Saturday, December 16: Historical Marvels and Local Cuisine
Begin your exploration of Aurangabad with a visit to the iconic Bibi Ka Maqbara in the morning. Also known as the Mini Taj of the Deccan, this stunning mausoleum was built in the 17th century and is a replica of the Taj Mahal. Spend the afternoon at Daulatabad Fort, a majestic fortress with intricate architecture and breathtaking views. In the evening, indulge in the local cuisine at Himroo Market, which offers a variety of traditional textiles and delectable street food.
Bibi Ka Maqbara: Estimated cost - INR 30, Time spent - 2 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Moca. This cozy café offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Spice Paradise, a popular restaurant known for its flavorful Indian cuisine. Try their biryani or butter chicken for a delightful lunch. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying dinner, visit Naivedya Restaurant. This restaurant specializes in authentic Maharashtrian dishes like vada pav and puran poli. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Sunday, December 17: UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Caves
Spend the morning exploring the marvelous Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient Buddhist cave paintings. Afternoon calls for a visit to Ellora Caves, home to Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments carved out of the rock. Marvel at the intricate sculptures and architectural wonders. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Aurangabad Caves, a lesser-known gem consisting of Buddhist temples and monasteries.
A perfect place to start your day is The Breakfast Club, where you can enjoy a variety of delicious breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Spice Garden to savor the flavors of authentic Indian cuisine. With its extensive menu and delightful ambiance, you can expect to spend around $15 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, Deccan Fine Dining is a top choice. This upscale restaurant offers a diverse menu of Indian and international dishes, with an average cost per meal of approximately $25 per person.
Monday, December 18: Cultural Heritage and Shopping
In the morning, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Aurangabad by visiting the impressive Aurangabad Caves, with its intricate sculptures and ancient architecture. Afterward, explore the Jama Mosque, an architectural marvel blending Indian and Persian styles. In the afternoon, head to Paithani Silk Weaving Center to witness the intricate art of silk weaving. Complete your trip with some retail therapy at Prozone Mall, which houses various national and international brands.
A popular breakfast spot near Aurangabad Caves is Café Coffee Day, offering a variety of hot and cold beverages along with sandwiches and baked goods. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For a delicious lunch, visit Spice Paradise, known for its flavorful Indian cuisine with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, head to Bhoj Thali, serving traditional Maharashtrian thali with a variety of dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Aurangabad, make sure to visit Panchakki, an exceptional water mill dating back to the 17th century. It is not only a unique engineering marvel but also has a serene atmosphere. For an off the beaten path experience, head to Chopra Raja, a local favorite restaurant known for its delicious traditional cuisine, especially the Dum Biryani. Don't miss visiting Siddharth Garden and Zoo, a peaceful green space where you can relax and witness various animal species.