The Ajanta and Ellora caves, situated near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India, are celebrated as prime exemplars of ancient rock-cut cave architecture. Adorned with captivating sculptures, paintings, and frescoes, this complex encompasses Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temples, and Jain shrines. The Ajanta caves, numbering 29, were skillfully crafted between the 2nd century BCE and the 6th century CE. Conversely, the Ellora Caves spread across 34 sites, date back to the period between the 6th and 11th centuries CE. Acknowledged as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these caves have garnered global acclaim among travelers. Located around 99km north of Aurangabad, the Ajanta Caves primarily consist of Buddhist sanctuaries, serving as serene retreats for Buddhist monks. In contrast, the Ellora Caves, merely 15 km west of Aurangabad, boast a splendid fusion of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist monuments. These caves, meticulously hand-carved and sponsored by ancient Indian rulers, were nearly concealed by thick forests.
Located approximately 99 km from the town of Aurangabad, the Ajanta Caves now hold a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. These caves serve as a remarkable testament to Buddhist culture, artfully portraying their stories through a myriad of sculptures and paintings, offering a captivating glimpse into the world of Jatakas.
Dating back to the period between the 2nd century BCE and 650 CE, the Ajanta Caves comprise a collection of three rock-cut Buddhist caves. Celebrated as prestigious monuments of India, they house an array of exquisite paintings and sculptures that vividly depict the country's rich cultural heritage. Initially serving as retreats for Buddhist monks, the caves emanate the serene essence of Buddhism through their simple yet breathtaking sculptures. The primary cave designs, known as 'Chaityagrihas' and 'viharas,' create a harmonious ambiance for meditation and contemplation.
Within these walls, one can find intricately crafted figurines of Lord Buddha and captivating scenes from traditional Jataka tales. These depictions form the heart and soul of this extraordinary place. For centuries, the caves were enveloped by dense forests, fading away from the public consciousness until a British hunting officer rediscovered them in 1819.
Among the most renowned attractions within the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is the awe-inspiring Kailash Temple, a colossal monolithic structure of unmatched grandeur. These rock-cut caves adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures represent some of the finest examples of ancient Indian architectural and sculptural brilliance. A visit to this exceptional site is a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary artistic achievements of India's rich history. An interesting feature about the temple is that it is a rock-cut temple built from single stone from top to bottom rather than bottom to top like any other ancient rock structure.
The 12 Buddhist Caves predominantly consist of viharas or monasteries. Within these caves, numerous monastic dwellings showcase intricately carved paintings and sculptures depicting Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and Saints. Among them, the renowned Cave 10, fondly known as the 'Carpenter's Cave,' stands as the most celebrated Buddhist sanctuary. This cave houses a majestic cathedral-like stupa hall, often referred to as chaityas. At its heart lies an impressive 15-foot-high statue of Buddha, commanding admiration and reverence. The Chaitya Hall features a pillared verandah, an elegant gallery hosting two shrines, and a solitary cell. Inside the apsidal part of the cave, a splendid stupa takes form, with a seated 3.3 m high Buddha gracefully posed in the Vyakhyana mudra. This divine representation further enhances the sanctity and spiritual ambiance of the cave, inviting visitors to bask in its tranquil aura and marvel at the timeless artistry etched into the rock.
Ellora houses a collection of five Jain caves, dating back to the ninth and tenth centuries AD, each bearing significant historical and religious importance. Among the noteworthy Jain caves are the Indra Sabha (Cave 32), Chhota Kailash (cave 30), and the Jagannath Sabha (Cave 33). The Indra Sabha, marked as Cave 32, is renowned for its grandeur and intricate craftsmanship. Chhota Kailash, Cave 30, is an impressive work of art, drawing admiration for its detailed carvings and religious symbolism. The Jagannath Sabha, cave 33, also holds great significance as a sacred site for Jain followers.
Additionally, cave 34 stands as an unfinished four-pillared hall with a shrine, showcasing the architectural and artistic processes of the time. Furthermore, within Ellora, another notable location called Samvatsarana served as a place where the Tirthankaras delivered sermons after attaining omniscience. This sacred site bears witness to the profound spiritual teachings that have echoed through the centuries, offering a glimpse into the rich spiritual heritage of Jainism.
Maharashtra
Aurangabad
Aurangabad
Visitors will find the flavors of North India and Hyderabadi cuisine like kebabs, biryani, etc, very easily.
Marathi is widely spoken in Maharashtra but tourists can communicate with the locals in Hindi and English as well.
You can commute internally by chartering a taxi or rickshaw.
June to March are the best months to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves to avoid the hot weather.
