This is the question we get most often from guests at Hiranya Resort: should we do Ajanta and Ellora in the same day? The honest answer is no — and here's why, plus the best way to plan your visit.
THE FUNDAMENTAL DIFFERENCE
Ellora is primarily a sculptural achievement — monumental rock-cut architecture of extraordinary ambition, with the Kailasa Temple as its unmissable centerpiece. Ajanta is primarily a painterly achievement — ancient murals of such sensitivity and sophistication that they require time, good lighting, and a patient eye to truly appreciate. Both reward unhurried attention.
THE DISTANCE PROBLEM
Ajanta is 120km from Hiranya Resort (and from Ellora). The round trip alone is 240km. Add cave visiting time and you're looking at a 12-hour day with only a couple of rushed hours at each site — which does justice to neither.
THE RECOMMENDED PLAN
Day 1 (Base: Hiranya Resort): Ellora Caves. Cycle there at 6am, spend 4–5 hours, visit Grishneshwar temple, return for lunch and afternoon at the resort.
Day 2: Ajanta. Leave by 6am, arrive by 8:30am as the site opens, spend the full morning, have lunch in Fardapur (near Ajanta), and return by 5pm.
If you only have one day: Choose Ellora. It is closer, more architecturally dramatic, more diverse (three faiths in one site), and the Kailasa Temple alone justifies the trip.
If you have a week: Do both, plus Daultabad Fort, Bibi ka Maqbara, Lonar Crater, and the Aurangabad Caves — all within range of Hiranya Resort as a comfortable base.
Our front desk can arrange guided transport and expert guides for both sites. Book 48 hours in advance for the best experience.
