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Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar
With well-preserved remnants of historic sites, Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar is an ancient town about eight hours drive from Mumbai by road. It is known for its historical monuments, culturally rich museums and proximity to the renowned UNESCO World Heritage caves at Ajanta and Ellora.
Things To See & Do
Ellora Caves
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Featuring Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monuments, Ellora Caves are a stunning rock-cut temple complex with 34 monasteries and temples. It takes about an hour by road to reach Ellora from Aurangabad. The UNESCO website says that Ellora 'illustrates the spirit of tolerance that was characteristic of ancient India'.
3-4 hours
Suggested Time
Ajanta Caves
Rock-cut Buddhist Cave Temples
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ajanta Caves are a set of 30 rock-cut Buddhist temples near Aurangabad.
3-4 hours
Suggested Time
Bibi Ka Maqbara Aurangabad
Taj of the Deccan
The fascinating mausoleum Bibi-ka-Maqbara was built in 1679 and is a tomb dedicated to Aurangzeb’s chief wife, Rabia-ud-Daurani. Its architecture, design and even the white-ness of the marble used to build it, bears a striking resemblance to the world famous Taj Mahal.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Bhadra Maruti Temple
Popular Temple Dedicated to Hanuman
Located at Khuldabad (less than an hour from Aurangabad), Bhadra Maruti Temple is an important tourist attraction. Legend has it that Lord Hanuman descended here on hearing King Bhadrasen’s devotional songs honouring Lord Rama and took Bhava-samadhi – a reclining posture.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Valley of the Sufi Saints
Famous Sufi Site
Also known as Khuldabad, Valley of the Sufi Saints is famous for the dargah of Sufi Saint Muntajib al-Din. A short walk from the dargah lies Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's tomb. Most people visit this place while going to the Ellora Caves.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Grishneshwar Temple Jyotirlinga, Aurangabad
Temple for Lord Shiva
Less than an hour from Aurangabad, the Grishneswar Temple is a legendary temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is the smallest Jyotirlinga temple in India. The walls of the temple also have colourful murals depicting Lord Vishnu's many avtaars.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Aurangabad Caves
Popular Buddhist Temple
The Aurangabad Caves are ASI protected monuments. Depicting Mahayana, Hinayana and Vajrayana influences, the caves are an interesting tourist attraction famous for the green hills that surround it and the artistically carved sculptures inside.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Khuldabad Aurangabad
A Sacred Town Steeped in History
Khuldabad is a historical town located near , India, known for its sacred significance and rich history. Home to the tombs of several Mughal emperors and Sufi saints, Khuldabad is a fascinating destination for history buffs and spiritual seekers alike.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Jain Caves Ellora
Ancient Rock-Cut Jain Temples in Ellora
The Jain Caves at Ellora are a group of ancient rock-cut temples located near , India. These exquisite caves, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries, showcase the intricate art and architecture of Jainism and offer a fascinating insight into the religion's rich history and cultural heritage.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Jama Masjid Aurangabad
A Beautiful Mosque in the Heart of
Jama Masjid is a beautiful mosque located in the bustling city of , India. Known for its elegant architecture and serene atmosphere, the mosque serves as an important centre for Islamic worship and cultural activities in the region.
1 hour
Suggested Time
Dargah of Pir Ismail
A Revered Sufi Shrine in
The Dargah of Pir Ismail is a sacred Sufi shrine located in the historical town of Khuldabad, near , India. Dedicated to the revered Sufi saint Pir Ismail, the shrine attracts devotees and spiritual seekers from far and wide, offering a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Buddhist Caves Aurangabad
A Testament to 's Rich Buddhist Heritage
The Buddhist Caves in , India, are a group of ancient rock-cut caves that showcase the region's rich Buddhist heritage. With a history dating back to the 2nd century BCE, these caves offer a fascinating insight into the development of Buddhist art, architecture, and culture over the centuries.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Bani Begum Garden
Serene Mughal-Style Garden in
Bani Begum Garden is a beautiful Mughal-style garden located in , India. Named after Bani Begum, the wife of one of Aurangzeb's sons, the garden is known for its serene atmosphere, lush greenery, and elegant architectural structures, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Himayat Bagh
A Lush Mughal-Style Garden in
Himayat Bagh is a beautiful Mughal-style garden located in , India. Known for its serene atmosphere, lush greenery, and elegant architectural structures, the garden offers a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city and is situated near the Salim Ali Lake.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Tomb of Aurangzeb
The Final Resting Place of a Mughal Emperor
The Tomb of Aurangzeb, located in the historical town of Khuldabad near , is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Known for its simplicity and modesty, the tomb offers a fascinating insight into the life and reign of one of India's most controversial rulers.
1 hour
Suggested Time
Kailasa Temple
The Majestic Rock-Cut Temple of Ellora
Kailasa Temple is an awe-inspiring rock-cut temple located within the Ellora Caves near , India. Carved out of a single rock, this architectural masterpiece is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and serves as a testament to the incredible craftsmanship and devotion of its creators.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Salim Ali Lake
A Tranquil Oasis in
Salim Ali Lake is a serene and picturesque lake located in , India. Named after the renowned ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, the lake is a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Siddharth Garden
Fun Outdoor Picnic Spot
With a large outdoor space and a zoo, Siddharth Garden is the perfect spot to unwind in the arms of nature. It is best visited for weekend trips and family get-togethers.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Best Time To Visit Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar
Winter Destination
NOV-MAR
Peak Season
SEP-OCT
Moderate Season
APR-AUG
Off-season
- What To Expect:The winter weather is pleasantly cool, ideal for sightseeing and explorations. The temperature can drop to 10°C in Dec-Jan.
- Things You'll Love:Exploring various cultural centres, navigating millennia-old cave temples and enjoy authentic cuisine.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
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More about Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar!
Known for its Heritage, Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar is a hugely popular tourist spot. Thronged by tourists mainly during November, December, January, February and March, Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar is a tourists’ delight. Khultabad Urs, Buddha Jayanti, and Khultabad Urs are some of the most popular festivals that happen during the month of (May, May, and May consecutively.
,While September and October are considered moderate season, (months) April, May, June, July and August are considered off-seasons to visit the place. In peak season, i.e., in November, December, January, February and March you can expect the winter weather is pleasantly cool, ideal for sightseeing and explorations. The temperature can drop to 10°C in Dec-Jan weather, in the moderate season you will experience moderate weather with occasional showers. Lush green surroundings that are ideal for outdoor treks and hikes. . In off-season the weather here is intense summer heat prevents most outdoor activities.
,In terms of activities, tourists enjoy getting indulged in exploring various cultural centres, navigating millennia-old cave temples and enjoying authentic Chhatrapati Shambhajinagari cuisine in the peak season, whereas in moderate season exploring the archaeological tourist attractions at leisure with minimal crowds, festive discounts all over and exploring the nightlife are the frequently enjoyed activities. However, if you are travelling in off-season you can enjoy visiting local art museums and textile factories, enjoying the local nighlife after sunset.
,Tourists love to enjoy Ellora Caves, Ajanta Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar
What is the best time to visit Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar?
Ideally the best time to visit any place is considered when the weather conditions are delightful. For Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar, you can choose to go in November, December, January, February and March which is the peak season and September and October which is the moderate season. Both will serve you well to unwind from your tedious routine.
What are the best places to visit in Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar?
The most loved attractions in Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar are Ellora Caves, Ajanta Caves and Bibi Ka Maqbara Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar .
For which type of travelling is Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar a perfect destination?
Chhatrapati Shambhajinagar is a perfect destination for Heritage themed holidays.