Places to Visit in Harsul, Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Here are the best places to visit in and around Harsul, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, along with travel tips:
1. Harsul Village & Surroundings
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Harsul Lake: Serene waterbody perfect for nature walks
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Tribal Culture: Interact with local Bhil and Gond communities
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Vineyard Visits: Explore grape farms supplying Aurangabad’s wineries
2. Aurangabad City (25 km)
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Bibi Ka Maqbara: Mughal-era “Taj of the Deccan”
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Aurangabad Caves: 6th-century Buddhist rock-cut caves
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Himroo Factory: Witness traditional textile weaving
3. Ellora Caves (15 km)
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UNESCO World Heritage Site: 34 caves spanning Buddhist, Hindu & Jain traditions
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Kailasa Temple: World’s largest monolithic structure
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Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
4. Daulatabad Fort (20 km)
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Impregnable Fortress: Featuring ingenious medieval defense systems
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Chand Minar: 30m victory tower with Persian inscriptions
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Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the steep climb
5. Khuldabad (12 km)
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Sufi Shrines: Tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb
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Bhadra Maruti Temple: Unique reclining Hanuman idol
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Local Specialty: Try the famous Khuldabad custard apples
6. Grishneshwar Temple (30 km)
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12th Jyotirlinga: Among Hinduism’s most sacred Shiva shrines
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Architecture: Marvel at intricate stone carvings
7. Sillod (40 km)
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Paitarna Dam: Picturesque reservoir with boating
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Grape Orchards: Visit vineyards producing table grapes
Best Time to Visit
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October-March: Pleasant weather (15-30°C)
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July-September: Lush greenery but some slippery paths
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Avoid: April-June (extreme heat up to 45°C)
How to Reach
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By Air: Aurangabad Airport (30 km)
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By Train: Aurangabad Station (25 km)
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By Road: Well-connected via NH52 and SH27
Local Experiences
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Cuisine: Aurangabadi Naan Khaliya (spicy mutton curry)
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Shopping: Himroo shawls and Paithani silk
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Unique Stay: Try a vineyard homestay
Suggested Itinerary
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Day 1: Ellora Caves + Khuldabad
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Day 2: Daulatabad Fort + Aurangabad city tour
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Day 3: Grishneshwar + Harsul village experience
Harsul serves as a peaceful base to explore Aurangabad’s UNESCO sites, medieval forts, and living traditions. The area offers excellent history, spirituality, and agro-tourism opportunities.