Rock-Cut Ajanta Ellora Caves - Wonders of India
In the northern end of Maharashtra and about 400 km away from Mumbai are the famous rock-cut Ajanta Ellora Caves. The magnificent group of caves temples is among top historical attractions in the country and listed among the Seven Wonders of India. Built over few centuries (5th to 11th), nestled by the Sahyadri range, this group of Buddhist, Jain and Hindu temples still appeal tourists and art lovers. There are 29 and 34 caves at Ajanta and Ellora respectively, which reflects the extraordinary skills of Indian craftsmen even several hundred years ago.
They were carved out of a single rock of the Deccan Trap and the artists used only hammer and chisel.
What to see at Ajanta caves
Wall paintings, Buddhist images and frescoes on Jataka tales make the Ajanta Caves a masterpiece. This World Heritage Site is around 104 km from Aurangabad and 100 km drive from the Ellora Caves. There are 29 Buddhist caves built across 2 phases. The paintings and wall frescoes tells a lot about the life of Lord Buddha. The paintings are themed on Jataka tales.
What to see in Ellora
The locals call the Ellora Caves as Verul Leni. This group of ancient caves is situated at a distance of 30 km from Aurangabad. It is known to be one of the largest monastic complexes in the world carved out of a single (monolithic) rock. The site has 12 Buddhist caves, 1nd the remaining 17 belong to Hindu Gods and 5 Jain temples. The most important among the 34 caves is the Kailasa. It is cave 16 in the archeological site of Ellora. The artistic creations also reflect the religious harmony that existed during that period. Expanding across 2 km, the caves are known for their expression of art that was prevalent in the middle ages.
Buddhist caves - The first 12 in the complex are noteworthy examples of Buddhist art. They were the living quarters and prayer halls of the Buddhist monks. The Vishvakarma Cave or the Chaiyta Hall is the most important among them. It has the statue of Buddha in meditative pose.
Hindu Caves - Constructed between 6th and 8th century, 17 caves were dedicated to Hindu Gods and Goddess. The Kailasanatha (Cave 16) is the abode of Lord Shiva. This multi storeyed complex has a gopuram or gateway and the courtyard has three sections. The first has Shiva temples, then the Nandi Mandap and the lingam. According to history, it was completed in only 100 years! The other notable Hindu caves are named as Dashavatara, Rameshvara, Kumbharvada and Ravan Ki Khai.
Jain Caves - These caves mostly constructed between 9-10th century reflect the Jain culture and traditions. Among the remarkable shrines in the compound are Indra Sabha, Chhota Kailash and Jagannath Sabha.
Tourism in Ajanta and Ellora Caves
The caves are open from 9am until sunset. Ajanta is closed on Mondays while Ellora on Tuesdays. You need to spend 3-4 hours in each of the places for a detail study on the rock relics. The best time to visit is during four days of Ellora Ajanta Festival that takes place at Golden Palace of Aurangabad.
