Ellora Caves are located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, famous for their ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. Shirdi, also in Maharashtra, is a popular pilgrimage town known for the Sai Baba temple. Many travelers visit both places on the same trip due to their religious and historical significance.

This guide explains the best ways to travel from Shirdi to Ellora Caves. You will learn about train, bus, car, and taxi options, including travel times, fares, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Shirdi to Ellora Caves – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a convenient option for those who prefer rail transport. While Shirdi has a railway station, Ellora Caves do not have a direct station, so you will need to travel via Aurangabad.

• From Shirdi Railway Station, take a train to Aurangabad Railway Station, which is about 90 km away and takes around 2 to 3 hours depending on the train service chosen.

• Train fares typically range from ₹100 to ₹300 for second class or sleeper class, making it an affordable option for budget travelers.

• Trains run several times a day, but booking in advance through IRCTC is recommended, especially during festivals or weekends when trains get crowded.

• From Aurangabad station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Ellora Caves, which is about 30 km and takes 45 minutes to 1 hour.

• Be aware that last-mile connectivity from Aurangabad station may have limited public transport options in early mornings or late evenings, so plan accordingly.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and economical way to travel between Shirdi and Ellora Caves, suitable for travelers comfortable with public transport.

• State-run buses by MSRTC operate from Shirdi bus stand to Aurangabad bus stand frequently, with journey times around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and route.

• From Aurangabad bus stand, local buses or shared jeeps are available to Ellora Caves, taking about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

• Bus fares from Shirdi to Aurangabad range between ₹100 and ₹200, while local transport to Ellora costs ₹30 to ₹60.

• Buses can be crowded during weekends and holidays, so arriving early at the bus stand is advisable to secure a seat.

• During the monsoon season, road conditions may slow down bus travel, so allow extra time for your journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Shirdi to Ellora Caves is a popular choice for travelers who want flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic and well connected by highways.

• The distance between Shirdi and Ellora Caves is approximately 120 km via NH160 and NH52, taking around 3 to 3.5 hours by car depending on traffic.

• Car rental services and self-drive options are available in Shirdi, with daily rental rates starting from ₹1500 to ₹2500 depending on the vehicle type.

• The route passes through towns like Kopargaon and Aurangabad, with several highway restaurants and fuel stations for breaks.

• There are toll plazas on NH160 and NH52, so keep some cash ready for toll payments during the journey.

• Driving during early morning or late afternoon avoids heavy traffic near Aurangabad and Shirdi, making the trip smoother.

Taxi

Hiring a taxi or cab is a comfortable and hassle-free way to reach Ellora Caves from Shirdi, especially for groups or families.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Shirdi and can be booked for a one-way trip to Ellora Caves.

• The taxi fare for the 120 km journey usually ranges from ₹2500 to ₹3500, depending on the vehicle type and negotiation.

• Taxi drivers often wait at Shirdi railway station, bus stand, and near the Sai Baba temple, making it easy to find a cab.

• This option offers door-to-door service, allowing you to stop at places of interest en route or carry luggage comfortably.

• Booking your taxi in advance during peak pilgrimage seasons is advisable to avoid last-minute price hikes and availability issues.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Shirdi to Ellora Caves. It covers what to do at each stage and useful tips to make your journey smooth.

• Step 1: Book your train or bus ticket from Shirdi to Aurangabad in advance via IRCTC or MSRTC websites to avoid last-minute rush and ensure seat availability.

• Step 2: Reach Shirdi railway station or bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus easily and avoid confusion.

• Step 3: Upon arrival at Aurangabad, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs to book transport to Ellora Caves, ensuring fair pricing and safety.

• Step 4: Carry water and snacks for the onward journey to Ellora, as public transport options may have limited food stops on the route.

• Step 5: At Ellora Caves, purchase entry tickets and hire a local guide if interested, to get the most out of your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Step 6: For return, plan your transport from Ellora to Aurangabad in advance, especially if using public buses or shared vehicles, to avoid waiting long hours.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a bottle of water and avoid drinking tap water during travel; buy bottled water from trusted shops to stay hydrated safely.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs at Aurangabad and Shirdi to avoid overcharging and ensure reliable rides.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, as public transport vehicles can get crowded and space limited.

• During monsoon, roads near Ellora can be slippery; wear comfortable shoes with good grip and check weather updates before traveling.

• Book train and bus tickets online in advance, especially during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, when pilgrim traffic surges.

• Try local food at highway dhabas en route but avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach to prevent illness during travel.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Shirdi to Ellora Caves is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and road travel.

Avoid traveling during peak summer months (April to June) as temperatures can soar above 40°C, making daytime travel uncomfortable. Monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains that can delay road and bus travel.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Ram Navami, as roads and transport hubs get crowded with pilgrims.

• Fog in early mornings during winter months can reduce visibility on highways, so start your journey after sunrise for safety.

• Depart early in the morning from Shirdi to avoid afternoon heat and traffic near Aurangabad, ensuring a smoother trip.

• Monsoon rains can cause occasional roadblocks near Ellora; check local weather and road conditions before starting your journey.

Arrival at Ellora Caves & What to Expect

When you arrive at Ellora Caves, you will find a well-maintained parking area and entry gate. The site is about 30 km from Aurangabad city, so local transport options include shared jeeps, auto-rickshaws, and taxis.

Most visitors stay in Aurangabad, which has a wide range of hotels and guesthouses. From Aurangabad, you can take a taxi or bus to Ellora early in the morning. At the caves, prepaid ticket counters and guides are available. After your visit, prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are reliable for returning to Aurangabad or Shirdi.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Shirdi to Ellora Caves is by combining train or bus to Aurangabad, followed by a short taxi or bus ride to the caves. This option balances cost, comfort, and convenience well for most travelers.

Planning your journey in advance, booking tickets online, and choosing travel times outside peak hours will help you avoid crowds and delays. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable visit to these iconic destinations in Maharashtra.