Tourist Destinations





Aurangabad - An Historical Destination

History of Aurangabad City

Aurangabad is a historical destination of Maharashtra, India. The original name of Aurangabad was Khadki (window), founded in 1610 by Malik Ambar. When Malik Ambar's son Fateh Khan turned successor in 1626, he gave the city the name 'Fatehpur'. Later in 1653 Aurangazeb was appointed Viceroy of the Deccan, he made Fatehpur his capital and called it 'Aurangabad'; since then the city is known as Aurangabad. The city is a tourist hub, surrounded with many historical monuments, including the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This city is also known as City of Gates.

Places to Visit

Aurangabad Caves are artificial dug out of soft rock during the 6th and 7th century. There are totally nine caves called 'Viharas' and are found on two separate locations called western and eastern groups caves. Bibi Ka Maqbara the burial place of Aurangazeb's wife Rabia-ud-Durrani. It is an imitation of Taj Mahal of Agra and also known as Mini Taj of Deccan.

Suneri Mahal is known for its patches of old painting and gold work that decorate the walls. Ghrishneshwar Temple was built in 18th century with a wonderful architecture and carving and is one of the five 'Jyotirlingas' in Maharashtra. Khuldabad is a holy shrine of Muslims, surrounded by beautiful natural eye catching mountains. Panchakki is a water mill which culminates in a mesmerising artificial waterfall. Darwazas means Gates, there are about 52 gates in the city of Aurangabad each having history of its own.

Ellora caves are situated in an ancient village having 34 caves dug out of charanandri hills comprising Buddhist, Hindu and Jain cave temples and monasteries. Ajantha caves are situated 3km from the Ajantha village which is in a horse shoe shaped valley having 29 caves of monasteries. Pitalkhora are carved caves strikingly richer and more elaborate. Daulatabad is proud fortress also known as Devgiri fort was an impregnable defense on its days. Paithan was a booming trade centre and a capital of the Satvahanas dynasty.

Art & Handicrafts:

Aurangabad is rich in its culture, heritage, art and crafts. The Himroo shawls, Mashroo and Kimkhab weaves, the silver inlay craft of Bidri ware and the well-known fine Paithani silk sarees are world famous.

People from all over the world visit this place to discover the history, culture and diversity that set Aurangabad apart from rest of the cities.