Shirdi, a renowned pilgrimage town in Maharashtra, is famous for the Sai Baba temple attracting millions annually. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, located near Aurangabad, are UNESCO World Heritage sites known for their ancient rock-cut architecture and exquisite murals. Traveling from Shirdi to Ajanta Ellora is a popular route for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Ajanta Ellora Caves from Shirdi, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. You will find detailed travel times, costs, and tips to plan your trip confidently, ensuring a comfortable and enriching journey.

Getting from Shirdi to Ajanta Ellora Caves – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a convenient and economical way to cover the distance between Shirdi and Aurangabad, the nearest railhead to Ajanta and Ellora. From Aurangabad, local transport can be used to reach the caves.

• Shirdi to Aurangabad trains:

  Several trains run daily between Shirdi Railway Station (SDE) and Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB), covering approximately 115 km in 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Ticket prices range from INR 100 to 300 depending on class.

• Train frequency and booking:

  Trains like the Sainagar Shirdi–Aurangabad Passenger and others run multiple times a day. Booking via IRCTC or at stations in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and festivals.

• Comfort and facilities:

  Trains are mostly passenger or express types with basic seating. Carry water and snacks as onboard catering is limited.

• From Aurangabad to caves:

  Aurangabad is about 30 km from Ellora and 100 km from Ajanta. Local buses, taxis, or shared cabs are available at Aurangabad station to reach the caves.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid monsoon months for train travel if possible, as heavy rains can cause delays on this route.

By Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option connecting Shirdi to Aurangabad, from where you can take local transport to Ajanta and Ellora. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates these routes.

• Shirdi to Aurangabad buses:

  MSRTC runs regular buses from Shirdi bus stand to Aurangabad bus stand, covering 115 km in about 3 to 4 hours. Ticket fares range from INR 80 to 150 depending on bus type.

• Bus types and timings:

  Options include ordinary, semi-deluxe, and air-conditioned buses. Early morning and evening buses are frequent; check MSRTC website or counters for schedules.

• From Aurangabad to caves:

  MSRTC and private buses connect Aurangabad to Ellora and Ajanta caves, but timings can be limited. Shared taxis are a faster alternative.

• Comfort and challenges:

  Buses can get crowded during peak pilgrimage seasons. Carry water and light snacks. Avoid traveling late at night due to limited services.

• Road conditions:

  The NH160 and NH52 highways on this route are generally in good condition, with scenic views of rural Maharashtra.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Shirdi to Ajanta Ellora offers flexibility and comfort, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The route is well-connected by national highways.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH160 and NH52, covering approximately 140 km to Ellora in around 3 to 3.5 hours. Ajanta is about 100 km further northwest from Ellora.

• Road quality and tolls:

  Roads are mostly two-lane highways with good maintenance. Expect a few toll plazas en route, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Navigation tips:

  Use GPS apps like Google Maps for real-time traffic updates. Fuel stations are available at regular intervals, including near Shirdi and Aurangabad.

• Parking and access:

  Both Ajanta and Ellora caves have designated parking areas. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking spots.

• Seasonal advice:

  Avoid driving during heavy monsoon rains due to slippery roads and occasional waterlogging near ghats.

By Taxi / Private Cab

Hiring a taxi or private cab from Shirdi to Ajanta Ellora is a popular choice for tourists seeking convenience and door-to-door service. This option is especially suitable for groups or families.

• Taxi availability:

  Prepaid and app-based taxis like Ola and Uber operate in Shirdi, but for long-distance trips, it’s best to book through local travel agents or taxi services offering day tours.

• Cost and duration:

  A round trip from Shirdi to Ajanta and Ellora with a day hire can cost between INR 3500 to 5000 depending on vehicle type. Travel time to Ellora is about 3 hours one way.

• Flexibility:

  Taxis allow stops at local eateries, markets, and other attractions en route. Drivers often act as informal guides with local knowledge.

• Booking tips:

  Confirm the fare and itinerary beforehand. Avoid unlicensed taxis to ensure safety and fair pricing.

• Comfort and convenience:

  Air-conditioned sedans or SUVs provide a comfortable ride, ideal during summer heat or monsoon season.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Shirdi to Ajanta Ellora efficiently, balancing travel time and sightseeing.

• Book your tickets early:

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

• Start early from Shirdi:

  Begin your trip in the morning to reach Aurangabad or the caves before noon, allowing ample time for exploration.

• Use local transport from Aurangabad:

  If arriving by train or bus, hire a prepaid taxi or shared cab from Aurangabad station or bus stand to the caves for convenience.

• Carry essentials:

  Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear as the caves involve walking and limited food options nearby.

• Plan your return:

  Check return train or bus timings in advance, or arrange your taxi for a hassle-free trip back to Shirdi.

• Stay overnight if needed:

  Consider staying in Aurangabad if you want to explore both Ajanta and Ellora over two days without rushing.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Use prepaid taxis or trusted cab services to avoid overcharging. Keep your belongings secure, especially at crowded stations and bus stands.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks from Shirdi, as food options near Ajanta are limited and often basic.

• Booking strategy:

  For trains, book tickets 30 days in advance on IRCTC. For buses, check MSRTC schedules online or at counters a day before travel.

• Local commute:

  Auto-rickshaws and shared cabs are available near Aurangabad station for short distances. Negotiate fares beforehand.

• Luggage handling:

  Travel light as you will need to walk inside cave complexes. Use lockers at Aurangabad station if available.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid monsoon months (July-September) for smoother travel. Summers can be hot; carry hats and sunscreen.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Shirdi to Ajanta Ellora is during the cooler months from October to March. Weather is pleasant, making cave exploration enjoyable.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains that can disrupt road and rail travel and make the caves slippery and less accessible.

• Avoid peak festival weekends in Shirdi to escape crowd-related delays on roads and trains.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic and reach caves before noon crowds.

• Winter mornings can be foggy near Aurangabad; plan accordingly for train or bus timings.

• Summer afternoons are hot; schedule cave visits in the morning or late afternoon for comfort.

Arrival at Ajanta Ellora Caves & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Ajanta or Ellora, visitors are greeted by well-maintained archaeological sites with ticket counters, guides, and basic amenities. The caves are spread out, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Local transport options include shared jeeps, auto-rickshaws, and taxis that connect the caves to Aurangabad city and nearby hotels. Accommodation is available in Aurangabad, which is the best base for exploring both cave complexes.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by train from Shirdi to Aurangabad followed by a taxi to Ajanta Ellora offers a balanced mix of economy and convenience. It avoids road traffic and provides a comfortable journey with flexible timing.

With proper planning and early bookings, you can enjoy a seamless trip from the spiritual aura of Shirdi to the ancient marvels of Ajanta and Ellora. This guide equips you to travel confidently and make the most of your cultural exploration.