, operated by airlines like IndiGo and Air India.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Flight time is approximately 2.5 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 depending on booking time and season.

• Airport to caves:

  Aurangabad Airport is about 35 km from Ajanta Ellora. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber) are readily available for the 1-hour drive.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights at least 2 weeks in advance for better fares. Check for connecting flights via Mumbai or Hyderabad if direct options are unavailable.

• Seasonal advice:

  Flights may be affected during monsoon or foggy winter mornings; plan accordingly.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Chennai to Ajanta Ellora Caves, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable trip without last-minute hassles.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites/apps for flights. Early booking secures better seats and fares.

• Plan your arrival in Aurangabad:

  Aim to reach Aurangabad by afternoon to arrange local transport and rest before visiting the caves.

• Arrange local transport:

  Prepaid taxis or private cabs from Aurangabad to Ajanta Ellora are recommended for comfort and time efficiency.

• Carry essentials for the caves:

  Water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and light snacks are important as facilities near the caves are limited.

• Start early at the caves:

  Ajanta Ellora opens by 9 AM; arriving early helps avoid crowds and afternoon heat.

• Return planning:

  Book your return train or flight tickets in advance and confirm local transport timings to Aurangabad station or airport.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC and flight booking:

  Use official IRCTC and airline apps for secure bookings. Beware of third-party sites charging extra fees.

• Water and food safety:

  Carry bottled water and eat at trusted eateries in Aurangabad. Avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Local commute apps:

  Ola and Uber operate in Aurangabad; use them for hassle-free rides instead of haggling with local drivers.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light for the caves visit; backpacks are easier to carry on uneven terrain.

• Safety tips:

  Avoid isolated areas near the caves after dark. Keep valuables secure and stay hydrated.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause slippery paths at the caves; wear appropriate footwear and check weather forecasts.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Ajanta Ellora from Chennai is during the cooler months from October to March, avoiding the intense summer heat and heavy monsoon rains.

Planning your travel outside major Indian festivals and weekends ensures less crowded trains, flights, and attractions, making your experience more enjoyable.

• Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons like Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi to prevent inflated prices and crowded transport.

• Winter mornings can be foggy in Aurangabad; schedule flights and trains accordingly to avoid delays.

• Depart early in the day to avoid city traffic in Chennai and Aurangabad, especially during rush hours (8–11 AM and 5–8 PM).

• Monsoon months (July–September) may disrupt travel plans due to heavy rains and slippery cave paths; plan visits in dry months.

Arrival at Ajanta Ellora Caves & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Aurangabad, travelers find a small but well-equipped airport and railway station with prepaid taxi counters. The drive to Ajanta Ellora takes about an hour through scenic rural Maharashtra.

At the caves, expect a well-maintained archaeological site with ticket counters, guides, and basic amenities. Nearby Aurangabad offers a range of hotels and eateries, making it a convenient base.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, private cabs, and some shared jeeps. For late arrivals, booking a cab via Ola or Uber is advisable for safety and convenience.

Conclusion

Among all options, flying from Chennai to Aurangabad followed by a taxi to Ajanta Ellora is the most efficient and comfortable way to travel, especially for those with limited time. This combination minimizes travel time and maximizes sightseeing opportunities.

Whether you choose train, bus, car, or flight, careful planning and early bookings will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently explore the magnificent Ajanta and Ellora Caves and immerse yourself in India's rich cultural heritage.