What :

Panchakki is a watermill with surrounding gardens in Aurangabad used to grind grain for pilgrims since the late 17^th century.

The mill is ingeniously powered by a series of earthen pipes stretching to a natural well several miles away. The mill building is attached to the shrine of Baba Shah Musafir, a Sufi Muslim saint. In its day, the hydro-mill was considered an engineering marvel; a title that still rings true four centuries later as the water-powered machinery still turns the grinding stones. The ground grain was given to Sufi pilgrims visiting the saint’s grave in the adjoining building.

When :

The best weather to visit Panchakki falls between October and March. Between April and June the heat steadily rises until cooling rainfall drops the ambient temperature between July and September.

Where :

Panchakki is found in Aurangabad in the Western Indian state of Maharashtra, which is best accessed by a short flight from Mumbai. The historic site is best reached by private vehicle on one of our luxury tours of India that includes the Ajanta and/or Ellora caves, which are situated near the town.

Who :

This historical site is more a testament to medieval ingenuity in India rather than splendid art and architecture. While the building is aesthetically simple, its engineering principals have withstood the test of more than 4 centuries of constant wear and use. The quiet grounds are also a wonderfully relaxing place to escape the midday heat while sightseeing in the area.

Appropriate Attire :

Dress for warm weather, but remember there is a functioning mosque on the grounds that will require shoulders, arms, and knees to be covered if you plan to enter the sanctuary.