Full Day Trip Ellora Caves & Daulatabad Fort From Aurangabad

Exploring the magnificent Ellora Caves and the imposing Daulatabad Fort from Aurangabad promises a captivating day steeped in India’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the intricate rock-cut temples and sculptures of the UNESCO-listed Ellora site, marveling at the stunning artistry of the 6th-11th centuries. After delving into this historic wonder, the tour continues to the formidable Daulatabad Fort, a former capital that offers a glimpse into the region’s storied past. With comfortable transportation and insightful commentary, this full-day excursion provides travelers an opportunity to uncover the fascinating stories behind these iconic landmarks. What awaits beyond the ancient walls of these remarkable sites?

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Aurangabad.

Key Points

• A full-day guided tour from Aurangabad to the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves and the historic Daulatabad Fort, covering the key highlights of both sites.
• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable English and Hindi-speaking guide, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Explore the ancient rock-cut monastery-temple complex of Ellora Caves, showcasing the artistic and cultural heritage of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain faiths.
• Discover the strategic location, architectural marvels, and historical significance of the Daulatabad Fort, the former capital of the Yadava dynasty.
• The tour provides an immersive experience in the cultural and historical richness of both destinations, with insights into local trivia and recommendations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day trip from Aurangabad offers visitors the opportunity to explore two renowned historical sites – the Ellora Caves and Daulatabad Fort.

Priced from $149.56 for up to 3 participants, the tour includes pickup from Aurangabad and a live guide available in English and Hindi.

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.

The 8-hour tour covers a guided visit to the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves, followed by a 3.5-hour guided tour of the historical Daulatabad Fort.

Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and local tips/recommendations are also included, though entrance fees to the sites are excluded.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from the travelers’ location in Aurangabad.

The first stop is the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its massive rock-cut monastery-temple complex. During the guided tour, visitors will explore these iconic caves, which feature a harmonious blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments dating back to the 6th-11th centuries CE.

After spending approximately 1.5 hours at the Ellora Caves, the tour proceeds to the historical Daulatabad Fort, a fortified citadel that served as the capital of the Yadava dynasty in the 9th-14th centuries CE.

The guided tour of the fort lasts for around 3.5 hours, providing an in-depth look into its architectural and historical significance.

Highlights of the Tour

Travelers consistently marvel at the opportunity to explore the iconic sites with rich stories and local trivia on this tour.

The cultural significance of the Ellora Caves, featuring Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments from the 6th to 11th centuries, is truly awe-inspiring. Visitors are left in wonder at the sheer scale and craftsmanship of these magnificent rock-cut structures.

The historical importance of Daulatabad Fort, once the capital of the Yadava dynasty, also captivates guests. This fortified citadel, also known as Devagiri, offers a glimpse into the region’s storied past.

With knowledgeable guides providing insightful commentary, the tour immerses travelers in the cultural and historical riches of these celebrated destinations.

Inclusions in the Tour

A highly trained and friendly guide, available in both English and Hindi, accompanies travelers throughout the tour.

The guide provides invaluable insights into the cultural significance and local trivia of the iconic Ellora Caves and the historical Daulatabad Fort.

Air-conditioned transportation ensures a comfortable journey, while local tips and recommendations help visitors explore the religious aspects and local importance of these remarkable sites.

The tour package also includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing travelers with added flexibility and peace of mind.

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Exclusions From the Tour

Two key exclusions from this full-day trip are the entrance fees to the historical sites and the cost of any food and drinks not explicitly mentioned in the tour details.

Visitors will need to pay the entrance fees for the Ellora Caves and Daulatabad Fort separately. These fees aren’t included in the tour price.

Plus, the tour doesn’t cover the cost of any meals, snacks, or beverages during the day. Travelers should budget for these extra expenses to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Apart from the transportation and local guide services, the tour price doesn’t include any other incidentals or optional activities.

Exploring the Ellora Caves

The iconic Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stand as one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes globally.

Carved between the 6th and 11th centuries CE, the caves showcase the artistic brilliance and religious diversity of ancient India.

Visitors can explore 34 magnificent caves, each featuring intricate carvings and sculptures that pay homage to Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain faiths.

From the grandeur of the Kailashnath Temple to the serene Buddhist viharas, the Ellora Caves immerse visitors in a rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can uncover the captivating stories and significance behind these remarkable rock-cut wonders.

Visiting the Daulatabad Fort

After exploring the awe-inspiring Ellora Caves, the tour now ventures to the historical Daulatabad Fort, a fortified citadel that once served as the capital of the powerful Yadava dynasty during the 9th-14th centuries CE.

Guests will embark on a guided tour of this impressive structure, learning about its strategic location, architectural marvels, and the role it played in the region’s history.

The fort boasts:

• Towering walls and a moat that once protected the city
• Intricate carvings and sculptures adorning the structures
• Underground passages and tunnels that were used for defense
• Commanding views of the surrounding countryside
• Importance as a former capital and center of power

Pickup and Transportation

As the tour begins, the friendly and knowledgeable guide greets your at their pickup location in Aurangabad.

The guide ensures your are comfortably seated in the air-conditioned transportation. The vehicle departs on time, providing a smooth and efficient journey to the first destination, the Ellora Caves.

Along the way, the guide shares local insights and trivia, enhancing your’ understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The transportation is reliable, and the driver navigates the roads safely, allowing your to sit back and enjoy the scenic views.

This seamless pickup and transportation service sets the stage for an immersive and memorable day of exploration at the iconic Ellora Caves and Daulatabad Fort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is comfortable and casual. Visitors should wear lightweight, breathable clothing that allows for easy movement, as the tour may involve walking over uneven terrain at the historic sites.

Are Cameras and Photography Allowed at the Sites?

Cameras and photography are generally allowed at the Ellora Caves and Daulatabad Fort. Visitors are encouraged to capture the stunning architecture and historical significance of these sites, though some restrictions may apply in certain areas.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though they’re not included in the tour price. The tour focuses on providing a guided experience at the historical sites.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. While the sites have accessibility features, the terrain and duration of the tour could be challenging. Visitors should consult with the tour operator to discuss their needs.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?

No special equipment is required for the tour, though comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The guides can accommodate visitors with mobility issues and provide necessary assistance throughout the day.

Recap

The full-day trip from Aurangabad to the Ellora Caves and Daulatabad Fort offers a captivating exploration of India’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will marvel at the UNESCO-listed Ellora Caves’ stunning rock-cut architecture and explore the historical significance of the Daulatabad Fort. With comfortable transportation, insightful commentary, and the chance to enjoy this incredible destination, this tour provides an unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: