Khuldabad Travel Guide

Discover the breathtaking beauty and culture of Khuldabad with our ultimate travel guide. Find out the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Khuldabad

Welcome to Khuldabad, a place nestled in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. It is a hidden gem rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Khuldabad is home to many tombs, spiritual sites, adventure spots, and scenic views that remain unexplored. It is a perfect place for travelers seeking offbeat destinations.

Khuldabad was once the capital for the Tughlaq Dynasty, and it was named after a Sufi saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. It is believed that the saint visited this place and stayed here during his lifetime. Later, the place became a hub for Islamic scholars and religious leaders, leading to the construction of many Islamic architecture sites.

If you are looking for an escape from the city’s chaos and want to explore the untouched beauty of India, Khuldabad is the place for you.

List of Places to Visit in Khuldabad

Khuldabad has a lot to offer, from mystical tombs to adventurous activities. Here is a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Khuldabad Fort - This fort was built during the reign of Aurangzeb, the Mughal emperor. The fort has significant historical importance, and it gives an excellent view of the town.
  • Bhulbhulaiya - This place has a maze structure that is said to be designed to confuse the enemies who tried to attack the fort.
  • Dargah-E-Hakimi - It is a shrine built in remembrance of the Islamic scholar, Syedna Ismail Badruddin. The place holds significance among the Dawoodi Bohra community.
  • Salim Chisti Dargah - It is a mosque built-in honor of the famous Sufi saint, Salim Chishti. It is said that the Mughal emperor Akbar visited this mosque to seek blessings for his heir.

Natural Attractions of Khuldabad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chand Minar - It is a forty feet tower erected by the Bahmani rulers in the 15th century. It’s a perfect place for nature lovers as it offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Pandavleni Caves - If you are up for hiking, then Pandavleni Caves is an excellent spot. These are ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves, and it is believed that the Pandavas stayed here during their exile.
  • Mhaismal - It is a hilltop offering breathtaking scenic views of the Western Ghats. The hill is a perfect place for hiking, picnicking, and nature walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Khuldabad

Khuldabad has many hiking and biking routes with varied terrains, suitable for everyone from beginners to experts. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Chand Minar Trek - The trek starts from the base of the Chand Minar and goes through dense forests.
  • Buddha Caves Trail - The route takes you through the ancient rock-cut caves, and it’s a perfect hike for history buffs.
  • Mhaismal Trek - The trek to Mhaismal hilltop covers a distance of around 5 Km, and the picturesque view at the top makes the trek worth it.

Best Things to Do in Khuldabad: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the Dargahs - Khuldabad is known for its dargahs, and exploring them is a must-do activity.
  • Try Balloon Safari - Balloon Safari is one of the unique experiences Khuldabad offers. It takes you high up in the sky, offering breathtaking views of the town.
  • Visit the Mini Taj Mahal - Bibi Ka Maqbara is also known as the Mini Taj Mahal, as it resembles the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. Visiting this place is a perfect activity for history and architecture lovers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Khuldabad

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Khuldabad:

Day 1: Arrive at Khuldabad Day 2: Explore the forts and dargahs Day 3: Trek to Chand Minar and picnic at the top Day 4: Visit Pandavleni Caves and explore the town Day 5: Try Balloon Safari and visit Bibi Ka Maqbara Day 6: Hike to Mhaismal and catch a sunset view Day 7: Relax and depart Khuldabad

Food and Drink Scene of Khuldabad

Khuldabad offers a wide range of authentic Maharashtrian and Islamic food options. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tawa Pulao - A delicious dish made with basmati rice and spices cooked on a tawa.
  • Kheema Pav - A spicy Mughlai dish made with minced meat and served with Pav, the local bread.
  • Samosa - A popular snack in India and Khuldabad, Samosas are savory fried pastries filled with potatoes and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Nimbu Pani - A refreshing drink made with lemon, sugar, and water.
  • Nariyal Paani - Coconut water, a natural and healthy thirst quencher.
  • Mango Lassi - A thick creamy mango-flavored drink, perfect to beat the heat.

Where to Stay in Khuldabad: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Khuldabad has many accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Verandah at Khuldabad - It is a luxurious boutique hotel with a fusion of traditional and modern architecture.
  • Panchakki Heritage Resort - The resort is built around an ancient 17th-century watermill, providing a unique and comfortable stay.
  • Hotel Kailash Bhavan - It is a budget-friendly hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms with all basic amenities.

What to Buy in Khuldabad: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Khuldabad is known for its traditional handicraft and textiles. Here are some of the things you can buy as souvenirs:

  • Paithani Sarees - Khuldabad is famous for its intricate handloom sarees adorned with gold and silver threads.
  • Bidriware - It is a type of metal handicraft, typically made from zinc alloy, and adorned with silver or gold inlay work.
  • Himroo Shawls - These are traditional shawls made with a blend of silk and cotton, and they come in various designs and styles.

Local Culture and Customs of Khuldabad

Khuldabad has a rich Islamic heritage, and the townsfolk are deeply religious. Visitors should dress modestly while visiting the dargahs and other religious sites. It is also customary to remove footwear before entering a mosque or shrine. Alcohol is prohibited in Khuldabad,

Best Time to Visit Khuldabad

The best time to visit Khuldabad is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. The temperature during these months ranges from 15°C to 28°C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Khuldabad

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly while visiting religious sites.
  • Remove footwear before entering a mosque or shrine.

Don’t:

  • Do not consume alcohol in Khuldabad.
  • Do not litter and keep the town clean.
  • Do not argue or disrespect locals.

Safety and Health

Overall, Khuldabad is a safe place to travel, but visitors should take precautionary measures while exploring the town.

Safety in Khuldabad

  • Avoid going out at night alone.
  • Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Take proper safety measures while hiking or biking.

Health in Khuldabad

  • Drink bottled water instead of tap water to avoid any waterborne diseases.
  • Wear mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue.

Getting to Khuldabad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Khuldabad is well-connected via road, rail, and air. Here are the transportation options:

Airports Near Khuldabad

  • Aurangabad Airport is the nearest airport, located just 37km away from Khuldabad.

Bus Stations Near Khuldabad

  • Khuldabad has a well-connected bus service, and visitors can take buses from nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

  • Visitors can hire taxis or rent out private vehicles to travel to Khuldabad.

How to Get Around in Khuldabad

Khuldabad is a small town, and visitors can quickly get around on foot or bicycle. Visitors can also hire taxis and auto-rickshaws to travel to nearby places.

Where to Go Next from Khuldabad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Khuldabad is surrounded by many other offbeat destinations, and visitors can explore some of these places:

  • Aurangabad - The city of Aurangabad is famous for its historic architecture and is an excellent spot for history buffs.
  • Ajanta Caves - A UNESCO world heritage site, Ajanta Caves is a must-visit destination for history and art lovers.
  • Ellora Caves - Another UNESCO world heritage site, Ellora Caves is a complex of rock-cut temples and a must-visit place for architecture and art lovers.

Conclusion

Khuldabad is a hidden gem in the heart of Maharashtra, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. We hope this comprehensive travel guide helps you plan your visit and explore the best of Khuldabad. Be sure to experience the town slowly and soak in the town’s tranquility and beauty.

Nagarkhana Gate, Khuldabad Nagarkhana Gate, Khuldabad Tomb of Aurangzeb Tomb of Aurangzeb