Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves Bus — Complete Travel Guide

Planning to take an Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves bus? This guide covers MSRTC bus routes, timings, fares, and the local shuttle bus required at the caves themselves, along with why many travellers ultimately prefer a private taxi for this roughly 100 km heritage trip.

Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves Bus — Overview

The Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves bus journey covers approximately 100 to 110 km, with MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) operating regular services connecting Aurangabad to Ajanta village and Fardapur, the nearest town to the caves. Total travel time by bus typically runs 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the number of stops and road conditions along the route. For a complete overview of every travel option, see our how to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad guide.

MSRTC Bus Routes & Timings

MSRTC operates multiple daily buses from Aurangabad Central Bus Stand toward Jalgaon and Fardapur, passing through the Ajanta Caves area. These services generally run through the day, though exact departure times can vary seasonally, so it’s worth checking current timings at the bus stand or with MSRTC directly before planning your trip.

Local Shuttle Bus at Ajanta Caves

Once you arrive near the caves, private vehicles are not permitted all the way to the cave entrance — visitors must park at the designated parking area near Fardapur and take a mandatory green, eco-friendly shuttle bus for the final stretch to the cave complex. This shuttle bus rule applies regardless of whether you arrive by MSRTC bus, private taxi, or your own vehicle, and is enforced to protect the site’s environment.

Bus Fares — Quick Reference

MSRTC bus fares for the Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves route are generally budget-friendly compared to private transport, typically ranging from around ₹80 to ₹150 per person depending on the exact bus type (ordinary or semi-luxury) and boarding point. The local shuttle bus at the caves themselves involves a separate, nominal fare collected at the shuttle boarding point.

Bus vs Private Taxi — Which Should You Choose?

While an MSRTC bus is the most economical way to reach Ajanta Caves, a private taxi offers meaningful advantages for most travellers: flexible departure timing, no need to plan around fixed bus schedules, direct door-to-door pickup, and the ability to combine the trip with other regional sightseeing like Ellora Caves on the same itinerary. For families, groups, or anyone short on time, a private taxi typically works out more practical despite the higher cost.

See our Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad guide for a private taxi alternative, our Aurangabad to Ajanta and Ellora Caves distance page for exact travel-time comparisons, or our taxi for Ajanta Ellora Caves from Aurangabad page for current fares and booking details.

Travel Tips

• Confirm bus timings in advance at Aurangabad Central Bus Stand, since MSRTC schedules can shift seasonally.
• Start early to allow full time at the caves before the last return bus, since services can be less frequent in the evening.
• Carry small denomination cash for both the MSRTC bus and the local shuttle bus fare at the caves.
• Check cave opening days — Ajanta Caves are typically closed on Mondays.

Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves Bus — FAQs

1. Is there a direct bus from Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves?

MSRTC operates buses from Aurangabad toward Jalgaon and Fardapur that pass through the Ajanta Caves area, though travellers typically need to walk or take an auto from the drop point to the ticket counter and mandatory shuttle bus.

2. How long does the Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves bus journey take?

The journey typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours to cover the approximately 100 to 110 km distance, depending on stops and road conditions.

3. What is the bus fare from Aurangabad to Ajanta Caves?

MSRTC fares typically range from around Rs 80 to Rs 150 per person, depending on the bus type and boarding point.

4. Do I still need a shuttle bus after reaching Ajanta by MSRTC bus?

Yes, all visitors, regardless of how they arrive, must park or disembark at the designated point near Fardapur and take the mandatory local shuttle bus to the cave entrance.

5. Is a private taxi better than the bus for Ajanta Caves?

A private taxi offers more flexibility, direct pickup, and the option to combine the trip with Ellora Caves, making it a more convenient choice for most travellers despite the higher cost compared to the bus.

6. Are Ajanta Caves closed on any particular day?

Yes, Ajanta Caves are typically closed on Mondays, so it’s worth checking before planning either a bus or taxi trip.

7. Can I combine an Ajanta Caves bus trip with Ellora Caves on the same day?

It’s difficult by public bus alone, since Ellora sits on a different route roughly 30 km from Aurangabad in the opposite direction from Ajanta — a private taxi makes it far easier to cover both sites comfortably in one extended day trip.