Aurangabad, India
Aurangabad is an amazing heritage city, which is located in the western region of India. Spread over an area of about 138.5 km², the city is sited on the northern side of Maharashtra. Aurangabad is located on the banks of the Kham River, which is surrounded with wooded hills on all the sides. The historical city of Aurangabad is popular for its rich cultural legacy and marvelous historic monuments. These monuments speak loudly about the rich royal past of the region.
In fact, the city enjoys a very important place in Mughal Empire. If you look into the history of the Aurangabad city, it will make you realize that it was primarily ruled by the Mauryan kings. In fact, they only introduced Buddhism in this part of India. One can see a number of Buddhist cave temples in and around the city, which stand as a live proof of the prosperous condition of Buddhism here. Among many of those Buddhist monuments, caves of Ajanta and Ellora are the most popular one that become one of the great attractions of the city. While talking about the history of Aurangabad, one can’t forget the importance of the Mughal rulers. In fact, the name of the city is kept after the Mughal Emperor ‘Aurangzeb’. The city was established in year 1610. Being a tourism hub, it is surrounded with many historical monuments.
It is constantly moving forward on the way of development. As soon as the rule of Mughals got over in Aurangabad, it was the Nizam of Hyderabad who ruled here till 1948. At present, Aurangabad is supposed to contribute in major part of the travel & tourism industry of the state. The marvelous monuments of the city remind of the splendid Mughal era that it has witnessed. There are numerous tourist attractions that one can come across in city. Whenever you visit Maharashtra, be sure to visit Aurangabad and indulge into its glorious historic charm.
Visit in Aurangabad
Aurangabad is a historical city, which is located on the western coast of India. Though it is situated at the remote location of Maharashtra but still manages to attract a number of tourists every year. Top attractions in Aurangabad are comprised of various historical sites and religious places, which are situated in and around Aurangabad. Apart from these, there are a number of lush green gardens in Aurangabad city that serve as perfect places to be visited with families. Read the information carefully about the tourist places to be visited on sightseeing tours of Aurangabad city.
Situated in the outskirts of Aurangabad, Aurangabad Caves is positioned in a valley, between the hill ranges of Sihyachal and Satara. These caves date back to about 2nd and 3rd century and stand as the evidence of the expansion of Buddhism in Maharashtra. These are comprised of 12 caves and mainly classified into three groups. The first group of caves is located on the western side of the hill and is cave number 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. The second group of caves is located on the eastern side of this hill and is cave number 6, 7, 8 and 9. The third group of the caves is cave number 10, 11 and 12.
Although, it is less popular than Ajanta Caves. However, Pitalkhora Caves stand apart for its mesmerizing carvings. It houses one of the largest groups of Buddhist structures belonging to the Hinayana school. These rock-cut caves are other major tourist attractions of Aurangabad.
Bibi Ka Maqbara is the splendid mausoleum, which engraved Rabia-ul-Daurani, also called Dilras Banu Begum. She was the wife of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Situated about 5 km away from the Aurangabad city of India, the tomb was built by Prince Azam Shah - the son of Aurangzeb in the memory of his mother. The construction of this tomb started in the year 1651 and about 10 years were taken in completion. The main entry of the Bibi ka Makbara is decorated with an inscription.
Located close to the Panchakki mill, there is a tomb of Baba Shah Muzaffar. He was a Sufi Saint who served as the spiritual guru of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. This is also one of the key attractions of the city.
Jama Masjid is one of the most visited sightseeing places in Aurangabad city. It is very popular among the tourists. The construction of this mosque was done under the sponsorship of Emperor Aurangzeb. It is situated in Killa Arrack. Surrounded by groves, the mosque has a small building that is decorated with slight minarets and a wide band. The band has been scripted with inscriptions of Kuran that have been beautifully carved through the entrance.
Chauk Masjid is another beautiful site to be visited in Aurangabad city. This splendid mosque was built by Shayista Khan, the uncle of Emperor Aurangzeb. The mosque was constructed in the year 1665 and has been adorned with 5 gorgeous domes. The facade of the mosque has five pointed arches. Two of which are very deep. These pillars are connected with one another by eight pillars and corresponding pilasters and they support the five domes.
Situated 15 km northwest of Aurangabad, Daulatabad Fort is a key attraction of Aurangabad district. Daulatabad is also known as the city of fortune. This 12th century fortress is placed at a hilltop and displays a strong wall of 5 km with a series of ramparts. The fort offers you an amazing trekking experience and you can enjoy wonderful views of surroundings.
Panchakki is one of the key attractions in Aurangabad, which means 'Water Mill'. Certainly, it a mill that receives water from an underground channel and its source is located 6 km away from the mountains. Close to the mill, an artificial waterfall has been created to discharge the water on to the wheel. Other appeal of Panchakki is that it features a lush green garden along with a beautiful fountain. The water tanks of this fountain feature beautiful fishes and are truly a hit amongst the kids.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is an important shrine, which is supposed to be the last Jyotirlinga temple on the earth. This is a must see destination for devotees of Shiva. A pilgrim site that can be visited by all in the family, this temple attracts people from all over. Apart from religious devotees, intricate inscriptions on the temple are a source of admiration to ardent travelers who come here to understand and absorb ancient Indian temple traditions and customs.
Spread over an area of 1.25 km² in Aurangabad district, Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary is known for its avian diversity. The bird sanctuary is simply a paradise for birdwatchers due to housing several resident and migratory birds. It is located close to the Nath Sagar Lake and creates ideal conditions for aquatic flora and fauna. It is also a popular sightseeing place in this sanctuary.
Aurangabad, India
March to Mid-June, Warm yet Pleasant
Temperature:28°C – 35°C
July to October, receives heavy rainfall
Annual rainfall -1200 mm
Last November to February, Cool and Charming
Temperature:12°C – 22°C
Sights of Aurangabad
