Hyderabad to Aurangabad Drive to Explore the Man-made Wonder of India

Day 1: Arrival in Hyderabad – Leisure & Orientation

Upon arrival at Hyderabad airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After settling in, the rest of the day is at leisure to relax and recover from your journey. You may choose to explore nearby local markets or enjoy Hyderabad’s famous cuisine such as biryani and traditional sweets. Take a gentle introduction to the city’s culture and lifestyle while preparing for the upcoming historical exploration. Optional evening visits to local bazaars can be arranged upon request. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.

Day 2: Begin the City Tour of Hyderabad

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the full-day city tour of Hyderabad, covering its most iconic landmarks. Start with a visit to the grand Golconda Fort, known for its impressive acoustics, royal palaces, and panoramic views of the city. Continue to the Qutub Shahi Tombs, an elegant complex showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture set amidst landscaped gardens. Later, visit the iconic Charminar, the symbol of Hyderabad, followed by Mecca Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Proceed to Salar Jung Museum, housing one of the largest collections of art and artifacts in the country. Conclude your day with a visit to Chowmohalla Palace, once the seat of the Nizams. Return to your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.

Day 3: Hyderabad – Bidar – Drive to Nanded (305 kms / 7 hrs approx)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Nanded, covering approximately 305 kilometers in about 7 hours. En route, stop at Bidar, a historic town known for its Indo-Islamic architecture. Visit Bidar Fort, which features impressive gateways, palaces, and Persian influences. Continue to Mahmud Gawan Madarsa, an ancient educational institution reflecting Persian architecture, followed by the Bahmani Tombs. You may also visit Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple, a unique shrine located within a water-filled cave. After sightseeing, continue your drive to Nanded. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Overnight at hotel in Nanded.

Day 4: Nanded – Aundha Nagnath – Drive to Aurangabad (265 kms / 6 hrs approx)

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the sacred Hazur Sahib Gurudwara, one of the most important Sikh pilgrimage sites associated with Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Experience the spiritual ambiance and observe the rituals performed by devotees. Later, drive towards Aurangabad, covering approximately 265 kilometers in about 6 hours. En route, visit Aundha Nagnath Temple, one of the revered Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance. Continue your scenic drive through rural Maharashtra landscapes before reaching Aurangabad. Check in at your hotel upon arrival. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 5: Begin the Aurangabad City Tour & Ellora Excursion (30 kms / 1 hr one way)

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Aurangabad with a full-day excursion to Ellora Caves, located about 30 kilometers away. These UNESCO World Heritage caves represent a remarkable fusion of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut architecture dating from the 6th to 10th centuries. Explore the magnificent Kailasa Temple, a monolithic structure carved out of a single rock, showcasing extraordinary craftsmanship. Continue to Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, attracting pilgrims from across India. Later, visit the impressive Daulatabad Fort, known for its strategic defense system and commanding views. Return to Aurangabad and visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the “Mini Taj Mahal,” followed by Panchakki, an ancient water mill system. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 6: Aurangabad – Ajanta Excursion (210 kms round trip / 5 hrs approx)

After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Ajanta Caves, located approximately 105 kilometers from Aurangabad (210 km round trip). These UNESCO-listed caves are renowned for their exquisite Buddhist murals and sculptures dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Carved into a horseshoe-shaped cliff overlooking a river gorge, the caves depict the life and teachings of Lord Buddha through intricate paintings and carvings. Spend ample time exploring the caves, appreciating the artistic brilliance and historical significance. The serene surroundings enhance the overall experience, making it a highlight of the journey. After sightseeing, drive back to Aurangabad. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 7: Departure from Aurangabad

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Aurangabad airport for your onward journey. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a short visit to local markets or last-minute shopping. Bid farewell to the rich heritage, architectural wonders, and cultural experiences of the Deccan region. Your journey concludes with unforgettable memories of India’s man-made marvels.

• Assistance on arrival and departure at airport
• 6 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers, sightseeing, and intercity drives as per itinerary
• English-speaking local guides for sightseeing in Hyderabad, Bidar, Aurangabad, Ellora & Ajanta
• Monument entrance fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water in the vehicle throughout the journey
• All tolls, parking charges, driver allowance, and fuel costs
• Government taxes (GST)

Hotels used or similar for 6 nights accommodation

Hyderabad x 2 nights
3* - Aditya Park/ Lemon Tree Hotel
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/ Fortune Park Vallabha
5* - ITC Kakatiya, a Luxury Collection/ Trident Hotel

Nanded x 1 night
3* / 4* / 5* - Gurudwara Sarai/ NRI Complex (Neat & clean)

Aurangabad x 3 nights
3* - Keys Hotel The Aures/ Aurangabad Gymkhana Club
4* - Ambassador Ajanta / VITS Hotel
5* - WelcomHotel Rama International / Lemon Tree Hotel

• Domestic and international flight tickets
• Visa fees and travel insurance
• Lunches and dinners (unless specified)
• Camera/video fees at monuments
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverages, minibar, telephone, etc.
• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
• Any increase in entrance fees or taxes imposed by the government
• Expenses arising due to delays, weather conditions, roadblocks, or unforeseen circumstances
• Medical expenses or emergency evacuation
• Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions