Ajanta & Ellora Cave Tour
The state of Maharashtra is located in the western part of India. Historically and geographically, the state has a lot to offer to its visitors. With hill stations and beaches, historical sites and vibrant cultural traditions, Maharastra has it all that makes it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the country. There are several theme tours that are organized here, that take guests on sojourn to the different parts of the state. One short, yet very interesting option that guests could opt for is the Ajanta-Ellora cave tour. A 4-day tour, The Ajanta-Ellora cave tour begins and ends in Aurangabad, a major center for tourist activities.Destinations Covered : Aurangabad - Ellora - Ajanta - Aurangabad
Duration :4 Days / 3 Nights
Day 1: Aurangabad
Aurangabad is one of the many modern Indian cities with a distinct historical background that still breathes through the modernity. On arrival in the city, our representative will help you to check into the hotel that has been pre-booked for you, where you could spend some time to refresh yourself before you embark on the city tours. The first destination that you could visit is the Daulatabad Fort. Once a seat of the Hindu rulers, this fort was captured and destroyed by the Hindu rivals around the 13th century AD. Nevertheless, it still stands tall to tell the tales of conspiracy and deceit of which even this massive fort had once fallen a prey to. Post this trail; visit the Pan Chakki, a relatively new creation dating back to the last part of the 16th century. An engineering wonder, the Pan Chakki channels water from a distant spring to run grain grinders for pilgrims.
Day 2: Aurangabad – Ellora
Post early morning breakfast, proceed towards the mesmerizing Ellora caves, located at about a distance of 30 km from the Aurangabad city. Built by the Rastrakuta kings, the Ellora caves perhaps exhibit the highest examples of India’s rock-cut architecture. Noted for its exquisite carvings and illustrative figurines, the Ellora Caves house in its midst - temples and monasteries belonging to 3 distinct faiths including Hinduism and Buddhism, besides Jainism. The detailing of the intricate carvings actually makes one wonder that man is indeed capable of doing even the impossible. With limited tools, but loads of imagination and creativity; the artists of the era have indeed achieved more than the impossible. Visit the Kailash temple, one of the largest monolith structures in the world, to believe what we say. Post lunch travel around Aurangabad and visit the local attractions including the Bibi ka Maqbara, a monument dedicated to the queen of Aurangzeb, Begum Rabia Durrani. Built by her son, this monument almost replicates the Taj Mahal of Agra through its designing. The inspiration for fountains and the backdrop of well manicured gardens have definitely been derived from the Taj itself.
Day 3: Aurangabad – Ajanta – Aurangabad
Post breakfast, embark on a short excursion to the Ajanta caves. Located in the Shahyadri hills, the Ajanta caves enjoy the status of being a world heritage site. The highlight of the Ajanta caves lies in the exotic paintings that adorn the walls and ceilings of the caves. Partly lost to time and excavations, these paintings nevertheless tell a million tales. Primarily depicting Buddhism practices dating back to 650 BC - 200 BC, the paintings are fine specimens of the combination of artistic talents and mineral dyes. These caves were accidentally discovered by a group of British officers who were on a tiger hunting spree around the early part of the 19th century AD. Hidden amidst the dense forests of the Shahyadri, these caves have been standing still for centuries waiting for someone to come and explore them. No wonder, tourists flock to them in large numbers and throughout the year.
Day 4: Departure
On the 4th day of the tour, have a leisurely breakfast and embark on your journey, back home. This brings your Ajanta – Ellora cave tour to an end.
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