Aurangabad, the historic city founded by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Situated on the banks of River Kham, Aurangabad was an important seat of the Mughal Empire during the Mughal rule in India.
The town of Auranagabad still holds a number of Mughal architectural marvels making it an important historical destination in Maharashtra. Bibi Ka Maqbara, the tomb of Rabia Durani, wife of Emperor Aurangazeb is an excellent example of Persian architecture. It is reminiscent of the Taj Mahal though less ornamental. Panchakki, a watermill dating back to the pre-mughal period, which was used to operate large grain grinding stones, which served as flourmills, is an example of the engineering marvel of the 17-century. Aurangabad caves, which lie 3km north of Aurangabad, were excavated out of a south-facing hillside between 3 and 11 century and belong to the Buddhist era.
But the tourist attractions in Aurangabad that have made it to the list of World heritage sites are the Ajanta and Ellora caves. The Ajanta and Ellora cave shrines cut out of rock, by hand, rank amongst the most outstanding historical tourist attractions in India. It is believed that, originally, Buddhist monks sought shelter in these natural grottos during monsoons and began decorating them with religious motifs to help pass the rainy season.
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