
Gates of the City
Aurangabad, the historic 'City of Gates,' offers a journey through Mughal grandeur with stunning forts, mausoleums, and ancient fortifications.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Gates of the City
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Aurangabad, the historic 'City of Gates,' offers a journey through Mughal grandeur with stunning forts, mausoleums, and ancient fortifications.
"Discover timeless wonders from mighty forts to architectural beauty in the City of Gates this winter!"

📸 Capture the Gates
Explore the remaining gates for unique photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
🥾 Fort Exploration Gear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring Daulatabad Fort; it's a significant climb!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Gates
Throughout Aurangabad
Discover the remnants of the 52 gates that once fortified this historic city, each with its own story.

Daulatabad Fort
Near Aurangabad
A formidable hill fort offering panoramic views and a glimpse into medieval military architecture.

Bibi Ka Maqbara
Aurangabad
Often called the 'Taj of the Deccan,' this stunning mausoleum is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the "City of Gates"
Winter is the Sweet Spot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Gates
Explore the remaining gates for unique photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
🥾 Fort Exploration Gear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring Daulatabad Fort; it's a significant climb!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day, especially in summer.
📅 Event Check
Look out for summer events and food trucks, a local favorite for gatherings.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Gates
Explore the remaining gates for unique photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
🥾 Fort Exploration Gear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring Daulatabad Fort; it's a significant climb!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day, especially in summer.
📅 Event Check
Look out for summer events and food trucks, a local favorite for gatherings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Aurangabad for its rich historical sites, particularly the architectural marvels like Bibi Ka Maqbara and the imposing Daulatabad Fort. The city's nickname, 'City of Gates,' adds a unique historical charm. While some reviews are brief, they indicate a positive overall experience, with mentions of enjoyable events and good food.
"Had a great time. Next time will bring my own folding chairs."
Beatriz Varela
"Great place for events. I attended my first Pride event here."
Shaun Silva
"My older brother & my biological father went there for a photo without me knowing about it. They have food trucks every summer i take mary c with me. I love food."
Mark Araujo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Aurangabad is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (IXU), with regular flights from major Indian cities. The city also has a major railway station connecting it to various parts of India. Buses are also a convenient option for inter-city travel.
Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for local transport. For exploring the historical sites like Daulatabad Fort, hiring a car or a dedicated taxi for the day is recommended.
Yes, Aurangabad is a popular tourist destination, especially for those interested in historical sites like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. The city itself, known as the 'City of Gates,' offers a rich historical experience.
Tolls are common on national highways in India. While specific toll information for routes to Aurangabad can vary, it's advisable to have some cash on hand for potential toll charges.
Besides the city's gates, the must-visit attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves, Daulatabad Fort, and Bibi Ka Maqbara.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the historical gates themselves are often part of the city's fabric and may not have individual entry fees, major attractions like Daulatabad Fort and Bibi Ka Maqbara do have entrance fees. It's best to check the latest pricing at the site.
Opening hours can vary, but historical sites like forts and mausoleums are typically open from morning to late afternoon or early evening. It's recommended to verify specific timings before your visit.
Information on combo tickets for multiple sites might be available at the main tourist information centers or at the ticket counters of major attractions. Inquire locally for the best deals.
While online booking might be available for some major sites like Ajanta and Ellora Caves, it's less common for smaller historical monuments within the city. Check official tourism websites for updates.
No, there is no entry fee for the city of Aurangabad. The 'City of Gates' moniker refers to its historical significance and the numerous gates that once protected it.
📸 📸 Photography
The remaining historical gates offer unique photographic opportunities, especially with their intricate designs. Bibi Ka Maqbara provides stunning architectural shots, and Daulatabad Fort offers dramatic panoramic views.
Generally, photography is allowed at most historical sites, but tripods or professional equipment might require special permission or incur additional fees. Always check local signage.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for capturing the details and atmosphere of the historical gates.
Drone usage is often restricted in historical and sensitive areas. It's crucial to obtain necessary permits from local authorities before flying a drone.
Locals often suggest exploring the less-visited gates for a more authentic feel and fewer crowds, providing a unique perspective for your photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Aurangabad offers delicious Maharashtrian cuisine. Don't miss trying local specialties like 'Pitla Bhakri,' 'Bharli Vangi,' and various types of 'Puran Poli.'
Yes, food trucks are a popular feature, especially during the summer months, offering a variety of street food and local delicacies.
You can find a range of dining options from local eateries serving authentic Maharashtrian thalis to more contemporary restaurants offering diverse cuisines. Ask locals for their favorite spots.
Absolutely! Vegetarian options are widely available in most restaurants and food stalls across Aurangabad.
While 'Gates Barbecue' is mentioned, it's important to note that this might refer to a specific establishment. For general barbecue experiences in Aurangabad, look for local barbecue joints that offer grilled meats and vegetables.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and plenty of water, especially for fort explorations. The presence of food trucks during summer can be a fun way to experience local flavors and provide a casual dining option. Look for guided tours that can make the historical narratives more engaging for younger audiences.
💰 Budget Travelers
Many of the historical sites, including the city's gates, are accessible with minimal or no entry fees. While major attractions like Daulatabad Fort and Bibi Ka Maqbara have nominal entrance charges, they offer significant historical value for the cost. Packing your own water and snacks can also help save money on food expenses.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to capture the intricate details of Bibi Ka Maqbara and the panoramic vistas from Daulatabad Fort. Exploring the less-visited historical gates can yield unique and less crowded shots, offering a more authentic perspective. Remember to check for any photography restrictions, especially regarding tripods or professional equipment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the 52 Gates
While time and urban development have led to the disappearance of many of these gates, their legacy is still palpable. Exploring the city, you might still encounter remnants or discover areas named after these historical entrances. The concept of the 'City of Gates' evokes a sense of a well-protected and historically rich urban landscape, inviting visitors to imagine its past grandeur.
For travelers interested in history and urban planning, seeking out the surviving gates or understanding their historical context can be a fascinating pursuit. It offers a unique perspective on the city's evolution and its strategic importance in medieval India.
Exploring Daulatabad Fort
Visitors can embark on a challenging yet rewarding trek to the summit, where they are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Key attractions within the fort include the Chanda Minar, the Hathi Haud (elephant tank), and the Ambarkhana (granary). The fort's ingenious water management system and its complex maze-like passages are particularly noteworthy.
Pro-tip: Wear sturdy footwear and carry plenty of water, as the climb can be strenuous. Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the fort and appreciate its historical significance. The views from the top are a perfect reward for the effort.
The Architectural Marvel of Bibi Ka Maqbara
The mausoleum is set within a beautiful garden, complete with a charbagh layout and a reflective pool that enhances its grandeur. The main tomb is octagonal and features a dome, surrounded by four minarets. The sheer scale and the detailed craftsmanship make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Mughal architecture and history.
Photography Tip: The best time to visit for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer, highlighting the intricate details of the marble and the overall beauty of the monument.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit