π Introduction
Most tourists visiting Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad) stick to the major attractions β Bibi Ka Maqbara, Ellora Caves, and Daulatabad Fort. But what if we told you the city hides some magical, untouched places where history, nature, and mystery meet?
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves going off the beaten path, this blog is your treasure map to 7 hidden gems that even locals sometimes overlook!
ποΈ 1. Valley of the Sufi Saints β Khuldabad
Known as the Rauza, Khuldabad is a holy town near Ellora that houses tombs of many Sufi saints, including Emperor Aurangzeb himself.
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Peaceful, spiritual, and serene
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Visit Dargah of Zar Zari Zar Baksh
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Lesser crowd, more vibes
π§ Distance: 4 km from Ellora
πΈ Tip: Visit at sunrise for golden rays on tombs
π 2. Antur Fort β Trekkerβs Delight
Hidden in the Satmala ranges near Kannad, Antur Fort is a paradise for adventure seekers.
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Untouched fort ruins, windy cliffs, and vast views
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Zero commercialization, perfect for day trek
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Best season: Winter or post-monsoon
π§ Distance: 70 km from Aurangabad
π₯Ύ Difficulty: Moderate Trek
π 3. Pitalkhora Caves β The Ancient Marvel
Older than Ajanta and Ellora, these Buddhist caves are carved into a deep valley in the Satmala hills.
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Over 14 rock-cut caves with inscriptions
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Waterfalls near the entrance during monsoon
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Remote, raw, and spiritual
π§ Distance: 70 km from Aurangabad
π Best via personal cab with guide
π§ 4. Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary & Nath Sagar Dam
Not many know this is a birdwatcherβs heaven near Paithan. Migratory birds like flamingos and cranes nest here during winter.
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Ideal for nature lovers, photographers
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Sunset over the dam is breathtaking
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Combine with visit to Paithani Weaving Center
π§ Distance: 50 km from city
π· Carry binoculars and zoom lens
π 5. Kachner Jain Temple β Pure White Beauty
This stunning Jain temple made of white marble is a peaceful spot located on the Aurangabad-Jalgaon route.
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Houses a 2000-year-old idol of Lord Mahavira
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Clean, calm, and divine
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Architecture similar to Dilwara temples
π§ Distance: 35 km from Aurangabad
π£ Strict silence and dress code observed
πͺ¨ 6. Chini Mahal β The Forgotten Palace in Daulatabad
Most people visiting Daulatabad Fort miss this small gem inside the fort complex.
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Was used to imprison the last king of Golconda
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Decorated with rare Chinese tiles (hence the name)
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Quiet, shaded, and mysterious
π Location: Inside Daulatabad Fort
π― Tip: Ask your guide or use Google Maps inside the fort
π 7. Siddharth Garden & Zoo β Family Fun with a Historic Touch
While many pass by, Siddharth Garden offers a calm escape for families and kids with a clean zoo, garden walkways, and a view of the cityβs hustle.
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Ideal for couples and kids
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Affordable entry
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Combine with evening tea at Nirala Bazaar
π Location: Near Railway Station
π Duration: 1β2 hours max
π Summary: Top Hidden Gems Map
Place | Type | Distance from City |
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Khuldabad | Spiritual/Heritage | 25 km |
Antur Fort | Trek/Adventure | 70 km |
Pitalkhora Caves | Historical/Nature | 70 km |
Jayakwadi Sanctuary | Nature/Birdwatching | 50 km |
Kachner Jain Temple | Religious/Architecture | 35 km |
Chini Mahal | Historical | 15 km |
Siddharth Garden & Zoo | Family/Relaxation | Within City |
π Travel Tips from Mauli Tours & Travel
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Hire a local cab with experienced driver
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Carry snacks, water, and mobile chargers
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Prefer weekday visits to avoid crowd
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Always verify local timings and entry fees
π Why Choose Mauli Tours & Travel?
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Flexible itineraries
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Expert local drivers
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Comfortable AC rides
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Group packages for family, friends & corporates
π Book your hidden gems tour now!
π Visit Contact Page
π¬ Final Thoughts
The soul of Aurangabad isnβt just in its famous monuments β itβs in these quiet corners where stories whisper through the wind. Explore these hidden treasures with the right guide and vehicle, and youβll see a side of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar most tourists never do.