Places to visit in Aurangabad

• Bibi-ka-Maqbara: With a close resemblance to the Taj Mahal, Bibi-ka-Maqbara is an epitome of love and was built by Aurangzeb’s son in remembrance of his mother. This exquisite structure boast of Mughal style architecture, intricate carvings and designs in the interiors along with manicured gardens and fountains dotting its landscape, making it a perfect backdrop for your Instagram pictures.
• Ajanta and Ellora Caves: These fabulous caves are hand-carved into hillside rocks and form important UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While all caves in Ajanta are Buddhist, Ellora hosts a mix of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves. The caves exude divine energy, and the ornate carvings on its walls and ceilings of the Buddhist Caves depict the life of Buddha. Ajanta and Ellora are situated at a distance of 95 km from each other, and the caves depict stories from the Jataka Tales, an ancient form of Indian Literature.
• Aurangabad Caves: Carved out of soft basalt rock, these 12 Buddhist Shrines were built during the 6th and 7th centuries and are a testimony to the rich culture and heritage of the city. Situated on a hill, this place provides a picturesque view of the entire city, including its popular monuments. If you have been in awe of the architecture of the Ajanta and Ellora caves, then Aurangabad Caves, with its intricate sculptural patterns and carvings, are a must-visit. The caves are best visited early in the morning. 
• Daulatabad Fort: This historic hilltop fortress, also popularly known as Devagiri or Deogiri was built by the first Yadava King. Surrounding the fort is a moat filled with water, and it is believed to have crocodiles in the ancient times. The fort exhibits several ingenious structures, including multiple rows of massive walls, a complex arrangement of entryways, and trenches that were carefully built to keep the enemies at bay. 

High-end shopping/luxury shopping/shopping malls in Aurangabad

• Prozone Mall: Prozone Mall, Aurangabad is one of the largest and horizontally designed shopping malls in India comprising more than 150 retail stores. The mall offers a number of stores for clothes, gadgets, shoes, accessories and more.
• The Reliance mall: The Reliance mall offers the best services and products with attractive deals, discounts and more for its customers. The mall is home to a number of popular brands, thus offering an amazing shopping experience.

Street shopping in Aurangabad

• Gulmandi: One of the largest bazaars in Aurangabad, Gulmandi, is famous for Paithani Sarees and is a favourite among shoppers.
• Himroo Fabrics: Himroo is a local fabric made from Silk and Cotton. It is the perfect place to buy authentic handmade Himroo, and most of the designs used in the material are inspired by the paintings inside the Ajanta and Ellora caves. They offer everything from shawls to dupattas, bedcovers, stoles, and sarees. 
• Connaught Shopping Market: This place is known for the shops which sell exquisite Kam Khab weaves. You can splurge in buying some elegant shawls and other silk items at this place. 
• Nirala Bazaar: Situated in the city's heart, the Nirala Bazaar is famous for its branded showrooms. The place also has several food joints and souvenirs stores.
• Aurangabad is a popular spot for shopping, and there are several bazaars located in the heart of the city. From sarees to authentic fabrics and several handicraft items, there is a lot you can carry back home for yourself and your loved ones. Here are some of the famous bazaars to check out in Aurangabad.

Food trail

If Ajanta-Ellora caves are not strong enough reasons for you to visit Aurangabad, then its gastronomical delights will surely win you over. The city has Persian and Mughal influence in its food, and delicacies such as Sheermal, Mawa Jalebis, and Naan Qalia are a must-try on your visit to the city. Eat your way through some of the best-slow-cooked delights which can be found at various streets in Aurangabad.  

Lonar Crater Lake

Located nearly 3.5 hrs from Aurangabad, this Lake located in Buldhana district of Maharashtra is a National Geo-heritage Monument. The Lake was created by an asteroid collision and is one of the four such to exist globally, the other three being in Brazil. This salt lake is a haven for a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Shani Shingnapur

Picture a town where nobody locks the door. Yes, this exists! The town of Shani Shingnapur, located 80 km southwest of Aurangabad, is known to have a zero crime rate, and even the banks here follow suit by keeping their doors unlocked. If this has piqued your curiosity, then do plan to visit this town to witness it yourself.

Paithan and Jayakwadi Dam

Located on the banks of River Godavari, 50 km south of Aurangabad, these massive dams have over two dozen floodgates. The Paithan town is also famous for its textile industries, and Paithani Sarees must buy on your visit here.

Bani Begum Mughal Garden

This impressive Garden hosts a group of tombs, the mausoleum of Bani Begum, the wife Emperor Aurangzeb's son. Fluted pillars and fountains adorn the Garden, which is reminiscent of the typical Mughal architecture. The beauty of this place is sure to charm you. 

Nightlife/party places in Aurangabad

• KA Lounge
• Harry's Bar
• Garbah
• Tonic The Bar
• Bistro Bar
• Slounge at Lemon Tree Hotel
• Behing Bar at VITS Hotel
• D Sutra at Hotel Manor

Aurangabad is one of the most culturally vibrant cities in Maharashtra. The city is home to the UNESCO world heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora caves and carries the bygone era's imprints. Aurangabad has another facet too. The city hosts various events and festivals as a testimony to its rich and vibrant cultural heritage.

Paithan Festival

Paithan Festival is a religious fair that is held as a tribute to Saint Eknath Maharaj. Lasting for 10 days, the Paithan Festival is held in March or April as per the Hindu calendar. The fair marks religious celebrations and trading of traditional utensils made of brass, copper and silver.

Aurangabad Festival

In December, the Aurangabad Festival is an annual festival aimed to spread the city's culture and tradition to various travellers and guests. Classical folk dances, paperwork exhibitions, heritage walks, and bullock cart races are all organised under the Aurangabad festival's banner.

Dusshera

Dusshera is widely celebrated all over India, but in Aurangabad, Dusshera celebration lasts well over 10 days. On the last day, a fair is held where people meet and greet each other. Apta leaf offerings are made as a mark of good luck for the year ahead. The Bhavani temple in Karnapura is one of the most popular pilgrimage centres attracting pilgrims from across Maharashtra to celebrate Dusshera. Amid the burning of the effigies of Ravana, schools and college worship Goddess Saraswati as a metaphor for learning.

Ajanta and Ellora Festival

Ajanta and Ellora festival is by far one of the most well-known festivals in Aurangabad. The festival is known for art, dance and musical celebration and invites tourists from all over India. Painting, cooking, rangoli and other creative art competitions are conducted at the festival as well.

Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi also was known as Ganeshotsav is a famous festival celebrated all over Maharashtra. In Aurangabad, the festival is celebrated with equal enthusiasm, pomp and show. The celebrations last over 10 days where various Ganesha pandals are set up all over the city.

Maharashtra is known for its festivals and fairs, and Aurangabad is no different. The city hosts multiple fairs and festivals that are popular with locals and tourists alike. So if you plan to visit Aurangabad during a festive time, book your Aurangabad hotels in advance.