Bangalore, the bustling capital of Karnataka, is a major IT and cultural hub in southern India. Aurangabad, located in Maharashtra, is famous for its historical sites like Ajanta and Ellora Caves, making this route popular among tourists and history enthusiasts. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, this guide will help you navigate the best ways to travel from Bangalore to Aurangabad efficiently.

In this article, you'll find detailed information on various transport modes including trains, buses, flights, and self-drive options. We also provide practical travel tips, a step-by-step plan, and advice on the best time to travel, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Getting from Bangalore to Aurangabad – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for this route, connecting the two cities through several direct and connecting trains. Indian Railways offers a comfortable and scenic journey, though the travel time can be long.

• Key stations:

  Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) and Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB) are the main hubs. Direct trains like the Aurangabad Express run weekly, covering approximately 1,200 km.

• Travel time and cost:

  The journey typically takes 24 to 30 hours depending on the train, with sleeper class tickets ranging from ₹600 to ₹1,200 and AC classes costing ₹1,200 to ₹2,500.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Trains run a few times a week, so booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended. AC coaches provide better comfort for the long journey, and onboard catering is limited but available on some trains.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak festival seasons like Diwali or Ganesh Chaturthi to prevent overcrowding. Monsoon months may cause delays due to track maintenance.

• Scenic views and stops:

  The route passes through diverse landscapes including the Deccan plateau and parts of Maharashtra, with stops at key junctions like Solapur and Pune, where you can stretch and refresh.

• Challenges:

  Long travel time and occasional delays are common. Booking tickets early and choosing trains with fewer stops can help reduce travel fatigue.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly option with several state-run and private operators connecting Bangalore and Aurangabad. However, the journey is quite long and can be tiring.

• Operators and routes:

  MSRTC and Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) do not operate direct buses, but private Volvo and sleeper buses run via Pune or Solapur.

• Travel time and cost:

  The bus journey can take 24 to 30 hours covering around 1,200 km. Ticket prices vary from ₹800 to ₹1,500 depending on the bus type and operator.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo and sleeper buses provide reasonable comfort with reclining seats and onboard amenities. Buses run 2-3 times a week, so booking in advance is advisable.

• Road conditions and stops:

  The route primarily follows NH48 and NH52, with decent road conditions and rest stops at major towns like Hubli and Solapur. Avoid night travel during monsoon due to slippery roads.

• Seasonal tips:

  Summer months can be hot and uncomfortable on buses without air conditioning. Booking a Volvo bus is preferable for better cooling and comfort.

• Challenges:

  Long hours on the road can be exhausting. Carry water and snacks, and plan for breaks at major stops to refresh.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Bangalore to Aurangabad offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. The journey covers diverse landscapes and several interesting stops.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH48 and NH52, covering approximately 1,200 km and taking around 22 to 24 hours of driving time.

• Road conditions:

  The highways are mostly well-maintained, with tolls at various points. Fuel stations and eateries like roadside dhabas and chain restaurants are available along the way.

• Stops and sightseeing:

  Consider stopping at Pune or Solapur for rest and sightseeing. Ajanta and Ellora Caves near Aurangabad are must-visit attractions.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid driving at night, especially during monsoon, due to fog and slippery roads. Plan your trip with overnight halts to avoid fatigue.

• Car rental and costs:

  Self-drive cars can be rented from Bangalore with daily rates starting at ₹2,500 plus fuel. Ensure your vehicle is serviced and equipped for long-distance travel.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion near Bangalore and Pune can cause delays. Use GPS navigation and check real-time traffic updates to plan your journey.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Aurangabad from Bangalore, especially for business travelers or those short on time.

• Airports:

  Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore and Aurangabad Airport (IXU) serve this route. Aurangabad Airport is about 8 km from the city center.

• Flight duration and cost:

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

• Airlines and frequency:

  Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate direct and connecting flights multiple times a week. Booking early can secure better fares.

• Airport facilities:

  Both airports offer modern amenities, prepaid taxi counters, and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber for onward travel.

• Seasonal tips:

  Flights can be affected by fog in winter mornings; early afternoon flights are generally more reliable.

• Challenges:

  Aurangabad Airport has limited flight options compared to major metros, so flexibility in travel dates helps in finding suitable flights.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Bangalore to Aurangabad, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Book your tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains, official bus portals, or airline websites to secure your seat well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

• 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.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, snacks, a power bank, and a light blanket or shawl for long train or bus rides.

• Plan local commute in Aurangabad:

  Prepaid taxis are available at the airport and railway station. Apps like Ola and Uber operate in the city for convenient travel.

• Check weather and road conditions:

  Before starting your journey by road, check for monsoon updates or traffic advisories to avoid delays.

• Keep ID and booking confirmations handy:

  Carry a valid ID and digital or printed tickets to ensure smooth boarding and check-ins.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety:

  Always use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs in Aurangabad to avoid overcharging. Avoid isolated areas late at night.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially during train or bus journeys. Stop at reputable eateries during road trips to enjoy local cuisine safely.

• Booking strategy:

  For trains, book tickets 120 days in advance on IRCTC to get confirmed seats. Flights and buses also offer early bird discounts.

• Local commute:

  Aurangabad is well connected by auto-rickshaws and app cabs. Negotiate fares beforehand if using autos.

• Luggage:

  Pack light but include essentials like chargers, medicines, and travel documents. Keep valuables close during transit.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Monsoon can cause roadblocks and train delays; check weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Bangalore to Aurangabad depends on weather and traffic conditions. Avoiding peak traffic hours and extreme weather ensures a comfortable journey.

Winter months from November to February offer pleasant weather in Aurangabad, ideal for sightseeing and travel. Summers can be hot, while monsoons bring heavy rains affecting road and rail travel.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali to prevent overcrowding and high ticket prices.

• Early morning or late evening departures help avoid Bangalore's peak traffic congestion.

• Monsoon months (June to September) may cause delays; prefer flights or check road conditions carefully.

• Midday flights are less likely to be delayed by fog compared to early morning flights in winter.

Arrival at Aurangabad & What to Expect

On arrival in Aurangabad, travelers find a city blending history with modern amenities. The Aurangabad Railway Station and Airport are well connected to the city center.

Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for easy local travel. Popular stay areas include near the city center and close to tourist hubs for convenient access to attractions.

Conclusion

Among the various options, flying from Bangalore to Aurangabad is the most time-efficient and comfortable mode, especially for those with limited travel days. Trains offer a budget-friendly alternative with scenic views but require more time and planning.

With this guide, you can confidently choose the best travel mode that suits your schedule and preferences, ensuring a smooth journey to Aurangabad’s rich cultural heritage and historical marvels.