The city is named after Aurangzeb, the last Mughal Emperor as he had his last breath in the very same place. Aurangabad is a major tourist attraction as it contains several caves such as Ajanta and Ellora, Aurangabad Caves, Forts like Daulatabad Fort and Killa Arak, monuments like Bibi Ka Maqbara and Sunheri Mahal. Due to its geographical location among the hills and convenient way to reach, it gets a large number of visitors throughout the year. This is one among the fastest growing cities of Maharashtra and has become a hub point in education and industries. The city's history is very rich, ancient, and a coordination of Mughal and Rajput culture that can be seen inscripted on the walls of tombs and temples. Historically, there were 52 gates in Aurangabad hence it's known as "The City of Gates". 

What to do when in Aurangabad? 

1. Shopping:

Aurangzeb is denoted as a shopaholic's paradise as it has so many things to offer. Gul Mandi Bazaar is the largest market in the city and you can find almost every goods here. Himroo Arts that is inspired by peacocks, flowers is the major attraction and you will find Himroo Shawls and Sarees, materials and designed accessories plentiful in the Bazaar. 

2. Ellora-Ajanta Festival:

The once a year cultural festival takes place in the winter season, continuing for 3 days. It is hosted at the Sunheri Mahal with an initiative to showcase the rich ancestry, cultural history, and hidden talents of the city. 

3. Cuisine:

Aurangabad has a typical South Indian non-veg cuisine that includes Biryani and Pulao. It is the blend of Mughlai and Hyderabadi cuisine that brings water in your mouth. Naan Qalia is the famous dish of Aurangabad made from mutton and a variety of spices. The city restaurants put herbs and spices, curry leaves, tamarind and coconut in most of their dishes. 

How to reach the city

Aurangabad is an important tourist site of India and hence is well connected to other major cities. 

1. Airways: 

Aurangabad Airport is the domestic airport connecting flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, etc. 

2. Roadways: 

Both private and government bus services are available to reach the city from nearby cities. 

3. Railways: 

Aurangabad Railway Station is the major railway station and hundreds of trains connect the city with other cities daily. 

Places to visit 

1. Bibi Ka Maqbara:

In the memory of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb's begum, the Bibi Ka Maqbara was constructed with marvelous architecture and intricate styles on the monument's walls. Due to its resemblance with the Taj Mahal, it is also regarded as the "Taj Mahal of The Deccan".

2. Ajanta Caves:

Ajanta Caves are one of the most sought after places in the city, 100 kms away from the center. The figures, designs, and tales on the stone walls embody the caves as a symbol of Buddhism in India. It is now included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

3. Ellora Caves:

The Ellora Caves are a must visit when in Aurangabad. The beautiful architecture on the rocks symbolizes quality works which are one of the largest rock-cut Hindu complexes in the world and hence it has also become another World Heritage Site. 

4. Grishneshwar Temple:

Grishneshwar Temple is one of the holiest places in Aurangabad, located at Ellora. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the annihilator and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India, where devotees can touch the Lingam. 

5. Aurangabad Caves:

Aurangabad Caves are a must visit during a trip to Aurangabad and the speciality of the caves are the figures which are rock cut. Situated 20 km from the town, the caves symbolize Buddhism in the region and the shrines are made of Soft Basalt Rocks. 

6. Daulatabad Fort:

Daulatabad Fort is situated 15 km from the city among lush greenery and pretty atmospheric beauty. Due to its architectural marvel, it is also famous as one of the "Seven Wonders of Maharashtra". Located at 200 m height, The fort is also called "Devgiri Fort".

7. Bani Begum Garden:

The garden is named after Aurangzeb's Son's Wife Bani Begum and is surrounded by lush green, fantastic fountains, pretty domes and lawns. Located 24 km from the city, the beautiful monument deserves your visit.

8. Panchakki:

Panchakki is a water reservoir and is the frequently visited place of Aurangabad. The calm silver waters of the water conservatory fill you with peace and the huge Banyan tree in the compound is 300 years old. 

9. Khuldabad:

Khuldabad is an important small town 13 km from Aurangabad. Due to the graves of 1500 Sufi Saints, the tomb of Aurangzeb, Dargah of Zar Zari Zar Baksh, it is regarded as "The Valley of Saints".

10. Killa Arak:

Killa Arak, the now ruined fort, has a very important history related to the Mughals. It is famous for containing the throne of Emperor Aurangzeb. It is one of the massive architectural examples of the country which has 4 huge entrance gates. 

11. Jayakwadi Dam:

Jayakwadi Dam is one of the famous tourist attractions in the city. Built across River Godavari, the place also houses a variety of migratory birds and natural atmosphere. The place is definitely worth visiting during weekends. 

12. Goga Baba Hill:

Goga Baba Hill is famous among travelers as it is one of the tranquil and offbeat places of Aurangabad. The small hill offers a romantic view of the land and the trekking to its top is worth having. 

13. Mhaismal:

Mhaismal is an unexplored hidden hill station, located 37 km from the city. For the breathtaking views of nature, mountains, streams, gradens, people from neighbouring cities often visit here for quality time. Situated in the Sahyadri Ranges, it is also called "The Mahabaleshwar of Marathwada". 

14. Hazur Sahib Nanded:

Situated on the banks of Godavari River, Hazur Sahib Nanded has a prolific significance among the Sikhs as Guru Govind Singh died and was cremated here. The place serves peace and seclusion and "Sachkhand" is its other name which means "The region of Truth". 

15. Sunheri Mahal:

Sunheri Mahal is one of the historical architectural examples of Rajput Style and grandeur. It is located 6 km from the city station and now hosts Ajanta-Ellora Festivals, continuing for 4 days. 

Best time to visit 

Aurangabad falls under a semi arid climate and is surrounded by hills. 

1. Summer- March to June- 35°C to 42°C (very hot)

2. Rainy- June to September- 22°C to 30°C (continuous rains)

3. Winter- December to February- 4°C to 15°C (chilly, cold winds)