Brief
The city of Aurangabad is known for its medieval monuments and cultural heritage. It was the seat of the Mughal Empire for a short period. The city boasts of Bibi-ka-Maqbara, a tomb that has some resemblance to the Taj Mahal. The importance of Aurangabad is great, owing to its proximity with world heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora. These sites have Buddhist, Jain and Hindu temples. Aurangabad is also famous for its silk and cotton textiles. Aurangabad, commonly used as a base for a visit to the World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora is seeped in medieval history. Named for Aurangzeb, the last of the great Mughal Emperors, Aurangabad acquired plenty of monuments and a rich culture as its heritage from the middle ages.

Reasons to visit
We welcome you to the most exciting tourist attractions and travel destinations which are given below. We take into notice each and every detail about recreation, entertainment, adventure and relaxation. By looking at the things to do in city one can see if that spot offers romance, family fun, sightseeing or adventure. Drill down into the tourist attractions below to find out more about each place and see how the local customs create a unique atmosphere.

Bibi-Ka-Maqbara 
Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in Agra in loving memory of his wife Mumtaz. His son Aurangzeb who overthrew him built the Bibi-Ka-Maqbara as a mausoleum to his wife Rabia-ud-Durrani. This is the monument for which Aurangabad is best known, probably because it was obviously intended to rival the Taj Mahal which it imitates.

Gates in Aurangabad 
One of the things that makes Aurangabad stand out from the several other medieval cities in India are its 52 'gates' each of which have a local history or had individuals linked with them. Not many people are aware of the fact that Aurangabad is also known as the 'City of Gates'.

Aurangabad Caves  
Situated at a distance of 5 km, nestled amidst the hills are 12 Buddhist caves probably dating back to 3 A.D. of particular interest are the Tantric influences evident in the iconography and architectural designs of the caves. One is also treated to a panoramic view of the city as well as the imposing Maqbara from this point.

Ellora-Ghrishneshwar Temple 
Is half a kilometer away from the Ellora Caves, and 30 km. from Aurangabad. The present structure is an 18th century temple that presents outstanding architecture and carving. This place forms one of the five Jyotirlinga sites in Maharashtra where Lord Shiva is worshipped. The Ahilya Devi Holkar temple nearby is a must-see.

Ellora  
The cave temples of Ellora, listed among the World Heritage sites, are 30 km northwest of the city. Ellora caves are again rock-cut caves with beautiful temples and monasteries. There are 34 caves in all, which have been segregated as 12 Mahayana Buddhist caves (550-750 A.D.), 17 Hindu caves (600-875 A.D) and 5 caves of the Jain faith (800-1000 A.D.). Lately 22 new caves have been discovered that are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Carved out of a single huge rock, there is a gateway, pavilion, courtyard, vestibule, sanctum and tower. The Kailash Temple near the caves is a major attraction of this place.

Ajanta 
The world famous Buddhist caves at Ajanta, also a World Heritage site, lies to the northeast of Aurangabad. The splendid caves of Ajanta are not new to anyone. Nestling in the tranquil laps of the Sahyadri hills, at a distance of 100 km. from Aurangabad are 30 rock cut caves of Ajanta that date back to 2nd century B.C. The caves have on display, exquisite paintings, and sculptures depicting Buddha's life, halls and monasteries. The land was discovered in 1819, by a group of British Officers.

Museums 
Aurangabad is home to some of the best museums that are unknown and forgotten. It hosts the State Archaeology Museum (Sonehri Mahal), University History Museum and Aurangabad Municipal Corporation Museum. These museums house some of the historical landmarks of this city's growth. Objects from the excavations of the ASI - Archaeological Survey of India are here. Coins, medals, seals, tools, arms, armor, jewelry, manuscripts, textiles, gems can be seen here but are little known and unique.

Shopping
Fabrics, Silver, Semi-precious stones etc. can be best buy in Aurangabad.

Festive Celebrations
Ajanta and Ellora Festivals, Aurangabad Festival, Buddha Jayanti are some of the major festivals of Aurangabad.