Aurangabad Caves is a group of 12 Buddhist rock-cut caves in the hills north of Aurangabad, now officially called Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The hillside setting, carved caves and views of the city make it a separate local visit from a longer trip to Ellora.
- Location: Hills north of Aurangabad; the caves are approximately 12.4 km northwest of the city.
- Site: 12 caves, arranged in western and eastern groups.
- Suggested visit time: Allow 1.5 hours.
- Hours and tickets: Open daily
Where are the Aurangabad Caves?
The caves sit on a hillside north of Aurangabad, approximately 12.4 km northwest of the city. Their setting looks across the city and towards Bibi Ka Maqbara, making the caves a distinct stop within a visit to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
If you are planning several historic sights in one outing, you can combine the caves with a route through Aurangabad’s historic sights in a day.
What can you see in the cave groups?
The 12 caves were carved between the 6th and 8th centuries, according to Maharashtra Tourism. The western group contains Caves 1–5, and the eastern group contains Caves 6–10.
Caves 3 and 7 are highlighted as especially notable. Cave 6 has figures of ornamented women, while Cave 10 is the complex’s only chaitya-griha, or Buddhist prayer hall. These details give you a few specific features to look for as you move between the groups.
What is the hillside setting like?
The caves are set on a hillside, with views of Aurangabad and Bibi Ka Maqbara. The approach involves paths and steps, but their current condition and access to each cave group have not been verified. Check local conditions before setting out, especially if access is a concern for your visit.
Bibi Ka Maqbara is another city landmark, with its own visitor arrangements; you can plan that stop using this guide to visiting Bibi Ka Maqbara.
How can you fit the caves into a city visit?
Allow around 1.5 hours for the caves and leave room in your plans for the hillside approach. The caves can be a local excursion alongside other historic sights rather than part of the longer Ellora day trip.
For an Aurangabad stay, a three-star hotel in the city can sit alongside these local sightseeing plans. Current transport options from the city centre and railway station have not been confirmed, so check how you will reach the site before you set off.
What should you check before visiting?
Visiting hours are 08:00–17:30, and admission is ₹25 for Indian visitors and ₹300 for foreign visitors. An official current schedule and fee list have not been confirmed, so treat these figures as a guide rather than a guarantee. Access arrangements, visitor rules and seasonal closures also need confirmation.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 9:00–17:00
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
The Archaeological Survey of India’s Aurangabad Circle maintains protected monuments and sites under its jurisdiction, but its consulted information does not confirm current operating details for these caves. Check the official site before you go.
FAQs
How many caves are at Aurangabad Caves?
The site has 12 Buddhist rock-cut caves. The western group comprises Caves 1–5, and the eastern group comprises Caves 6–10.
Which cave is the Buddhist prayer hall?
Cave 10 is the complex’s only chaitya-griha, or Buddhist prayer hall.
How long should you allow for a visit?
Allow 1.5 hours. Check current access and opening arrangements when planning your timing.