Ajanta Ellora Caves, located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites famous for their ancient rock-cut architecture and intricate murals. Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a major metropolitan city in eastern India. Traveling from Kolkata to Ajanta Ellora is popular among history enthusiasts, art lovers, and cultural tourists seeking to explore these remarkable caves.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Ajanta Ellora Caves from Kolkata, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed information on routes, travel times, costs, and tips to help you plan your journey smoothly and make the most of your visit.

Getting from Kolkata to Ajanta Ellora Caves – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a popular and economical option for this long-distance journey, connecting Kolkata to Aurangabad, the nearest major railhead to Ajanta Ellora. Indian Railways offers several trains on this route, though the journey is lengthy.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from Kolkata’s Howrah Junction (HWH) to Aurangabad (AWB), which is about 100 km from Ajanta Ellora. Aurangabad station is well connected and has frequent taxis to the caves.

• Distance and duration:

  The rail distance is approximately 1700 km, taking 30 to 36 hours depending on the train. Ticket prices range from ₹700 for sleeper class to ₹2500+ for AC classes.

• Train options and frequency:

  Trains like the Kolkata–Mumbai Duronto Express and other express trains run regularly. Booking via IRCTC well in advance is advised due to high demand.

• Comfort and amenities:

  AC coaches offer comfortable travel for this long journey. Carry snacks and water, as pantry car services may be limited on some trains.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during monsoon months (July–September) as delays are common due to heavy rains. Winter months offer pleasant weather for onward travel from Aurangabad.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Aurangabad, take a local bus or taxi to Ajanta (about 100 km, 2–3 hours). Prepaid taxis are available at the station; negotiate fares beforehand.

By Bus

Bus travel from Kolkata to Aurangabad is less common due to the long distance and duration but can be considered for budget travelers willing to break the journey into segments.

• Route and operators:

  No direct buses run this entire route. Travelers can take buses from Kolkata to Nagpur or Aurangabad via Mumbai, changing buses at major hubs.

• Travel time and cost:

  Total bus travel can exceed 40 hours with multiple changes. Ticket costs vary widely but are generally cheaper than trains.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Long-distance Volvo or deluxe buses operate on parts of the route, but overnight journeys may be tiring.

• Break stops and amenities:

  Major bus terminals like Nagpur and Mumbai have good facilities for rest and food. Plan layovers accordingly.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Avoid monsoon season due to road conditions and potential delays on highways like NH53 and NH52.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Ajanta Ellora is a long but adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and want to explore en route destinations.

• Route details:

  The most common route follows NH19 from Kolkata to Nagpur, then NH53 and NH52 towards Aurangabad. The total distance is around 1700 km.

• Travel time and stops:

  Expect 30–35 hours of driving time, best split over 2–3 days with overnight stops in cities like Nagpur or Amravati.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are generally in good condition, but monsoon rains can cause slippery patches. Toll plazas are frequent; keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Fuel and food:

  Numerous fuel stations and dhabas are available along the route. Try local Maharashtrian cuisine in towns like Nagpur and Aurangabad.

• Navigation tips:

  Use GPS apps like Google Maps or MapMyIndia. Be cautious of heavy traffic near metro cities and plan to avoid peak hours.

By Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Aurangabad from Kolkata, especially for travelers with limited time.

• Airports:

  Fly from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata to Aurangabad Airport (IXU), which is about 30 km from Ajanta Ellora.

• Flight duration and airlines:

  Direct flights take around 2.5 to 3 hours. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate on this route with daily or frequent flights.

• Cost and booking:

  Airfares range from ₹3000 to ₹7000 depending on the season and booking time. Book tickets early on airline websites or aggregator apps for best deals.

• Airport transfers:

  From Aurangabad Airport, taxis and rental cars are available to reach Ajanta Ellora in about 1 hour. Prepaid taxis at the airport are recommended.

• Seasonal travel tips:

  Flights are less affected by weather, but monsoon season can cause occasional delays. Early morning flights are preferable for smooth onward travel.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Ajanta Ellora, balancing convenience and sightseeing.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC or airline websites to secure seats at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Reach your departure point early:

  Arrive at Howrah Station or Kolkata Airport at least 1.5 hours before departure to avoid last-minute rush and check-in delays.

• Pack essentials for long travel:

  Carry water, snacks, a power bank, and light blankets for comfort during the journey, especially on trains or buses.

• Plan your arrival in Aurangabad:

  Pre-book a taxi or check local bus schedules to Ajanta Ellora. Confirm timings with your accommodation for smooth transfers.

• Reserve accommodation near Ajanta or Aurangabad:

  Choose hotels or guesthouses close to the caves or city center for easy access and local guidance.

• Schedule cave visits early in the day:

  Arrive at Ajanta Ellora by morning to avoid crowds and afternoon heat, and carry water and sun protection.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC booking tips:

  Use the IRCTC app or website for train bookings; Tatkal quota opens at 10 AM daily for last-minute tickets. Avoid agents to prevent scams.

• Food and water safety:

  Prefer bottled water and freshly cooked meals during travel. Avoid street food in transit hubs to prevent stomach issues.

• Local commute apps:

  Use Ola or Uber in Aurangabad for reliable and affordable rides. Prepaid taxis at stations and airports offer fixed fares.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon and warm clothes for winter mornings in Aurangabad.

• Safety precautions:

  Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded places. Night travel on highways is not recommended due to limited lighting and wildlife crossings.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Monsoon rains can cause landslides and roadblocks near Ajanta. Check weather forecasts and local news before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The ideal time to visit Ajanta Ellora from Kolkata is during the cooler months from October to March. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoons bring heavy rains affecting travel.

Planning your journey to avoid peak traffic and adverse weather will enhance your experience and safety.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or Durga Puja when trains and flights are crowded and expensive.

• Winter mornings in Aurangabad can be foggy; schedule departures after 8 AM for better visibility.

• Monsoon season (July–September) may cause delays and slippery conditions on roads and cave steps.

• Early morning departures from Kolkata help avoid city traffic and ensure timely connections.

Arrival at Ajanta Ellora & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Aurangabad, travelers will find a small but well-connected city with good facilities. The drive to Ajanta Ellora takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by taxi or bus.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, rental cars, and government buses. The caves are spread out, so hiring a local guide or joining a tour is recommended for a richer experience. Nearby hotels and guesthouses offer comfortable stays with easy access to the sites.

Conclusion

Flying from Kolkata to Aurangabad is the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Ajanta Ellora Caves, especially for those short on time. It significantly reduces travel time and offers convenient onward transfers.

For budget travelers, trains provide a scenic and affordable alternative, though the journey is long. With proper planning and advance bookings, you can confidently explore these magnificent heritage sites and enjoy a memorable cultural journey.