Ajanta Ellora Caves

Ajanta Ellora Caves are the gems of India that represent Indian history. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these caves reflect the impressive artistry of India that existed in the foregone era. These tourist attractions consist of 64 rock-cut caves, located in close proximity from the city of Aurangabad. Painting the rich Indian traditions, cultures and religion in the most beautiful way, Ajanta and Ellora caves make everyone ponder in disbelief. The Ajanta Ellora Caves are a living example of India’s rich heritage, with its intricate carvings and beautiful paintings. One needs to see these architectural wonders to believe its beauty.

Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves are artistically situated in a secluded river valley 105km northeast of Aurangabad. These caves are much older than Ellora. Ajanta Caves have around 300 rock cut Buddhist cave monuments which are around 2nd century BC old. These caves are famed for their beautiful ‘frescoes’ and exhibit breathtaking interiors through paintings, murals and sculptures that illustrate the life of Buddha. Despite their age, the Ajanta Caves possess a fineness that makes them stand apart. The caves look like Buddhist temples with striking statues and sculptures of Lord Buddha.

Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves are locally renowned as ‘Verul Leni’, and are located in the Sahyadri Hills of Maharashtra. The Ellora Caves are among the largest rock-hewn monastic temple complexes in the world. These are a true personification of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture. The Ellora Caves date back to the renaissance of Hinduism under the dynasties of Chalukya and Rashtrakuta. These are a total of 34 caves including 12 Buddhist (AD 600–800), 17 Hindu (AD 600–900) and five Jain (AD 800–1000).

The grandest temple here is the Kailasa Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is home ot one of the world’s largest monolithic sculptures, and holds great importance among Hindus. Dating back to the ninth and tenth century AD, Jain Caves of Ellora are beautified with extremely intricate detailing that charms the heart of every art lover. 

Attractions to visit

Ajanta View Point – Hovering over the Ajanta Caves, this beautiful view point is not known to many. With splendid sights of the surrounding, visitors will cherish the brilliance of Indian rock cut architecture.

Bibi-ka-Maqbara – This mausoleum was built in 17th Century by Emperor Aurangzeb for his wife Rabia-ud-Durrani.
Aurangabad Caves – Located around 2km from Bibi-ka-Maqbara, these are a total of 12 Buddhist Caves comprising of some of the most beautiful sculpture carvings in the World.

Ellora Festival – One of the most prominent attractions here is the Ellora Festival, which is held during the month of March. It is a classical music and dance festival which is organized at the Ellora Cave Milieu. There are some interesting performances held in the backdrop. The festival is a once in a lifetime experience.

How to Reach
By Air – The nearest airport to reach Ajanta and Ellora Caves is located in Aurangabad that connects these beautiful sites to all the parts of the country.
By Train – For Ellora nearest railway station is in Aurangabad (30 km), while for Ajanta it is Jalgaon (57 km).
By Road – Regular buses, cars and autos are available in abundance between Aurangabad and these World Heritage Sites.