Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar to Ajanta Caves: The Perfect 1-Day Trip with Jaingiri Travels

Why Visit Ajanta Caves?

Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, the 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments at Ajanta are renowned worldwide for their exquisite paintings and sculptures. The caves are set in a dramatic horseshoe-shaped gorge near the Waghora River, and offer a blend of art, history, and natural beauty unlike anywhere else in India.

Best Route: Aurangabad to Ajanta

The most convenient route is via the NH 52 (Aurangabad–Jalgaon Highway). The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours each way through scenic Marathwada landscapes. Jaingiri Travels drivers are experienced on this route and know the best pit stops.

Suggested Day Itinerary

6:30 AM — Depart Aurangabad with Jaingiri Travels
9:00 AM — Arrive Ajanta, purchase MTDC bus tickets to viewpoint
9:30 AM – 2:00 PM — Explore caves (allow 4–5 hours for thorough visit)
2:00 PM — Lunch at MTDC restaurant or local eateries near T-point
3:00 PM — Optional visit to the Ajanta viewpoint for panoramic gorge photos
3:30 PM — Depart for Aurangabad
6:00 PM — Return to Aurangabad

Which Vehicle to Choose?

For families of 4–6, the Innova Crysta (₹17/km) is ideal. Groups of 10–13 should opt for the Maharaja Tempo Traveller (₹28–30/km) — premium seating with AC for a comfortable 2.5-hour journey. Larger groups of 17–20 can book the Tempo Traveller 17 Seater (₹24/km).

What to Carry

Water bottles, comfortable walking shoes, light snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. The cave complex involves considerable walking up slopes and stairs. Carry cash as ATMs near the site are limited.

Pro Tips from Our Drivers

• Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds
• Hire a licensed guide at the cave entrance for a richer experience
• The caves are numbered 1–30 — most visitors start from Cave 1 (Vihar cave) and walk to Cave 26 (Chaitya)
• Photography is allowed in most caves without flash
• Combine with a Ellora Caves trip the next day for a 2-day heritage circuit