Pithalkhora, located in Gautala sanctuary on the Satmala hills, has numerous Buddhist caves, which dates back from the 2nd century BCE to 1st century CE. Situated at a distance of 40 kilometers northwest of Ellora caves and 78 kilometers from Aurangabad, the Pithalkhora caves are a unique combination of temples and monasteries. The caves, which comprises mainly viharas, are the largest structures related to the early Theravadin sect of Buddhism.


Aurangabad
Named after the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, Aurangabad is situated along the right bank of river Kham in Maharashtra. One of the major cities of Maharashtra, Aurangabad is a gateway to several Buddhist sites such as Ajanta, Ellora and Pithalkhora(78 kilometers).


Other Attractions

• Gautala Sanctuary : Gautala sanctuary is a major destination while visiting the Pithalkhora caves as in the premises of the sanctuary lies the caves. A deciduous forest area, the picturesque sanctuary is full of peaceful inhabitants, while the presence of a waterfall makes this place an ideal picnic spot.
  
  
• Antur Fort : Antur fort, belonging to the medieval era, is another important monument within the sanctuary.
  
  
• Ajanta Caves : The Ajanta group of caves, lying deep within the Sahyadri hills near Pithalkhora, cuts into the curved mountain side, above the Waghora river, consists of 29 Buddhist caves dating from 200 BCE to 650 CE. These caves were used by the Buddhist monks to teach and perform the rituals related to Buddhism.
  
  
• Ellora Caves : Located 40 kilometers from Pithalkhora, the Ellora caves are one of the finest examples of the cave-temple architecture. The Ellora caves are 34 in number and represents all three major faiths in ancient India - Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism.
  
  
• Aurangabad : The city of Aurangabad has several worth watching historical monuments such as Bibi ka Maqbara(replica of the TajMahal, Agra), Buddhist caves(4th-8th century CE), the Daulatabad fort and others.

To reach Pithalkhora, the best way is to land up in Aurangabad, which is at a distance of 78 kilometers from Aurangabad. One of the major cities of Maharashtra, Aurangabad is easily accessible by air, rail and road. While the Aurangabad airport only entertains the domestic flights, one can take up an International flight to Mumbai(388 kilometers). Aurangabad is directly connected by rail to other major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Secundarabad, Nasik and others via Manmad. A good and proper road network also connects Aurangabad to other important cities. From Aurangabad, one can hire a taxi to reach Pithalkhora.