Aurangabad (meaning 'Built by the Throne') is named after the well-known Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The city is a tourist hub, surrounded with many historical monuments and is said to be a 'City of Gates', the strong presence of which can be felt as one drives through the city. The city lies on a major trade route that connects India's sea and land ports to the Deccan area which is known as the 'Silk Route'.

Aurangabad is popular for its woven Himroo shawls, Mashru and Kimkhab weaves and is also a good shopping place for tourists. Women visiting the city are tempted of its fantastic Paithani sarees and semi precious stones and jewellery. Majority of the locals in Aurangabad speak Marathi – the regional language of Maharashtra as well as Hindi and Urdu. Aurangabadi food is much like Mughlai or Hyderabadi cuisine with an influence of the spices and herbs of the Marathwada region. Its fragrant Pulao and Biryani, meat cooked in fresh spices and herbs is a speciality, as are the delectable sweets.

Best time to visit:

The climate of Aurangabad is Temperate Climate with relatively low humidity and diverse but not extreme weather conditions. The best time to visit the place is from October to March.

Top five places to see:

Ajanta and Ellora Caves – Ajanta and Ellora are the pride of Maharashtra. The rock-cut caves of both these sites are world famous and illustrate the degree of skill and artistry that Indian craftsmen had achieved several hundred years ago. Ajanta dates back approximately 100 B.C. while Ellora is younger by some 600 years. Both these have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Bibi ka Maqbara – A replica of the Taj Mahal, the Bibi-ka-Maqbara is the only example of Mughul architecture of its kind in the Deccan plateau. It was built in 1679 AD by Aurangzeb’s son, in tribute to his mother, Begum Rabia Durani.

Sunheri Mahal Museum – An old historic monument now converted into a museum houses a variety of ancient Indian pottery, dresses and remains of local palaces and antiques of daily use. A number of sculptures and reliefs from the local excavations are also on display.

Bani Begum Gardens – This graceful garden is known for its lush green appearance and comforting atmosphere. It got its name from the tomb of Bani Begum who is the wife of Aurangzeb’s son.

Panchakki – Panchakki is a 17th Century water mill, the name of which has been derived from the mill that used to crush grains for pilgrims. An engineering feat of the time, the water mill channelled from a spring on a distant hill was used to power the flour mill and grind grain.