Kailasa Temple, located in the Ellora Caves near Aurangabad, Maharashtra, is a remarkable rock-cut monument and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It attracts travelers from across India and the world who want to witness its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.

This route from Delhi to Kailasa Temple is popular among tourists and pilgrims. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel, including trains, buses, cars, and flights, along with practical tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Delhi to Kailasa Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for reaching Aurangabad, the nearest major railhead to Kailasa Temple. Trains offer comfort and scenic views but require onward travel from Aurangabad to Ellora.

• Delhi to Aurangabad trains depart from New Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin, covering about 1,200 km in 18 to 24 hours depending on the train type and route.

• Popular trains include the Sachkhand Express and Aurangabad Express, with fares ranging from INR 500 for sleeper class to INR 2,000 for AC classes, offering various comfort levels.

• Trains run daily but can be crowded during festivals and holidays like Diwali and summer vacations, so booking tickets early on IRCTC is advisable to secure preferred classes.

• From Aurangabad Railway Station, local taxis or buses take about 30 minutes to reach Ellora Caves where Kailasa Temple is located, with fares around INR 200 to 400.

• Seasonal weather like monsoon rains can cause minor delays, so check train status before departure and plan buffer time for last-mile travel.

Bus

Buses provide a budget-friendly option with direct and connecting services from Delhi to Aurangabad. This mode suits travelers who prefer road travel and want to experience local transport.

• Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate operates long-distance buses to Aurangabad, with journey times around 24 to 28 hours covering roughly 1,300 km via NH 52 and NH 48.

• State-run buses like MSRTC and private Volvo coaches offer sleeper and semi-sleeper services, with fares ranging from INR 800 to 1,500 depending on the bus type.

• Bus frequency is moderate, with more options during holiday seasons; booking tickets online or at the bus depot in advance is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Road conditions are generally good on national highways but monsoon months can cause waterlogging and slow travel, so plan accordingly.

• From Aurangabad bus stand, local shared autos or taxis can take you to Ellora Caves in about 30 minutes, with fares negotiated locally.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Kailasa Temple offers flexibility and the chance to explore scenic routes. It is suitable for travelers comfortable with long-distance driving and Indian highway conditions.

• The distance from Delhi to Ellora Caves is approximately 1,200 km via NH 48 and NH 52, typically taking 20 to 24 hours of driving time depending on traffic and stops.

• Major toll plazas on this route include those near Jaipur, Udaipur, and Nashik, with toll charges totaling around INR 1,200 to 1,500 one way.

• Rest stops with food options are available at highway dhabas and restaurants near Jaipur, Indore, and Aurangabad, offering local cuisine and refreshments.

• Driving through Rajasthan and Maharashtra requires caution during monsoon due to slippery roads and occasional fog in early mornings, especially near the Aravalli ranges.

• Self-drive car rentals with GPS and roadside assistance are available in Delhi, with daily rental costs ranging from INR 2,500 to 4,000 depending on the vehicle type.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach Aurangabad from Delhi, ideal for travelers with limited time. From Aurangabad airport, you will need local transport to reach Kailasa Temple.

• Direct flights from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport to Aurangabad Airport take about 2 hours, with airlines like IndiGo and Air India operating multiple daily flights.

• Flight fares range from INR 3,000 to 6,000 one way, varying by season and how early you book tickets on airline websites or apps.

• Aurangabad Airport is approximately 30 km from Ellora Caves; prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for the 40 to 50-minute drive, costing around INR 800 to 1,200.

• Flight frequency is good, but during monsoon or foggy winter mornings, delays can occur, so check flight status before traveling to the airport.

• Booking flights early during peak tourist seasons such as winter and festival times ensures better prices and seat availability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time visitors from Delhi to Kailasa Temple, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or flight tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance via IRCTC or airline websites to secure preferred dates and classes, especially during holidays.

• If traveling by train, choose a train that arrives in Aurangabad during daylight hours to avoid last-mile travel difficulties after dark.

• Arrange local transport from Aurangabad to Ellora Caves in advance by booking a prepaid taxi or using reliable app-based cabs to ensure safe and timely arrival.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a hat, as the temple area involves some walking and can get hot during the day.

• Check weather forecasts before departure; monsoon months require rain gear and sturdy footwear for slippery paths around the caves.

• Carry a valid photo ID for train, flight, and taxi bookings, and keep digital copies of your tickets and hotel reservations handy on your phone.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs at Aurangabad Railway Station and Airport to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Drink only bottled water and eat at well-reviewed restaurants or dhabas to avoid stomach issues common in unfamiliar places.

• Book train and flight tickets online through official portals like IRCTC and airline websites to avoid scams and last-minute price hikes.

• Use local shared autos or buses for short distances around Aurangabad to save money, but confirm fares before boarding.

• Carry a small daypack with sunscreen, a water bottle, and basic first aid, as medical facilities near Ellora Caves are limited.

• During monsoon, check for any travel advisories or road closures on NH 48 and NH 52 to avoid delays and detours.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kailasa Temple is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and dry. Summers can be very hot, and monsoon rains may disrupt travel plans.

Peak tourist seasons include winter holidays and festival periods like Diwali, so expect higher prices and crowded trains and flights during these times.

• Avoid traveling during July and August when heavy monsoon rains can cause roadblocks and slippery conditions on highways and near the caves.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help avoid city traffic and reach Aurangabad or Ellora during daylight, making local travel easier and safer.

• Festival times such as Navratri and Ganesh Chaturthi attract more visitors to Aurangabad, so book transport and accommodation well in advance.

• Winter fog in northern India can delay trains and flights, so allow extra travel time if traveling in December or January.

Arrival at Kailasa Temple & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Ellora Caves, you will find well-marked entrances and ticket counters for Kailasa Temple. The site is well-maintained with guides available for hire to explain the temple’s history and architecture.

Local transport options include shared autos, private taxis, and cycle rickshaws. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are recommended for comfort and safety. Nearby Aurangabad city offers a range of accommodation options from budget hotels to mid-range stays.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Kailasa Temple involves multiple transport options, with trains and flights to Aurangabad being the most efficient. Each mode has its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and comfort preferences.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging reliable local transport will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. With these tips, you can confidently explore the magnificent Kailasa Temple and experience one of India’s greatest heritage sites.