Let’s address the elephant in the room: Can you really cover both Ajanta and Ellora Caves in a single day from Aurangabad (now officially Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar)?

The short answer: Yes, absolutely. But it’s not a leisurely stroll. It requires military-grade planning, a reliable private cab, and an early morning alarm. If you are an Indian traveler looking to maximize your weekend or a short Maharashtra trip, this guide is tailored exactly for you.

At Singhavi Tours Blog, we believe in realistic, on-the-ground travel advice. Let’s break down exactly how to pull off this epic one-day heritage marathon in 2026.

⚠️ The Golden Rule: Check the Closing Days First!

Before you book your cab, you must know this make-or-break detail:

• Ajanta Caves are CLOSED on Mondays.
• Ellora Caves are CLOSED on Tuesdays.

If your one-day trip falls on a Monday or Tuesday, you will only be able to visit one of the sites. For a combined tour, Wednesday to Sunday is your sweet spot.

🗺️ The Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary (Minute-by-Minute)

To succeed, you must visit Ajanta first. It is farther away, and the morning light is better for photography inside the caves. Ellora is closer to the city and can be done in the late afternoon.

🌅 6:00 AM – Depart from Aurangabad

Start your journey early. The distance from Aurangabad to Ajanta is approximately 100 km via NH52, which takes about 2 hours in a private cab [[5]]. An early start helps you beat the massive tour bus crowds that arrive by 10:30 AM [[31]].

🏛️ 8:30 AM – Arrive at Ajanta Tourist Complex

Park your vehicle and take the MTDC bus (or walk) to the cave entrance. The caves open at 9:00 AM [[33]]. Do not try to see all 29 caves. Focus on the masterpieces:

• Cave 1 & 2: Famous for exquisite, vibrant wall paintings and frescoes.
• Cave 16 & 17: The pinnacle of Buddhist rock-cut architecture, featuring the iconic “Dying Princess” painting.
• Cave 26: A magnificent rock-cut prayer hall with a massive reclining Buddha.

🍛 12:30 PM – Lunch Break

Wrap up Ajanta by 12:30 PM. Grab a quick, hygienic lunch at the MTDC restaurant near the complex or pack light snacks from Aurangabad to save time.

🚗 1:30 PM – Drive to Ellora Caves

The drive from Ajanta to Ellora is roughly 70–80 km via state highways and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Use this time to rest in your AC cab.

🕉️ 3:30 PM – Explore Ellora Caves

Ellora features 34 caves showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain architecture side-by-side. Since you are short on time, prioritize:

• Cave 16 (Kailasa Temple): The undisputed star. The world’s largest monolithic rock excavation, carved top-down from a single basalt cliff. Spend at least 45 minutes here.
• Cave 10 (Vishvakarma Cave): A stunning Buddhist “Carpenter’s Cave” with a natural light shaft.
• Cave 32 (Jain Cave): If time permits, admire the intricate, delicate carvings that contrast with the massive scale of Kailasa.

🌆 6:00 PM – Return to Aurangabad

Ellora is only about 30 km from the city center, taking just 45 minutes to drive back [[3]]. You’ll be back at your hotel by 6:45 PM, ready for a well-deserved dinner of authentic Maharashtrian Zunka Bhakri or Tambda Rassa.

💰 2026 Entry Fees & Travel Costs (For Indian Tourists)

Here is the updated, official cost breakdown to help you budget your trip:

💡 Pro Tips for a Smooth Experience

1. Carry Cash: While digital payments are widespread, small vendors, shuttle buses, and tip jars at the caves often require hard cash.
2. Wear the Right Footwear: You will be climbing uneven rock-cut stairs. Comfortable, grippy sneakers or walking shoes are mandatory. Avoid flip-flops.
3. Hire a Guide at the Gate: The caves are rich in history. An ASI-approved guide (available at the ticket counter) will point out details in the frescoes and carvings you would otherwise miss [[16]].
4. Best Time to Visit: October to March offers the most pleasant weather. If you visit in summer (April–June), carry ample water, sunglasses, and a cap, as the rocky terrain reflects intense heat.

🚕 Why a Private Cab is Non-Negotiable

While MSRTC buses connect Aurangabad to both sites, relying on public transport for a combined one-day trip is highly impractical due to fixed schedules and waiting times. Booking a dedicated Aurangabad to Ajanta Ellora cab ensures you control the timeline, have a cool place to rest between sites, and can store your luggage securely [[11]].

Looking for reliable transport options? Explore our detailed recommendations on local travel and heritage tours at the Singhavi Tours Blog.

✅ Final Verdict

A one-day Ajanta and Ellora trip from Aurangabad is 100% possible if you respect the geography, start at dawn, and focus on the highlight caves. It will be a long day, but standing in the shadow of the Kailasa Temple and gazing at the ancient murals of Ajanta makes every kilometer worth it.

For more authentic Maharashtra travel guides, itinerary planning, and local insights, keep exploring Singhavi Tours Blog. Safe travels!