Start early to avoid city traffic and reach Aurangabad in time for a morning visit; carry driving documents, puncture kit, phone charger and water. Plan driver rotations if possible so no one is fatigued.
Stop for breakfast at a clean dhaba or hotel (recommended: kande pohe or masala omelette with chai) to fuel up before site visits; most places open early from ~7:00am.
Short drive (20–40 minutes depending on where you parked) to Ellora complex; parking available near the site and there are toilets and a small visitor centre. Aim to be at the site soon after opening hours to avoid midday heat.
Explore the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) and the major Buddhist and Jain caves; outstanding rock-cut architecture and carvings make Ellora a must-see. Typical opening hours: ~9:00am–18:00 — confirm on the ASI website before travel; allocate 3–4 hours for a relaxed visit.
Return to Aurangabad city for lunch: recommended choices — a Marathwada thali at a hygienic restaurant, or hotel buffet (Vivanta/Lemon Tree) for variety; try local dishes such as mutton rassa or bharli vangi for non-vegetarians and pithla bhakri or zunka for vegetarians.
Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara (the 'Taj of the Deccan') for 45–60 minutes for photos and a brief garden walk, or stroll the local market for snacks and souvenirs. Typical visiting hours ~9:00am–18:00; take care of time if you plan to drive to Ajanta later in the day.
Begin the drive toward Ajanta area (approx. 100–130 km; expect 2.5–3.5 hours depending on route and traffic). This positions you to visit Ajanta early the next morning. Fill fuel and stock snacks before departing.
Check into a hotel or resort close to Ajanta (Fardapur/Jalgaon). Recommended: for comfort stay in Jalgaon (Hotel Crystal / Hotel RajShree) if you prefer more amenities; for proximity choose local guesthouses or resorts near Fardapur/Ajanta (basic but closer). Confirm late-check-in and parking when booking.
Dinner at the hotel or a nearby safe restaurant; stick to freshly cooked hot meals (rice, dal, vegetable curry or local Maharashtrian thali). Many local places close by 10:00–10:30pm, so dine early.
Recharge devices, prepare water, sun protection and comfortable walking shoes for the Ajanta visit; request a packed breakfast from the hotel if you want an earlier departure.
Have an early breakfast at the hotel or take a packed breakfast to maximize time at the caves. Many hotels will provide packed breakfasts on request if you need to depart before their regular service.
Short drive to the Ajanta visitor parking and shuttle point; arrive early to be ready for entry when the site opens. Aim to be at the reception/parking area by 8:15–8:30am so you can catch the first shuttle or start the walk to the cave horseshoe.
Explore the exquisite horseshoe‑shaped Ajanta complex: key caves with frescoes (Caves 1, 2, 16, 26) and stupas; the art and murals are the highlight. Typical visiting hours: ~9:00am–17:30 — confirm on the ASI site before travel; allow 3.5–4.5 hours for a comprehensive but unrushed visit.
Have lunch at the government cafeteria or a nearby clean restaurant: simple home-style Maharashtrian fare (dal, sabzi, chapati or rice) replenishes you after the walking tour. Food options near Ajanta are basic; if you need special dietary choices, request packed food from your hotel in advance.
Begin the return drive to Pune. Expect a long drive (approx. 6.5–8 hours depending on route and traffic) — pick comfortable driving shifts and plan one or two short rest/fuel stops. If you prefer, you can stop overnight in Aurangabad and reach Pune next morning, but for a 2-day plan this is the direct return leg.
Estimated arrival back in Pune in the late evening; conclude the trip, refuel the car, and check for any return paperwork required by the rental company. Rest well after the long drive and back up your photos.
Check ASI or official sites 24–48 hours before travel for exact opening hours, ticketing and any maintenance closures (typical hours: Ellora ~9:00–18:00; Ajanta ~9:00–17:30). Carry original ID for ticketing/hotel check-in, cash for small purchases, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and a small first-aid kit. Avoid night driving if any driver is fatigued; split driving duties.