Mumbai to Aurangabad by Train: Ajanta & Ellora Heritage Tour
Experience a seamless cultural journey from Mumbai to Aurangabad by comfortable air-conditioned train, combining the charm of Indian rail travel with rich heritage exploration. Discover the world-renowned Ajanta Caves, famous for their ancient Buddhist murals and rock-cut architecture dating back over 2,000 years. Continue to the spectacular Ellora Caves, showcasing an extraordinary blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain cave temples, including the iconic Kailasa Temple carved from a single rock. The journey also includes visits to key historical landmarks such as Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort, and Grishneshwar Temple, offering deeper insight into the region’s cultural and spiritual legacy. Travel comfortably with guided sightseeing, seamless transfers, and thoughtfully planned experiences throughout the tour. Perfect for culture enthusiasts and first-time visitors, this itinerary blends scenic travel with India’s most remarkable UNESCO heritage sites.
Day 1: Mumbai to Aurangabad by Train
Your journey begins with a transfer from your hotel in Mumbai to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, an iconic heritage station, where you board your train to Aurangabad (officially Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar). You may travel on the modern Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 20706: 13:15 hrs – 18:43 hrs) or the Janshatabdi Express (Train No. 12071: 12:10 hrs – 18:25 hrs), both offering comfortable air-conditioned seating. As the train moves out of Mumbai, the scenery gradually transforms from bustling cityscapes to open countryside, dotted with villages, fields, and the rugged terrain of the Deccan plateau. Upon arrival in Aurangabad, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The evening is free to relax and unwind after the journey. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 2: Excursion to Ajanta Caves
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive through the countryside to the world-renowned Ajanta Caves, set within a picturesque horseshoe-shaped valley carved by the Waghora River. These ancient caves, dating back over two millennia, are celebrated for their remarkable Buddhist murals, intricate carvings, and beautifully preserved frescoes. Accompanied by your guide, explore some of the most significant caves that narrate stories from the life of Lord Buddha and the Jataka tales, offering a profound insight into early Indian art and spirituality. The peaceful surroundings and artistic brilliance make Ajanta a truly unforgettable experience. After the visit, drive back to Aurangabad. The evening is at leisure, giving you the option to relax or explore local markets known for traditional textiles and handicrafts. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 3: Ellora Caves, Grishneshwar Temple & Aurangabad Sightseeing
Following breakfast, proceed for a full-day excursion to the magnificent Ellora Caves, one of India’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Unlike Ajanta, Ellora showcases a unique blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain cave temples, reflecting centuries of religious harmony and artistic excellence. The highlight of the visit is the awe-inspiring Kailasa Temple, a monolithic structure carved entirely out of a single rock, renowned for its scale and intricate detailing. En route, visit the sacred Grishneshwar Temple, one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Continue to the historic Daulatabad Fort, known for its strategic hilltop location and impressive fortifications. Later, return to Aurangabad and visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the “Mini Taj Mahal,” followed by Panchakki, showcasing remarkable medieval engineering. If time permits, also visit the Aurangabad Caves, offering a quieter and scenic heritage experience. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 4: Aurangabad to Mumbai by Train
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to the railway station to board your return train to Mumbai. You may travel on the Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 20706: 08:25 hrs – 14:15 hrs) or the Janshatabdi Express (Train No. 12072: 09:40 hrs – 16:50 hrs). Relax and enjoy the comfortable journey as the train passes through scenic landscapes, offering one last glimpse of Maharashtra’s countryside. Upon arrival in Mumbai, you will be met and assisted with your onward transfer to the hotel, airport, or your preferred location. Your journey concludes with enriching memories of India’s timeless heritage, architectural wonders, and cultural experiences.
- Assistance on arrival at the airport.
- Accommodation in the selected category of hotel with daily breakfast (if the option is selected).
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for hotel–railway station transfers and vice versa in Mumbai.
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers, sightseeing, and excursions in Aurangabad.
- English-speaking licensed tour guide for 02 days guided sightseeing of Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves & Aurangabad.
- Train tickets from Mumbai to Aurangabad and return:
- AC Chair Car (CC) in 3? hotel package
- AC Executive Chair Car (EC) in 4? & 5? hotel packages
- Monument entrance fees as per the itinerary.
- Bottled drinking water in the vehicle during transfers and sightseeing.
- All applicable government taxes.
Hotels Used or Similar for 03 Nights Accommodation
3* Hotels
Aurangabad × 3 Nights: The Fern Residency / Amarpreet Hotel
4* Hotels
Aurangabad × 3 Nights: Lemon Tree Hotel
5* Hotels
Aurangabad × 3 Nights: WelcomHotel Rama International / Vivanta Aurangabad
- Any domestic or international flight tickets.
- Camera/video charges at monuments, if applicable.
- Meals other than those mentioned in the inclusions.
- Expenses of a personal nature such as liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, internet, etc.
- Gratuities and optional activities.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under “Price Includes.”