Sitting atop the hilly plains of the Deccan Traps is the city of Aurangabad. Stay in a 5-star hotel and explore one of the largest and most densely populated in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Best known for its colorful textiles, Aurangabad has developed an industry of cotton silk and artistic textiles that is just as rich and vibrant as the city itself. The city is also growing in popularity as a tourist hub, as it is also home to a good number of historical sites. In fact, there are two UNESCO heritage sites, located on its outskirts. Eager to visit this fascinating city? Book a hotel with early check-in. Pack your bags and check out this list of the top things Aurangabad is famous for.
Good to know:
- According to Weather Spark, the best time to visit the city if you plan to spend time outdoors is from late February to late April.
- For more information about the city, check out its official website, Aurangabad Smart City, which has details about everything from tourism to public transport.
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1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum, Aurangabad
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Learn the history and appreciate India’s beauty and rich heritage in this must-visit place in Aurangabad. The museum is named after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The building features six exhibition halls, all of which showcase historical artifacts from the time of the Maratha ruler’s reign. Some of the museum’s most famous pieces include a 500-year-old war suit, a copy of a handwritten Quran, and a 400-year-old saree. You can also find a variety of coins used way back in the Satavahana Dynasty.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum, Aurangabad
Address: Dr Ambedkar Rd, Near Govt. Arts and Science college, Himayat Bagh, Aurangabad, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, 431004, India
Website: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum, Aurangabad
Opening hours: 10:30am - 6pm (daily)
2. Salim Ali Lake
Named after the “birdman of India,” ornithologist and naturalist Dr. Salim Ali, this attraction features a small bird sanctuary and a garden that is being maintained by the Aurangabad Municipal Corporation.
The lake is located near Delhi Gate and sits opposite the Himayat Bagh. It is a popular place in Aurangabad for bird watching especially during winter when migratory birds arrive to nest. You can also explore the waters via boat but only during rainy or winter seasons when the lake is full.
Salim Ali Lake
Address: Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Website: Salim Ali Lake
3. Panchakki (Water Mill)
Another popular landmark in Aurangabad is the Panchakki, or Water Mill. Originally built to generate energy and grind grain for pilgrims, the Panchakki now serves as a historical monument and a testament to the ingenuity of medieval Indian architecture. Of course, the Panchakki wasn’t just built with utility in mind, but also beauty. The Panchakki is actually located within the grounds of a dargah (shrine) complex dedicated to Baba Shah Musafir, a Sufi saint, and is adjacent to a lush, sprawling garden, a grand mosque, and even a library filled with over 2,500 precious books. Today, the Panchakki is a popular picnic spot and a definite must-see for anyone who loves history.
4. Gates in Aurangabad
Also referred as the City of Gates, Aurangabad is home to over 50 gates that were built in the medieval period. Though only about 15 of these remain, each of the gates tells of the city’s rich and fascinating history as a military town centuries ago. Four of the gates were built towards each cardinal direction to serve as key entry points to the city. There is the Delhi Gate to the north, Makai Gate towards the west, Jalna Gate to the east, and Paithan Gate towards the south. The largest and most popular gate in the city, however, is the Badhkal Gate — a soaring gateway which commemorates the victory of the city against the Mughals in 1612.
Aurangabad Tour Guide
Narender Kumar
I have been a tour guide/ escort for more than 10 years and have guided tourists pan India to historical and cultural heritage sites, national parks & bird sancturies, monuments places like- Delhi , Agra, Jaipur, Khajuraho Exotic Temples, Ranthambore National Park, Mumbai, Nashik , Aurangabad ( Ajanta Rockcut Caves & Ellora Rockcut Temples ), Goa etc. I am proficient in English, Rus... Read more
Tours by Narender
5. Bibi Ka Maqbara
Though many couldn’t help but compare the Bibi Ka Maqbara to the iconic Taj Mahal — given the striking resemblance between the two — the majestic Tomb of the Lady definitely has its own charm and history. Commissioned in the 17th century, it is a tomb dedicated to the memory of Dilras Banu Begum, the first wife of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The tomb itself is noted for its grandeur and elegance, with details like soaring pillars, intricate marble carvings, and even a sprawling garden. Truly, the Bibi Ka Maqbara isn’t just one of the most important historical monuments in Aurangabad — it is also a symbol of enduring love and devotion.
Bibi Ka Maqbara
Address: Begumpura, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431004
Website: Bibi Ka Maqbara
6. Paithani Silk
Renowned for its textile industry, Aurangabad is a popular shopping destination for handwoven silk products in India. Whether you’re looking for the finest silks or just curious about the process, one of the places you shouldn’t miss in Aurangabad is the Paithani Silk Weaving Centre. Here, you will find all types of textiles in vibrant colors, textures, and intricate patterns. You’ll be able to watch the weaving artisans hard at work, and even purchase your very own handwoven saree, a famous item from Aurangabad.
Paithani Silk Weaving Centre
Address: 54 P1, Lokmat Nagar, Town Center, M G M, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431003, India
Website: Paithani Silk Weaving Centre
Opening hours: 9:30am - 9pm (daily)
7. Siddharth Garden and Zoo
Visiting the Siddharth Garden and Zoo is definitely one thing to do in Aurangabad. It is a great place for some family-friendly fun! Home to a number of fascinating animals and manicured gardens, the zoo is a must-see for curious young kids and kids at heart. You can go on an exciting tour of the zoo, where you’ll see tigers, snakes, elephants, and much more. There is also an aquarium, where you’ll see all sorts of sea creatures. Finally, you can even enjoy a lovely picnic and let your kids run free at the various play areas around the zoo.
Siddharth Garden and Zoo
Address: Central Bus Stand Road, Mhada, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001, India
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
8. Bhadra Maruti Temple
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Dedicated to the Lord Hanuman, the Bhadra Maruti Temple is another historic site that is a wonder to behold. Located close to the Ellora caves, this would be another excellent stop, if you plan on exploring the area on your next trip. The temple is famous for being one of just three temples in all of India, which houses an image of the deity Hanuman in a reclined position.
According to legend,, Hanuman once visited the ruler of Khuldabad, a devotee of Hanuman, and reclined as he listened to him sing devotional songs. There is also a Shani temple within the same premises, where you can pray and reflect. There are also some unique souvenirs that you can buy around the temple, as well as some restaurants where you can enjoy delicious meals at modest prices. The temple is open from 5 am to 12 pm and reopens in the afternoon at 4 pm, closing at 9 pm.
Bhadra Maruti Temple
Address: Khuldabad Rd, Khuldabad, Maharashtra 431101, India
9. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
Also called the Ghushmeshwar Temple, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is an important temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the Shaiva tradition of Hinduism, Ghushmeshwar temple is considered to be a holy and auspicious pilgrimage site, as the last of the 12 Jyotirlinga or gates of light. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga isn’t just a sacred religious site, however. It also has a lot of historical and cultural value, having witnessed countless wars throughout the centuries. It is also home to countless perfectly preserved carvings and sculptures of Hindu deities. Today, the revered temple continues to attract thousands of visitors - both devotees and simply those who wish to see its grandeur.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
Address: NH 211, Verul, Maharashtra 431102, India
Opening hours: 5am - 9pm (daily)
10. Cotton Textiles
One cannot talk about Aurangabad without talking about their renowned cotton textiles! Since the early 1900s, Aurangabad has established textiles as one of its major industries. With an abundance of locally grown cotton, the city has developed their own fine blend of silk Himroo textiles. Himroo textiles are known for their distinct Persian designs, characterized by rich colors, golden threads, and unique patterns. In addition to Himroo textiles, Aurangabad is also known for their Pathani bridal silk saris. Brides from across the country flock to Aurangabad to find these beautiful silks for their special day!
11. Aurangabad Caves (Ajanta & Ellora)
In a sprawling, hilly area just outside Aurangabad, you will find the mystical Aurangabad Caves. These are a cluster of elaborate Buddhist rock-cut shrines, which are estimated to have been dug out of basalt rock between the 5th and 8th centuries. Similarly, the nearby Ajanta & Ellora caves are also famous for their intricate monuments and cave paintings.
Ajanta Cave system has 29 Buddhist cave temples of the Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist traditions. The caves boast masterpieces of Buddhist art in India and are laid out from east to west, arranged in a row. The Ajanta Caves are amazing and the paintings are still brilliant.
The local name for Ellora Caves is Verul Leni. The caves boast monuments and artwork of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain traditions. These caves were built between the 6th and 10th centuries AD.
In all, these adjacent caves are considered to be some of the finest examples of ancient Indian art. Eager to see these breathtaking art forms? One of the best ways you can explore the Aurangabad caves is by going on a whole-day private tour. You’ll see all these up-close, and with the help of a knowledgeable tour guide, immerse yourself in India’s fascinating history and culture.
Visited this place?
12. Tomb of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb
Aurangzeb was the sixth emperor of the Mughal Empire. His coffin was brought here by his son Muhammad Azam Shah, and his funeral was held here. The grave is located at the center of an elevated stone platform and is surrounded by marble. It is a solemn place to visit to see the history of the fort and learn about the Mughal emperor.
Tomb of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb
Address: Khuldabad, Maharashtra, India
13. Chini Mahal
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
This fort is inside the Daulatabad Fort and has a very long history. This fort was made to imprison royals and held many of the royal captives of emperor Aurangzeb. This fort is situated on a hill so you need to climb stairs to reach it. There are monkeys near the fort, so keep your food and beverages in bags.
Chini Mahal
Address: Entry gate to Daulatabad Fort, Daulatabad, Maharashtra 431002
14. H2O Water Park
Posted by H2O Waterpark on Monday, 22 August 2016
After collecting lots of information and seeing old forts, you can enjoy your time by visiting H2O Water Park. This is a small water park and a good place to visit in the summer with the family. To escape the heat you can go on water rides and go swimming here, which will be a refreshing experience after all of the historic attractions.
H2O Water Park
Address: NH 211, Ellora Road, Near Daulatabad Fort, Daulatabad, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431005
Website: H2O Water Park
Discover the vibrant city of Aurangabad
On your next trip to Aurangabad, explore all the wonders that this vibrant city has to offer. From endlessly fascinating historical sites to family-friendly attractions, and beautiful textiles to adorn yourself with, there’s plenty of treasures to discover in Aurangabad that are sure to make your visit an unforgettable one.
Frequently asked questions about the things Aurangabad is famous for
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