How to Reach Ajanta Caves by Train – Complete Rail Travel Guide for Visitors
If you love scenic journeys and slow travel, reaching the Ajanta Caves by train is one of the most beautiful and budget-friendly ways to explore this UNESCO World Heritage treasure. The route passes through the heart of Maharashtra’s Deccan plateau — with landscapes changing from rocky plains to green hills as you get closer to Aurangabad and Jalgaon.
As a local based in Aurangabad, I often meet travelers who arrive by train — and they all agree: it’s one of the most relaxing ways to start the Ajanta adventure. Here’s your detailed, step-by-step guide on how to reach Ajanta Caves by train, including routes, stations, timings, and insider tips.
1. Quick Overview – Nearest Railway Stations to Ajanta Caves
| Station | Distance to Ajanta | Travel Time by Road | Ideal For Travelers From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aurangabad (AWB) | 100 km | 2.5 hours | Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad |
| Jalgaon (JL) | 60 km | 1.5 hours | Delhi, Indore, Bhopal |
| Bhusawal (BSL) | 70 km | 1.5–2 hours | Central India connections |
Both Aurangabad and Jalgaon are great base points for reaching Ajanta. Choose your arrival station based on your origin city and train availability.
💡 Tip: For most travelers, Aurangabad is ideal — it connects directly to Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad, and you can easily combine Ajanta and Ellora in one trip.
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2. From Aurangabad Railway Station to Ajanta Caves
If you’re arriving at Aurangabad Junction (AWB), you can easily reach Ajanta by road.
- Distance: 100 km
- Travel Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Route: Aurangabad → Fardapur → Ajanta (NH52)
- Road Condition: Smooth, 4-lane highway
💰 Taxi Fare (Round Trip): INR 3,000 – INR 3,500 (Sedan), INR 4,500 (SUV)
🕒 Best Time to Start: 6:00–7:00 AM
💡 Tip: Take a morning train that reaches Aurangabad before sunrise — you’ll reach Ajanta just as the caves open.
3. From Jalgaon Railway Station to Ajanta Caves
For travelers from Delhi, Indore, or Central India, Jalgaon Junction (JL) is the closest major railhead to Ajanta.
- Distance: 60 km
- Travel Time: 1.5 hours by car
- Route: Jalgaon → Ajanta (via NH753J)
- Road Condition: Excellent two-lane highway with light traffic
💰 Taxi Fare: INR 2,500 – INR 3,500 (one way)
🚌 Bus Option: MSRTC buses available every 30–45 minutes to Ajanta parking area.
💡 Tip: Jalgaon is less crowded than Aurangabad — ideal if you want a quiet entry point with shorter road travel.
4. Trains from Major Cities to Aurangabad
Here are some of the most convenient trains if you plan to visit Ajanta Caves via Aurangabad:
| City | Train Name | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | Devagiri Express (17057) | 9:10 PM | 5:25 AM | 8 hrs 15 min |
| Pune | Nandigram Express (11401) | 8:50 PM | 5:10 AM | 8 hrs 20 min |
| Hyderabad | Ajanta Express (17063) | 6:50 PM | 8:15 AM | 13 hrs 25 min |
| Delhi | Sachkhand Express (12716) | 1:15 PM | 6:15 AM | 17 hrs |
| Nagpur | Nandigram Express (11402) | 6:15 AM | 4:45 PM | 10 hrs 30 min |
💡 Tip: The Devagiri and Nandigram Express trains are traveler favorites — punctual, clean, and perfectly timed for next-day sightseeing.
5. Trains from Major Cities to Jalgaon
If Jalgaon suits your route better, here are popular connections:
| City | Train Name | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Punjab Mail (12138) | 7:35 AM | 4:30 AM (next day) | 21 hrs |
| Bhopal | Kamayani Express (11072) | 9:45 PM | 5:55 AM | 8 hrs 10 min |
| Indore | Avantika Express (12962) | 5:40 PM | 2:45 AM | 9 hrs 5 min |
| Surat | Khandesh Express (19003) | 9:45 PM | 7:30 AM | 9 hrs 45 min |
💡 Tip: Jalgaon is the better option if you’re arriving from northern or central India — it’s closer to Ajanta and less touristy.
6. Reaching the Caves from the Railway Stations
Once you arrive at Aurangabad or Jalgaon, reaching Ajanta is straightforward:
- Private Taxi: Fastest and most comfortable (INR 1,500–INR 3,500).
- Bus (MSRTC / MTDC): Frequent, affordable (INR 300–INR 800).
- Self-drive: You can rent a car in Aurangabad or Jalgaon for convenience.
💡 Tip: Hire a driver who’s familiar with Ajanta’s parking and shuttle area — the entry zone can be confusing for first-timers.
7. Shuttle System at Ajanta Caves
Cars, taxis, and buses aren’t allowed near the caves directly. All visitors must park at the Ajanta Tourist Parking (T-point) and take the eco-shuttle bus to the entrance.
- Shuttle Fare: INR 20 (one way)
- Travel Time: 10–15 minutes
- Parking Fee: INR 40 for cars, INR 70 for buses
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
💡 Tip: Keep your shuttle ticket for the return ride — it’s valid all day.
8. Suggested Itinerary for Train Travelers
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 5:00 AM | Arrive at Aurangabad / Jalgaon by overnight train |
| 6:00 AM | Quick breakfast at station café |
| 7:00 AM | Taxi or MTDC bus to Ajanta |
| 9:30 AM | Arrive at Ajanta Caves (take shuttle to entrance) |
| 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Explore Caves 1–26 |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch at MTDC Restaurant near parking area |
| 2:30 PM | Return to station or continue to Ellora Caves next day |
💡 Tip: You can combine Ajanta and Ellora over two days — most trains arrive early enough for a full-day trip.
9. Best Trains for Overnight Travelers
For those who prefer sleeping through their journey:
| Origin | Train Name | Arrival at Destination | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | Devagiri Express | Early Morning | Ajanta next morning |
| Pune | Nandigram Express | Early Morning | Weekend trips |
| Delhi | Sachkhand Express | Morning arrival | 2-day Ajanta-Ellora visit |
| Hyderabad | Ajanta Express | Next Morning | Heritage circuit travelers |
💡 Tip: Choose a sleeper or 3AC class for comfort — most trains are punctual and clean on this route.
10. Travel Tips for Visiting Ajanta by Train
✅ Ajanta is closed on Mondays (Ellora on Tuesdays).
✅ Carry light luggage — the station-to-caves transfers involve short walks.
✅ Keep cash for local taxis and shuttle buses.
✅ Book train tickets 2–3 weeks in advance (especially winter months).
✅ Hire an ASI-certified guide at Ajanta for the best experience.
💡 Tip: If you love photography, the morning trains are perfect — the soft light between 9–11 AM brings Ajanta’s ancient art to life.
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Related Posts You Might Like:
- How to Reach Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad
- How to Reach Ajanta Caves from Delhi
- How to Reach Ajanta Caves from Mumbai
- Best Day Trip Itinerary for Ajanta and Ellora Caves
- Ajanta Caves Travel Guide
FAQ
Q: Which station is closest to Ajanta Caves?
A: Jalgaon is the closest (60 km), while Aurangabad is the most convenient for tourists.
Q: How far is Aurangabad Railway Station from Ajanta?
A: Around 100 km, or about a 2.5-hour drive.
Q: Are taxis available at Aurangabad and Jalgaon stations?
A: Yes, prepaid taxis and tour operators are available at both stations.
Q: Can I reach directly Ajanta Caves by train?
A: No, there’s no railway station at the caves — you’ll need to travel by road from Aurangabad or Jalgaon.
Q: Are guided tours available for train travelers?
A: Yes! GetYourGuide offers private and small-group tours with pickup from both stations.
