Are the caves open daily?

Ajanta is closed on Mondays, and Ellora is closed on Tuesdays.

How far are the caves?

Ajanta is 100 km and Ellora is 30 km from the city.

Is it safe for solo travelers?

Yes, it is a popular tourist destination with good infrastructure.

What is the best way to travel?

Flights are the fastest, but trains are more budget-friendly.

It is highly recommended to hire a government-approved guide.

Thiruvananthapuram

Aurangabad

Train Flight

Thiruvananthapuram to Aurangabad

Updated: 20 May 2026

The route from Thiruvananthapuram to Aurangabad covers approximately 1500 km, connecting the southern coast to the historic heart of Maharashtra. Rail travel is the most common, usually requiring a change in Mumbai or Pune. Aurangabad is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from the lush greenery of Kerala to the arid plains of the Deccan. Plan for a travel time of 30+ hours by train.

Total Distance: 1500 km by road, 1250 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Flight with a layover in Mumbai, taking 6 hours.

Cheapest Way

Sleeper class train, costing approximately 1500 INR.

Compare Thiruvananthapuram to Aurangabad Routes

Train

Connecting

Duration

34 hours

Avg Price

1600 - 4000 INR

Operator

Devagiri Express

Route

Thiruvananthapuram to Mumbai, then connecting train to Aurangabad.

Book your train tickets well in advance as this route is heavily booked.

Flight

Connecting

Duration

6 hours

Avg Price

9000 - 18000 INR

Operator

Air India

Route

Thiruvananthapuram to Mumbai, then flight to Aurangabad.

Flying is significantly faster than any other mode for this long distance.

Travel Tips

Cave Tours
Hire a professional guide to understand the history of the Ajanta and Ellora caves.
Footwear
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking at the cave sites.
Sun Protection
Carry a hat and sunscreen as the cave areas can get very hot during the day.
Local Food
Try the local Naan Qalia, a traditional meat dish unique to Aurangabad.
Transport
Rent a car for the day to visit the caves, as they are located outside the city.

Safety Tips

Cave Safety
Follow all marked paths and do not touch the ancient paintings.
Hydration
Carry plenty of water when visiting the caves, as shops are limited inside.
Personal Belongings
Keep your valuables secure in a backpack while exploring tourist sites.
Emergency
Keep the contact number of your hotel and local taxi service saved.