Plan your visit
Plan your Visit
Prepare for a long day of walking. Learn how to get there, what to pack, and how to navigate the 2-kilometer complex.
Getting there
Travel options from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus: MTDC or MSRTC public buses depart regularly from Aurangabad Central Bus Station to Ellora. | 45-60 minutes | ₹50 - ₹100 | MTDC also runs dedicated sightseeing tour buses starting at 8:00 AM from the railway station road. |
| Car: Hire a private taxi or drive via NH 725H from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar directly to the site. | 40-45 minutes | ₹1000 - ₹1500 (round trip) | Paid parking is available directly opposite the main entrance. |
| Tour: Book a guided day tour covering both Ajanta and Ellora caves. | Full day (10-12 hours) | ₹2000+ | Convenient, though combining Ajanta (100km away) and Ellora in a single day can feel very rushed. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best time to visit is from October to March. The weather is pleasant for walking. The monsoon season (July to September) offers lush greenery and seasonal waterfalls, like Sita ki Nahani near Cave 29.
What to bring
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Ellora is closed to all visitors every Tuesday.
Plan your travel dates around this maintenance closure.
How the day runs
Suggested schedules for exploring the caves.
Focus on the main highlights of all three religious groups.
- Depart Aurangabad
Take an MTDC bus or private taxi to the site.
- Kailasa Temple
Start at Cave 16 to avoid peak crowds.
- Hindu & Jain Caves
Walk to Caves 21 and 29, then take the shuttle to Cave 32.
- Buddhist Caves
Visit Caves 10 and 12 before leaving.
Split Ajanta and Ellora across two days to avoid rushing.
- Ajanta Caves
Travel 100km to explore the Buddhist painted murals.
- Ellora Caves
Spend the morning exploring the monolithic temples.
- City Sights
Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort.
Packing for the Caves
Wear sturdy, slip-resistant walking shoes. The cave floors can be very uneven. Bring a flashlight or headlamp to see intricate details inside the darker inner sanctuaries. A reusable water bottle is essential while walking the 2km stretch.
Edibles and dangerous objects are strictly prohibited inside the monuments. You should bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen for the open spaces between caves. Pack a small amount of cash for snacks outside the gate and electric cart rides.
Easiest way to do it
Most Popular 2-Day Guided Tour of Ajanta & Ellora Caves with Car
48 h 4.9 (209)
- Private Professional guide (If tour booked with option including Guide)
- Bottles of mineral water & Torch for exploring caves.
- All toll parking, Fuel, taxes and service charges.
- Transfers and sightseeing by a private A/C car with a professional driver
From$46per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Which day is Ellora Caves closed?
The entire Ellora Caves complex is closed every Tuesday. This allows the ASI to perform regular maintenance across the site.
Is there a dress code for Ellora Caves?
There is no strict dress code enforced by the ASI. However, visitors should wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious sites.
Are mobile phones allowed in Ellora caves?
Yes, mobile phones are allowed. You can take photos without flash. Tripods require prior written permission from the ASI.