Aurangabad Caves

The 12 aesthetically stunning rock-cut Buddhist caverns at Aurangabad Caves, located close to Aurangabad in the Maharashtra state's Sihaychal Mountains, date from the sixth and seventh centuries. Each of the caverns contains several outstanding Tantric Buddhist deities that have been carved and sculptured. The caverns, which are around 9 kilometers from the city, provide a breathtaking perspective of the surroundings and are a pleasant place to visit. Do make time on your journey to Aurangabad to visit this historical place.

As the Aurangabad Caves lack inscriptions, unlike other caves, there are few historical records of them. Their beginnings may be found in the sixth and seventh centuries, according to historians. The oldest mention of this location may be found in Kanheri Caves, a collection of caverns carved out of rock in Maharashtra. One of the rare caves in India where you can witness sculptures of Ganesha and Durga from the first millennium AD is this one.

The soft basalt rocks that make up the Aurangabad Caves are used to chisel out constructions. These contain Buddhist temples and dwellings known as viharas which are examples of early Buddhist architecture.

The site comprises a total of 12 caverns, which have been numbered and categorized into three groups. The first group, known as the Western Group, is made up of Caves 1 through 5, while the second group is made up of Caves 6 through 9. (Eastern Group). The third group includes the final three caverns, Caves 10, 11, and 12. (Northern Group).

The largest of the three caves, Cave 3 has a spacious veranda that is supported by four pillars, and a shrine that is situated in the centre of the main chamber. The largest veranda in the entire cluster, Cave 7, which is the most developed cave overall, contains two cells and two pilasters on each side. Avalokitesvara, Nandikesvara, Varaha, Ganesha, Manjusri, and other Buddhist deities are also etched onto the edifice.

• Cave 1 :  includes a veranda with enormous Buddha statues and is supported by eight pillars. The square bases of the pillars are engraved with images of tree Goddesses and Ganas.
• Cave 2 : The primary Buddha statue in this cave is seated on a lion's throne in the Pralambapadasana pose, with the Dharmachakra Mudra shown on the hands.
• Cave 3 : In this cave, there is a sculpture of the Buddha who is seated in a preaching position. The doors feature striking floral patterns, while the arches feature Naga protectors.
• Cave 4 : Cave 4 has an octagonal roof and a square-shaped chaitya (a sanctuary or prayer hall). Stepped merlons, which are also seen in the Ajanta Caves, are shown in sculptures all around it.
• Cave 5 : At cave number five, the Buddha statue is positioned on a rectangular pedestal in Padmasana with his hands in the Dhyana Mudra. On the walls are engraved a number of Sarasvati Miracle figures.
• Cave 6 : It features a porch, a veranda, and chambers carved into the left and right walls of the hall. The veranda is supported by pillars. In this scene, the Buddha is seated with other characters on a western-style lion throne. Buddhist images can be seen in two other small shrines in this cave.
• Cave 7 : Cave 7 features two chapels as well as statues of Tara, Pancika, Hariti, Ganesha, Avalokitesvara, and other deities, in addition to the major Buddha sculpture in the centre shrine.
• Cave 8 : You may enter Cave 8 from Cave 7's veranda. It is a tiny cave. In the Padmasana, two Buddha images are seen.
• Cave 9 and 10 : While the buildings have sustained significant damage, it is still possible to see the statues of Tara, Padmapani, Manjusri, and Buddha here.
• Cave 11 and 12 : Caves 11 and 12 are two straightforward rooms in the back that lack carvings in favor of plain pillars.

• Admission Fee : For Indian tourists, the entrance cost is INR 10, while it is INR 100 for foreigners.
• Visitation Hours : Open from 9 AM to 5 PM, it welcomes wanderers anytime they feel like taking a breath of clean, yet antiquated air.
• Visitation Time : The typical visitation period ranges from two to three hours. Yet, it all relies on personal preference and interest.

• Goga Baba Hill : Goga Baba Hill, which is located outside of Aurangabad, is a peaceful setting ideal for a little retreat. The hill's peak is an easy ascent that takes around 30 minutes and is a favorite with hikers. On the summit of Goga Hill, you have a stunning 360-degree view of the whole city, including Hanuman Tekdi, Aurangabad Caves, Devgiri Fort, and Bibi ka Maqbara. The sunset is also very beautiful.
• Ellora Caves : Ellora Caves, which are made up of well-known rock sanctuaries, are a synthesis of Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. The first 12 caves belong to the Buddhist group, the next 17 to the Hindu group, and the final five to the Jain group. If you go quickly enough, you may easily complete your 34-cave Ellora Caves tour in about three hours.
• Daulatabad Fort : This is one among the select few tourist destinations nearby Aurangabad that have a good temperature year-round. Although most visitors like to travel during the rainy season, use caution as your path may get slick. Daulatabad Fort, another well-liked tourist spot in Maharashtra, is a true gem for all history buffs. This fort, which has a triangle form, symbolizes Maharashtra's cultural legacy. Inside the fort are several stunning structures, including the Chini Mahal, Chand Minar, and Elephant Tank. Just two people can pass via the bridge that connects the Fort's lower and upper levels at once. This fort is adjacent to a large ditch that is still populated with crocodiles.
• Khuldabad : Ajanta and Ellora Caves, a world heritage site, are 3 km and 13 km, respectively, from the little village of Khuldabad. As the former name "Rauzaa," which means "garden of heaven," suggests, Khuldabad is now known as the "Valley of Saints" since various Sufi saints lived there in the 14th century. Many significant historical landmarks, including Aurangzeb's Mausoleum, the Dargah of Zar Zari Zar Baksh, Shaikh Burhan ud-din Gharib Chisti, and Shaikh Zain-ud-din Shirazi, are located in this holy city.
• Tomb of Aurangzeb : The Mausoleum of Aurangzeb, the final and sixth Mughal Emperor, Muhi-ud-Din Muhammad, better known as Aurangzeb, is located in the Khuldabad hamlet, some 25 kilometers from Aurangabad. The Aurangzeb Tomb, in contrast to other opulent monuments constructed in their honor, is an unmarked burial at the Dargah of his spiritual mentor, Sheikh Zainuddin. It is reported that Aurangzeb wanted to be buried next to the dargah. Those interested in learning more about the grave's past come to this charming historical location.

• Vivanta Aurangabad : The well-known tourist destinations in and around Aurangabad are conveniently close to the Vivanta Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Our hotel in Aurangabad, which is 327 kilometers from Mumbai, is the ideal location for a pleasant holiday. Take advantage of our friendly service and a warm welcome to feel at home. Plan your next visit by looking at the 4D Travel all inclusive deal.
• Lemon Tree Hotel : The Wi-Fi and parking are both always free, so you can stay connected and come and go as you like. This facility brings you close to sights and fascinating eating alternatives because of its convenient location in New Delhi and NCR's Indira Gandhi International Airport neighborhood. Don't leave without visiting the well-known Qutub Minar. This superior hotel, which has a rating of 4.5 stars, offers on-site massage, dining, and exercise facilities to its visitors.
• The Fern Residency : While seeking a 4-star hotel in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, visitors should seriously consider The Fern Residency. It is close to the airport in Aurangabad. This hotel is recommended and stands out as one of the top hotels in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. The building enjoys a great position and provides easy access to the major transit hubs of the city.
• Hotel Kala Laxmi Executive : By booking a room at this hotel, which offers free Internet in every room, you can get the most out of your vacation. This facility brings you close to sights and intriguing eating alternatives because of its convenient location in Koh Samui's Lamai neighborhood. Don't leave without seeing the renowned Fisherman's Village. Visitors to this top-notch facility get access to the on-site restaurant, spa, and massage services.
• Hotel Riviera Executive : With complimentary Wi-Fi in each room, this hotel will help you start your journey off right. This facility brings you close to sights and fascinating eating alternatives because of its convenient location in the CIDCO area of Aurangabad. Don't leave without stopping at the renowned Aurangabad Airport. Restaurants are available on-site to readily meet your requirements as an extra benefit.

• Green Leaf Vegetarian Cuisine : Since its opening in 2014, Green Leaf has won widespread praise from the community as one of the best vegetarian eateries in Aurangabad. If you go to their outside eating area, you will be welcomed by an abundance of greenery and sunshine. The foyer is appealing, with marble floors and beautiful artwork on the walls.

Although Green Leaf serves both Chinese and North Indian cuisine, we strongly suggest the North Indian options. Try the paneer tikka with kulcha, then the rabdi, or the delightful deep-fried treat jalebi (a saucy, fermented sweet dish made with yogurt).

• Bhoj Thali Restaurant : One of the best places in Aurangabad to eat thalis and other set meals is Bhoj. Families eager for a hearty lunch usually fill this well-known eatery. Unquestionably, their most well-liked item is the thali. In contrast, a thali is served on a single round plate split into several dishes, as opposed to set meals or menus in Europe and North America, which often consist of multiple predetermined courses.

There are phulkas (Indian flatbread), two or three different vegetable dishes, a curry, lentil soup, rice, and a delectable dessert included in even the most basic thali offered here. Widespread use of ghee (clarified butter) in cooking produces delectable flavors.

• Kef Lounge : Prepare yourself for a meal at one of Aurangabad's first restaurants of its sort, the Multi Cuisine Lounge. This site is renowned for its practicality, tranquility, superior services, open and efficient communication, and relaxed and welcoming emotions.

Together with Biryani, Kebabs, and Sweets, this Aurangabad restaurant is well-known for its Mughlai, Sichuan, Chinese, and North Indian food. Ordering some of their most well-liked dishes, like Butter Chicken, Paneer Korma, Paneer Lababdar, or Kabab, can never go wrong. They also provide kabab and Asian dishes

• Little Greens : One of the greatest restaurants in Aurangabad to unwind with a quiet dinner and take some time for yourself after a demanding and long day is Little Greens. Some of the most well-liked foods provided at this hotel are kebabs, north Indian food, Chinese food, desserts, and beverages.

You may place an order for some of their most well-known dishes, including Dal Makhani, Paneer Tikka Masala, Veg Thali, Starter, and Dal Khichdi .

• Great Sagar Restaurant : You may let hundreds of flavors wrap you at this restaurant, which is among the best in Aurangabad for presenting a range of cuisines. You will have one of the most unforgettable experiences with fine dining in the entire city when you visit the Great Sagar restaurant.

The tastes in the restaurant will each tell you a unique story. The restaurant's North Indian, Mughlai, and Chinese cuisines are well-known. It is also widely known for its wide variety of seafood, kebabs, and biryani, as well as its sweets and drinks.

Aurangabad Caves Phone

+91 98903 63536

Location of Aurangabad Caves: Aurangabad Caves, next to Bibi Ka Maqbara, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 431001, India