Start your honeymoon by exploring the rich history of Aurangabad. In the morning, visit the magnificent Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the mini Taj Mahal, and marvel at its stunning architecture. Afterward, head to the nearby Aurangabad Caves to witness ancient Buddhist rock-cut temples and intricate carvings. In the afternoon, take a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora Caves, housing rock-cut temples representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain cultures. As the evening approaches, spend some romantic time at Panchakki, an ancient water mill surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Bibi Ka Maqbara: INR 50, 2 hours
Aurangabad Caves: INR 150, 3 hours
Ellora Caves: INR 600, 4-5 hours
Panchakki: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Breakfast: Cafe Coffee Day is a popular chain cafe known for its delicious breakfast options such as sandwiches, croissants, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 200 per person.
Lunch: Barbeque Nation is a great choice for lunch, offering a wide variety of mouthwatering grilled dishes, salads, and desserts. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 800 per person.
Dinner: Dakshin is a renowned restaurant specializing in authentic South Indian cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and biryanis. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 500 per person.
Monday, August 14: Exploring Ancient Forts and Palaces
On your second day, explore the ancient forts and palaces of Aurangabad. Start your morning by visiting the majestic Daulatabad Fort, known for its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Aurangabad Fort, a 17th-century fortress with intricately designed gates and historical significance. As the sun sets, spend a romantic evening strolling through the beautiful gardens of Soneri Mahal, a golden palace with stunning architecture.
Daulatabad Fort: INR 100, 2-3 hours
Aurangabad Fort: INR 15, 2 hours
Soneri Mahal: INR 50, 1 hour
Restaurants
The Bright Cafe: Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at The Bright Cafe, located near the Daulatabad Fort. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, including fluffy pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about $10 per person.
Mughal Spice: For lunch, head to Mughal Spice, a restaurant known for its flavorful Mughlai cuisine. Located near the Aurangabad Fort, this restaurant offers a range of delicious dishes, such as biryanis and kebabs. The average cost for a lunch meal is about $15 per person.
Maurya Garden Restaurant: Enjoy a romantic dinner at Maurya Garden Restaurant, nestled in the beautiful gardens of Soneri Mahal. This restaurant offers a serene ambience and a menu featuring a variety of Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a dinner meal is about $25 per person.
Tuesday, August 15: Exploring Nature and Relaxation
Escape the city and immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature. In the morning, take a scenic drive to the mesmerizing Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient Buddhist cave paintings. Spend the afternoon exploring the stunning surroundings of the caves and enjoying a peaceful picnic by the Waghora River. In the evening, visit the serene Siddharth Garden and Zoo, home to various plant species and animals.
Ajanta Caves: INR 750, 4-5 hours
Siddharth Garden and Zoo: INR 30, 2 hours
Restaurants
Picnic Pavilion: Enjoy a delicious breakfast surrounded by nature at Picnic Pavilion. This charming restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options, including freshly baked pastries and traditional Indian dishes. A meal here costs around 200 rupees per person.
Cafe Paradise: For a satisfying lunch, head to Cafe Paradise. This cozy restaurant serves a range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Try their delicious biryani or indulge in a hearty pasta dish. Expect to spend around 400 rupees per person for a meal here.
Tandoori Village: Experience a romantic dinner at Tandoori Village. Known for its authentic Indian flavors and tandoori specialties, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. Enjoy their mouthwatering kebabs and aromatic curries. The average cost for a meal at Tandoori Village is around 800 rupees per person.
Wednesday, August 16: Exploring Local Culture and Cuisine
On your last day in Aurangabad, immerse yourselves in the local culture and cuisine. Start your morning by visiting the bustling Aurangabad City Center, where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian thali for lunch at a local restaurant. Spend the afternoon exploring the peaceful surroundings of Bani Begum Garden, known for its Mughal-style architecture and beautiful fountains. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife of Aurangabad by visiting popular local bars and lounges.
Aurangabad City Center: Free, 2 hours
Traditional Maharashtrian Thali: INR 300, 1 hour
Bani Begum Garden: INR 20, 2 hours
Nightlife in Aurangabad: Varies
Restaurants
Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Bagel Shop, known for their freshly baked bagels and wide variety of toppings. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Treat yourselves to a culinary delight at Pind Balluchi, serving authentic North Indian cuisine. Don't miss their signature dish, Dal Makhani. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: Indulge in fine dining at Sayaji Hotels, offering a luxurious atmosphere and a menu featuring both Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly romantic experience, consider visiting the Gul Mandi area, known for its vibrant street markets offering traditional textiles, jewelry, and spices. Another hidden gem is the Salim Ali Lake and Bird Sanctuary, perfect for a peaceful boat ride and bird-watching. Locals also recommend trying the delectable local delicacies, such as Naan Qalia and Sheer Khurma, at popular restaurants like Bhoj and Naivedya.