 Next morning, travelling along the
rolling hills and picturesque ruins of the past, you travel way back in time to
Aurangabad. Founded by Aurangzeb, Aurangabad'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 Aurangabad the
historical Ellora caves is now a World Heritage Site. The 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 Hindus (800-1000 AD) 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 the 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 the Taj hotel with live cultural entertainment.
 Next stop is the Shivaji Museum with weapons and antiques from the great
Maratha Empire. Just beyond the city, lies the Aurangabad Caves with highly ornate and
strikingly detailed sculptures and architecture. Dating from the Vakataka and the
succeeding Kalachuri dynasties (2nd and 6th centuries AD), these 10 caves, five in each
group are also a World Heritage Site.
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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