Aurangabad is one of the most rewarding heritage destinations in India, and unlike Delhi or Jaipur, it has not yet been priced for the premium tourist market. With careful planning, a genuinely excellent 3-day trip including Ellora, Ajanta, and the major historical sites is achievable on a modest daily budget.
ACCOMMODATION:
The most affordable option near Ellora is camping at Hiranya Resort — our camping tent option includes breakfast and pool access. For tight budgets, dormitory accommodation is available in Aurangabad city, though this requires a 45-minute commute to Ellora each morning.
ENTRY FEES:
Ellora Caves: small ASI ticket. Ajanta Caves: small ASI ticket. Bibi Ka Maqbara: small ASI ticket. Daultabad Fort: small ASI ticket. Grishneshwar Temple: Free. Aurangabad Caves: small ASI ticket. Pan Chakki: small ticket. Entry to all the major sites together costs very little.
FOOD:
The old city of Aurangabad has excellent and affordable food — Naan Qalia at neighbourhood establishments costs a fraction of restaurant prices. Local dhabas near the caves serve reliable thali meals. At Hiranya Resort, our buffet breakfast is included in accommodation; add-on restaurant meals are priced at mid-range levels.
TRANSPORT:
Local buses connect the city to Ellora and are the cheapest way to get there. Autos within Aurangabad city. For Ajanta, the MSRTC operates direct buses on most days. If you stay at Hiranya, ask about our guided early-morning cycle ride to Ellora, 8 km each way.
WHAT TO SPLURGE ON:
A guided tour of Ellora with a qualified archaeologist guide is worth the additional expense — the difference between understanding and merely seeing the caves is vast. A half-day guide is worth budgeting for. Everything else can be done independently.
