How to Reach Ajanta Caves by Bus – Complete Road Travel Guide for Budget Travelers
As a local Aurangabad-based travel blogger, I often guide backpackers and group travelers who arrive here by bus. It’s safe, comfortable, and surprisingly efficient if you know the right routes and connections. Here’s everything you need to know about how to reach Ajanta Caves by bus, including routes, operators, fares, and local tips for a smooth journey.
If you’re traveling on a budget or simply love the freedom of India’s highways, taking a bus to Ajanta Caves is one of the most convenient and affordable ways to reach this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bus journey offers scenic views of Maharashtra’s countryside, small villages, and green fields — a relaxed prelude to the grandeur of Ajanta’s ancient rock-cut paintings.
1. Quick Overview – Bus Connectivity to Ajanta Caves
| From | Nearest City / Stop | Total Distance | Travel Time | Best Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aurangabad | Ajanta (via Fardapur) | 100 km | 2.5 – 3 hrs | NH52 |
| Jalgaon | Ajanta | 60 km | 1.5 hrs | NH753J |
| Mumbai | Aurangabad → Ajanta | 420 km + 100 km | 10 – 11 hrs total | NH160 → NH52 |
| Pune | Aurangabad → Ajanta | 370 km + 100 km | 8 – 9 hrs total | NH753F → NH52 |
| Nashik | Aurangabad → Ajanta | 210 km + 100 km | 6 – 7 hrs total | NH160 → NH52 |
The Ajanta Caves are best accessed from Aurangabad or Jalgaon, where you’ll find regular MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) and MTDC (Maharashtra Tourism) buses to the caves.
💡 Tip: Always check the bus schedule a day before your trip — timings can vary slightly depending on season and demand.
📍 View on Google Maps
2. From Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves (Most Common Route)
The Aurangabad–Ajanta route is the most popular for domestic and international travelers alike.
Bus Details:
- Distance: 100 km
- Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Route: Aurangabad → Fardapur → Ajanta
- Operators: MSRTC (Government), MTDC (Tourist), Neeta, and private minibuses
- Fare Range: ₹250 – ₹600 (one way)
🕕 First Bus: 6:00 AM
🕓 Last Bus: 4:00 PM
💡 Tip: The MTDC “Ajanta–Ellora Day Tour” bus covers both sites in one day — ideal if you have limited time.
3. From Jalgaon to Ajanta Caves
If you’re traveling from Delhi, Bhopal, or Indore, Jalgaon is the best base for reaching Ajanta.
Bus Details:
- Distance: 60 km
- Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Operator: MSRTC and local private buses
- Fare Range: ₹150 – ₹300 (one way)
- Frequency: Every 30–45 minutes
Most buses start from Jalgaon Bus Stand and drop you at Ajanta Tourist Parking (T-point), from where shuttle buses take visitors to the caves.
💡 Tip: Jalgaon buses are smaller but faster, and roads are excellent — perfect for a morning visit.
4. From Mumbai to Ajanta Caves by Bus
You can reach Ajanta Caves from Mumbai in about 10–11 hours with a connection through Aurangabad.
Step 1: Mumbai → Aurangabad (Overnight Bus)
| Operator | Type | Departure | Duration | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRTC Shivneri | AC Volvo | 10:00 PM | 7 hrs | ₹900–₹1,200 |
| Neeta / Purple Travels | AC Sleeper | 9:30 PM | 7.5 hrs | ₹1,000–₹1,300 |
Step 2: Aurangabad → Ajanta (Local Bus)
- 100 km | 2.5 hrs | ₹250–₹400
💡 Tip: Overnight buses reach Aurangabad early morning, allowing you to head straight to Ajanta by connecting MTDC or MSRTC bus.
5. From Pune to Ajanta Caves by Bus
For travelers from Pune, there are several comfortable overnight buses to Aurangabad, followed by a local bus connection to Ajanta.
| Operator | Bus Type | Departure | Duration | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRTC Shivneri | AC Volvo | 9:30 PM | 6.5 hrs | ₹1,000 |
| Neeta / VRL | AC Sleeper | 10:00 PM | 7 hrs | ₹1,200–₹1,400 |
Then take an MTDC or MSRTC bus from Aurangabad Central Bus Stand to Ajanta (₹250–₹400).
💡 Tip: If you’re visiting both Ajanta and Ellora, take the MTDC Heritage Tour — it’s designed perfectly for Pune weekenders.
6. Bus Timings and Schedules (Aurangabad–Ajanta Route)
| Bus Type | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Operator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary (Non-AC) | 6:00 AM | 8:30 AM | MSRTC |
| Deluxe (AC) | 8:30 AM | 11:00 AM | MTDC |
| Semi-Luxury | 10:00 AM | 12:30 PM | Private |
| Heritage Day Tour | 7:00 AM | 6:00 PM | MTDC (Ajanta + Ellora) |
💡 Tip: The MTDC Heritage bus includes a guide and entry assistance — perfect for first-time travelers.
7. Shuttle Service from Ajanta Parking to the Caves
All long-distance buses stop at the Ajanta Tourist Parking Area (T-point), around 4 km from the caves. From here, you must take an eco-shuttle bus to reach the entrance.
- Shuttle Fare: ₹20 (one way)
- Travel Time: 10–15 minutes
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Parking Fee: ₹40 (for private vehicles)
💡 Tip: Keep your ticket for the return trip — the same pass works both ways.
8. Suggested Itinerary for Bus Travelers
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 5:30 AM | Depart from Aurangabad by MSRTC / MTDC bus |
| 8:30 AM | Arrive at Ajanta Tourist Parking |
| 8:45 AM | Take shuttle bus to cave entrance |
| 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Explore caves (Caves 1, 2, 10, 26 are highlights) |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch at MTDC Restaurant near parking |
| 3:00 PM | Return to Aurangabad by bus |
💡 Tip: If you prefer flexible timing, book a private AC bus or shared taxi from Aurangabad Bus Stand.
9. Travel Tips for Bus Passengers
✅ Book tickets online on MSRTC.in or at bus depots in advance during weekends.
✅ Carry light luggage — there’s limited overhead space in state buses.
✅ Keep water and snacks; few rest stops en route.
✅ Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays.
✅ The first and last MTDC buses fill quickly — arrive 15–20 minutes early.
💡 Tip: Morning buses are more punctual and less crowded than afternoon departures.
10. Ideal for Whom?
🧳 Solo Travelers: Perfect mix of affordability and adventure.
👨👩👧 Families: Take MTDC AC heritage bus for comfort.
📷 Photographers: Morning departures reach Ajanta when lighting is best.
💬 Backpackers: Frequent MSRTC buses make it easy to plan spontaneously.
💡 Tip: Stay overnight in Aurangabad and take an early MTDC bus — the caves are calmer before tourist groups arrive.
👉 Related Posts You Might Like:
- How to Reach Ajanta Caves by Train
- Road Trip Guide to Ajanta Caves
- How to Reach Ajanta Caves from Pune
- Best Taxi and Private Car Options for Ajanta Caves
- Ajanta Caves Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are there direct buses to Ajanta Caves?
A: Yes, from both Aurangabad and Jalgaon. MSRTC and MTDC run regular buses to the Ajanta parking area.
Q: How long is the bus journey from Aurangabad to Ajanta?
A: About 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and stops.
Q: Can I book bus tickets online?
A: Yes, visit msrtc.maharashtra.gov.in or use private portals like RedBus.
Q: Is there a bus from Mumbai or Pune directly to Ajanta?
A: Not directly — you’ll need to connect via Aurangabad. Overnight buses from Mumbai or Pune are frequent and comfortable.
Q: Which bus service is best for tourists?
A: The MTDC Heritage Bus is best — it includes both Ajanta and Ellora, a licensed guide, and round-trip transfers.
