Location : In the south Indian state of
Andhra Pradesh
Tourists Attractions : Aurangabad Caves,
State Archaeological Museum, Nehru Udyan, History Museum of
Marathwada University, Bibi ka Maqbara, Panchakki, Siddharth
Udyan, Himroo Factory, Killa Arrack, Jama Masjid, Kali Masjid,
Shah Ganj Mosque, Chauk Masjid, Lal Masjid.
Best Buys : Himroo Shawls, Paithani saris
Best Hangout : Panchakki
Nearby Tourist Destinations : Daulatabad,
Khuldabad, Paithan, Shirdi, Pithalkhora Caves, Ajanta, Ellora,
Mumbai, Pune.
When to Visit : October to March
About Aurangabad
Named after the last of Great Mughals Aurangzeb, Aurangabad in
the state of Maharashtra is a very interesting travel
destination in India to visit. Aurangabad, at a distance of 400
kms from Bombay, is an offbeat destination in the state of
Maharashtra. Spectacular rock cut caves and cave paintings exist
at two nearby places, Ajanta and Ellora.
Aurangabad attracts attention of tourists because of its many
famous historical and religious architectural sites. It is true
that Aurangabad is not a green hilly destination, though it has
a good number of gardens giving you a comfortable stay in the
town. Many tourists visit this place due to its proximity to
some of the world famous heritage sites of India. This has
helped in increasing the popularity of its locally produced
traditional textiles and handicraft items too.
Major Tourist Attractions in Aurangabad
Aurangabad Caves
The Aurangabad Caves were built during the 6th and 7th
centuries. The walls of the caves have interesting illustrations
from the Jataka stories. Lying amidst the hills are 12 Buddhist
caves possibly dating back to the 1st century AD. The Tantric
influences evident in the iconography and architectural designs
of the caves are of particular interest. Some of the chaityas
are constructed on a mandala plan for the circumambulation of
the Buddha who is depicted here seated on an intricately carved
throne.
Bibi-ka-Maqbara
The Bibi-ka-Maqbara is a tomb built in memory of Aurangzeb's
wife Rabia-ud-Daurani Begum. The tomb bears some resemblance
with the Taj Mahal, and hence known as "Poor Man's Taj Mahal".
This Maqbara attracts the tourists due to its wonderful
architecture and historical importance.
Panchakki
Panchakki, meaning water mill is another major attraction of
Aurangabad. The mill gets its share of water that travels
through an underground channel from a source which is 6 km away
in the mountains. The water is released on to the wheel creating
an enthralling waterfall. The place also has a garden and
fountains with fish-filled tanks adding to the beauty of the
entire area. Panchakki also has a tomb of Baba Shah Muzaffar, a
Sufi Saint who was spiritual adviser to Aurangzeb.
Himroo Factory
The
Himroo Factory is another major tourist attraction of Aurangabad.
The traditional Himroo fabric which is an amazing blend of
cotton and silk is known for its quality. You can also find here
Paithani saris, traditional handloom shawls and other textiles
material of Himroo fabric and silver threads. Interestingly, the
designs and patterns worked out on these fabrics are inspired by
Ajanta frescoes.
Getting There
Air : The Airport is about 10km east on the Jalna road.
The NEPC Airways office is in the President Park Hotel, 2km
Closer to the airport.
Rail : There are 2 direct trains daily to/from Mumbai.
The Tapovan Express departs at 2.55 PM gets you into Mumbai at
11.20pm.
Road : There are MSRTC Buses From Aurangabad To Pune,
Nasik, Indore and Mumbai.The MSRTC and MTDC also offer luxury
overnight buses to Mumbai.
Accommodation
Aurangabad has numerous world class hotels for the tourist
coming from all the parts of the world. The hotels and
accommodations ranges between luxury and budget category, as per
the pocket of the tourists. All the accommodations offered here
are complete with world class facilities and services.
Maharashtra
Travel Guide
