How to Reach Ellora Caves from Aurangabad – Complete Local Travel Guide
If you’re visiting Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar), then a trip to the Ellora Caves from aurangabad is a must. Just 30 km from the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of India’s most awe-inspiring ancient wonders — where Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments coexist in perfect harmony.
As a local Aurangabad-based traveler, I often guide visitors who are surprised at how easy and scenic the journey is. Whether you choose to go by taxi, bus, bike, or private car, here’s your complete and practical guide on how to reach Ellora Caves from Aurangabad, including routes, timings, and local travel tips.
1. Quick Overview – Distance and Route
| From | To | Distance | Travel Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aurangabad | Ellora Caves (Verul Village) | 30 km | 40 – 45 mins | SH60 via Daulatabad and Khuldabad |
The road to Ellora is smooth, well-marked, and lined with fields, forts, and temples — making it one of the most scenic short drives in Maharashtra.
💡 Tip: Start your journey early morning around 7:00 AM — the soft golden light makes Kailasa Temple look even more mesmerizing.
📍 View on Google Maps
2. By Car or Taxi (Most Comfortable Option) 🚗
If you prefer comfort and flexibility, a private car or taxi is the best way to travel from Aurangabad to Ellora.
Route Details:
- Starting Point: Aurangabad City / Airport
- Route: Aurangabad → Daulatabad → Khuldabad → Ellora
- Distance: 30 km
- Duration: 40 – 45 minutes
Taxi Fare (Round Trip):
| Car Type | Fare Range | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan (Dzire, Etios) | INR 800 – 1,000 | Solo / Couples / Small Families |
| SUV (Innova, Ertiga) | INR 1,200 – 1,500 | Families / Groups |
| Tempo Traveler | INR 2,500+ | Large Groups or Tourists |
💡 Tip: Hire a driver familiar with Ellora — they’ll know parking areas and the best timing for entry.
3. By Bus (Budget Option) 🚌
For budget travelers, buses to Ellora run frequently from Aurangabad Central Bus Stand.
| Bus Type | Operator | Fare (One Way) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary (Non-AC) | MSRTC | INR 50 – 80 | 1 hr |
| Semi-Luxury / AC | MTDC | INR 100 – 150 | 1 hr 15 min |
| Heritage Tour Bus | MTDC | INR 500 | Full-Day Tour (Ajanta + Ellora) |
💡 Tip: The MTDC Heritage Bus includes Daulatabad Fort and provides a certified guide — great for solo travelers or families.
4. By Bike or Scooter (For Adventure Lovers) 🏍️
If you love the open road, riding a bike to Ellora is an incredible experience. The highway is smooth, scenic, and safe during daylight hours.
- Bike Rentals: Available near Aurangabad Railway Station and Cidco area
- Rental Cost: INR 600 – 900 per day
- Fuel Cost: INR 150 – 200 (round trip)
- Travel Time: 40 – 45 minutes
💡 Tip: Always wear a helmet and carry your license — police checkpoints are active near Daulatabad.
5. En Route Attractions Between Aurangabad and Ellora
Your short 30 km drive packs in a lot of history and beauty. Don’t rush — stop and explore!
🏰 Daulatabad Fort (15 km from Aurangabad)
A stunning medieval fortress with panoramic views — worth a quick photo or 1-hour detour.
🕉️ Grishneshwar Temple (2 km before Ellora)
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas — sacred to Lord Shiva. Modest, serene, and filled with devotion.
🌿 Khuldabad Village
Known for Mughal tombs, including Emperor Aurangzeb’s resting place and Sufi shrines.
💡 Tip: Plan a half-day trip — visit Ellora first, then stop at Grishneshwar Temple and Daulatabad on your return.
6. Parking, Shuttle & Entry Info
- Parking Fee: INR 40 (car), INR 70 (bus)
- Entry Fee (Indian): INR 40 | Foreigners: INR 600
- Camera Fee: INR 25 (for videography)
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed On: Tuesdays
💡 Tip: Carry exact change for tickets; card payments aren’t always available.
7. Best Time to Visit Ellora from Aurangabad
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| Nov – Feb (Winter) | Ideal weather and clear skies |
| Jul – Sep (Monsoon) | Lush greenery and waterfalls near Cave 29 |
| Apr – Jun (Summer) | Hot but fewer tourists and better visibility |
💡 Tip: Winter mornings are perfect for exploring; monsoon adds natural charm to the surrounding landscape.
[Add image: Ellora caves in monsoon greenery]
8. Suggested Half-Day Itinerary (Aurangabad–Ellora)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Depart from Aurangabad |
| 7:45 AM | Stop at Daulatabad Fort for a quick photo |
| 8:30 AM | Arrive at Ellora Caves and begin exploration |
| 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Explore Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) and nearby caves |
| 12:15 PM | Visit Grishneshwar Temple (optional) |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch at MTDC Restaurant near Ellora |
| 2:00 PM | Return to Aurangabad |
💡 Tip: Combine Ellora with Bibi Ka Maqbara or Aurangabad Caves in the evening for a full-day heritage tour.
9. Local Travel Tips
✅ Avoid visiting on Tuesdays — Ellora remains closed.
✅ Carry water, sunglasses, and light cotton clothes.
✅ Hire an ASI-certified guide at the entrance (INR 500 – INR 800).
✅ No flash photography allowed inside caves.
✅ Combine Ellora with Daulatabad or Grishneshwar for a richer itinerary.
💡 Tip: For photographers, visit around 8–9 AM — the light inside Kailasa Temple is golden and diffused.
Personally Tested Best GetYourGuide Tours
Related Posts You Might Like:
- How to Reach Ellora Caves – Complete Travel Guide
- Best Temples and Monasteries to See in Ellora Caves
- Kailasa Temple Ellora – History and Travel Tips
- Photography Guide to Ellora Caves
- Tips for First-Time Visitors to Ellora Caves
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far are Ellora Caves from Aurangabad city?
A: About 30 km — it takes around 40–45 minutes by car or taxi.
Q: What is the best way to reach Ellora from Aurangabad?
A: Hiring a private taxi is the most comfortable and flexible option, but buses and bikes are also convenient.
Q: Are buses available between Aurangabad and Ellora?
A: Yes, MSRTC and MTDC buses run every 30–45 minutes from the central bus stand.
Q: Is Ellora Caves open every day?
A: No, the site is closed every Tuesday.
Q: Can I combine Ellora and Daulatabad in one trip?
A: Yes, both lie along the same route — it’s a popular half-day combination for travelers.
