Best Places to Visit in Kannad, Aurangabad, Maharashtra [Updated-2025]

Places to Visit in Kannad, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

Kannad, located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, is a lesser-known but scenically rich taluka on the Deccan plateau, especially notable for its proximity to the Ajanta Caves and the Satmala Hills. With a mix of history, nature, and spiritual sites, it makes for an excellent offbeat destination for history buffs, trekkers, and pilgrims alike.

Best Places to Visit in and Around Kannad, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

 1. Ajanta Caves (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Distance: ~30 km from Kannad

• Why Visit: World-renowned rock-cut Buddhist caves with intricate paintings and sculptures dating back to the 2nd century BCE.

• Highlights: Cave 1, 2, and 26; ancient murals and meditation cells.

• Tip: Best visited in the cooler morning hours; closed on Mondays.

 2. Antur Fort (Antur Killa)

• Distance: ~12–15 km

• Why Visit: A lesser-known but scenic hilltop fort offering panoramic views of the Satmala range.

• Trek Difficulty: Moderate; great for monsoon or winter treks.

• Bonus: Historical Maratha architecture and old water tanks.

 3. Shri Kshetra Saptashrungi Devi Temple (Kannad)

• Why Visit: A revered hill temple dedicated to Goddess Saptashrungi, nestled in natural surroundings.

• Activities: Pilgrimage, nature walks, and local religious fairs.

 4. Gautala Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary

• Distance: ~35–40 km

• Why Visit: A rich sanctuary home to leopards, nilgai, chinkara, and over 200 bird species.

• Great For: Birdwatching, jungle drives, and monsoon greenery.

 5. Banoti Waterfall

• Distance: ~10–15 km from Kannad

• Why Visit: Seasonal waterfall, perfect during monsoon.

• Activities: Nature walk, picnic, and photography.

 6. Shree Khandoba Temple, Jeur (Near Kannad)

• Why Visit: A popular local pilgrimage site with annual fairs and traditional architecture.

• Experience: Rural devotional culture of the region.

 7. Satmala Hills Range

• Why Visit: Rolling hills surrounding Kannad, great for sunrise treks and peaceful nature escapes.

• Popular With: Trekkers, cyclists, and landscape photographers.

 Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit:

  • Monsoon & Winter (July to February) – Ideal for waterfalls, treks, and Ajanta Caves

  • Avoid peak summer (March–May) due to high plateau heat

• How to Reach Kannad:

  • By Road: Well-connected by road from Aurangabad (~70 km) and Jalgaon

  • By Rail: Nearest station – Aurangabad or Jalgaon

  • By Air: Nearest airport – Aurangabad (70 km)

• Local Food to Try:

  • Jowar Bhakri, Pithla, Zunka, Thecha, Shev Bhaji