Aurangabad

District: Aurangabad

State: Maharashtra

Country: India

Aurangabad State's official website:
Website: https://aurangabad.gov.in/

Head quarter: Aurangabad

Populations: 3695928

Area: 10107 km²

Density: 365 km²

Aurangabad district, located in the state of Maharashtra, India, is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. The district is named after the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who made it his capital during his reign, and is renowned for its historical monuments, religious sites, and vibrant arts and crafts.

The district headquarters of Aurangabad is the city of Aurangabad, which serves as a major commercial, industrial, and tourism hub in the region. Aurangabad is known for its thriving textile and handicraft industries, with products such as silk fabrics, Paithani sarees, Himroo shawls, and Ajanta-Ellora inspired artifacts being popular among locals and tourists alike.

Aurangabad district is famous for its historical monuments, which are a testament to its rich past. The Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are ancient Buddhist caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE and are known for their exquisite rock-cut sculptures and murals. The Ellora Caves, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a series of 34 caves that include Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples, reflecting the religious diversity of the region. The Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the "Mini Taj Mahal," is a mausoleum built in memory of Aurangzeb's wife, Dilras Banu Begum, and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.

Aurangabad district is also known for its religious sites, which attract devotees from different faiths. The Grishneshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines in India and is considered sacred by Hindus. The Daulatabad Fort, also known as the Devagiri Fort, is a historic fortress that has been ruled by various dynasties, including the Yadavas, the Delhi Sultanate, and the Mughals, and is known for its impressive architecture and strategic location.

The district is also home to vibrant arts and crafts, which are an important part of the local culture. The Paithani sarees, handwoven silk sarees with intricate designs and vibrant colors, are a specialty of Aurangabad and are known for their exquisite craftsmanship. Himroo shawls, woven with silk and cotton threads, are another popular handicraft of the region. The district is also known for its Bidriware, a form of metal handicraft that involves intricate silver inlay work on blackened alloy, and is known for its unique designs and craftsmanship.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Aurangabad district is also known for its natural beauty. The district is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, which are located in the scenic Sahyadri mountain range. The district is also home to the Aurangabad Caves, which are a group of 12 Buddhist caves known for their rock-cut architecture and sculptures. The Lonar Crater, a unique meteorite impact crater lake, is another natural wonder located in Aurangabad district and is known for its geological and ecological significance.

Aurangabad district is well-connected to the rest of Maharashtra and neighboring states through road, rail, and air networks. The Aurangabad Airport, also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, is a major airport in the region and connects Aurangabad to major cities in India and abroad.