Ellora is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra. It is renowned for its ancient rock-cut caves that attract tourists and history lovers from all over India and abroad. Many travelers visit Ellora as part of their Maharashtra tour, making this route quite popular.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Ellora, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. You will also get practical tips on planning your journey and what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Aurangabad to Ellora – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is suitable if you are coming from major cities to Aurangabad first. Aurangabad is well connected by rail, but there is no direct train to Ellora. You will need to combine train and road transport.

• Aurangabad Railway Station is the nearest major station to Ellora, about 30 km away, with good connectivity to Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Delhi. Trains run frequently, and fares range from ₹150 to ₹800 depending on class.

• From Aurangabad station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Ellora caves. The road journey takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour via NH753A, depending on traffic and weather.

• Train travel is comfortable and economical, but plan your onward road transport in advance, especially during weekends or holidays when local taxis may be in high demand.

• Monsoon season can cause delays on the road from Aurangabad to Ellora due to slippery conditions and occasional waterlogging, so check local weather before traveling.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to reach Ellora from Aurangabad and nearby towns. State-run and private buses operate regularly, but comfort levels vary.

• Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) runs frequent buses from Aurangabad central bus stand to Ellora, with journey times around 1 to 1.5 hours and fares between ₹30 and ₹70.

• Private buses and shared taxis are also available from Aurangabad and Jalgaon, but these can be crowded during peak tourist seasons and weekends.

• Most buses use the NH753A highway, which is well maintained, but expect delays during monsoon or festival times like Ganesh Chaturthi.

• Bus stops near the Ellora caves entrance are basic; carry water and snacks as food options are limited on the route.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Ellora is a convenient option if you prefer flexibility and comfort. The roads are generally good, and the route is scenic.

• The distance from Aurangabad to Ellora is about 30 km via NH753A, taking roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour by car depending on traffic.

• Self-drive cars or rental vehicles are available in Aurangabad, with daily rental rates starting around ₹1500 to ₹2500 depending on car type.

• There are toll plazas on the NH753A route, so keep some cash handy. The road has several small eateries and petrol stations for breaks.

• Driving during early morning hours avoids city traffic and offers a smoother journey, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Parking is available near the Ellora caves site, but it can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Aurangabad to Ellora is a popular choice for tourists who want hassle-free travel with a driver.

• Prepaid taxis are available at Aurangabad Airport and railway station, with fares to Ellora ranging from ₹800 to ₹1200 one way depending on vehicle type.

• App-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Aurangabad and can be booked for outstation trips to Ellora, but availability may be limited during late hours.

• Taxi drivers often wait near the Ellora caves entrance, so you can arrange return trips or local sightseeing easily.

• Booking a taxi for a full day is cost-effective if you plan to visit nearby attractions like Ajanta Caves or Daulatabad Fort along with Ellora.

• During peak tourist seasons, pre-book your taxi to avoid last-minute price hikes or unavailability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Ellora, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train ticket to Aurangabad early via IRCTC or authorized agents to secure preferred travel dates and classes, especially during holidays.

• Upon arrival at Aurangabad station, head to the prepaid taxi counter or book an app-based cab for the trip to Ellora to avoid bargaining or overcharging.

• Carry a small daypack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat, as the Ellora caves area has limited shade and food stalls.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid city traffic and reach Ellora before noon, when it gets crowded and hot.

• At Ellora, purchase your entry ticket at the official counter and consider hiring a local guide for detailed historical insights.

• After exploring, use the same taxi or bus to return to Aurangabad or continue your onward travel plans.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid or app-based taxis in Aurangabad to avoid scams and ensure fixed fares for your trip to Ellora.

• Drink bottled water and carry your own snacks, as food options near Ellora caves are limited and may not suit all tastes.

• Book train and bus tickets in advance during festival seasons like Diwali or Ganesh Chaturthi when travel demand spikes sharply.

• Local transport options from Aurangabad to Ellora include shared autos and buses; confirm timings and routes at your hotel or station.

• Pack light but include comfortable walking shoes, as exploring Ellora involves walking on uneven rocky surfaces.

• During monsoon months (June to September), check weather updates as heavy rains can disrupt road travel and cause slippery paths at the caves.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Ellora is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making sightseeing comfortable. Summers can be very hot, and monsoon rains may cause travel delays.

Planning your trip outside major festivals and weekends helps avoid crowds and higher prices. Early morning departures are recommended for a smooth journey and better experience at the caves.

• Avoid traveling during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali festivals when Aurangabad and nearby areas experience heavy traffic and accommodation shortages.

• Monsoon season brings heavy rains from June to September, which can cause slippery roads and limited visibility on NH753A highway.

• Summer months (April to June) can be very hot, with temperatures rising above 40°C, so carry water and sun protection.

• Departing early morning from Aurangabad ensures less traffic and cooler temperatures for visiting Ellora caves.

Arrival at Ellora & What to Expect

When you arrive at Ellora, you will find a well-marked entrance with ticket counters and basic visitor facilities. The area is not very crowded early in the day but can get busy by noon.

Local transport options around Ellora are limited, so walking is the best way to explore the caves. Nearby Aurangabad offers a range of accommodations from budget hotels to mid-range stays. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available for return trips or onward travel.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Ellora is by first traveling to Aurangabad by train or flight, then taking a taxi or self-driving the 30 km to the caves. This offers a good balance of comfort, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. Buses are a budget-friendly option but may take longer and be less comfortable.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, traveling during the cooler months, and starting early in the day to avoid crowds and heat. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy the remarkable heritage of Ellora and make your trip smooth and memorable.