Plan your Ajanta Caves day trip from Aurangabad with this complete guide — travel time, ticket prices, what to see, best time to visit, and cab booking.
The Ajanta Caves are one of India's greatest treasures — a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves adorned with exquisite paintings and sculptures dating back over 2,000 years. Located about 100 km from Aurangabad, a day trip to Ajanta is an absolute must for anyone visiting Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad).
In this guide, we cover everything you need to plan your Ajanta Caves tour — travel options, timings, ticket prices, what to see, and tips for the best experience.
How to Reach Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad
The most convenient way to reach Ajanta Caves is by hiring a private cab. The distance is approximately 100 km, and the drive takes around 2.5 hours via the Aurangabad–Jalna–Ajanta road. A private cab gives you the flexibility to leave early, explore at your own pace, and return comfortably.
- Private Cab: 2.5 hours, most comfortable option
- MSRTC Bus: Available from CBS bus stand, but less flexible
- Self-Drive: Possible but tiring for a day trip
Ajanta Caves Ticket Price 2026
- Indian Nationals: ₹40 per person
- Foreign Nationals: ₹600 per person
- Camera Fee: ₹25 (still camera)
- Video Camera: ₹200
- Guide Fee: ₹200–500 (recommended)
- Open: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
What to See at Ajanta Caves
- Cave 1 – Famous for the Padmapani and Vajrapani paintings
- Cave 2 – Stunning ceiling murals and the story of Hamsa
- Cave 10 – One of the oldest chaitya halls with dramatic architecture
- Cave 16 – Beautifully preserved Jataka tales on the walls
- Cave 17 – Houses the famous 'Flying Apsara' painting
- Cave 26 – Magnificent chaitya hall with detailed sculptures
Best Time to Visit
The best months are October to March when the weather is cool and comfortable. Monsoon (July–September) adds lush greenery to the surroundings but roads can be slippery. Summer (April–June) is very hot with temperatures exceeding 40°C. The caves are closed on Mondays.
Tips for Your Ajanta Day Trip
- Start early — leave Aurangabad by 6:30 AM
- Carry a valid photo ID (required for ticket purchase)
- Wear comfortable walking shoes — there's a lot of walking
- Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat
- Hire a guide at the entrance for the best experience
- Photography is allowed inside most caves (no flash)
- Combine with Ellora Caves for a 2-day trip
Book Your Ajanta Cabs Tour
Satya Cabs & Holidays offers Ajanta Caves day tour packages starting from ₹3,500 (Sedan) and ₹5,500 (Innova Crysta). The package includes pickup from Aurangabad, full-day cab with driver, and return drop. Call +91 73910 70797 to book.
