Getting Around Aurangabad - Local Transport Guide

Aurangabad moves at a relaxed pace that surprises travelers who arrive expecting the chaos of bigger Indian cities. The streets are wide in places and narrow in others, lined with the crumbling grandeur of Mughal-era gates, and the bulbous dome of the Bibi Ka Maqbara peeks out above the rooftops.

Most travelers come to Aurangabad as a base for the UNESCO World Heritage caves at Ellora and Ajanta, so getting around means two things: moving around the city, and making the longer journeys out to the rock-cut temples and Buddhist monasteries. Within the city, the auto-rickshaw is king. For the day trips you will want a car with a driver or a tour.

The city's official name is Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar,^[1] and you will still hear and see Aurangabad everywhere.

Getting Around Aurangabad by Auto-Rickshaw

Auto-rickshaws are the workhorse of the city and the way most travelers cover short and medium distances. They idle at street corners, outside hotels and near the major landmarks, and you rarely wait long for one.

Many drivers will not use the meter, so agree on the fare before you climb in. Keep small notes ready, because drivers love to claim they have no change. For sightseeing in town you can also hire an auto for a half or full day to cover Bibi Ka Maqbara, the Panchakki water mill and the Aurangabad Caves. Settle the route and the price in advance.

Getting Around Aurangabad by Taxi and Private Car

For longer distances, day trips and comfort, a private car with a driver is the best choice. You normally book one through your hotel or a local travel desk. Air-conditioned cars matter in the hot months.

The Ellora Caves lie 30 km north-northwest of Aurangabad,^[2] and the Ajanta Caves are 107 km north of the city,^[3] so both are practical only with your own wheels or an organised tour. When you agree the price, ask whether tolls, parking and waiting time are included, and whether the return journey is part of the deal.

Aurangabad's airport, Chikkalthana (IXU), has direct IndiGo flights to Mumbai that take 55 minutes.^[4] For airport pickups and one-way transfers, agree on the fare before you set off.

Getting Around Aurangabad by Ride-Hailing Apps

Ride-hailing apps work in many Indian cities and show the fare before you book, which removes the need to haggle. Availability can be patchy in quieter neighborhoods, so have a backup plan. You can pay in cash or by UPI if your phone is set up for it.

Getting Around Aurangabad by City Bus

Aurangabad has a public bus network run by the state transport corporation. Buses are very cheap but crowded, slow and often not signposted in English, which makes them tricky for first-time visitors. They are still a good budget option for the Ellora Caves, while auto-rickshaws are far more convenient inside the city.

Getting Around Aurangabad on Foot

Aurangabad's sights are spread out, so walking works for one neighborhood at a time rather than for the whole city. The Gulmandi and City Chowk market areas, the lanes around the old gates and the surroundings of a single monument are all best seen on foot. Pavements are inconsistent, so watch your step, carry water and walk in the cooler early morning or late afternoon.

Getting Around Aurangabad by Rented Two-Wheeler

Confident riders can rent a scooter or motorbike through some rental outfits and hotels. A scooter gives you freedom to stop at small temples, viewpoints and roadside dhabas. Helmets are essential, and you will need a valid license and an international driving permit. Leave the long road to Ajanta to a hired driver unless you are an experienced rider, and check the brakes and tires before you set off.

Comparing Your Options

Practical Tips for Getting Around Aurangabad

• Carry small denomination notes, because drivers and small vendors rarely have change for large bills.
• Agree the auto-rickshaw fare before getting in, and walk away if the quote feels inflated. Another driver will appear quickly.
• Plan sightseeing for the early morning in the hot months from March to June, and rest in the afternoon.
• Check opening days before you set off. The Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesday and the Ajanta Caves on Monday.^[2][3]
• Keep your hotel's name and address written down, ideally in Marathi or Hindi script, to show drivers if there is confusion.

Some drivers will claim a sight is closed and steer you towards shops where they earn a commission, so verify opening hours yourself. At night, stick to booked taxis or app rides rather than flagging down autos, especially if you are traveling alone.

Popular Routes and Destinations

The Ellora Caves are the most popular day trip, with 34 caves that include Buddhist, Brahmanical and Jain temples.^[2] The Ajanta Caves are much farther out and are best reached with a private car and an early start.^[3] Within the city, an auto-rickshaw handles the railway station, Bibi Ka Maqbara, the Panchakki water mill and the Aurangabad Caves on the northern hillside.