The Ajanta Caves, located in the Sahyadri mountain ranges of Maharashtra, are among the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Known globally for their 2,000-year-old Buddhist paintings, sculptures, and rock-cut architecture, Ajanta is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Aurangabad or Jalgaon region.
This complete Ajanta travel guide by Siya Travel will help you plan your visit smoothly — covering history, timings, location, how to reach, cave highlights, photography rules, food options, and travel tips, along with the best taxi service details from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad).
⭐ 1. History of Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves were built between 2nd century BCE and 6th century CE.
They represent two major phases of Buddhism:
Phase 1 – Hinayana (2nd Century BCE)
- Simple halls
- No Buddha idol
- Focus on stupa worship
Phase 2 – Mahayana (5th–6th Century CE)
- Rich paintings
- Buddha idols
- Monasteries (Viharas) and worship halls (Chaityas)
Ajanta’s paintings depict:
- The Jataka Tales
- Buddha’s life
- Ancient Indian lifestyle, kings, trade, fashion, and culture
These caves were lost in dense forests for centuries until they were rediscovered in 1819 by a British officer.
⭐ 2. Ajanta Caves Location
District: Aurangabad/Jalgaon border
Distance from Aurangabad: 105–110 km
Distance from Jalgaon: 55 km
Ajanta is located in a horseshoe-shaped rocky mountain, offering a beautiful natural view.
⭐ 3. Ajanta Caves Timings 2025
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Saturday – Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Closed Day | Monday |
⭐ 4. Entry Ticket Prices (Indian & Foreigners)
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Indian Adult | ₹40 |
| Foreign Tourist | ₹600 |
| Children (below 15 yrs) | Free |
| Camera Mobile | Free |
| Still Camera | Extra charges apply |
⭐ 5. How to Reach Ajanta Caves
From Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad)
- Distance: 105 km
- Travel Time: 2 hr 30 min – 3 hours
- Best Option: Taxi / Cab
From Jalgaon
- 55 km (1 hr 30 min)
Air Travel
Nearest Airport → Aurangabad Airport
Rail Travel
Nearest Railway Stations:
- Jalgaon Railway Station – 55 km
- Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Railway Station – 105 km
⭐ 6. Ajanta Caves Transport System (Mandatory Bus)
Private vehicles are not allowed up to the caves.
You must take an MTDC eco-friendly bus from the parking area.
- Bus Ticket: Approx ₹30–₹40 per person
- Bus Travel: 10–12 minutes to reach the caves
⭐ 7. Major Caves You Must Visit (Top Highlights)
Cave 1 – Padmapani & Vajrapani Paintings
Famous for the world-renowned Padmapani Bodhisattva painting.
Cave 2 – Rich Paintings of Royal Families
Stunning ceilings & murals.
Cave 16 – Masterpiece Cave
Most detailed Jataka story illustrations.
Cave 17 – Bright & Well-Preserved Paintings
Known for “The Persian Embassy” painting.
Cave 26 – Great Chaitya Hall
Massive Buddha sculpture in nirvana pose.
Cave 10 – One of the Oldest
From the Hinayana period — famous for stupa worship.
⭐ 8. Photography Rules at Ajanta
- Flash strictly not allowed
- Mobile photography allowed
- DSLR allowed but extra fees may apply
- Selfie sticks allowed
- Touching walls or paintings is strictly prohibited
⭐ 9. Food & Facilities Near Ajanta
- MTDC restaurant available
- Drinking water facilities
- Clean washrooms at bus station
- Small shops selling snacks & cold drinks
⭐ 10. Best Season to Visit Ajanta Caves
| Season | Why Visit? |
|---|---|
| October – February | Best weather |
| March – April | Warm but manageable |
| July – September | Greenery + waterfalls |
Avoid extreme summer (May–June).
⭐ 11. Tips Before You Visit Ajanta
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Carry water
- Expect 2–3 hours to explore
- Avoid touching cave walls
- Follow ASI instructions
- Visit early morning to avoid crowd
- Elderly visitors should carry walking sticks
⭐ 12. Places to Visit Near Ajanta
- Ellora Caves
- Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
- Bibi Ka Maqbara
- Daulatabad Fort
- Panchakki
- Lonar Crater Lake (One of the rarest lakes in the world)
⭐ 13. Taxi Service for Ajanta Caves – Siya Travel
Siya Travel provides safe, comfortable and reliable taxi service from
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) to Ajanta Caves.
✔ Local Sightseeing
✔ Outstation Taxi
✔ Ajanta–Ellora Tour
✔ Professional Drivers
✔ Clean & Sanitized Cabs
📞 Call Now: 9860080525
💬 WhatsApp Booking: 9860080525
⭐ 14. Ajanta Caves One-Day Tour Itinerary
08:00 AM – Pickup from Aurangabad
11:00 AM – Reach Ajanta Parking
11:15 AM – Take MTDC Bus
11:30 AM – 02:00 PM – Explore Major Caves
02:15 PM – Lunch at MTDC restaurant
03:00 PM – Drive back
05:30 PM – Drop at Aurangabad hotel/home
👉 “If you want to cover both places in one day, check our Ajanta–Ellora One Day Tour itinerary.”
⭐ 15. Conclusion
Ajanta Caves is a timeless masterpiece showcasing ancient Indian art, culture, and spirituality. Whether you’re a history lover, photographer, traveler, or student, Ajanta offers a magical experience.
Siya Travel ensures your trip is comfortable, safe, and memorable.