Exploring Aurangabad in 2 Days

Bibi Ka Maqbara

What could be better than visiting the dream city of the country? Going on a 2-day getaway with your cousins to the Tourism capital. Well, I am no fan of statistics but let’s just say lucky us! Mumbai has always been a second home for me with my cousins settled there. I remember getting all excited to visit my uncle’s place and savour the cooking of my aunt. Summer vacations were spent planning the next mischief that would be accomplished there. I had a crazy idea, a road trip to Aurangabad. Now, many would say that Ranchi to Aurangabad in a car is crazy, but it’s my holiday, so my rules! With my cousins visiting me in my hometown, we decided to book a car rental in Ranchi with a driver to ride us to Aurangabad for a 2-day journey, and drop us back to Mumbai. Crazy plan? Yes.

Impromptu Weekend Trip

While convincing our parents were easy, it was difficult to book a cab from Ranchi to Aurangabad. After much negotiation, we finally succeeded. The car arrived early in the morning of Friday. A 28-hour journey gave us the much-needed adrenaline rush. Riding through the NH53 was exciting. If you ever get a chance, do give overnight car rides a try. We reached Aurangabad on Saturday around 12 pm. While we were munching throughout the ride, we decided to have a proper brunch with our driver.

Once we felt like humans and stretched our limbs, we set out with our list. First stop was Bibi ka Maqbara. While the term Maqbara was macabre, the sight was breath-taking. Rightfully known as the Taj Mahal of Deccan, it was a beautiful replica. Walking the courtyards, I felt like I got transported in that era. I dwelt in the beauty of the place. The architecture and the feel of the place was nothing short than grand. The gardens were dreamy and beautifully structured. Next stop was Ellora caves. Being a UNESCO heritage site, the place is well maintained and equally incredible. With the amalgamation of the architecture of three religions – Hindu, Buddhism and Jainism – we were in for a treat. We headed towards the Kailash temple and while I am not overtly religious, I felt nice being there. My sister follows the path of Shakti and she kept a running commentary about each goddess and her significance. It was confusing for me though. 

Evening views

When we left Ellora it was about 4 in the evening. We ventured out to Goga Baba hills for it is said to have a stunning sunset view. Our driver took us to the hills. It was 5 when we reached the place and after a 45 mins hike uphill we were gifted with a stunning view of the Bibi ka Maqbara. The sun was going down and the riot of the colours of sunset was beyond my imagination. I captured the scene and sent it to a friend who called immediately. Then we returned home and after having our dinner and a quick stroll in the neighbourhood of our hotel we went to sleep. 

Goga Baba Hill

Day 2

We saw the Ajanta caves and Bani Begum Garden the next day. Both were historically and architecturally important places. The Ajanta caves were Buddhist masterpieces. Each sculpture and painting was beautiful. You will be forced to feel inadequate compared to the talents of those artists. No wonder it is a UNESCO site. Places like these should be preserved. After the experience, Bani Begum Garden was a refreshing sight in green. We strolled around the fountains and the domes marvelling at the Mughal architecture and landscape. These influences and interfaces were a blessing for the city. We then went to Himroo factory to buy garments. If you want to flaunt some coats extraordinaire then this 150-year-old handloom factory should be on your list!

Heading home

Our driver was glad to take us back to Mumbai. After the long journey and the constant car travel, we were strangely refreshed. I guess the change of scenery and the limitlessness of art made that possible.