1. Explore the Moghul heritage of Aurangabad city: Aurangabad served as the capital city during Aurangzeb's dynasty from 1653 to 1707, and also got its name after this famous Mughal emperor. The city houses several ancient monuments built during his reign that depict not only the marvelous architecture of that time but impress with their grandeur and majestic appeal.
Visit the historical monuments like Bibi Ka Maqbara, Tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, Chinni Mahal, Chand Minar, Soneri Mahal, and discover the glorious history of the city.
2. Witness the beauty of Buddhist Caves: The city proudly boasts of its Aurangabad Caves, Ajanta Caves, and Ellora Caves that are the most fascinating treasures of Buddhist art in India. The Ajanta caves intricately carved sculptures depict the Jataka stories and symbolize the evolution of Buddhism in India as a religion.
Ellora caves, on the other hand, represent a blend of Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. These possess gorgeous patterns, intricate structures, and elaborate architecture. Aurangabad Caves are also known for their intricate designs and carvings and comprise the twelve rock-carved Buddhist shrines. Exploring these caves in Aurangabad is one of the top things to do in the city.
3. Visit Shrimant Chatrapati Shivaji Museum: The Shrimant Chatrapati Shivaji Museum was constructed in memory of the great Maratha ruler and houses a great collection of that era. It features six exhibition halls, all displaying antiques, war products, armors, the hand-written copy of the Quran by Aurangzeb, and other artifacts (a 500-year-old war suit, a 400-year old Paithani Sari, etc.) belonging to the royal family.
Visiting this museum is amongst the top things to do in Aurangabad as it lets the visitors learn about the valor and heroism of the famous Maratha ruler. The museum attracts a multitude of tourists during the peak season.
- Location: Near Govt. Arts and Science college, Himayat Bagh, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431004
- Price: INR 85 for Indians; INR 300 for foreigners
- Timings: 10:30 AM to 6 PM, every day
4. Offer prayers at the ancient temples: Visiting ancient temples like Bhadra Maruti and Grishneshwar temple to offer prayers and seek blessings of Hindu Gods is amongst the must things to do in Aurangabad. While Bhadra Maruti is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Grishneshwar Temple is amongst the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva present in the country.
Both the temples carry significant religious importance but also attract visitors for their tranquil appeal, impressive architecture, and majestic atmosphere.
5. Bhadra Maruti:
- Location: Khuldabad Road, Khuldabad, Maharashtra 431101
- Timing: 5 AM to 12 PM; 4 PM to 9 PM
6. Grishneshwar Temple:
- Location: Verul, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001
- Timing: 5 AM to 9:30 PM
7. Trek to the Goga Baba Tekdi: Apart from visiting places of historical significance, one can also enjoy a thrilling trekking adventure to Goga Baba Tekdi. The hilltop offers a picturesque panorama of the city and is amongst the most tranquil and serene destinations to witness breathtaking sunset views.
The trek to the hilltop is of easy grade, and one can easily reach the summit to soak in the natural elegance of the surroundings.
- Location: Goga Baba Hill, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431001
8. Spending time with loved ones at the Siddharth Garden: A sprawling garden and a zoo located in the heart of the city, the place has something for visitors of all ages. The place boasts of its rides, slides, a small aquarium, a kid's area, musical fountain, and also lush garden.
A small zoo is also there housing a number of wild animals such as- tigers, leopards, lions, deer, snakes, crocodiles, fox, hyena, etc. Visiting this place for an outing with your family and friends is another fun-filled thing to do in Aurangabad.
- Location: Central Bus Stand Road, Mhada, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431004
- Price: INR 10 for Indians; INR 300 for foreigners
- Timings:
Garden: 10 AM to 7 PM
Zoo: 10:30 AM to 1 PM; 4 PM to 6 PM (Tuesday closed)
9. Boating and Birdwatching: Other must-do things in Aurangabad include boating and bird watching in Salim Ali Lake and Bird Sanctuary. Sailing through the blue water lake delights you with its lush charms and surrounding beauty.
Spotting exotic local and migratory birds at the sanctuary is also overwhelming and leaves you with cherishable memories.
- Location: Chatrapathi Nagar, near Delhi Gate, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431003
- Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM, every day
10. Shopping and savoring the authentic flavors of the city: You can't leave the city without shopping for authentic silks and other handloom items of the city. Gul Mandi, Paithani Weaving Center, Connaught Shopping Market, etc., are some of the famous shopping places in the city to shop for popular Paithani sarees, Himroo weaves, handloom shawls, and other specialties.
The city is also known for its rich food culture and indeed a foodie's paradise. Its quintessential Mughlai and Hyderabadi flavors are the highlights of its local cuisines and must be tried while on a trip to this beautiful and grand city.