Getting Around Aurangabad – Complete Local Transport Guide (2026)
Getting around Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) is fairly straightforward once you understand one important thing: the city itself is compact, but most of the region’s major attractions sit outside the city.
Within Aurangabad, auto-rickshaws and app-based taxis are usually enough. For day trips to Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar Temple, Daulatabad Fort, or Lonar Crater, a private taxi becomes the most practical option.
This guide covers local transport costs, airport transfers, taxis, buses, and the best way to reach the major heritage attractions around the city.
Quick Facts
| Transport Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Auto-Rickshaw | Short city rides |
| App-Based Taxi | Comfortable city travel |
| Private Taxi | Ajanta, Ellora & Lonar day trips |
| MSRTC Bus | Budget travel |
| Airport Taxi | Airport transfers |
| Self-Drive Car | Multi-day independent travel |
Getting Around Aurangabad City
The city itself is relatively easy to navigate.
Most visitors spend time around:
- Bibi Ka Maqbara
- Aurangabad Caves
- Panchakki
- Local markets
- Restaurants and hotels
For these shorter distances, auto-rickshaws remain the most common transport option.
Typical Auto-Rickshaw Costs
| Distance | Approximate Fare |
|---|---|
| Short Ride | INR 50–100 |
| Medium Ride | INR 100–200 |
| Longer City Ride | INR 200–300 |
Whenever possible, confirm the fare before starting the ride.
Auto-Rickshaws vs App Cabs
Both are widely available.
Auto-Rickshaw Advantages
✔ Cheapest option
✔ Easy to find
✔ Good for short trips
App Cab Advantages
✔ Air-conditioned
✔ Fixed pricing
✔ Better for families
✔ No fare negotiation
For visitors unfamiliar with the city, app-based taxis are often the simplest option.
Airport Transfers
Aurangabad Airport serves domestic flights connecting the city with major Indian destinations.
Distance from Airport to City
Approximately 10–15 km depending on your hotel location.
Travel Time
20–40 minutes depending on traffic.
Airport Transport Options
| Option | Approx Cost |
|---|---|
| Auto-Rickshaw | ₹150–300 |
| Taxi/App Cab | ₹300–700 |
| Hotel Transfer | Varies |
Most visitors find app cabs or prepaid taxis the easiest choice after landing.
Getting to Ellora Caves
Ellora is the closest major attraction to Aurangabad.
Distance
Approximately 30–35 km
Travel Time
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best Options
- Private Taxi
- MSRTC Bus
- Shared Taxi
Because Ellora is relatively close, even half-day visits are practical.
Getting to Ajanta Caves
Ajanta requires considerably more travel time.
Distance
Approximately 100–110 km
Travel Time
2–2.5 hours each way
Best Options
- Private Taxi
- Organized Tour
- MSRTC Bus
Ajanta is usually visited as a full-day excursion.
Getting to Lonar Crater
Lonar Crater is the longest day trip commonly undertaken from Aurangabad.
Distance
Approximately 140 km
Travel Time
3–3.5 hours each way
Recommended Transport
Private taxi or self-drive vehicle.
Public transport is possible but significantly less convenient.
For most visitors, hiring a private vehicle provides the best balance between comfort and time efficiency.
Private Taxi Costs for Popular Day Trips
| Destination | Approx Cost |
|---|---|
| Ellora Caves | INR 2,000–3,500 |
| Ajanta Caves | INR 3,500–5,500 |
| Lonar Crater | INR 4,500–7,000 |
| Ajanta + Ellora Multi-Day | Negotiable |
Prices vary by vehicle category and season.
MSRTC Buses
Budget travellers can reach many attractions using Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) buses.
Advantages
✔ Very affordable
✔ Extensive network
✔ Reliable for major destinations
Limitations
✔ Less flexible
✔ Longer travel times
✔ Fixed schedules
If you’re travelling on a tight budget, buses work well.
If you’re short on time, taxis are usually worth the extra cost.
Self-Drive Cars
Self-drive rentals are available through various operators in Aurangabad.
They work particularly well for travellers planning to visit:
- Ajanta Caves
- Ellora Caves
- Daulatabad Fort
- Grishneshwar Temple
- Lonar Crater
over multiple days.
Which Transport Option Is Best?
Budget Traveller
MSRTC buses + auto-rickshaws
Couples
App cabs within the city, private taxi for day trips
Families
Private taxi throughout the trip
Photographers
Self-drive car or private taxi for maximum flexibility
Heritage Enthusiasts
Private taxi covering multiple sites over several days
Is Public Transport Enough?
Yes, but with limitations.
You can reach most major attractions using buses and local transport.
However, if your goal is to maximize sightseeing time, especially at Ajanta or Lonar, a private taxi makes the trip considerably easier and more comfortable.
FAQ — Getting Around Aurangabad
Q1: What is the cheapest way to get around Aurangabad?
Auto-rickshaws and MSRTC buses are the most affordable transport options.
Q2: Is Uber available in Aurangabad?
App-based taxi services are available, though availability may vary depending on location and time of day.
Q3: How much does a taxi from Aurangabad to Ajanta cost?
Typically ₹3,500–5,500 for a round trip, depending on vehicle type and season.
Q4: Can I visit Ellora without hiring a taxi?
Yes. MSRTC buses regularly connect Aurangabad with Ellora.
Q5: What is the best transport option for Lonar Crater?
A private taxi or self-drive vehicle is strongly recommended due to the distance and limited public transport convenience.
Related Posts You Might Like
- Maharashtra Caves Circuit – 5-Day Complete Itinerary
- How to Reach Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad
- Ellora Caves Travel Guide
- Lonar Crater Day Trip from Aurangabad
- Aurangabad Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
