Deccan Odyssey Train Day 06: Aurangabad/Ellora

The next destination of the Deccan odyssey is Aurangabad. The Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb, founded Aurangabad. Aurangabad is home to the world heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora, along with the fortress of Daulatabad. After breakfast on board the train, you will be driven to the majestic fortress of Daulatabad. The Daulatabad fort was built in the medieval period and was impregnable in its day. Take a walk around the ruins, which narrate you the history of this massive fort.

Your next sojourn is the World Heritage Site, the Ellora Caves. The Ellora caves are the epitome of Indian rock cut cave architecture. The Hindu, Jain and Buddhist caves at Ellora are among the finest in India. There are 34 caves at Ellora, comprising of Buddhist, Jain and Hindu cave temples and monasteries. All the structures at Ellora were built between the 5th and the 10th century. The Buddhist caves belong to the Vajrayana sect of the Mahayana School. The caves include 'viharas' (monasteries) and 'Chaityas' (chapels) where the monks used to worship. The Hindu caves lie at the center of the group. The most famous of the Ellora rock cut structures is the Kailasanatha Temple (8th century).

Enjoy your lunch at Aurangabad with live cultural programme and later head for the Shivaji Museum, which houses weapons and antiques belonging to the times of the great Maratha Empire. Another major attraction at Aurangabad is the Aurangabad Caves. These caves date back to the Vakataka and the Kalachuri dynasties. One more important historical place at Aurangabad is Bibi-Ka-Maqbara, built by the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb. The Bibi-ka-Maqbara is a replica of the Taj Mahal. You can also try your hands at shopping for Paithani and Himroo. After a great day of sightseeing, its time for you to get back on the Deccan Odyssey and head for another beautiful destination!