Next morning, traveling along the rolling hills and picturesque ruins of the
past, you travel way back in time to Aurangabad. Founded by Aurangzeb,
Aurangbad's heritage is rich and varied.
After breakfast in the train, a luxury bus takes you to the majestic fortress of
Daulatabad. An impregnable defense in its day, it still stands tall and proud.
Walk around the ruins, which tell you extraordinary stories of bravery and
valour.
Next stop is the world famous Ellora Caves. Just 30 kms from Aurangbad the
historical Ellora caves in now a World Heritage Site. This Hindu, Jain and
Buddhist caves at Ellora are among the finest in India. Lying on the ancient
trade route, the caves are thought to be the work of priests and pilgrims who
used the route. Abandoned and forgotten for a few centuries, the 34 caves were
cut out of volcanic rocks of the Deccan trap. 12 are Buddhist (600 to 700 AD),
17 Hindu (800-1000AD) and five Jain (1000-1300 AD). The Buddhist caves belong
to the Vajrayana sect of the Mahayana School. The caves include 'viharas'
(monasteries) and 'chaityas' (chapels) where the monks worshipped. The Hindu
caves lie in the centre of the group. The most famous of them being the
Kailasanatha Temple (8th century). It is the most magnificent of all rock-cut
structures at Ellora. Completely open to the elements, it is the only building
that was begun from the top. The Jain caves, less grand in comparison to the
others are richly carved with lotus, elephant, lions and 'tirthankaras' of Lord
Mahavira. They offer an aura of peace and simplicity.
Come back to Aurangabad for lunch at one of the finest Hotel in town.
Move on to the Bibi-Ka-Maqbara, a tribute of the Emperor's son to his mother. A
replica of Taj Mahal, the fairy tale Maqbara stands out as the only piece of
Moghul architecture on the Deccan Plateau. Spend some time browsing through
Paithani and Himroo showrooms for a perfect memorabilia.
Soon, it's time to go back to the station for a mouth-watering feast in the
train and then to travel even further back in time.
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