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Aurangabad Sightseeing

AttractionArea/Distance
Bibi Ka MaqbaraLocated at the distance of about 6 kilometers from the Aurangabad Railway Station
Aurangabad Caves Positioned about 2 kilometers away from the Bibi Ka Maqbara
Ajanta Caves Situated about 96 kilometers from Aurangabad
Ellora (Verul) Caves Located about 29 kilometers North West of Aurangabad
Ghrishneshwar Temple Located about half a kilometer away from the Ellora Caves and nearly 31 km away from Aurangabad
PanchakkiLocated in a garden adjacent the Mahmud Darwaza about 3 kilometers away from the Aurangabad Railway Station near the Aurangabad Textile Mills
Jumma MasjidLocated near the legendary Quila-E-Ark
Shahganj MasjidPositioned in the great market square of Aurangabad
Chowk MasjidLocated near the Adalat Road
Quila-E-ArkLocated close to the Himayat Bagh garden of Aurangabad
Soneri Mahal Located within the premises of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University Campus
Damri Mahal
Naukhanda (Naukonda) Palace
Bani Begum GardenLocated at the distance of about 24 kilometers from Aurangabad
Siddharth GardenLocated right in the heart of the city close to the station road
Gul MandiLocated right in the heart of the city close to the station road
Salim Ali Lake & Bird SanctuaryLocated in the northern division of the city close to the Delhi Gate opposite the Himayat Bagh
Gautala Wildlife SanctuaryLocated at the distance of about 90 kilometers from Aurangabad
Baradari Iwaz Khan AqueductLocated in the center of the city
Bhadkal GatePositioned near the juncture of the Major State Highway No 8
Delhi Gate Sited in the northern part of Aurangabad
Jalna Gate Located in the eastern Aurangabad
Paithan Gate Situated near Gul Mandi
Mecca GateLocated in the Begumpura
History Museum - Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University Housed in the history department of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University
Chatrapati Shivaji MuseumLocated near the Nehru Bal Udyan on the way to the world famous Ajanta Caves
Purwar Museum Located on the Sarafa Road
Himroo Factory Set up near the Zaffar Gate in the old Aurangabad Town
Dargah of Pir Ismail
Daulatabad Located approximately 16 kilometers away from Aurangabad
Paithan Nestled on the banks of the holy river Godavari at the distance of about 52 kilometers from Aurangabad
KhuldabadLocated about 26 kilometers from Aurangabad in Aurangabad District


Bibi Ka Maqbara

Location: At the distance of about 6 kilometers from the Aurangabad Railway Station
Bibi Ka Maqbara renowned worldwide as the counterpart of Taj Mahal is a mausoleum built by Aurangzeb’s son Azam Shah in the fond memory of his beloved mother; Dilras Bano Begum. Dilras Bano Begum also reckoned by the name Rabia-ud-Durrani was the first wife of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Located at the distance of about 6 kilometers from the Aurangabad Railway Station Bibi Ka Maqbara; the most prominent milestone of the city was constructed in the year 1660 AD. Adorned by the sobriquet, the ‘Dakkhani Taj’ (Taj of the Deccan) and the ‘Poor Man’s Taj’ Bibi Ka Maqbara is an outstanding archetype of the gradual transition from the flamboyant and intricate architecture of Akbar and Shah Jahan to the simple and modest structural design of the succeeding Mughal emperors. The term Bibi Ka Maqbara literally means the ‘Tomb of the Lady’. Believed to be built at the expense of about 7 lakh rupees, this hexagon shaped cenotaph of Dilras Bano Begum is ornamented with ornately decorated aerial minarets. Acclaimed as the only paradigm of Mughal architecture of its sort in the entire Deccan plateau, the Bibi Ka Maqbara, designed by a prolific Mughal Architect Ata Ullah is built in sandstone and the lustrous white marble stone. Garlanded with flowery walls and topped with glossy marble dome, this memento of bygone era majestically stands on the lawns of a well landscaped garden. The central tomb where the mortal remains of the Begum lay buried is illustrated by aureate surface ornamentations and splendid marble screens. The garden laying in front of the Maqbara is bedecked with a central pond, water channels, fountains, broad pathways and lofty pavilions. Rs 10 are charges as the entry fee and tourists can visit the Maqbara between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm every day.

Aurangabad Caves

Location: Positioned about 2 kilometers away from the Bibi Ka Maqbara
Aurangabad Caves to be found atop a hill in the Sihaychal ranges positioned about 2 kilometers away from the Bibi Ka Maqbara and overlooking the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University Campus are a cave complex of 12 rock-cut Buddhist Caves. Divided into two groups i.e. Western and Eastern, these caves, most of them being Buddhist Viharas are recognized amongst the supreme accomplishments of Indian Classical Art. The amazing sculptures and marvelous carvings of Aurangabad Caves put side by side with the best paintings of the world famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves are estimated to be chiseled between 2nd and 7th century AD. Roughhewed out of the relatively soft basalt rock, the iconography observed in these caves as well as the architecture depict the clear Tantric influence. Cave numbers 3, 4 and 7 are the most worth mentioning caves. The cave no 3 boasts of its superbly neat and very well organized motifs of fretwork, flowers, tassels, scrolls, panel of couples and various geometrical designs. The cave no. 4 supported with 12 brilliantly engraved pillars depicts the episodes from Jataka Tales while cave no 7 portrays the carvings of women bejeweled with beautiful ornaments. The most noteworthy feature of cave no 7 is the sculpture of Lord Bodhisatva praying for salvation. The Aurangabad caves also offer the breathtaking panorama of the entire Aurangabad city. These caves disregarded and outshined by the UNESCO World Heritage Monuments of Ajanta and Ellora caves were recently described by a group of scholars as the “sensitive remaking of life situated in time and space”. The caves can be visited from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and 10 Rs are charged as the entry fee here.

Ajanta Caves

Location: Situated about 96 kilometers from Aurangabad
Ajanta Caves, a cluster of 30 rock cut caves dated back to 2nd century BC to 6th century AD are located near the town Ajanta (Ajintha) situated about 96 kilometers from Aurangabad in Aurangabad District. Celebrated as the epitome of Buddhist religious art, Ajanta caves illustrating the Buddhist and Sigiriya paintings, sculptures and frescos have been deemed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. Presumed to be created during the rule of Satvahana or Vaktaka kings, these horse shoe shaped scarp of Ajanta caves remained concealed until 28th April 1819 when they were rediscovered by John Smith; a British officer of the Madras Presidency. Cave no 1, 2 and 4 are the most remarkable caves praised for their striking setting, extraordinary architecture and their historical magnitude. Cave no 1 is famed for its wonderful image of Lord Buddha depicted in the seating position while his hands are held in the Dharmachakrapravartana mudra. The walls of the cave 1 exhibit the scenes from the Jataka Tales and the life and deeds of Lord Buddha. Cave no. 2 also depicts the incidents of the Jataka Tales and chapters from the life of Lord Buddha. Moreover, this cave is also reckoned for its ornamental, erotic, human, divine, semi divine, animals and vegetative motifs. The cave no. 4 houses a huge image of Lord Buddha seated in the preaching position and flanked by Bodhisatvas and the heavenly nymphs hovering above. The rear wall of the verandah in Cave no 4 is festooned with a panel depicting Avalokiteswara.

Ellora (Verul) Caves

Location: About 29 kilometers North West of Aurangabad
Ellora Caves, also known as Verul Caves and deemed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site are located about 29 kilometers North West of Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra. This bouquet of 34 caves essentially carved out of the perpendicular face of the Charanandri hills are acknowledged as the incomparable embodiment of vital Indian rock-cut architecture. Dated back to the time span between 5th and 10th century AD and believed to be built during the governance of Rashtrakuta kings, these caves characterized with Buddhist, Hindu and Jain rock-cut temples, viharas and mathas reveal the religious concord prevailing during that epoch of Indian History. There are 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu and 5 Jain caves. The Buddhist caves mostly comprise of the Viharas, living quarters, sleeping rooms, kitchens and other rooms. These edifices are embellished with eye catching carvings of Lord Buddha, Bodhisatva and various Buddhist saints. Cave no 10 is the most incredible amongst all the Buddhist caves of Ellora which consists of a huge chaitya hall, also known as the ‘Vishvakarma Cave’ or the ‘Carpenter’s Cave’. The specialty of this cave is that the sculptures are engraved in such a way that the stone creates the likeness of wood. This cave is also noted for its 15 foot tall statue of Lord Buddha seated in the preaching position. The most conspicuous features of the Hindu caves of Ellora are the Kailasanathar Temple of cave no 16, the Dashavatara sculptures of cave no 15, and other Hindu caves namely Rameshwara Cave no 21, Dhumar Lena cave no 29, Ravan ki Khai cave no 14 and Nilkantha cave no 22. The Kailasanathar Temple is a multi storied temple complex designed after Mount Kailash; the abode of Lord Shiva. The Jain caves of the Ellora Cave complex belong to the Digambara sect of Jainism and reveal the Jain philosophy and asceticism. The most momentous Jain caves are Chhota Kailash cave no. 30, Indra Sabha cave no. 32 and Jagannath Sabha cave no. 33. The Indra Sabha cave is noted for its lotus flower carvings, sculpture of the Yaksha, Matanga seated on an elephant, a captivating image of Ambika and so on.

Ghrishneshwar Temple

Location: About half a kilometer away from the Ellora Caves and nearly 31 km away from Aurangabad
Located about half a kilometer away from the Ellora Caves and nearly 31 km away from Aurangabad, Ghrishneshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas scattered across the Indian continent and one of the 5 Jyotirlinga sites situated in Maharashtra. Estimated to be built between 1765 and 1795, this Shiva Temple was patronized by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. Constructed out of red volcanic stone, this temple of Ghrishneshwar featuring its imperial 5 tier shikhara intensifying in retreating height presents an exceptional prototype of architectural and sculptural ingenuity of yesteryears. Each of the 5 shikharas bejeweled with impressive arithmetical motifs and eloquent images of Brahmanical deities including Lord Siva and Goddess Parvati is crowned with a sculpture of a Nandi and a monkey. The structure of the Ghrishneshwar Temple embodies a fine blend of contemporary local and ancient Indian temple styles and totally departs from the then prevalent Islamic order of temple architecture. The outer façade of the temple bears grandiose statuettes of Dashavataras carved in red stone. The Sabha Mandapa of the temple suspended on 24 beautifully ornamented pillars and sanctified by the presence of the Nandikeshwara Idol leads to the small Garbhagriha where ‘Purvabhimukh’ (facing east) Shiva Lingam is enshrined. As per the legend noted in the Shivpurana, Lord Shiva had revived a dead son of Ghushma (also known as Kusuma) and on her request agreed to stay there perpetually as the Ghrishneshwar. Lord Ghrishneshwar is the presiding deity of Ellora and a large fair is organized here on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri.

Panchakki

Location: In a garden adjacent the Mahmud Darwaza about 3 kilometers away from the Aurangabad Railway Station near the Aurangabad Textile Mills
Panchakki is the Marathi word for ‘watermill’. Located in a garden adjacent the Mahmud Darwaza about 3 kilometers away from the Aurangabad Railway Station near the Aurangabad Textile Mills, Panchakki is an ancient monument displaying the scientific thought process and technical progress achieved in Indian architecture during the medieval era. This water mill was designed to generate energy from the spring of water cascading down a close by mountain. Constructed under the patronage of Turktaz Khan; a noble in the court of Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah in the year 1695 AD, this watermill was employed to produce energy and use it to turn the large grinding stones of the nearby flourmill. This flourmill was used to grind grains for the disciples of the saints, for the pilgrims who paid a visit to the neighboring dargah of Baba Shah Musafir and for the soldier troops. The remaining water was later let into the Kham River. Apart from the watermill, the Panchakki Complex also houses a mosque, a madrissa, the dargah, a kacheri, a sarai, a minister’s house, zanana enclosure and the headquarters of the Wakf board of Maharashtra. An age old library dated back to 18th century AD which houses over 100,000 precious manuscripts and valued books till Indian independence, has presently been reopened in the Panchakki Complex after 70 years.

Jumma Masjid

Location: Near the legendary Quila-E-Ark
Jumma Masjid, also known as the ‘Jama Masjid’ of Aurangabad and located near the legendary Quila-E-Ark was built by Malik Ambar in the year 1612 soon after the establishment of Aurangabad (then known as Kharki). Later extended by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1692 AD, the Jumma Masjid happens to be one of the oldest mosques still existing in quite a good condition in this erstwhile Mughal capital. The Jumma Masjid has 50 polygonal pillars arranged in 5 rows. All the pillars are interconnected with a system of 9 channeling arches which divide the building into 27 equal compartments. Each of these compartments is crowned with a small simple but gracefully designed globular dome. Out of the 9 pointed arches adorning the frontage of the mosque, 5 were erected by Malik Ambar while the rest 4 were added later by Aurangzeb. A spacious court built in front of the mosque has open buildings on 3 sides where travelers used to make a night halt in ancient times. A water tank is constructed in the center of the court where water is channeled from the Malik Ambar canal.

Shahganj Masjid

Location: In the great market square of Aurangabad
Shahganj Masjid positioned in the great market square of Aurangabad is one of the supreme edifices of its kind ever sited in any part of India. Believed to be initiated in 1720 AD by Sayyad Husain Ali and later extended by Aazu-d Daula Iraz Khan, the Shahganj Masjid is located along the post office road adjacent the Shahganj Park near Shahganj Railway Station. Khafi Khan in his ‘Muntakhabu-1-Lubab’ describes the water reservoir at Shahganj Masjid saying, “the reservoir at Shah Ganj was begun by Sayyad Husain Ali, and although Aazu-d Daula Iraz Khan enlarged and made higher the buildings and mosques still Sayyad Husain Ali was the originator of that extensive reservoir, which in summer, when water is scarce relieves the sufferings of the inhabitants”. The Shahganj Mosque erected on an elevated platform accommodates shops on three of its outer sides while the 4th side is unsealed from where a flight of steps lead us inside the mosque. The entrance of the Shahganj Mosque decorated with pointed arcade and two towers is designed in a small mosque like pattern. Built in Indo-Sarcenic order of architecture, the interior portion of the Shahganj Masjid contains 24 columns out of which 6 columns are setup in the form of a square. 2 large water tanks are placed in front of the court-yard which quench the thirst of the visitors.

Chowk Masjid

Location: Near the Adalat Road
Chowk Masjid located in City Chowk of Aurangabad near the Adalat Road is yet another Muslim place of worship highly frequented by the devotees as well as the tourists all round the year. Established in the year 1665 by Shayista Khan; the maternal uncle of Aurangzeb, this mosque presents a superlative epitome of Islamic architecture existing in India. The fascia of the Chowk Masjid is embellished with five pointed arches which are interlinked by eight corresponding colonnades supporting five domes. The aerial central dome is embroidered with a metallic tower while the rest of the domes are concealed in the Masjid roof. The corners of the Chowk Masjid garlanded with intricately carved and lofty minarets yield an absolutely awe inspiring spectacle.

Quila-E-Ark

Location: Close to the Himayat Bagh garden of Aurangabad
Quila-E-Ark, also reckoned by the epithet ‘Killa Arrak’ is a royal palace built under the patronage of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the year 1692. Located close to the Himayat Bagh garden of Aurangabad, the citadel of Quila-E-Ark covered almost the entire space between the Mecca Gate and the Delhi Gate of the city. Enclosed by strong fortification, this garrison had in total six gates including the Kaala Darwaza. Though in ruins today, the fortifying ramparts of the Quila still reveal the evidences of their loop holed and semi circular towers atop which guns were mounted for the preservation instinct. The interior defense walls of the palace occupied recesses at regular intervals which resemble the oriels found in the city walls. The castle houses nagarkhana for the musicians and to the right of the main entrance a high terrace is to be found which pulls out the complete length of the enclosed ground. Presently the entire Quila-E-Ark is in ruins except for the Durbar Hall and the Jumma Masjid. The room where Aurangzeb’s throne is preserved is surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden and creates an appearance of a simple and unadorned podium. The porch of the Quila which can be entered by a corridor from behind is also kept in an unembellished fashion.

Soneri Mahal

Location: Within the premises of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University Campus
Soneri Mahal, also popularly known as ‘Sunheri Mahal’ is Aurangabad’s greatly discussed architectural wonder which is located within the premises of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University Campus. Constructed in 17th century AD by the orders of a Bandalkand Chief who had come to the Deccan plateau with Aurangzeb, Soneri Mahal is built in stone and lime. The palace receives its name ‘Soneri’ or ‘Sunheri’ Mahal i.e. the ‘golden palace’ after the old paintings found in the manor which were painted in gold. As you cross the threshold of the palace you will arrive at a garden ornamented with verdant green lawns cleaved by a quadrilateral water reservoir leading towards the golden structure of the Soneri Palace. Soneri Mahal, an extraordinary monument of Mughal Era is now converted to a heritage museum which displays a variety of historic and archaeological objects including old statues, pottery items, ancient manuscripts, coins, apparels, remains of the local palaces, daily use antiques, numerous sculptures and excavated reliefs and so on. Apart from the museum, the palace also houses a library where ancient books and manuscripts of historical magnitude are preserved. Once belonging to King Bundela Veer Hardaul from Madhya Pradesh, the Soneri Mahal is indeed an embodiment of never diminishing magnificence and grandeur of Mughal majesty. For past few years Soneri Mahal has been hosting the prestigious Ellora-Ajanta-Aurangabad cultural festival. The celebrated Indian artists of international repute such as Ustad Jhakir Husain, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasiya and so on perform at this three days festival. Soneri Mahal of Aurangabad can be visited from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and Rs 10 are charged as the entry fee here.

Damri Mahal

Location:
The Damri Mahal of Aurangabad presently acknowledged as the ‘Revenue Office Building’ is a historical edifice erected after the completion of the renowned ‘Barra Darri’ by collecting an enforced donation from the laborers and craftsmen appointed at the construction work of Barra Darri. As the imposed amount of donation was equivalent to a ‘Damri’ i.e. a quarter of a dub, the structure was christened as the ‘Damri Mahal’. This staggering building yields an impressive prospect from the front as its façade is decked out with an arcaded verandah garlanded with 5 archways. To the reverse side of the verandah ten rooms of dissimilar sizes are arranged in straight linear order while scores of chambers are placed to the right of the Damri Mahal. The arched roof gives the entire structure a truly aristocratic look. The Damri Mahal, a quintessence of aesthetic architectural dexterity and structural adroitness is certainly a place not to be missed in Aurangabad.

Naukhanda (Naukonda) Palace

Location:
Situated , Naukhanda (Naukonda) Palace is well known for its Chennakesava Temple. This temple was built during the rule of King Narasimha III of Hoysala dynasty in 1268 CE. Preserving the heritage of Hoysala Architecture, this temple is well maintained by Archeological Survey of India. The temple is built in the shape of constellation and the gracefully carved idols of Janardhana and Venugopala are housed in the beautiful sanctorum. Originally there were three idols, Keshava, Janardhana and Venugopala. But the idol of Keshava has gone missing now.

Bani Begum Garden

Location: At the distance of about 24 kilometers from Aurangabad
The Bani Begum Garden christened and built in the honor of Bani Begum; the wife of Aurangzeb’s son is an exquisite garden located at the distance of about 24 kilometers from Aurangabad. Renowned for its elegantly cultivated verdure and placid ambience, the Bani Begum Garden houses a mausoleum of Bani Begum right in the center of the plot. Bejeweled with enchanting fountains, strikingly fluted pillars, grand domes and Mughal styled landscaping, this garden is an unrivaled model of Mughal technique and ethnic architectural approach. The tomb of Bani Begum which lies right in the heart of the sprawling garden is decorated with four exclusive minarets at four corners and with fine jail work. The Bani Begum Garden bordered by a gorgeous wall with arched recesses comprises a foremost tourist’s attraction positioned on the outskirts of Aurangabad. The guests of Aurangabad make it a point to also pay a visit to the Bani Begum Garden.

Siddharth Garden

Location: Right in the heart of the city close to the station road
Siddharth Garden, located right in the heart of the city close to the station road is a stunningly pastured garden endowed with an excellent variety of flora and fauna. Spread over an extensive area and yielding a lush green outlook, what add to the allure of the Siddharth Garden are its small aquarium and a prodigious zoo. The Siddharth Garden Zoo is particularly distinguished for its wide array of fauna including Lions, white and red Tigers, Leopards, Fox, Deer, Hyena, Civet cats, Porcupine, Emu, Crocodiles, Snakes, and so on. Blessed with sprawling lawns and the most delightful and pleasing milieu, the Siddharth Garden is one of the most sought after ‘al fresco’ recreational hubs in Aurangabad. Greatly preferred as an amazing picnic spot, the Siddharth Garden of Aurangabad is a must visit destination both for the locals as well as the tourists.

Gul Mandi

Location: Right in the heart of the city close to the station road
The term ‘Gul Mandi’ means ‘Jaggery Market’. Gul Mandi of Aurangabad, located right in the heart of the city is one of the largest bazaars of Aurangabad which is particularly famous for its Paithani Saris and Himroo Silk. Always thriving with the swarms of shoppers, the ever crowed Gul Mandi of Aurangabad is a perfect example of typical Indian market place. Most favorite amongst the women shoppers, Gul Mandi is a nice place to buy variety of goods and also taste the first hand experience of ethnic bazaars. A unique trait of the Gul Mandi is that, the prices of the products sold here change every day and the worth of a particular product depends on the day of the week when the market is held. Shopping the special souvenirs of Aurangabad such as Himroo & Mishroo Fabrics, Kimkhab Weaves, Shawls, Paithani Saris, Handicrafts, Artifacts and Curios, Bidri Pottery, Silver Inlay Craft, Precious and Semi Precious Stones, Old Coins, Jewellery, Fresh Organic Products and so on amidst the hustle bustle of Gul Mandi is indeed a distinctive experience. Very close to the Gul Mandi is situated the widely famed Supari Hanuman Temple which is especially praised for its elaborately carved and flamboyantly painted spire. Moreover, in the proximal areas of Gul Mandi you will also get a chance to witness the remnants of the ancient lane system (chawl system) and the age old buildings still surviving the test of time.

Salim Ali Lake & Bird Sanctuary

Location: In the northern division of the city close to the Delhi Gate opposite the Himayat Bagh
Salim Ali Lake, also locally known as Salim Ali Talab (or Sarovar) is an eminent water reservoir of Aurangabad located in the northern division of the city close to the Delhi Gate opposite the Himayat Bagh. Christened after the great naturalist & ornithologist and the ‘Birdman of India’, Salim Ali, this lagoon was formerly known by the title ‘Khiziri Talab’ during the Mughal rule. Originally a large marshland, half of it was converted to a plain mead land after undertaking a landfill by the orders of Aurangzeb, which was later developed as the present day Himayat Bagh by an official from Aurangzeb’s court. The remaining half swamp was known as Khiziri Talab which was later renamed as the Salim Ali Lake. Today, the Bird Sanctuary of the Salim Ali Lake is a home to innumerable varieties of domestic and migratory birds and a paradise for bird watchers. The Lake and the bird sanctuary, as well as the garden are now managed and maintained by the Aurangabad Municipal Corporation. Tourists as well as the locals cherish spending some leisurely time in the vicinity of the lake. Boating facilities are also made available at the Salim Ali Lake and the area is crowded with people in the evenings and particularly on the weekends and the holidays.

Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary

Location: At the distance of about 90 kilometers from Aurangabad
Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary located at the distance of about 90 kilometers from Aurangabad is an intense forest reserve bequeathed with diverse flora and fauna. Enveloped with pristine woods, meandering rivers and cascading waterfalls, this sanctuary provides a secured home to a wide array of common as well as rare birds and animals. The sanctuary is laden with southern tropical dry deciduous forest where draught resistant trees like Khair, Anjan and Dhawada grow while the hill tops are covered with grass lands. The varying foliage scattered all over the place sporadically supports the affluent faunal miscellany of this wildlife sanctuary. Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary is a home to the mammals like chinkara, sambar, barking deer, bison, nilgai, jungle cat, civet cat, jackal, fox, sloth bears, wild boar, chital, bats, flying squirrels, langoor, monkey, wolf, leopard, panther, etc. The asylum also boasts of its assorted population of over 230 distinct species of colorful birds such as cranes, peacocks, spoonbills, ibis, storks, hyenas, pochards, peafowl, partridges, jungle fowl, and quail and so on. The sanctuary also provides a safe home to various reptiles including snakes, cobra, rat snake, krait, keel back viper, monitor lizard, python etc.

Baradari Iwaz Khan Aqueduct

Location: In the center of the city
The Baradari Iwaz Khan Aqueduct of Aurangabad located in the center of the city is the archetypal representative of the architectural magnitude achieved by the artisans of yesteryears. Though beaten by the passage of time and in ruins today, the aqueduct still retains the aura of its former classical majesty. This valuable document of luxurious antiquity of Aurangabad, the Baradari Iwaz Khan Aqueduct entices the tourists as well as the students of history and archaeology to no extent. Once basking in the glory of its political as well as structural dignity, the great aqueduct complex has paid a heavy toll to time and to the enemy assaults. Due to the frequent attacks of the Marathas, the walls of the complex were trampled and crumbled to a certain degree. Even though, the debris of the decrepit walls still reveal the ancient magnificence and the architectural exquisiteness of bygone era. Apart from the picnickers and voyagers, the ruins of the Baradari Iwaz Khan Aqueduct of Aurangabad specially interest the historians and the students of architecture and archaeology.

Gates In Aurangabad

Aurangabad, bequeathed with as many as 52 gates is the historical civic rightly honored with the title; the ‘City of Gates’. The most worth mentioning feature of these gates is that each of the 52 gates has certain historical significance or some personal connection associated with it. However, out of the 52 gates, only 4 chief and 9 secondary gates have survived the ravage of time and the attacks of the enemies. The oldest, hugest and the most celebrated of these gates is the ‘Bhadkal Gate’ that is positioned in the close proximity to the Naukhanda Palace of the Hyderabadi Nizams. The four prime gates other than the Bhadkal Gate are; Delhi Gate, Jalna Gate, Paithan Gate and Mecca Gate.

Bhadkal Gate

Location: Near the juncture of the Major State Highway No 8
Also known as the ‘Victory Gate’ is positioned near the juncture of the Major State Highway No 8 and the Aurangabad Post Office Road. Constructed by Malik Ambar in the year 1612 commemorating the victory against the Mughals, the two storied Bhadkal Gate reveals a unique Islamic architectural style.

Delhi Gate

Location: Sited in the northern part of Aurangabad
to be sited in the northern part of Aurangabad is erected facing the direction of Delhi. Acknowledged as the most prodigious and imperial gate, this entryway fashioned after the Lahore Gate of the ‘Lal Quila’ of Delhi was built by the Emperor Aurangzeb Himself.

Jalna Gate

Location: In the eastern Aurangabad
is adorned with simple yet unusual designs. Also known as the ‘Khas Gate’, this entrance way facing towards the Jalna city has been recently renovated by the archaeology department.

Paithan Gate

Location: Near Gul Mandi
smaller in its size as compared to other gates is situated near Gul Mandi and leads towards Paithan

Mecca Gate

Location: In the Begumpura
Also known as the Makai Gate faces the holy city of Islam i.e. Mecca to the west and opens up into Begumpura; a walled quarter of Aurangabad. Mecca Gate happens to be the only gate of Aurangabad that bears a canon mounted upon it. Other minor gates of Aurangabad include Kaala Darwaza, Roshan Gate, Jaffar Gate, Barapul Gate, Khirki Gate, Mahmud Gate, and so on.

History Museum - Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University

Location: Housed in the history department of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University
The History Museum of Aurangabad housed in the history department of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University is one of the most worth mentioning relic’s menageries of Aurangabad. Conceived by the brains of a prestigious historian Late Dr. Ramesh Shankar Gupte, the History Museum preserves the rich historical and archaeological heritage of the Marathwada region. Dr. Ramesh Shankar Gupte spotted the sculptures and the archaeological objects scattered around the Marathwada region and with an aim of preserving this historical treasure he collected the residues and placed them in one of the lecture halls of the history department of the University. This museum today displays numerous ancient Indian paintings, fabrics, artifacts, coins, armory and a huge collection of some impressive sculptures excavated from Bhokardan and Daulatabad. These excavations are dated back to the period between 7th and 12th century AD when Chalukya, Rashtrakuta and Yadava dynasties ruled. Some of the exhibits in this museum are also dated back to the Satavahana, Rajput, Mughal and Marathwada dominions. Moreover, some of the Persian and Arabic manuscripts from 17th and 18th century, china clay objects, other artifacts of the Chinese and Japanese origin and a number of additional sculptures are also displayed here. The History Museum of Aurangabad is open to public from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm and it remains closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Chatrapati Shivaji Museum

Location: Near the Nehru Bal Udyan on the way to the world famous Ajanta Caves
The Chatrapati Shivaji Museum named after the founder of the great Maratha Empire Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is located near the Nehru Bal Udyan on the way to the world famous Ajanta Caves from the Aurangabad city. Conceptualized by a prolific architect Shri Krishna Bhoghe and patronized by Municipal Corporation of Aurangabad, this museum built at the expense of nearly Rs 194 lakh is designed in a rare octagonal shape. An aerial entrance leads inside the premises of the museum where a gigantic bronze figurine of Goddess Jagdamba offering the Bhavani Sword to Shivaji Maharaj is placed. Six colossal halls of the museum exhibit a wide range of historical objects, precious documents and rare manuscripts while other sections of the museum display weapons, ancient and royal fabrics, utensils, coins and so on dated back to the age of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Baba Saheb Purandare and a number of private collectors from Aurangabad as well as Paithan have contributed significantly in the collection of Chatrapati Shivaji Museum. The museum is classified into six galleries.
Hall No 1 – Arms and armaments of Maratha period including two cannons and several cannon balls.
Hall No 2 – exhibits related to forts and architecture
Hall No 3 and 5 – exhibits associated with the daily life during the Maratha period
Hall No 4 – Coins Galley
Hall No 6 - Satavahana Gallery
The most noteworthy exhibits of the Chatrapati Shivaji Museum are the 500 years old war suit, a 400 year old Paithani sari and a copy of the Aurangzeb’s handwritten Quran.

Purwar Museum

Location: On the Sarafa Road
The Purwar Museum of Aurangabad housed in an old Haveli located on the Sarafa Road is a small museum that exhibits the exquisite personal collection of a retired doctor named Dr. Purwar. Functional since 1970 AD, this museum can be divided into 13 different sections where a wide variety of historical objects such as coins, seals, medals, weapons, tools, beads, sculptures, paintings, manuscripts, clothes, gems and jewellery, articles related to folk art and culture, daily life and geology are put on display. The most noteworthy collection of the museum comprises of a 500 year old chain maul suit, an 800 year old Paithani and a copy of the handwritten Quran of Aurangzeb. This museum can be visited from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm and from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm from Tuesdays through Sunday. An entrance fee of Rs 5 per head is charged here.

Himroo Factory

Location: Set up near the Zaffar Gate in the old Aurangabad Town
Himroo Factory set up near the Zaffar Gate in the old Aurangabad Town is a workshop where the famous Himroo hand woven textile materials are produced. Himroo is a splendid cloth which is fabricated with a fine admixture of cotton and silk and is very famous for its quality. The designs and the patterns used in decorating the Himroo fabrics derive inspiration from the paintings found in the caves of Ajanta. At the Himroo Factory of Aurangabad tourists can witness the process of weaving the Himroo textile and also buy them from the factory showroom. Apart from that, traditional Paithani Saris, handloom shawls, Himroo material and silver threads are made available at the show rooms of the Himroo Factory. It is said that the Himroo Factory of Aurangabad had gifted a fabric woven in silk and gold threads to Marco Polo. Other than the Himroo saris and shawls, brilliantly and boldly colored Mashru fabrics can also be purchased here. Today, Himroo factory has turned out to be a major tourist attraction of the Aurangabad city.

Dargah of Pir Ismail

Location:
Dargah of Pir Ismail built as a sign of tribute to the reverend seer and the well-known saint ‘Baba Pir Ismail’ who functioned as the teacher and the spiritual guide of Prince Aurangzeb before he obtained the throne of the great Mughal Empire is one of the most visited heritage destinations in the historical city Aurangabad. The main entrance of the Dargah ornamented with a gargantuan pointed archway yields a truly ceremonial appeal while the gardens enclosing the mausoleum house the ruins of the bountiful water ponds and fountains. Presently, the main doorway doesn’t suffice as the actual entrance but the Dargah Complex can be accessed only through a small archway positioned at the far end of the Dargah. The Dargah; square in shape, is bedecked with pointed arches on four sides and a large dome towering the central quarters crowns the structure. Besides, the three small arched windows as well as the Dargah Parapet, those adorn the Dargah edifice look simply wonderful owing to their pretty and graceful designs. The Dargah of Pir Ismail particularly featured with idyllic ambience is indeed a place to unwind amidst the remnants of the glorious history of Aurangabad.

Daulatabad

Location: Approximately 16 kilometers away from Aurangabad
Daulatabad, formerly known by the moniker ‘Deogiri’ is a 14th century fort city of the state of Maharashtra which is located approximately 16 kilometers away from Aurangabad. Established by a Yadava King Bhillama V in 1187 AD and renowned as the celebrated capital of the Tughlaq dynasty, the present day Daulatabad is reckoned for its historic Fort of Daulatabad, Chand Minar and Chini Mahal. The term ‘Daulatabad’ literally means the ‘city of fortune’ and Deogiri was christened as Daulatabad by the famous Turkic Sultan of Delhi; Muhammad bin Tughluq. The Fort of Daulatabad, dated back to 12th century AD is founded atop a 200 meters high conical hill and can be accessed only through a narrow bridge. This fort can now be visited from 9:00 am to 6:00 am and Rs 5 are charged as the entry fee here.

Paithan

Location: On the banks of the holy river Godavari at the distance of about 52 kilometers from Aurangabad
Paithan nestled on the banks of the holy river Godavari at the distance of about 52 kilometers from Aurangabad is a city in the Aurangabad District reckoned far and wide for its stunning Paithani Saris skillfully woven in precious threads of silk, gold and silver. Paithan sanctified by the presence of Saint Eknath of Maharashtra is today famous as the domicile of the great Nath Sagar Udyan fashioned after the Vrindavan Gardens of Mysore. Tourists make it a point to pay a visit to the Eknath Maharaj Temple, Paithani Kendra, Nath Sagar Dam, Jayakwadi bird Sanctuary, Saint Dnyaneshwar Udyan, etc at Paithan.

Khuldabad

Location: About 26 kilometers from Aurangabad in Aurangabad District
Khuldabad, located about 26 kilometers from Aurangabad in Aurangabad District is a city renowned for housing the tomb of the most notorious Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Other noteworthy attractions of Khuldabad include the tombs of Azam Shah and his wife, Zain ud din Dargah, Burhan ud din’s Mausoleum, Nizam ul Mulk Asaf Jah’s Tomb, Banu Begum’s Makbara, Khan Jahan’s Lall Bagh, Malik Ambar’s Tomb, Zar Zari Zar Baksh and Ganj Rawan Ganj Baksh Dargah and many others.