The Ajanta and Ellora caves are home to some of the finest examples of ancient Buddhist sculpture and painting in the world. Both cave complexes are fascinating examples of monastic architecture and culture in India and can be easily explored from the city of Aurangabad. At Ajanta you will be able to discover 29 Buddhist cave temples, some of which date back to the 2nd century BC. The caves at Ellora are recognised as a World Heritage Site and are the most visited ancient monument in the state of Maharashtra.
Our Ajanta and Ellora Caves Pilgrimage tour is designed to be used as a short add on to your existing Ekno Travels itinerary or independent travels. As with all Ekno experiences, we select our hotels and locations with an eye on combining luxury and comfort into one fabulous experience.
TOUR DATES |
October – March |
TOUR COST |
A$1150 per person twin share A$1900 for Single Pax * No fixed departure – price for twin share is based on minimum 2 people |
DURATION |
4 days, 3 nights |
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
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TOUR ROUTE
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Aurangabad – Ajanta Caves – Ellora Caves |
Arrive in Aurangabad
Arrive in Aurangabad, an ancient city in the state of Maharashtra. You will be met at the airport by an Ekno representative and transferred to your hotel. After checking into the hotel, spend the rest of the day at your leisure exploring the local area and soaking up the rich local culture. Our friendly guide and hotel staff will be on hand should you need recommendations or general provisions.
Overnight: Hotel, Aurangabad
Ajanta Caves
After an early breakfast at the hotel you will be escorted by private vehicle to the Ajanta Caves. On arrival you will catch a bus into the caves to enjoy a full day tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Buddhist cave temples. Located northeast of Aurangabad, the caves date from around 200BC to 650AD and are cut into the side of a cliff that is on the south side of a U-shaped gorge on the river Waghur. The caves house 29 spectacular monastic buildings that encompass both the Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist traditions. On your tour you will be able to explore several distinct monasteries as well as view murals which are amongst the best examples of Buddhist art in India.
Overnight: Hotel, Aurangabad
Ellora Caves
This morning you will be driven to the caves of Ellora for a full day of sightseeing. The caves consist of 34 rock-cut shrines representing Buddhist, Hindu and Jain art and date back to the 6th and 10th centuries AD. Marvel at the paintings and exquisite sculptures that are recognised as masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, representing depictions of the Buddha’s life and the Jataka tales.
Overnight: Hotel, Aurangabad
Departure day
After breakfast at the hotel we will transfer you to the airport in time for your return flight. If your flight is not until the evening you might enjoy exploring the richly diverse city of Aurangabad which is famous for its Mughal era architecture.
We look forward to seeing you on another Ekno experience soon. If you wish this pilgrimage package can be combined with one of our other tours or India extensions.
INCLUDES
Met at the airport by an Ekno representative
3 nights’ accommodation with breakfast
Private taxi for all transfers and sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary
All charges related to transport such as tolls, parking, fuel etc.
Services of a local English speaking guide
EXCLUDES
Return airfares to India
Cost of Indian tourist visa (on arrival)
Lunch and dinner
Extra activities and transport not stipulated in the itinerary
Personal expenditure such as drinks, laundry service and souvenirs
Tipping
Entrance fees to all sights and monuments
Camera and video entry charges at local sights and monuments
Compulsory insurance of any kind
