ajanta ellora caves best time to visit

Best Time To Visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves

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Best Time: June to March Read More

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Ajanta and Ellora Caves

What is the best time to visit ajanta and ellora caves.

June to March are the best months to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves. It becomes a little difficult to travel around and explore the caves in summers April-May. Winters and Monsoon are ideal as the climate is pleasant from October to March and June to September which is the best time to visit the caves. Avoid summers if you don't want the sun to bother you while you are enjoying your archaeological journey. The scorching heat of April and May makes it a bit challenging for the tourists.

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Ajanta and ellora caves in winter (october - february).

Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Monsoon (June - September)

Weather June brings refreshing monsoon to Ajanta and Ellora, drenching the region in lush green beauty. The South-west monsoon winds bring abundant rains to the region, drastically changing the landscape from an arid, dry region to green vastness. The monsoon is not very intense in Aurangabad though– travel is rarely impaired on account of the monsoon. This is the first tourist season in Ajanta and Ellora – you can expect a large influx of tourists although the caves are rarely very crowded. With temperatures ranging between 22°C and 32°C, the weather is pleasant. The interiors of the caves become cooler as well, enhancing the experience. The rocky façades of the caverns look even more delightful in the rain. The verdant vegetation enriches the beauty and magic of the caves. Things to Do Walk around the Viharas and pillars of Ajanta, and admire the stone carvings and murals at Ellora in the monsoon, as the sounds of the rain play second fiddle. As you approach September, the rains decrease, and the weather gets even more comfortable. A key festival to watch out for at Ajanta and Ellora during the monsoon is Ganesh Chaturthi – the birthday of the Hindu God Ganesha. All revere this elephant-faced god as the harbinger of good luck and prosperity. Huge idols of Ganesha are taken in procession, and the festivities are delightful to watch. Do not forget to snack on modaks, the sweet offering of coconut, jaggery and rice! This is the ideal time for families to visit Ajanta and Ellora, as there are ample places to visit. Shopping may get comparatively more expensive now because of high demand, but feel free to bargain until you can strike a deal.

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Ajanta Ellora Caves: All You Need To Know Before You Take A Trip In 2024

Ajanta Ellora Caves have always been recognized as the gems that represent Indian history and the impressive artistry that existed in the foregone era. These tourist attractions consist of 64 rock-cut caves, located in close proximity from the city of Aurangabad.

Today, Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and exist in the wishlist of many travelers. Since we didn’t want your research to be exhausting, we decided to jot down all you need to know before you plan a trip to Ajanta Ellora Caves.

This is your complete Ajanta Ellora Caves Tour Guide that covers history, the best time to visit, timings and fee, how to reach, map, main attractions of the caves, things to do, and places to stay.

Quick Links To Explore Ajanta Ellora Caves

Here’s a list of relevant links, encompassing all the required details about the surreal Ajanta Ellora Caves. Make sure to check them out before planning your Ajanta Ellora trip.

History Of Ajanta Ellora Caves

Best time to visit ajanta ellora caves, ajanta ellora caves timings and fee, difference between ajanta and ellora caves, key attractions of ajanta ellora caves, things to do at ajanta and ellora caves, interesting facts about ajanta and ellora caves, how to reach ajanta ellora caves.

Ajanta Caves date back to the time between 2nd century BCE to 480 or 650 CE. Walter M. Spink, the famous history scholar, have stated that the caves were built in two phases (Satavahana Period and Vākāṭaka Period) . Some of the caves were not completed and some only had their construction begun for a short time.

On the other hand, Ellora Caves happen to be younger and have its history dating back to 5th and 10 century CE. The Ellora caves are divided into three parts – Hindu Caves, Jain Caves, and Buddhist Caves.

The site of Ajanta Caves was later abandoned and got covered in thick forest, until 1819 when a British officer rediscovered it . However, Ellora Caves have always had the attention it deserves. Today, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves combine to form a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as announced on 1983.

Must Read: 25 Spectacular Caves In India That Should Be Explored At Least Once

June to March is the best time to visit Ajanta Ellora Caves due to pleasant weather. From June to September (monsoon) the region receives average to plenty of rain showers, which make the exploration experience a delight. While during months of November to February the temperature drops moderately . Summer months (March to May) can actually get hot especially in the daytime. So, try to avoid this season if you’re planning a visit to Ajanta and Ellora caves.

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Ajanta Ellora caves timings are as follows:

Ajanta Caves Timings : 9 am to 9:30 pm (Mondays closed) Entry fee : INR 40 per head (Indians) | INR 600 per head (foreign tourists) | INR 25 per camera | INR 0 for children below 15 years old

Ellora Caves Timings : From sunrise to sunset Entry fee : INR 40 per head (Indians) | INR 600 per head (foreign tourists) | INR 25 per camera

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Ajanta and Ellora Caves, though are often addressed as one, have some differences:

1. Distance : Both the caves are 100 km away from each other. Ajanta Caves is 104 km from Aurangabad, while Ellora Caves is 29 km away from Aurangabad

2. Shape : Ajanta Caves are carved in a horse-shoe shaped rock. Ellora Caves are scattered randomly

3. Construction period : Ajanta Caves were built in the period between 200 BCE and 680 CE. On the other hand, Ellora Caves are way younger and were built between 5th and 10th century

4. Purpose of creation : Ajanta Caves has viharas and Buddhist monasteries. Ellora Caves consists of religious centers for Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain

5. Sponsored by : Funds for the construction of Ajanta Caves were provided by various rulers, mainly Vakataka Dynasty and Satvahana Dynasty. Ellora Caves were majorly built under the rule of Chalukya, Kalachuri and Rashtrakuta rulers.

Suggested Read: A Guide To Bibi Ka Maqbara: The Replica Of Taj Mahal

Ajanta and Ellora caves are architectural marvels that are inspiring and have a historic sentiments that cannot be dismissed. These caves are a treat to witness and are one of the most famous historical places in India. Here are the major attractions or places to visit at the Ajanta And Ellora Caves.

Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves consist of 30 rock-cut caves, showcasing some of the finest paintings and sculptures ever recorded in the Indian history. When exploring this archeological gemstone, don’t miss to visit Cave 1, Cave 2, Cave 4 and Cave 17.

The vantage point across the river allows a lovely view of the surrounding, along with this horse-shaped historical region.

Cave 1 : This is one of the most popular caves in Ajanta, as all the paintings are authentic. The grand doorway is adorned with Bodhisattva murals and the sidewalls depict two important phases of Buddha’s life (moment before his enlightenment and when he turned himself into many images)

Cave 2 : This cave’s main highlight is its ceiling, which has intricate abstract designs of devils, birds, fruits, and flowers.

Cave 4 : This is one of the largest monasteries in Ajanta and still sparks the magic, in spite of being an incomplete creation.

Ellora Caves

It is apparent that back in the past, there was harmony between Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, considering close proximity of their religious buildings. Ellora Caves has 34 caves, each of which has its own specialty. If time is a constraint, then you must make it a point to visit at least Cave 1, Cave 2 and Cave 16 .

Cave 1 : The cave is a simple vihara and features 8 monastic cells

Cave 2 : Cave 2 has 12 ornate square pillars. Lord Buddha seated on a lion is yet another attraction. The doorway features an impressive carving of Maitreya Buddha, along with Padmapani holding a lotus.

Cave 16 : One of the highlights of Ellora Caves, Cave 16 or Kailash Temple also happens to be an important pilgrimage spot for the followers of Lord Shiva. The gopurams of this architectural marvel signify Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva.

Suggested Read: 12 Jyotirlingas In India To Visit: See The Spiritual Side Of The Country

Here are some of the interesting things to do at Ajanta and Ellora Caves for best experiences:

1. Ajanta Ellora Festival – Attend In October

Hema Malini performing on stage with her daughters in Ajanta Ellora Festival

Image Source

The Ajanta and Ellora Festival (by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation) is organized annually in November and attracts travelers from across the world. The dance and music festival escalates the charm of Sonehri Mahal, which was built back in the 17th century.

Ajanta Ellora Dance Festival showcases the talent of young folk and classical artists, along with the craftsmanship and architectural brilliance of the monuments in Aurangabad.

Highlights of Ajanta and Ellora Festival : Folk and cultural performances, handicrafts in Kalagram (shopping arcade) and competitions for rangoli Mehendi.

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2. Shopping – Buy Cave Paintings

There are many open-air markets where you’d love to shop to your heart’s desire after glancing at Ajanta and Ellora Caves paintings.

Shopping is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Here, you’ll come across some beautiful Buddha sculptures handcrafted by the local artisans, along with semi-precious stones and silver ornaments, footwear, clothing, Buddhist and Jain paintings; all of which combine to make this one of the best shopping destinations in India .

Must-pick: Handcrafted sculpture of Buddha and paintings

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3. Staycation – Spend Quality Time With Family

Garden in Hotel Kailas in Ajanta Ellora Caves area

Ajanta Ellora Caves offers plenty of options in terms of accommodation as well, that too for different budgets. If you’re looking for places to stay in Ajanta and Ellora Caves region, then we recommend – Ajanta T Junction Guest House, Hotel Kailas, and Ajanta Tourist Resort.

Please note most of the accommodation options come with basic necessities and range between INR 2000 to INR 4000 per night.

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Ellora Caves were carved on the volcanic basaltic formation, which is also known as Deccan Trap.
Cave 15 (Dashavatara) in Ellora depicts the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu
Cave 29 (Dhumar Lena) has similar design as Elephanta Caves
The painting style found in Ajanta Caves is believed to have inspired painting style in Tibet and Sri Lanka
The carvings of the caves are done in such a way that they somehow look like wooden construction
The main subjects of the paintings found in the caves are Jataka tales and incidences from the life of Lord Buddha
Ajanta Caves were excavated in a rock surface that looks like horse-shoe shape
The caves are more than two-thousand-year-old, but the statues are about 600 years younger, as they were added later
Ajanta Caves were abandoned post the end of Harisena’s reign. The sign was later covered in dense forest.
Buddha has always been against painting or carving his images, as he preached the lesson to rise above materialistic wishes. But after he died, his followers realized the need of his sculptures and paintings, so that they had something to look up to.

Suggested Read: 43 Famous Historical Places In India To Visit

Being a popular attraction of India and one of the best places to visit in Aurangabad, Ajanta Ellora Caves are easily accessible through various modes of transportation.

By air : The caves are about 100 km away from Aurangabad Airport, which is well-connected with major cities in India.

By train : Jalgaon Railway Station is the nearest railway station, located at a distance of 60 km. If you’re wondering how to reach Ajanta Ellora Caves from Mumbai, and other cities of the country then you’ve found your answer, owing to easy connectivity.

By road : Aurangabad is easily reachable via road from different neighboring places like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Aurangabad, and Ahmedabad.

Further Read: 7 Super Luxury Trains In India That Are Worth Spending A Fortune

Now that you know it all, who will you be taking Ajanta Ellora Caves tour with? We’d love to know! Why not explore the caves like royalty? Board the luxury trains in India and indulge in sheer opulence, delight, and warmest of hospitality while unfolding the legends of this gem, along with the other popular tourist destinations of India.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ajanta And Ellora Caves

Is it safe to travel to Ajanta and Ellora Caves during COVID times?

You need to follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the government such as maintaining social distance, wearing a mask at public places, washing or sanitizing hands after entry & exit, etc.

Who built Ajanta and Ellora Caves?

Ajanta and Ellora Caves have been built over several years. Different parts of the cave were built by different dynasties including the Satavahana Dynasty, the Mauryan Empire, Rashtrakuta Dynasty, and Yadava Dynasty.

Which caves are better, Ellora or Ajanta?

Both Ajanta and Ellora Caves have their own beauty, style, and significance. Ajanta Caves are much closer to each other and are known for their paintings. They are dedicated to Buddhism. On the other hand, Ellora caves are comparatively scattered. They are known for their mythological sculptures. They are dedicated to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.

How far is Ajanta Caves from Ellora Caves?

The distance between Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves is about 100 km, which can be covered in roughly 3 hours.

Can Ajanta and Ellora Caves be covered in one day?

Yes, you can cover Ajanta and Ellora Caves in one day but you will be rushing through the sites. It takes 2 to 3 hours to tour each group of caves. And there’s also 3 hours distance between them both. So, it is a good idea to keep 1 day for each, Ajanta and Ellora Caves.

Are Ajanta and Ellora caves the same?

No, Ajanta and Ellora are two different group caves, located about 100 kilometers away from each other.

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Ajanta and Ellora Caves Essential Travel Guide

These Ancient Rock-Cut Caves are One of India's Top Historical Attractions

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

Astonishingly carved into hillside rock in the middle of nowhere are the Ajanta and Ellora caves. Both are an important UNESCO World Heritage site.

There are 34 caves at Ellora dating from between the 6th and 11th centuries AD, and 29 caves at Ajanta dating back to between the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD. The caves at Ajanta are all Buddhist, while the caves at Ellora are a mixture of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain. Funds for the construction of the caves were provided by various rulers.

The incredible Kailasa Temple (also known as the Kailasha Temple), which forms Cave 16 at Ellora, is undoubtedly the most famous attraction. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his sacred abode at Mount Kailasha. Its immense size covers twice the area of the Parthenon in Athens, and is one and a half times as high! The life-size elephant sculptures are a highlight.

The most incomprehensible thing about the Ajanta and Ellora caves is that they were crafted by hand, with only a hammer and chisel. There are various cave complexes in India , but these are definitely the most spectacular.

Northern Maharashtra, around 400 kilometers (250 miles) from Mumbai.

Getting There

The closest railway stations are in Aurangabad for the Ellora caves (45 minutes away) and the industrial city of Jalgaon for the Ajanta caves (1.5 hours away). Travel time from Mumbai to Aurangabad by Indian Railways train is 6-7 hours. Here are the options.

There’s also an airport in Aurangabad, so it's possible to fly from many cities in India.

Using Aurangabad as a base, it’s most convenient to hire a taxi and drive between the two cave sites. It takes about three hours to get from Ellora to Ajanta.

Ashoka Tours and Travels , located on Station Road in Aurangabad, is popular and provides car hire to both Ellora and Ajanta. Depending on the type of car, rates start from 1,250 rupees for Ellora and 2,250 rupees for Ajanta.

Alternatively, Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation conducts inexpensive daily guided bus tours to the Ajanta and Ellora caves from Aurangabad. The buses are comfortable air-conditioned Volvo buses. The tours run separately—one goes to Ajanta and the other to Ellora—and can be booked in advance at the Central Bus Stand and CIDCO Bus Stand.

The Ajanta bus tour departs from the Central Bus Stand at 7.30 a.m. and arrives back at 5.20 p.m. The cost is 711 rupees per person.
The Ellora bus tour departs from the Central Bus Stand at 8.30 a.m and arrives back at 5.30 p.m. It includes Daultabad Fort, Bibi Ka Maqbara and Panchakki. The cost is 276 rupees per person.

Or, if you'd prefer to travel independently, you can easily take a public Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation bus from the Central Bus Stand in Aurangabad to Ellora (D0825) and Ajanta (D0647). It's worth considering, as you'll be able to get there before the tour buses do. The buses run frequently but they're not air-conditioned.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the caves is from November to March, when it's cooler and dry.

Opening Hours

The Ellora caves are open from sunrise until sunset (around 5:00 p.m.), daily except Wednesdays. The Ajanta caves open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., daily except Mondays. Both caves are open on national holidays. However, try to avoid visiting them then (as well as on weekends) as the crowds can be overwhelming and you won't have a peaceful experience.

Entrance Fees and Charges

Visiting both the Ajanta and Ellora caves is costly for foreigners. The sites require separate tickets and the price is 600 rupees per foreign visitor. Indians pay only 40 rupees per ticket at each site. Children younger than 15 years are free at both places.

Ajanta and Ellora Visitor Centers

The visitor centers provide information about the two heritage sites using audiovisual media.

The Ajanta Visitor Center is the larger of the two. It has five museum halls with replicas of the four main caves (1, 2,16 and 17). The Ellora Visitor Center has a replica of the Kailasa Temple. Both visitor centers also have restaurants, amphitheaters and auditoriums, shops, exhibition space, and parking.

Unfortunately, the visitor centers are located some distance away from the caves and the replicas have failed to draw the expected number of tourists. In August 2018, Maharashtra Tourism announced that substantial funding had been allocated to enhance them and provide a better experience.

Where to Stay

Hotel Kailas is located right opposite the Ellora caves. It's a relaxing, tranquil place with stone walls and a scenic landscape, albeit simply furnished accommodations. Rates are 2,300 rupees for a non air-conditioned room, 3,500 rupees for an air-conditioned cottage, and 4,000 rupees for an air-conditioned cottage facing the caves. Tax is additional. The hotel has plenty of amenities for guests including a restaurant, internet access, a library and games. You can also go paragliding.

Quality accommodations at Ajanta are limited so if you need to stay in the area, it's best to head to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation's Ajanta T Junction Guest House (rooms from 1,600 rupees per night) or Ajanta Tourist Resort in nearby Fardapur (1,700 rupees per night).

If you prefer to stay in Aurangabad, Hotel Panchavati is a clean and comfortable budget option near the railway station and bus stand.

Should You Visit Ajanta or Ellora?

While the Ajanta caves have some of India's most sophisticated ancient paintings, the Ellora caves are renowned for their extraordinary architecture. Both the caves have sculptures.

Don't have time or money to visit both caves? Ellora receives about twice as many tourists as Ajanta, as it's more accessible. If your itinerary forces you to choose between the two sites, base you decision on whether you're more interested in the art at Ajanta, or architecture at Ellora. Also take into consideration the fact that Ajanta has an outstanding setting overlooking a gorge along the Waghora River, making it more enjoyable to explore.

Travel Tips

You can get an excellent view and perspective of inside the Kailasa Temple at Ellora by climbing up the hill around it.
When visiting Ajanta, ask your driver to drop you at the viewpoint and meet you at the car park. Walk downhill from the viewpoint and enter at cave eight. From there, walk right to the end and start at cave 28. This will enable you to see nearly half the caves without the crowds.
Bring a torch with you to the caves as many of them are quite dark and lighting is poor.
Try to reach the caves before 10 a.m. to beat the crowds and tour buses.

Dangers and Annoyances

Security was increased at the Ellora caves in 2013, following incidents of tourists being sexually harassed by groups of young Indian guys. This has been effective in improving safety. However, tourists still need to be aware of harassment from hawkers and touts that charge inflated prices.

Maintenance and cleanliness has improved at both the Ajanta and Ellora caves in recent years. The caves are now being looked after by a private company under the Indian government's "Adopt a Heritage Site" program.

A three-day Ellora-Ajanta International Festival is organized by Maharashtra Tourism each year. It features some of India's most distinguished musicians and and dancers.

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Ajanta and Ellora Caves – The Essential Guide

It has been more than a year since I posted on the blog , so I thought I should remedy that. And what better way to start than with one of my most recent trips. In January this year, I visited Aurangabad and obviously went to Ajanta and Ellora Caves. My last trip to these UNESCO World Heritage Sites was many (many) years ago, when I was still in school, so I was excited to revisit. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning a trip.

Ajanta Caves

These include both monasteries (chaityas) and worship-halls (viharas). They are adorned with rock-cut sculptures and paintings that represent some of the finest examples of ancient Indian art.

Cave 1 is the most beautifully decorated and contains many of the iconic Ajanta artworks like the Padmapani mural (top right). Amongst the oldest in the complex, cave 10 contains a massive prayer hall with rows of octagonal pillars on either side and a stupa at the end. Caves 16 and 17 have some of the best-preserved and well-known paintings of all the Ajanta caves, depicting elaborate narratives from the Jataka tales.

One of my favourites is Cave 26, which has intricate sculptures including that of the reclining Buddha (below) and the legend of “Temptations by Mara”.

Ellora Caves

Unlike Ajanta, Ellora comprises Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religious centres spread over 34 caves dating between the 6th and 11th centuries AD. Of these, cave 16 is the most spectacular, featuring the Kailasa temple. This chariot-shaped monument dedicated to Shiva is the largest single monolithic rock excavation in the world.

Apparently, 10 generations of artisans worked on it and it took more than 200 years to complete over many reigns of the Rastrakuta kings. It has all the main temple elements such as gateway, main shrine, nandi shrine, etc. It is richly carved with niches, pilasters, windows, and corniches. One of the highlights are the friezes on the plinth that illustrate the two great epics — Ramayana and Mahabharata.

You will need at least two hours to explore the entire temple, and believe me, it’s worth it! I would also recommend climbing up a pathway that skirts the cave for an aerial view of the temple. You will get a better idea of its sheer size and grandeur (see below).

Other than cave 16, you should also check out two Buddhist caves. Cave 5 has a uniquely designed hall with a pair of parallel refectory benches in the centre and a Buddha statue in the rear. Cave 10 has a cathedral-like stupa hall and a 15-foot statue of Buddha seated in a preaching pose.

The Jain caves (nos. 30-34) are some distance away and we skipped them as we had to return to the city.

How to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Where to eat

Since both the caves are a day trip from Aurangabad, you will need to grab lunch nearby. There’s an MTDC canteen of sorts at Ajanta but I’d suggest you head to Hotel Ajanta Green (also run by MTDC), which is located a couple of kilometres from the caves. Near Ellora caves, your best bet is the restaurant Kailasa, which is just outside the cave complex.

When to visit

November to March is the best time to visit the caves when it is (relatively) cool and dry. The summer months can be scorching and also crowded because of school holidays. The caves are open during the monsoon but I would imagine the paths would be slippery, particularly at Ajanta where you have to climb up and down some steep rock-cut stairs. However, our guide said that the rains make the setting quite spectacular with greenery and waterfalls (the pic on the left was taken in Jan 2023).

How to travel to Aurangabad

Where to stay in Aurangabad

There are several hotels in the city, but since I was travelling with family (and we were staying for four nights), we opted for an apartment. We found this lovely two-bedroom apartment on Booking.com , which was clean, well-appointed, and reasonably priced. Its location was also quite convenient, just over 3km from the railway station (and under 1okm from the airport).

Have you visited Ajanta and Ellora Caves? If not, I hope this post inspires you to go soon!

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Holiday Guide to Ajanta and Ellora Caves, India

Standing in the shadow of The Taj Mahal you miss a heartbeat. The first time ever you see the white marble of such grandeur architecture, takes your breath away. If you have ever pondered where this beauty of Indian architecture came from, simply look back in time:

the contemporary mosques, temples and palaces
the ruinous old forts

The Taj Mahal

You need to look back to a time that predates British colonial rule to understand where inspiration and influence could have originated from. It's thought the rock cut caves date as early as the 6 th century. There are three main lots of Caves, each lot represents a different time and religion: Buddhism, Hinduism and Jain.

There is more to the location and history other than religion. There is romance too, in abundance when your imagination returns you to those centuries past. Feelings are the same when you walk around the Hampi site, another story of ancient India. It's the idea you create:

what the people were like, their fashion and nobility
how communities formed and developed, thrived

You can "see" them walking around, going about their daily life. So, artwork has been a part of human history since the first line in the sand was drawn. And the ancient writings you see, the sculptures carved in rock, those are what play with your emotions.

Many scholars and historians agree it's the ancient Buddhist religious artwork of these caves that may have had the greatest influence on India's architecture style.

Ellora Caves

The historic site hosts 30 odd caves, as explained:

there are 12 caves for the Buddhist religion
there are another 17 caves for the Hindu religion
lastly, there are 5 caves for Jain

A larger system or complex comprising of a monastery, temple and monument making it whole and complete. This complex is evenly balanced between all three faiths and beliefs. Three very different Indian royal dynasties were responsible for the creation, beginning with Buddhism and followed by Hinduism, ending with the 9 th century. There was a short period of Jain influence, which explains why there are so few of their caves.

The Kailasa Temple

It's our suggestion you arrive as early as you can, to have more of the day to enjoy the site. Walking around it will take you many hours to fully appreciate all the different caves, monasteries and temples in great detail. At some point you'll stroll into cave number 16 and come across the renowned Kailasa Temple . The significance of this is Hindu temple is that it's one of India's most beautiful, impressive cave temples: an architecture wonder.

What strikes you the most is the engineering required to have hewn such a masterpiece out of this volcanic rock. It's on the same level of feat as the Egyptian pyramids, or the Great Wall of China. That's what immediately jumps into your thoughts, at least. It shows you a better side of human accomplishment, which is spellbinding. You must climb to the top of the hill, externally of the cave temple. Doing so gives you views down onto the top of the temple from above, before climbing back down to enter the cave.

From inside the cave, you reach the temple base before you can ascend its different, varied levels. It's so easy to lose a few hours in this one cave, the largest of them all. At 38m tall, the height looking down from the top most level is dizzying, try not to do that. After leaving the cave and moving on you ask yourself how it is possible. That's almost 1200 years ago, when today it would be a huge undertaking, even with computer modeling and advanced machinery.

Getting to the Ellora Caves

The Ellora Cave Complex is 30km from Aurangabad City, and the only sensible way of getting to the city is via a domestic flight. What you could do is to fly into the city late in the evening and rest in a hotel for the night. The next day, visit the site early only to return late afternoon and fly back to where you were originally holidaying. Of course, if you want to visit the Ajanta Caves also, you may need to leave Aurangabad much later.

Ajanta Caves

103km west of the Ellora Caves you will find the Ajanta Caves. Whilst the Ellora Caves do receive a lot of tourists, the Ajanta Caves are seen as significant as those of the Ellora Caves Complex. Although there are 30 individual caves, they are not as impressive as those of the Ellora site. There is no "big ticket" item that stands out, like how the Kailasa Temple does.

What is impressive however is each cave has its own sculptures, murals and ceiling paintings. First discovered by the British in the early 1800's, since then the Ajanta Caves have shone a light into India's ancient art. The paintings are a living memory of India's artistic flair and grandeur.

Ajanta Waterfall

Getting to Ajanta Caves

Whereas the Ellora Caves are less than 60 minutes (by bus) from Aurangabad City, the Ajanta Caves are over two hours away. You can go by motorbike, private taxi as well as by bus. A typical bus ticket could be as little as US$10 per person, and there are bus services leaving as early as 08:30 hours.

Best Time to Visit the Ellora and Ajanta Caves

The best time is during India's cooler season which happens to be between November and the following February. The months of May, June and July (maybe August) are the hottest.

Final Thoughts

Rock cut caves have played relevance and importance throughout India's history, where the caves are felt to hold a level of sanctity. All over India there must be at hundreds of caves carved out for Buddhism and hundreds more for Hinduism. Our travel guide only touches the tip of what must be a gigantic iceberg, with the most famous Ellora and Ajanta Caves.

As we stated at the beginning of our guide the architecture seen today in India's top cities stems, we strongly feel, from these early carvings and sculptures so many centuries past. It figures you may feel the same ― arrive at the same understanding after visiting the caves? The caves are world renowned, and year-round they attract thousands of visitors daily so surely your interest is piqued.

If, in any way history and culture captivates you, then you must, of course, go. You must visit, because now your appetite has been whetted. Mumbai is the nearest major metropolis to the caves and there can be no better city to base your holiday vacation from.

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Ajanta And Ellora Caves – The Complete Travel Guide

Explore Ancient Indian History At The Magnificent Ajanta And Elora Caves

Recognized as the gems that represent Indian history displaying impressive artistry of the foregone era, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves consist of 64 rock-cut caves, located nearby from the city of Aurangabad. History states that the Ajanta caves were made between the second century BCE till 650 or 480 CE, whereas those of Ellora were made between the 5th century CE and 10th century CE. Today the caves are UNESCO World Heritage Site and are on the bucket list of travelers and history buffs from different parts of the world. So if they are on your bucket list as well, here’s a complete guide to making your trip stress-free.

How To Get There

The caves are situated in Northern Maharashtra which is around 400 kilometers from Mumbai and owing to their popularity are also easily accessible by various modes. Here are a few details for a hassle-free exploration.

By train – The closest transportation service can be found via the Aurangabad railway stations. The caves of Ellora are only at a 45 minutes distance while those in Ajanta are 1.5 hours away. You can travel from Mumbai till Aurangabad in just 6 or 7 hours. The fastest train is the Dadar – Jalna Jan Shatabdi Express that takes around six hours and ten minutes. Once you reach the Aurangabad Railway Station, you can book a taxi from Aurangabad to Ajanta Ellora and reach your destination in no time.
By Flight – You will need to travel to Aurangabad airport and the caves are at a distance of 100 km from the airport. The airport is well connected with major cities in India.
By Road – Aurangabad is easily reachable via road from different neighboring places like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Aurangabad, and Ahmedabad. You may take a bus or travel in your car to the caves.

Key Attractions Of The Ajanta And Ellora Caves

The caves are historical and architectural marvels and are a treat to witness. Let us introduce you to these archaeological gemstones.

Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves comprise 30 rock-cut caves, displaying a portion of the finest works of art and figures at any point recorded in Indian history. However, the ones you shouldn’t miss out on are Cave 1, Cave 2, Cave 4, and Cave 17.

Cave 1 is the standout amongst all the caves mainly because the artwork depicted on its walls is authentic. It has a grand doorway which is adorned with Bodhisattva murals and the sidewalls depict two important phases in Buddha’s life, the moment before his enlightenment and when he turned himself into many images. Cave 2’s ceiling has intricate abstract and mind-boggling designs of devils, birds, fruits, and flowers making it the highlight. one of the biggest religious communities in Ajanta Cave 4 is known to still give off a magical vibe, despite being an incomplete creation.

Ellora Caves

Comprising of 34 caves, having its unique, the Ellora Caves are a marvel to behold. It might not be possible for you to visit them all hence we recommend Cave 1, Cave 2, and Cave 16 especially if you are short on time and don’t want to miss out on the best ones.

Cave 1 a Buddhist temple also known as a Vihara and highlights 8 religious cells. Home to 12 ornate pillars and Lord Buddha seated on a lion Cave 2 is also an impressive location. A carving of Maitreya Buddha, along with Padmapani holding a lotus adorned its glorious doorway. Cave 16 or Kailesh temple is an important pilgrimage spot for the followers of Lord Shiva. The gopurams here which is a large pyramidal tower signify Mount Kailash which is the abode of Lord Shiva.

Ellora caves are a masterpiece of architecture

Things You Can Do On Your Visit

If you want to do things besides visiting the caves, here are a few fun things you can do on your visit.

Ajanta Ellora Festival

Organized annually in November The Ajanta and Ellora Festival by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation attracts travelers from across the world. Dance and music performances, increase the charm of the caves. The festival showcases the talent of the young folk and classical artists, along with the craftsmanship and architectural brilliance of the monuments in Aurangabad.

Splurge On Paintings

Shopping and travel go hand in hand, and the Ajanta and Ellora caves allow you plenty of opportunities to enjoy the joys of shopping. There are many open-air markets where you will come across beautiful Buddha sculptures handcrafted by the local artisans, along with semi-precious stones and silver ornaments, footwear, clothing.

Few Tips For A Wholesome Trip

Make sure you have a guide when you are exploring because every painting and sculpture in the Ajanta and Ellora has a story and without one, you will not be able to appreciate their significance.
Inside the Kailasa Temple at Ellora and climbing up the hill around it will let you be privy to an excellent view.
When visiting Ajanta, ask your driver to drop you at the viewpoint and meet you at the car park. Walk downhill from the viewpoint and enter cave eight. From there, walk right to the end and start at cave 28. This will enable you to see nearly half the caves without the crowds
Many of the caves are quite dark and the lighting is poor so make sure to carry a flashlight.
Reach the caves early, preferably before 10 am to avoid crowds.

Also Read: Photographers’ Top 6 Favorite Destinations In India

Experience Beauty Of The Wonder Years

The best time to visit Ajanta Ellora Caves is June to March as the pleasant weather makes the exploration a delight. Till September the region receives an average of plenty of rain showers, which also make for a beautiful day. The caves have a historical significance which attracts tons of history buffs and if you wish to connect to the past these caves make the perfect destination. So the next time you wish to experience the deep-rooted history of India, do visit the Ajanta and Ellora caves for a fulfilling experience.

Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

Are you ready to embark on a journey filled with adventure, culture, tradition, and exciting attractions? Let your explorer's spirit soar and make unforgettable memories as you explore the beauty of our diverse world.

Accommodation

Ajanta Ellora Caves Entry Fees, Timings & Itinerary

Ajanta and Ellora Caves are two separate caves that are more than 100km apart. There are around 30 Buddhist caves at Ajanta, which came to light between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD. Ellora Caves has around 34 caves, which date to the period between the 6th and 11th centuries AD.

The Ajanta Ellora caves have beautiful architecture, including paintings and sculptures of Hindu & Jain temples and Buddhist monasteries. These caves are beautifully designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

Ajanta caves are around 103 km north of Aurangabad city, while Ellora caves are 29.7 km north-west of Aurangabad.

Ajanta Caves Visiting Time

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These caves are excavated in a horseshoe-shaped bend of the rock surface and have both monasteries (chaityas) and worship halls (viharas). It has marvellous rock-cut sculptures and paintings that represent the finest examples of ancient Indian art.

The ‘ Padmapani mural ’ and some paintings are the main attractions here. Several sculptures and paintings depict the lives and pasts of Lord Buddha and other deities.

The Ajanta Caves are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Tuesday to Sunda y.

Rs. 40/- (cash) for Indian, SAARC and BIMSTEC countries & Rs. 35/- (online, credit, or debit card) per head. (children up to 15 years old are free)

Others: Rs. 600 /- (Cash Payment), Rs. 550 /- (Online/Credit/Debit Card)

Price May Vary

Note: Ajanta caves are closed on Mondays.

Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra, 431117

Ellora Caves

The architecture of the Buddhist, Jain and Hindu religions can be seen here. The Kailasha Temple is one of the main attractions here. The chariot-shaped monument from a single rock excavation is another beautiful attraction.

Notable among them is the Vishwakarma Cave . At one end of the complex are five Jain caves. The Hindu caves were excavated mainly during the Kalachuri period, from the 6th century CE to the 8th century CE.

The Kailash Temple , consisting of a gateway, assembly hall, main multi-story temple and other smaller shrines, has been carved out of a single rock. It was made to resemble Mount Kailash.

The Ellora Caves are open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every other day except Tuesday.

40 per person (foreigners: Rs. 600 per person) May Vary

Note: Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesday.

Ellora Caves, Aurangabad, Verul, Maharashtra, 431102

Ravana Shaking Mount Kailash Ellora Cave 29

Itinerary of Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Depart from Aurangabad for the Ajanta Caves. (103 km)
Arrive at Ajanta and purchase tickets. A local guide is also available.
Start exploring Caves 9, 10 and 12, focusing on the intricate paintings depicting Jataka tales.
Continue to Caves 16 and 17, known for large sculptures and exquisite frescoes.
Lunch at a local place near the caves.
Explore the remaining caves to understand the evolution of artistic styles.
Capture the beauty of Ajanta in the late afternoon.
Return to Aurangabad for the evening.
For dinner, taste local food at local restaurants in Aurangabad.
Leave Aurangabad for Ellora Caves after having breakfast.
Begin with the Hindu Caves, starting at Cave 14 (Kailasa Temple) and Cave 15 for their intricate carvings.
Visit the Jain Caves, numbered Cave 32 and Cave 33.
Lunch near Ellora Caves, enjoying local cuisine.
Visit the Buddhist Caves, particularly Cave 2 and Cave 5.
Explore the Kailasa Temple and its details, architectural grandeur and other facts.
Relax while watching the sunset from the Ellora Caves.
Return back to Aurangabad in the evening.
Explore the local markets or rest at your place.
Visit one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples, The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Stroll through the Ellora Village, interacting with locals and learning about their traditional lifestyle.
Lunch at a local eatery with traditional Maharashtrian dishes.
Explore Daulatabad Fort , appreciating its military architecture and panoramic views.
After that, visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, exploring the Mughal-inspired architecture
Dinner at a local restaurant or at your accommodation.

November to March is the best time to visit the caves, as it is relatively cool and dry.

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Panchakki (Aurangabad)
Bibi ka Maqbara (Aurangabad)
Bhadra Maruti Temple (Khuldabad)
Aurangabad Caves (Aurangabad)

Aurangabad is well connected with road services. The Ajanta Ellora caves can be reached by road from Aurangabad or Jalgaon. You can use both of these places to reach the caves.

Jalgaon has limited facilities compared to other main cities. Cars and cabs are available here. There are also private buses for the Ajanta and Ellora locations.

Aurangabad Railway Station and Jalgaon Railway Station are the nearest railway stations to the cave locations. Aurangabad Railway Station is 106km from Ajanta Caves and 39 km from Ellora Caves.

Jalgaon Railway Station is 56 km from Ajanta Caves and 159 km from Ellora Caves. One can prefer Jalgaon city but Aurangabad city is preferable as it has other sights and better facilities.

Aurangabad Airport is 35 km from Ellora Caves and 108 km from Ajanta Caves. Jalgaon airport is 47.4 km from Ajanta Caves and 150 km from Ellora Caves. For better travel, it is preferred to travel through Aurangabad.

As per the itinerary provided and for a comfortable & hassle-free tour, it is advisable to stay in Aurangabad. You can easily find options for Accommodations in Aurangabad .

While travelling across India, book your stay with us at YatraDham.org which provides the best places to stay at both places, i.e., Dharamshala or a hotel.

Aurangabad – Paithan Maheshwari Bhakta
Aurangabad – Gujarati Samaj Dharamshala

Have you visited the Ajanta Ellora caves? I hope this article inspires you to go soon and that you get all the necessary information from this blog. If you still have any questions, please feel free to share them with us.

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Best Time To Visit Ajanta Ellora Caves

Want to make your holidays memorable and interesting with some of the most interesting and mysterious caves in India? So get ready to make the most of your vacation with Anjata and Ellora Caves, two of the most important historical and cultural caves of India located near Aurangabad, Maharashtra. These caves of Ajanta and Ellora, dating back to the 2nd century BC, are famous everywhere for their intricate carvings, sculptures, paintings, and rock-cut architecture. Ajanta and Ellora caves are the best places to spend holidays due to their unique structure. If you are curious to see the caves this time and want more information then stay tuned to this page.

Table of Contents

What Are Ajanta And Ellora Caves ? And it’s So Famous

Ellora Caves in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra in India are famous not only in India but also abroad for their Buddhist-religious rock-cut caves. Inscriptions from the sixth century onwards have been found in these caves which describe many events in history. There are more than 100 caves at this place, out of which only 34 caves are allowed to visit and on the other hand, there are Ajanta caves which are in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra state and are around the second century BC. These Buddhist caves date back to around 480 BC. There are 29 rock-cut sculptures and they depict important Buddhist art events of that time. Ajanta and Ellora Caves , recognized as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, are among the tourist attractions in India.

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What is The History of Ajanta And Ellora’s Caves?

Ellora caves are counted among those monastery-temple complexes that have been constructed by cutting the biggest rocks. These caves were formed due to volcanic basalt, due to which they were named ‘Deccan Traps’. Ajanta caves are 100 kilometers away from Aurangabad while Ellora caves are located at a distance of 30 kilometers from Aurangabad. The Ajanta caves were discovered by the Satavahana dynasty and the Ellora caves by the Rashtrakutas, were both famous for their distinctive Buddha painting styles. Ajanta and Ellora caves are counted as one of the precious and important caves of India. Ajanta has 29 caves to see, while Ellora has 34 caves to see. For tourists, Ellora caves are divided into three parts Hindu caves, Jain caves, and Buddhist caves.

What is The Best Time To Visit Ajanta And Ellora Caves During The Holidays?

If you want to explore Ajanta Ellora Caves so visit between June to March. The region receives very heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September, making visiting these Gunafoss all the more enjoyable. Whereas there is a slight difference in temperature from November to February. Whereas it would be better not to travel during the summer months of March to May as the weather can be quite hot during those days, especially during the day which can hamper your travel, hence it is advisable to miss the months between June to September.

Timinning of Visiting These Historical Caves:

You should reach on time to visit Ajanta and Ellora caves so that you can enjoy those caves properly. Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays and are open between 9:00 am to 9:30 am on other days. The caves of Ellora remain open all day but the real pleasure of seeing these caves comes at the time of sunrise and sunset, so whenever you go to see the Ajanta and Ellora caves , keep these things in mind.

Interesting Thing To Do in This Cave Which Makes Your Trip Memorable

There are many interesting things to do in Ajanta and Ellora caves which will make your trip memorable . Some of the interesting things you can do are:

Be sure to see the intricate carvings and beautiful paintings inside the caves.
You can also learn about the history and importance of the caves from a knowledgeable guide.
Don’t forget to take photos of the stunning architecture and natural surroundings as souvenirs
To know the history of the caves in a different fascinating way, visit the Light and Sound Show at Ellora Caves.
You can buy souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans for home decor.

Some important facts about these precious caves:

Ellora Caves were formed from volcanic basalt formation, hence they are also known as Deccan Traps.
Cave 15 of Ellora describes all 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu, and the map of Cave 29 is somewhat similar to that of the Elephanta Caves.
The sculptures found in both the caves are 600 years old but the Ajanta and Ellora caves are more than 2000 years old.
All the paintings and carvings found in the caves depict events from the life of Lord Buddha and important stories of that time.
After the end of Harisena’s reign, the rule of Ajanta caves also ended due to which these caves of Ajanta became hidden in the dense forests.
one of the Most Interesting Facts About Ajanta Caves Lord Buddha did not create paintings containing his image, as he wanted his disciples to focus on education beyond materialistic desires, however, after his death, followers of his teachings created sculptures. Which highlighted the importance of pictures and knowledge. given.

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Trip to Ajanta & Ellora Caves

Ajanta & Ellora Caves are the symbol of the architectural intellect of early Indians. It is also a pilgrimage spot, exploration site and an important tourism destination. Each cave stands out with its uniqueness and bold structure that defines the craftsmanship of the ancient age making it the strongest and largest cave of all. The proud part of this archaeological site is both caves are listed under UNESCO World Heritage Site. A complete tour of these caves is the most of having the knowledge of delicate and skilful carving of interior and exteriors.

Ajanta & Ellora Caves exist on the wishlist of many travellers. Since we didn’t want your research to be exhausting, we decided to jot down all you need to know before you plan a trip to Ajanta & Ellora Caves from Mumbai.

Travel & Accommodation

The cheapest and convenient way to reach Aurangabad is via railways. Aurangabad has rail connectivity with major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Nagpur, and Pune. If you are coming from the Northern part of India, you can opt for the Jalgaon railway station. Aurangabad is also very well connected by road from Mumbai. The frequency of buses is quite high, and you can get a bus as early as 5:00 am. Aurangabad is also connected by Air.

From Mumbai, I took 12071 Jan Shatabdi Express leaving from Dadar at 02:00 PM which will reach Aurangabad around 08:10 PM.

To avoid wasting travel time, I prefer to stay in the central location and Zostel Aurangabad is the best option. Zostel Aurangabad is located around 3.5 kms from Aurangabad Railway station. The charges for the stay at Zostel are INR 499 per night for a bed in a dormitory. But I prefer to have my own space, so took a private suite which cost me INR 2015 per night.

Day One: The Rock Cut Indian Marvel

Once you reach Aurangabad, check-in to your hotel. Make a small bag with must have things, because one needs to walk a lot to explore the place to its fullest and prefer to wear a slip-on shoe. You must remove shoes before entering caves. You need to start your day as early as possible in order to beat the crowd and hence I started my day at 05:00 AM from my hotel. It took me 4 hrs to reach Ajanta Caves due to a bad road. Roundway it took me 10 hrs only travelling. But if things get better the distance can be easily covered within 2 hrs one way.

If you are travelling in a private car you must take a halt at Hotel Sai Milan Ajanta for breakfast & lunch. It’s a pocket friendly place very close to Ajanta Caves. Must try Masala Omlet with Roti and Non-Veg Chicken Meal. For all chai lovers, you will love this place.

Around 05:30 AM first bus leaves for Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad Central Bus Stop. For returning to Aurangabad from Ajanta Caves, you have come back to the Parking and wait for the bus going toward Aurangabad.

State Transport Buses and Private Vehicles are only allowed till the parking. From there everyone has to take a shuttle to reach the main caves, it will charge you INR 20 one-way.

Now let’s take about Ajanta Caves.

Ajanta Caves have always been recognized as the gems that represent Indian history and the impressive artistry that existed in the foregone era. The Ajanta caves, like the temples of Khajuraho, were “lost” for centuries until an Englishman discovered them in the mid-19th century during his hunting spree. They are all Buddhist and known more for their paintings — which were largely destroyed by water damage. But what remains is impressive enough to make these caves as remarkable as those at Ellora but in a different way.

These magnetic caves got their name from a nearby village Ajanta. In total there are 30 caves including the unfinished ones. Archaeological Survey of India has described it as ‘the finest surviving examples of Indian art, especially painting’. The location of this place provides a calm and composed environment due to which the Buddhist monks used to meditate at these secluded places. Chinese Buddhist travellers such as Fa Hien and Hiuen Tsang have also mentioned the Ajanta Caves in their memoirs ( memoirs - a historical account or biography written from personal knowledge )

There are chaityagrihas and viharas and a tall Buddha statue in the cave. It is one among the several masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, with depictions of the Jataka tales and figures of the Buddha. Ajanta Caves are an example of some of the finest paintings and sculptures ever recorded in Indian history. When exploring this archaeological gemstone, don’t miss to visit Caves 1, 2 & 4.

Cave 1 : This is one of the most popular caves in Ajanta, as all the paintings are authentic. The grand doorway is adorned with Bodhisattva murals and the sidewalls depict two important phases of Buddha’s life (the moment before his enlightenment and when he turned himself into many images)

Cave 2 : This cave’s main highlight is its ceiling, which has intricated abstract designs of devils, birds, fruits, and flowers.

Cave 4 : This is one of the largest monasteries in Ajanta and still sparks the magic, despite being an incomplete creation.

It takes around 2-3 hours to explore the caves to their fullest. Peace, serenity or natural bliss, whatever you may need, vacation is gifted by these marvels, the Ajanta Caves.

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I would recommend one to climb the hill which is exactly opposite to the caves and go till the farthest end. From there one can enjoy the breathtaking views of Ajanta caves and the Saptakunda Waterfall. The waterfall has 7 levels of individual circular small ponds via which water flows before it reaches the Waghora river beneath.

The waterfall has a 7 level of individual circular small ponds via which water flows before it reaches the Waghora river beneath.

Opening Hours and Entry Charges:

Entry charges: INR 40 per person (For Indians)

Timings: 08:00AM to 06:00PM (Except Monday)

Go Beyond: Ajanta Viewpoint

Within 30 mins drive from Ajanta Caves Parking Space, there is Ajanta Viewpoint. The view of the caves of Ajanta lining the dry gorge from this point is astounding. The same panorama teems with an abundance of greenery covering the hills dotted with waterfalls during the monsoons. The river flowing through the gorge at the foot of the caves is called Waghora for the plenty of tigers that roamed around the river (Wagh means Tiger) in ancient times.

The steps descending down from the viewpoint winding through the dry forest area are well built. Midway we reached a rocky terrain that offered a closer view of the caves and Satkund on the extreme left beyond cave 28 which is an exceptional waterfall of seven cascades that flows to form the Waghora river.

Earlier tourists used to walk from Ajanta Viewpoint to the caves but due to few wild animals sighted around in the walking path in the past few years. This route is not used anymore.

Himroo Fabrics/Factory: Offbeat Attraction in Aurangabad

Himroo is a fabric made of silk and cotton, which is grown locally in Aurangabad. Himroo was brought to Aurangabad in the reign of Mohammad Tughlaq, when he had shifted his capital from Delhi to Daulatabad, Aurangabad. The word himroo originated from the Persian word Hum-ruh which means 'similar'. Himroo is a replication of Kinkhwab, which was woven with pure gold and silver threads in the olden days, and was meant for the royal families.

Himroo uses Persian designs and is very characteristic and distinctive in appearance. Himroo from Aurangabad is in demand for its unique style and design. Some historians believe that Himroo was the innovation of local craftsmen with very little Persian influence. Himroo is woven near Delhi Gate and Zaffar Gate neighbourhood in Aurangabad.

With basic training, modernized tools and equipment as well as meticulous planning, Aurangabad’s weavers too can diversify and reclaim the market. However, a true lover of the art continues to insist on the woven magic created by human hands.

Day Two: The Rock Cut Indian Marvel

I would recommend hiring a rickshaw ( 3 seater motor vehicle ), if you go hard on negotiation it will cost you INR 1000 for one full day. Before moving out of the hotel remember to complete the check-out process. Zostel Management usually allows their guest to keep luggage on the premises. So please leave the heavy bag at the hotel. Make a light bag with must have things and wear a slip-on shoe.

You need to start your day as early as possible in order to beat the crowd and hence I started my day at 07:00 AM from my hotel. It took me 40 mins to reach Ellora Caves and another 30 minutes for a breakfast at Hotel Kailash next to the entry gate.

Unlike the pothole and cratered road to the Ajanta caves from Aurangabad, the drive to the Ellora caves is surprisingly smooth. Apart from a couple of Paithani sari looms and accompanying shops where these gorgeous saris with an intricate weave are sold, there is nothing of interest on the tree-lined road.

Exploring Ellora Caves

Dating back to 5th-10th-century C.E, Ellora caves are divided into 3 parts- Hindu Caves, Jain Caves and Buddhist Caves. Unlike Ajanta Caves, Ellora is believed to be visited by enthused travellers and royal personages. Locally named, Verul Leni, Ellora Caves is located on Aurangabad- Chalisgaon road, 30 km away from Aurangabad city. The cave is the largest single monolithic excavation in the world. One of the interesting parts of Ellora is the caves were built out of the volcanic basaltic formation of Maharashtra, also known as the Deccan Trap. As you move ahead to explore the caves, you’ll come across a glimpse of channels through which volcanic lava once flowed. The lava further gave rise to horizontal flows with vesicular traps beds.

Ellora was once the trade route connecting the western ports of the Arabian Sea like Kalyan, Chemula and island cities like Paithan, Ter and others. Ellora was excavated in three different forms- Buddhism, Brahmanism and Jainism, dated from 6th-7th century AD to 11th-12th AD. Presently, there are 100 caves, out of which 34 fall under famous tourist spots. Caves 1-12 belong to Buddhists, 13-29 to Brahmanical and 30-34 to Jain.

To explore Ellora Caves, you need a good amount of time. The artistic expression and architectural splendour are worth excavating. If you love investing time in exploring ancient art, then visit Cave no 10, 16, 21 and 32. These caves give a clear glimpse of Buddhism, Brahmanism and Jainism art.

There are many more interesting facts that shouldn’t be missed to be known:

Buddhist Caves: Comprising of 12 caves, they were built during 550-750 AD. Each cave has a sculpture of Lord Buddha.

Hindu Caves: Comprising of 13-29 caves, they were built during 600-875 AD. Tourists exploring these caves will find sculptures of Apsaras.

Jain Caves: Comprising of 30-34 caves, they were built during 800 AD to 1000 AD and comprises images depicting Jain lords.

Kailasa temple (Cave 16) is the largest single monolithic rock excavation in the world. Kailash Temple also happens to be an important pilgrimage spot for the followers of Lord Shiva. The gopurams of this architectural marvel signify Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva

It takes around 2 hours to explore the caves to their fullest.

Ellora Caves have one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world - I would recommend one to go towards caves 25 from there one can enjoy the breath-taking views of Ellora Waterfall.

It is the sheer beauty that mesmerises. So even a waterfall not much high or not much broad or not so majestic might be among the most beautiful. That’s the reason why a column of water falling right from the top of the Ellora caves at Aurangabad in Maharashtra has been termed as one of the most wonderful waterfalls in the world.

Entry charges: INR 25 per person (For Indians)

Timings: 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM (Except Tuesday)

Tomb of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb

Quite in keeping with his austere tastes, Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khuldabad is a plain, brilliantly whitewashed structure with a large, arcaded courtyard in a typical mix of Islamic and Rajasthani architecture. In striking contrast with the tombs of his forefathers, this has few embellishments save a modest dome or two and minarets. A red signboard reads, Tomb of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb Alamgeer. It is within the compound of the Dargah Syed Zainuddin Shirazi, and the pathway leading to the inconspicuous entrance is lined with a couple of shops selling flowers, perfumeries and other offerings. Facing it, on the other side of the road, is the white tomb of Hazrat Khwaja Shaikh Burhanuddin Gareeb. This is not the kind of tomb where you expect the Mughal emperor who held sway for the longest period — 50 years — to be interred. Khuldabad is 24 kms from Aurangabad, and several Sufi saints lived here.

Daulatabad Fort

Built on a 200-meter high conical hill, it was one of the most powerful forts of the medieval Deccan. It is considered to be one of the seven wonders of Maharashtra and you shouldn’t give it a miss.

The defence system that made Daulatabad virtually impregnable comprises fortifications with double and even triple rows of massive walls. In addition, there are ingeniously built mazes with a complex arrangement of entryways and deep rock-cut moats and trenches which can be crossed only at one point, over a drawbridge. The defence mechanism of rock-cut subterranean passages is unbelievable.

The fort is one the most complex and intricate forts of Deccan, having the honour of the capital of Yadavas for over a century (1187-1294), capital of India during the Tughlaq period (1328), Capital of Nizamshahis of Ahmednagar (1607 A.D).

Interesting facts that shouldn’t be missed to be known

Hathi Haud: measures 47.75 m in length, 46.75 m in width and 6.61 m in depth.

Bharat Mata temple: Measures 87.14 m EW and 72.80 m NS with two openings to the east and north.

Chand Minar: Built by Sultan Alau-ud-din-Bahmani (Sultan Ahmed Shah 2) in AD 1447, height 70 m and circumference 21 m at the base.

Andheri: A serpentine dark passage used as a defence mechanism that was never conquered.

Baradari: Built in A.D 1636 perhaps for Shah Jahan's visit (A.D 1627-1658) consisting of 13 halls. The building was the favourite summer residence of Emperor Shah Jahan and his son Alamgir Aurangzeb

Chini Mahal: The thought provoking Chini Mahal is all that remains of Chini Mahal, which is ironically known as the Chinese Mahal. This blue tiled palace was used by Aurangzeb to imprison the last king of Golconda, Abdul Hasan Tana Shah until his death. Now in ruins, the palace was once covered with blue stones, and that's why it was called the Chini Mahal. Chini Mahal marks the entrance of the Daulatabad Fort.

Mendha Cannon: The cannon with the ram’s head is called Mendha Tope as Mendha means ram and tope means cannon in Marathi and one look at the beautiful rear end of the cannon which is shaped in the form of a ram’s head will make you ‘baa bleat’ with the agreement.

It takes around 2 hours to explore the entry fort. Trek to the top of the fort to catch an aerial view of the Daulatabad City and Return and

Entry charges: INR 25 per person (For Indian)

Timings: 06:00AM to 05:00PM

Taj Of Deccan: Bibi Ka Maqbara

Bibi Ka Maqbara draws its inspiration from the famous Taj Mahal of Agra built by none other than Prince Azam Shah’s grandfather, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Azam Shah intended to build a monument that would rival the Taj Mahal. Unfortunately, he lacked the treasury his grandfather had access to, as well as the skilled labour the treasury bought, resulting in a poor copy of the latter. Even so, Bibi Ka Maqbara is an architectural wonder with intricate designs, carved motifs, an imposing structure and beautifully landscaped Mughal-style gardens. Due to its strong resemblance to the Taj Mahal, it is lovingly called the “Taj of the Deccan”.

Goodbye Aurangabad - See you later

Before saying a final goodbye to the city do try Mustafa Dum Biryani – they serve Veg, Chicken and Mutton Biryani. I loved their Chicken Biryani after such an amazing biryani you need a mouth freshener, so you must try Meetha Pan from the famous pan shop of Aurangabad Tara Pan. Both the places are located within the walking distance from Zostel.

For Back Home Journey – 17058 Devagiri Express leaving from Aurangabad at 11:20 PM which will reach Mumbai around 07:00 AM.

Best Time To Visit

June to March is the best time to visit Ajanta & Ellora Caves due to the pleasant weather.

From June to September (monsoon) the region receives an average to plenty of rain showers, which make the exploration experience a delight. But as stated before, the activity involves long walking and outdoor activities, which might not be easier when you are drenched. It is better to avoid monsoon season unless you are on a photography trip. Monsoon washes out the caves and makes the place more fresh and bright in photographs. The inner side of the caves remains unchanged throughout the year.

While during the months of November to February the temperature drops moderately. The weather is pleasing, seldom rains and lesser humid during winter. These reasons make the place easier to be scaled during winter. November to February is the peak tourism time in this region. The only downside is that you can find a large crowd in the heritage sites, especially during weekends and holidays.

Summer months (March to May) can get hot especially in the daytime. So, try to avoid this season if you’re planning a visit. Dehydration chances are high. Since you have to do a lot of walking and exploration, it is harder to scale the place in summer.

Differences Between Ajanta & Ellora Caves

Ajanta and Ellora Caves, though are often addressed as one, have some differences:

Distance: Both the caves are 100 km away from each other. Ajanta Caves is 104 km from Aurangabad, while Ellora Caves is 29 km away from Aurangabad.

Shape: Ajanta Caves are carved in a horse-shoe shaped rock. Ellora Caves are scattered randomly.

Construction period: Ajanta Caves were built in the period between 200 BCE and 680 CE. On the other hand, Ellora Caves are way younger and were built between 5th and 10th century

Purpose of creation: Ajanta Caves has viharas and Buddhist monasteries. Ellora Caves consists of religious centres for Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain.

Funded by: Funds for the construction of Ajanta Caves were provided by various rulers, mainly Vakataka Dynasty and Satvahana Dynasty. Ellora Caves were majorly built under the rule of Chalukya, Kalachuri and Rashtrakuta rulers.

Make a small bag with must have things, because one needs to walk a lot to explore the place to its fullest and prefer to wear a slip-on shoe. You must remove shoes before entering caves.

Both caves have been touristy so generally, they are very crowded, so I would advise you to reach as early as possible if you don’t want to ruin your photographs. There is no ATM at Ajanta so carry enough cash with you.

Don’t forget to hire a tour guide as a one to one attention is exactly what you will need for a wonderful, unforgettable experience. Authorized Tour Guide at Ajanta will cost you Rs. 1800 and at Ellora will cost you INR 50 for a group of 1-9 people. You have to ask for them at the ticket counter.

Though the guide books are loaded with enough facts and figures for each Ajanta cave history you may not be able to locate the exact spot of importance. Most of the caves are pitch dark and you would need a torch to spot the Ajanta paintings and the stories painted on the walls and ceilings which the guide can easily walkthrough. For guide books don’t pay more than INR 40 even if the printed price is INR 100.

These caves are better seen in person than merely read about. The enormity and grandness of this heritage sites makes it one of those few destinations in the world you must visit before you die. Don’t miss on this wonder for anything. The mystical charm of these caves will have you zapped.

I hope you found the write up useful. Would love to hear your feedback at [email protected] and do follow me on Facebook , Instagram & Twitter .

Tags: #AjantaCaves #AjantaCavesViewpoint #BibiKaMaqbara #DaulatabadFort #ElloraCaves #HimrooFabrics #SaptakundaWaterfallWaghora #TheTravelBlueprint #Aurangabad #LongWeekend #BigChuttiPlan #SoloWeekendTrip #UNESCO

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ultimate guide to visiting ajanta & ellora

How to Visit Ajanta and Ellora [One Day Itinerary]

When we booked it this seemed like a good idea. Taking a series of three overnight flights from Kathmandu to Delhi, then to Mumbai and from there to Aurangabad, so that we could spend the day visiting the UNESCO world heritage Ajanta and Ellora caves. Remind me of this in the future.

We arrived at Aurangabad airport at 06:15. We left Kathmandu at 14:00 yesterday and in the meantime have been to both Delhi and Mumbai airports We spent most of the night outside check in at Mumbai Airport. It was NOT a good way to get here.

However, don’t let that put you off coming to Ajanta and Ellora.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN OUR DISCLAIMER

How to Visit Ajanta and Ellora in a Day

We pre-booked a car and driver using the TripAdvisor forum. Mr Taqui Hussein picked us up from the airport, drove us to Ajanta, then Ellora, and finally dropped us outside the Railway Station in Aurangabad. He was fabulous. We paid 3,500 INR for the full day, including any parking charges. Our route took us to the Ajanta Caves for opening time, then back to Ellora and we were dropped off at the Aurangabad Railway Station at the end of the day. Our total distance was 230 kilometers.

EASIEST WAY TO VISIT

Take a Private Tour to Ajanta & Ellora

We found the easiest way to see both Ajanta and Ellora in the same day was to take a private tour, and this is the best tour we’ve found to see Ellora and Ajanta caves and temples.

Visiting Ajanta & Ellora as a day trip

If you’d like to see Ajanta and Ellora – then you can take a day trip from Aurangabad – with a driver and English-speaking guide, plus an air-conditioned car. Check out the options here .

It always feels like we’re cheating when we arrange a car and driver, but this is only the second time we’ve done this in India, so I think we’re excused! The reason for the overnight flight, and trying to see Ajanta and Ellora in one day is that our time frame has changed. We need to be back in Bengalaru for an Indian wedding, so we have a GREAT reason to step things up!

How to Go from Aurangabad to Ajanta

It’s 100 kilometers, or around 2.5 hours from Aurangabad to Ajanta. Aurangabad is the closest town that we could fly to. We managed a quick stop for breakfast on the way before arriving at Ajanta at opening time.

You can head to Ajanta on a day trip from Aurangabad – and also take in Ellora – there are more details here.

What to See at The Ajanta Caves

Since 1983 the Ajanta Caves have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Indian Archeological Society describes them as the “finest surviving examples of Indian art, particularly painting”. The caves date from 400 BC and contain Buddhist religious art and Jataka depictions. The Jataka are native to India and tell the stories of the previous lives of the Buddha. There are about 30 caves cut into a cliff in a gorge above the river Waghur.

Ajanta was rediscovered by accident by a British hunting party in 1819. It’s thought that the paintings are related to the gorgeous Sigiriya in Sri Lanka. You can read our guide about visiting Sigiriya here .

How to Access Ajanta Via Bus

Mr Hussein drops us in the car park, where we head to the buses. It’s not exactly busy here, so while the sign might say that there are AC buses, there aren’t. But there’s a breeze, so the open window works reasonably well. The bus up to the bus park by the caves doesn’t take long. And its not even worth considering walking to save the 15 INR that the bus costs, unless of course, you’re nuts in this heat.

Cost of Ajanta Caves Tickets

We buy a ticket here for 250 INR, the Foreign Tourist price. There are guides available, pricing depends upon the size of your group, but we stick with the Indian Archeological Society notes we’ve downloaded. From here it’s all walking.

Exploring The Ajanta Caves Site

The caves are located in the cliffs on a bend in the river. It’s a horseshoe shaped gorge. The site itself is lovely. The paths are well maintained and the signage is great. If there’s a large tour group anywhere near you, then stop and wait until they pass, it’s well worth the solitude.

Tips for Visiting Ajanta Caves

Take water with you. There is water available at the restaurant by the ticket office, but not once you leave there.
The restaurant by the ticket office does a great thali for lunch and looked much cleaner than the places near the car park.
Take a hat or an umbrella, outside the caves the sun is amazingly strong and reflects off the rocks.You will need to remove your shoes to visit some caves, so consider your footwear. The paths are in good condition, but there are some steps/uneven areas and it’s a little slippery.
Remember the Camera! There are several viewpoints throughout the site – we didn’t make it to the high one because of the heat, but it didn’t detract from the fact that this is an incredible site and reasonably well preserved.

Ajanta Cave One

This (and cave two) are the most beautifully painted caves here. There are fragments of the paintings left and they are quite stunning. Try and visit when they’re empty of people. You can take photographs but there is no flash photography.

Ajanta Cave Two

Be sure to look up when you walk around this cave. The ceiling paintings are just spectacular. It is incredible to see the brightness of the colours and consider their age.

As you walk around the gorge, it really is a simply stunning spectacle. You’ll stop each time you come out of a cave, slip your shoes back on, and just, well, look.

The paintings are simply gorgeous, the caves are incredible and this is well worth a visit, but we must move on. We have a quick thali and a cold drink at the restaurant by the ticket office and then head back on the bus to the car park.

How to Go from Ajanta to Ellora

It takes nearly two hours to drive to Ellora, its back in the direction of Aurangabad, so we’ll be close to our final destination for the day when we’re finished.

How to Visit the Ellora Caves and Temples

We arrived at the Ellora Caves area by 14:00. It was pretty hot and pretty busy too, so we took the advice of Mr Hussein to focus our time here. Ellora is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and combines Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples and caves. There are 17 Hindu caves, 12 are Buddhist and 5 are Jain. They’re all in amazingly close proximity and were carved and built between the 5 th and 10 th centuries.

We headed to the biggest cave first. This is Cave 16.

The Kailasa Temple, Ellora

The Kailasa Temple, or Cave 16, is dedicated to Shiva. It looks more like a multi-storey temple complex but was actually carved out of a single piece of rock. This area is twice the size of the Greek Parthenon in Athens. It is VAST.

The Dashavatara, Ellora

This is also known as Cave 15. These caves are so very different from Ajanta. They’re much bigger for a start. The ones that we visit have multiple storeys to them and, while this cave was started as a Buddhist monastery, this is now a Hindu cave.

We managed to visit several of Buddhist and Jain caves too.

The carving here is spectacular, and the sheer size is amazing. The crowds lessen as we move to the smaller temples, but it’s so very hot and we spent the night outside an airport. The cool relief of the caves is marvelous. If you make it here, be sure to go to the smaller caves, get away from the crowds, and walk through the seeming maze of different routes.

How to Go from Ellora to Aurangabad

At the end of the day, Mr Hussein dropped us off at the Hotel Preetam in Aurangabad. We selected this place because, if you were any closer to the train station you’d be sleeping on the tracks. We have a 06:00 train tomorrow, to Nashik, where we’re going Wine Tasting India style.

USING TRAINS IN INDIA

The Best Way to Book Indian Trains

The easiest and best way to book trains in India as a foreign visitor is to use 12goAsia. You’ll always get confirmed tickets and foreign cards are accepted.

UNESCO Sites to Visit in India

If you like visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, then you’ll love our guides to India’s best World Heritage sites

Champaner Pavagadh, in Gujarat
The Taj Mahal in Agra
The Ajanta Caves
Ellora Caves
Khajuraho’s Temples
Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi
The Hill Forts of Rajasthan
The Darjeeling Hill Railway
Qutub Minar in Delhi
The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya
Mamallapuram

Travel Tips for Exploring India

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Book the best tours and guides in India on GetYourGuide or Klook
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Where we stayed in Aurangabad – the Hotel Preetam
Our next stop after Ajanta and Ellora Caves was Wine Tasting India Style in Nashik

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Sarah Carter

2 thoughts on “ How to Visit Ajanta and Ellora [One Day Itinerary] ”

2 comments

Wow Sarah your travels sound amazing! I love watching the Amazing Race here in the U.S. but don’t always want to go everywhere they are. I doubt I will ever get into the areas of India you traveled but truly enjoy reading and seeing your photos! Travel on!

Thanks so much! Sometimes I think we should change our tagline to be “we go there, so you don’t have to” 😉 India is well worth the trip, but she’s a hard country to travel in as a western woman.

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Ajanta & Ellora Caves: Travel Guide & Itinerary 2020

The Stonehenge in the United Kingdom, Easter Islands in Chile and the great pyramids in Egypt are some of the most enchanting pre-historic monuments around the world. But closer to home, many such monuments portray our history, rich culture and heritage to the world.

Ajanta & Ellora Caves: Travel Guide & Itinerary 2020 2

One such mesmerizing place is Ajanta and Ellora, a UNESCO world heritage site and an abode of intricate scriptures and carvings that are a sight for sore eyes.

Ajanta and Ellora are rock-cut cave monuments, which date back to 480 BCE in the city of Aurangabad, in the state of Maharashtra.

Ajanta and Ellora caves, as they’re popularly called as are two different pre-historic locations that are several kilometres apart. Nevertheless, their unmatchable beauty together puts them at the pinnacle of prehistoric locations in India.

How to reach Ajanta & Ellora Caves?

Airways: Aurangabad airport is the nearest Airport which is well connected to important cities such as Mumbai and Delhi. Railways: nearest railway station in Jalgaon, about 60 kilometres away from the caves. Roadways: Aurangabad is easily accessible and well connected to various cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad and Ahemdabad.

Best places in Ajanta and Ellora

Ajanta and Ellora caves are around 100 kilometres apart from each other. But that won’t stop us from igniting the travel bug in you that’ll lead you to discover this marvellous world.

Must see in caves in Ajanta:

Carved into a horseshoe-shaped mountain face in a river valley, the caves of Ajanta will surely leave you spellbound.

The 30 rock-cut out caves are famous for its splendid architecture of the Buddhist Vihara of king Harishsena, sculptures of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain religious figure and Brahmi inscriptions that’ll make your visit a memorable one.

Cave 1: a grand doorway adorned with sculptures depicting important elements of the lives of Lord Buddha welcomes you to one of the grandest caves of Ajanta.

Ajanta & Ellora Caves: Travel Guide & Itinerary 2020 4

This cave is worth your time as you get to witness authentic paintings and age-old scriptures and inscriptions.

Cave 2: the main highlight of this Mahayana Monastry cave is its ceiling, intricately designed with carvings of serpent kings and their followers, natural elements like birds fruits and flowers.

Cave 4: despite the unfinished vihara planned on a grandiose scale, the monasteries of cave 4 are exquisitely beautiful and one of the most visited caves in Ajanta.

Cave 17: consisting of well-preserved paintings, this Mahayana monastery cave has a doorway depicting the seven Manushi Buddhas, a spacious hall surrounded by 17 cells on three sides, adding to the charm and grandiose of this creation.

Must see caves in Ellora:

Locally known as ‘Verul Leni’, the Ellora caves is the UNESCO world heritage site, consisting of about 100 rock-cut out caves in the form of temples, monuments and monasteries depicting religious figures and deities, these sculptures, carvings, and creations of the Hindu, Jain and Buddhist culture that will surely leave you awe-inspired.

Ajanta & Ellora Caves: Travel Guide & Itinerary 2020 5

Caves 1-12: these caves consist of Buddhist caves and monasteries, spacious prayers halls and Buddha viharas. The monasteries also have shrines of Gautam Buddha, Bodhisattvas and saints.

Cave 13-29: these caves depict Hindu monuments of deities and Hindu mythological characters. They were constructed partly during the Kalachuris period and partly during the Rashtrakuta period.

It consists of some notable monuments such as the Dashavtara cave, depicting the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu and Cave 16 being the Kailasa temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Caves 30-34: located at the north of Ellora, these caves depict the Jain deities and religious figures. Among these is the ‘Chota Kailasa’, a temple bearing similar carvings and architecture as the Kailasa temple. It has also had the ‘Indra sabha’ a two-story monolithic shrine and the Jagganath sabha, the largest of the Jain caves.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ajanta & Ellora Caves:

Q. Where is Ajanta Ellora? A. Ajanta Ellora caves are in Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra

Q. Are Ajanta and Ellora the same? A. No, they both are different pre-historic locations, about 100 kilometres apart from each other. The caves in Ajanta are close by whereas the caves in Ellora are scattered.

Q. How long does it take to cover Ajanta Ellora? A. one should invest an entire day at each location when visiting Ajanta Ellora caves. Since they are 100 kilometres apart, it takes about 3 hours to cover the distance and about 2 hours to cover each location separately.

Q. Which caves are better, Ajanta or Ellora? A. Both Caves possess exuberant beauty and provide a memorable experience. Ajanta caves are much closer and have majorly sculptures and paintings depicting Buddhism whereas Ellora caves are scattered and are based on Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist cultures

Q. Is there an entry fee for the visit? A. Yes. At Ajanta caves, the entry fee is INR 10 for Indian nationals and INR 250 for foreign nationals. At Ellora caves for Indian citizens as well as tourists from SAARC and BIMSTEC countries, the entry fee is INR 30, whereas other tourists have to pay INR 500 for entry. There is no entry fee for children up to 15 years of age.

Q. What is the best time to visit Ajanta Ellora caves? A. the caves are open all year round and the most preferable time of visit is from June to March. The best time to visit Ajanta Ellora caves would be during the Ellora Ajanta International Festival, showcasing Indian culture and folklore that takes place during October.

Also Read: UNESCO World Heritage Sites In India (Updated 2020)

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Ajanta And Ellora Caves: Rock-Cut Wonders

Join us as we embark on a spiritual journey through India’s sacred destinations, where history, faith, and culture converge. Today, we delve into the fascinating world of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves: rock-cut wonders that hold immense spiritual and historical significance. These ancient structures, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals, transport visitors to a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of India’s religious heritage. Let us immerse ourselves in the divine allure of these majestic caves, where every corner tells a story and every stone whispers ancient secrets.

Table of Contents

1. Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are a gem of ancient rock-cut architecture and art located in the state of Maharashtra, India. These caves hold immense historical and cultural significance, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Visiting the Ajanta Caves is like stepping back in time and experiencing the rich heritage of ancient India.

1.1 History

The history of the Ajanta Caves is shrouded in mystery, with their origins dating back over two thousand years. These caves were carved out of solid rock by Buddhist monks, who were seeking a secluded place for meditation and religious practice. The construction of the caves spanned several centuries, with new caves being added and existing ones modified.

1.2 Architecture

The architecture of the Ajanta Caves is a testament to the skill and ingenuity of the ancient craftsmen. These caves are carved into the side of a cliff, intricately designed with pillars, corridors, and chambers. The caves are divided into two categories: Chaitya halls, which were used for congregational worship, and Viharas, which were used as dwelling places for the monks.

1.3 Paintings

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Ajanta Caves is the stunning paintings that adorn the walls and ceilings. These paintings depict various scenes from the life of the Buddha, as well as other significant events from Buddhist scriptures. The artists used natural pigments and dyes to create vibrant and detailed artworks, showcasing their exceptional talent and dedication.

2. Ellora Caves

Located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, the Ellora Caves are another magnificent collection of rock-cut caves. These caves are a fusion of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art, making them a unique testament to the religious diversity of ancient India. The Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract tourists from all around the world.

2.1 History

The history of the Ellora Caves dates back to the 6th century CE, a few centuries after the Ajanta Caves. The construction of these caves spanned several centuries and involved multiple religious communities. It is believed that the rulers and wealthy patrons of the time commissioned these caves to showcase their devotion to various religions and to promote religious harmony.

2.2 Architecture

The architecture of the Ellora Caves is an awe-inspiring blend of different styles. The caves are carved into the vertical face of the Charanandri Hills, creating a monumental sight. The vast complex consists of 34 caves, each representing a different faith. From grand temples dedicated to Hindu deities to intricately carved monasteries of the Buddhist tradition, the architecture of the Ellora Caves is truly a marvel.

2.3 Sculptures

The sculptures found in the Ellora Caves are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient artisans. The intricate carvings depict various gods, goddesses, and mythological scenes. Each sculpture is a masterpiece in its own right, with meticulous attention to detail and exquisite craftsmanship. The sculptures not only serve as objects of religious devotion but also provide valuable insights into the cultural and artistic heritage of ancient India.

3. Significance of Ajanta and Ellora Caves

3.1 religious significance.

Both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves hold immense religious significance for multiple faiths. The Ajanta Caves primarily embody the Buddhist traditions, with their intricate paintings and sculptures depicting the life and teachings of the Buddha. On the other hand, the Ellora Caves house temples dedicated to various Hindu deities and monasteries representing the Jain faith. These caves serve as important pilgrimage sites for followers of these religions and are revered for their spiritual aura.

3.2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This prestigious designation acknowledges their outstanding universal value and the need for their preservation. These caves occupy a significant place in human history and culture, and their inclusion on the UNESCO list ensures that they will be protected and appreciated for generations to come.

4. Ajanta and Ellora Caves Tourism

4.1 location and accessibility.

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are conveniently located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra. They are well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for tourists from all across India and the world. The nearest airport, Aurangabad Airport, has regular flights from major cities in India.

4.2 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is during the winter months, from November to March. The weather during this time is pleasant, allowing visitors to explore the caves comfortably. It is advisable to avoid visiting during the monsoon season, as heavy rains can hinder travel and make the caves inaccessible.

4.3 Entry Fees

To visit the Ajanta Caves, both domestic and international visitors are required to pay an entry fee. The fee varies depending on the nationality and age of the visitor. Similarly, there is an entry fee for the Ellora Caves as well, which is separate from the Ajanta Caves. It is advisable to check the official websites or visit the ticket counters for up-to-date information on entry fees.

4.4 Nearby Attractions

In addition to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, tourists can explore several other attractions in the vicinity. The Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the Taj of the Deccan, is a stunning mausoleum that resembles the famous Taj Mahal. The Daulatabad Fort, built in the 12th century, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Aurangabad Caves, located just a few kilometers away, also offer a glimpse into ancient rock-cut architecture.

5. Ajanta and Ellora Caves Preservation

5.1 conservation efforts.

The preservation of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is of utmost importance to ensure their longevity for future generations. Extensive conservation efforts have been undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to protect and restore these ancient treasures. Regular monitoring, documentation, and maintenance activities are carried out to prevent any damage or degradation.

5.2 Challenges in Preservation

Preserving the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is not without its challenges. The caves are constantly exposed to environmental factors such as weathering, water seepage, and vegetation growth. Additionally, the influx of tourists can take a toll on the delicate artwork and structures. Balancing the need for tourism with the preservation of these heritage sites is an ongoing challenge.

5.3 Future Prospects

Despite the challenges, there is hope for the future preservation of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Advancements in technology and conservation techniques offer new possibilities for the protection and maintenance of these ancient structures. It is essential to continue investing in research, conservation efforts, and public awareness to safeguard these rock-cut wonders.

6. Famous Caves in Ajanta

6.1 cave 1: viharas.

Cave 1 in Ajanta is one of the earliest caves and consists of a group of Viharas or monasteries. These Viharas were used as dwelling places by the Buddhist monks for meditation and religious teachings. The cave is adorned with intricate sculptures and beautiful paintings, showcasing the artistic skills of the craftsmen.

6.2 Cave 2: Viharas and Chaitya

Cave 2 is another notable cave in Ajanta and is a combination of Viharas and a Chaitya hall. The Chaitya hall is a place of worship and features a stupa, while the Viharas served as dwellings for the monks. The cave is adorned with exquisite sculptures and paintings, depicting various Buddhist deities and scenes from Buddhist scriptures.

6.3 Cave 16: Kailasa Temple

Cave 16, also known as the Kailasa Temple, is one of the most magnificent and awe-inspiring structures in Ajanta. This cave is an architectural marvel, carved out of a single rock. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features intricate carvings and sculptures showcasing various mythological scenes and deities.

6.4 Cave 26: Chaitya

Cave 26 is a Chaitya or prayer hall in Ajanta. It is known for its stunning architecture and impressive rock-cut sculptures. The interior of the cave is adorned with pillars, intricate carvings, and a beautiful stupa. Visiting this cave offers a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic world of ancient India.

6.5 Cave 29: Monastery

Cave 29 is a significant monastery in Ajanta and is renowned for its architectural elegance. This cave features beautifully adorned pillars and intricate sculptures. The layout of the monastery follows a traditional design, with a central courtyard surrounded by cells used by the monks for meditation and daily activities.

7. Famous Caves in Ellora

7.1 cave 10: vishwakarma cave.

Cave 10, also known as the Vishwakarma Cave, is a unique structure in Ellora. This cave showcases the excellence of the craftsmen in creating intricate carvings and sculptures. The entire cave is dedicated to various deities and mythical creatures, providing a visual treat for visitors.

7.2 Cave 14: Rameshvara Cave

Cave 14 is a Hindu cave dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most impressive structures in Ellora. The cave features a large hall, adorned with pillars and sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The grandeur and architectural finesse of this cave make it a must-visit for any traveler.

7.3 Cave 16: Kailasa Temple

Cave 16, also known as the Kailasa Temple, is a shared highlight of both Ajanta and Ellora Caves. This temple is a masterpiece of rock-cut architecture and represents devotion to Lord Shiva. The sheer scale and intricacy of the carvings and sculptures make it one of the most famous attractions in Ellora.

7.4 Cave 21: Ravan ki Khai

Cave 21, known as Ravan ki Khai, is a Jain cave located in Ellora. This cave is dedicated to the 10th Jain Tirthankara and features beautifully sculpted figures and pillars. The intricately carved lotus ceiling is a notable highlight of this cave, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the ancient artisans.

7.5 Cave 32: Indra Sabha

Cave 32, the Indra Sabha, is another prominent cave in Ellora. This Hindu cave is dedicated to Lord Indra and is known for its impressive rock-cut sculptures and carvings. The cave is designed like a celestial court, with beautifully adorned pillars and intricate details that transport visitors to a different era.

8. Stories and Legends

8.1 ajanta legends.

Several legends and stories are associated with the Ajanta Caves. One popular legend suggests that the caves were built by celestial beings, who descended to earth to assist the craftsmen. Another legend speaks of how the caves were discovered by a British officer during a hunting expedition. These stories add to the mystique and allure of the Ajanta Caves.

8.2 Ellora Legends

The Ellora Caves also have their share of legends and myths. According to one legend, the caves were built overnight by a divine sculptor. Another story suggests that the caves were dug out of the hills by mythical creatures. These legends speak to the astonishing beauty and craftsmanship of the Ellora Caves, leaving visitors in awe of their creation.

9. Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Popular Culture

The enchanting beauty and historical significance of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves have captivated the imaginations of filmmakers. These caves have been featured in numerous Indian films, with their awe-inspiring architecture and ancient tales serving as a backdrop for storytelling. These cinematic portrayals bring the caves to life, allowing viewers to experience the magic even from afar.

9.2 Literature

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves have also found their way into the pages of literature. Renowned authors and poets have drawn inspiration from these rock-cut wonders, incorporating them into their literary works. The spiritual aura of the caves and their rich history make them a compelling subject for exploration and contemplation in the realm of literature.

10. Conclusion

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are truly rock-cut wonders that stand as testimony to the rich heritage and artistic excellence of ancient India. These caves have captivated the hearts and minds of visitors from across the globe, offering glimpses into a bygone era. The significance of these caves goes beyond their religious and cultural importance; they serve as a reminder of the human capacity for creativity, craftsmanship, and devotion. A visit to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is a transformative experience, allowing one to connect with history, spirituality, and the marvels of architectural brilliance.

Indian Culture Team

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Ind: +91 9205558801.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves: History, facts, Best Time to visit & Information

by Indiator

March 30, 2018, in tour and travels india , travel tips, no comments, things to know before you visit ajanta and ellora caves.

Famous for heritage sites, Ajanta and Ellora caves which date back to 5 th and 8 th centuries. There are 64 rock cut caves listed under UNESCO World Heritage Site. The interiors and exteriors have intricate carvings and cave paintings.

Ajanta and Ellora have located 110 km and 30 km away respectively from Aurangabad. Ajanta and Ellora caves are a paradise for history lovers as these caves are perfect examples of beautiful Buddhist Architecture.

History of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves:

3 Days Private Ajanta and Ellora Tour with Return Flights from Mumbai

Ajanta caves are a set of 29 caves in the form of a horseshoe, depicting Buddhist architecture, cave paintings, and sculptures. It also has shrines which are dedicated to the Lord Buddha which was used by Buddhist monks for meditation.

The Ellora caves have carvings, sculptures inspired by Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism and are a set of 34 caves. It has the most magnificent Kailasa Temple (cave 16) which attracts pilgrims from across the world.

These sites were declared as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1983 since it had influenced the development of art in India.

Best time to visit the caves:

The best time to visit Ajanta and Ellora caves is from June to March. Winter and Monsoon are an ideal time to visit these caves as the climate is quite pleasant.

The Ajanta and Ellora caves open from 9 am till 5 pm. Ajanta caves are closed on Mondays while Ellora caves are closed on Tuesdays.

The entry to Ajanta and Ellora caves is 500 INR for foreigners while 30 INR for Indians.

How to reach Ajanta and Ellora:

Ajanta and Ellora caves can be reached easily by air, by train, and by road. The closest railway station is Aurangabad Railway Station and the closest airport is Aurangabad Airport. Most convenient is to take a taxi to commute to both cave sites.

Attractions of Ajanta and Ellora Caves:

Aurangabad including Ajanta & Ellora Caves

The extraordinary architectures and ancient carvings, sculptures at the Ajanta and Ellora caves attracts tourists from all over the world. Kailasa Temple, the cave 16 at Ellora is a major attraction and it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It has huge elephant sculptures and other carvings that are crafted by hand which becomes spectacular sight.

Facts of Ajanta and Ellora Caves:

Some quick facts about the Ajanta and Ellora Caves:

The caves were discovered by John Smith in 1819, a British officer of the 28 th Cavalry for the Madras Presidency.
Ajanta Caves were sponsored majorly by the donations from the Satvahana dynasty in the Hinayana phase and the Vakataka dynasty in the Mahayana phase. Ellora caves were built during the rule of Kalachuri, the Chalukya, and the Rashtrakuta dynasties.
There are ancient paintings in Ajanta caves which are as old as the 3 rd century from Satavahana times.

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Should i visit the ajanta or ellora caves – a guide to both caves [2024].

Kailash Temple, Ellora Caves

The famous Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves are a set of ancient rock cave monuments located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra state in India. These caves are some of the most mind-blowing things I have ever seen, but in some ways, are quite similar to each other – so if you could only visit one, should you visit the Ajanta or Ellora Caves? Read this short guide to find out.

Best Ajanta and Ellora Caves Tours

Cave No. 26, Ajanta Caves

There are a lot of tour choices out there and it can be overwhelming narrowing them down, so we’ve handpicked some experiences to make your trip to the caves as seamless and hassle-free as possible:

Day Tour of Ajanta Caves – This tour is most suitable for travellers who only want to visit the Ajanta caves on a private tour.

Ellora Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort – As the Ellora Caves are closer to Aurangabad than Ajanta, on this private tour, you’ll be able to visit other attractions in Aurangabad as well. Great value for money.

Private Tour of Ajanta and Ellora Caves in One Day – This tour is best for those who are short on time, and want to see both caves in one day. It will be a long day, but it’s definitely doable and enjoyable (this is the tour we went on, and loved every second of it). You won’t be able to do this tour on a Monday or a Tuesday, as at least one of the caves will be closed for maintenance.

Where to stay to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves?

The easiest and most convenient city to stay in to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves would be Aurangabad. This is the closest major area, and is a sprawling city with big buildings, shopping malls and local hospitality.

Choose Wisely!

I’ll be honest, Aurangabad does not have great accomodation. The international tourism industry is still developing and the city doesn’t really have a good selection of highly reviewed properties in good locations. It’s really easy to go wrong when choosing a hotel, as there safety issues and even special rules involved. For example, unmarried couples aren’t usually allowed to stay in the same hotel room without a marriage certificate, but to be honest, international chains usually overlook this rule with foreign tourists)

Where We Stayed: Grand Kaliash Hotel

During my time in Aurangabad, I stayed at the Grand Kailash Hotel . After doing extensive research across multiple hotel aggregators, I found that this hotel was the best choice for me when taking into account the relatively affordable price, positive reviews, location (right across a big shopping mall, and super close to the airport), and cleanliness. There are a lot of hotels in the area, but not all are of high quality. The rooms here were huge and comfortable, and the breakfast was pretty good too. Reception seemed pretty chill, and even though I can’t confirm if this is actually the case, I feel like they wouldn’t pester foreign tourists with the marriage certificate rule. If you are unmarried couple looking to stay in Aurangabad, I would suggest just saying you’re relatives or something (I know - not super ideal, but I don’t make the rules).

Grand Kaliash Hotel

You can take a closer look and book a stay at the Grand Kailash Hotel by clicking here.

Budget: Click Hotel Aurangabad

This is a relatively new hotel in Aurangabad that has pretty good reviews and comes in at about half the price as Grand Kailash Hotel. The Click Hotel Aurangabad is known for its clean interior design, friendly staff and affordable cost. However, reviewers sometimes complain that although the hotel is close to the caves, it’s quite far away from amenities such as shopping malls, places to eat and the airport.

Click Hotel Aurangabad

You can take a closer look and book a stay at Click Hotel Aurangabad by clicking here.

Upmarket: Vivanta Aurangabad, Maharashtra

The Vivanta Hotel brand is well-known in India for its classic, elegant 5-star hotels. The Vivanta Aurangabad is no different, as it features gorgeous decorations, luxurious rooms and a tempting pool. Although this is a 5-star hotel, the price tag for this one is still way cheaper than what you would find in almost any other country - with some rooms on sale for just under 140USD a night.

Vivanta Aurangabad, Maharashtra

You can take a closer look and book a stay at the Vivanta Aurangabad, Maharashtra by clicking here.

Where are the Ajanta and Ellora Caves located?

Sculptures at Cave No. 26, Ajanta Caves

Although the Ajanta and Ellora caves are in the same district of Aurangabad, and in the same state of Maharashtra, they are actually quite far away from each other.

Cave No. 16, Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves are closer to the city of Aurangabad, as they are only about a 50-minute drive (32.2km) away.

The Ajanta Caves , on the other hand, are located over 100kms away from Aurangabad, and will take a 2.5-hour drive to reach.

Overlooking the Ajanta Caves

This is something you should keep in mind if you’re only visiting one cave, as the Ellora Caves are much more accessible and easy to reach from Aurangabad.

Entry to Ellora Caves

Getting from one cave to the other will take some time, so you should keep this in mind if you’re planning on visiting both in one day. On a good day with minimal traffic, it should take just under 2.5 hours to get from the Ajanta Caves to the Ellora Caves.

How do I get to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves?

Caves at Ellora

Your most logical starting point would be to land in the Indian city of Aurangabad. You can check Skyscanner for flights to and from Aurangabad, as they often have last-minute special deals going on.

Ralph at Ajanta Caves

Although you’ll mostly use Aurangabad as a base for visiting the caves, the city has a few attractions worth checking out itself - such as the Bibi Ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort . You can visit these if you have any spare time outside of checking out the caves. During our time in Aurangabad, we also chilled out at the Prozone Mall, which surprisingly had an excellent range of food options in the food court.

If you’re interested in visiting Aurangabad City’s sights, I would recommend you check out this tour, which ticks off all the major highlights.

Buddhist sculptures at Ajanta

While there are public transport options to get from Aurangabad to the caves, these don’t run very often and are sometimes unreliable. I’m not exactly sure what the comfort levels will be either, as they vary wildly in India (and often end up on the lower end) – so I would not recommend taking public transport to get to Ajanta or Ellora.

Surrounding greenery at Ajanta

Luckily, hiring a private driver and/or a private guide is not expensive. Despite the long drives, you’ll get a lot of value for money and be able to visit the caves for an inexpensive cost.

Brief History of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Ajanta caves.

Exterior of Ajanta Caves

The beautiful Ajanta Caves are a collection of about 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments, dating all the way back from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE. These caves are cited as some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art, and have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cave No. 19 of Ajanta

Asher at Cave No. 1 of Ajanta

As you tour the caves in Ajanta, you’ll witness ancient monasteries, worship halls, intricate paintings and more. In fact, Caves 1, 2, 16 and 17 form the largest corpus of surviving ancient Indian wall-painting. Despite having existed for millenniums (literally), they were only “discovered” and brought to the Western mainstream in 1819, by a colonial British officer by the name of Captain John Smith.

Ellora Caves

Cave No. 29, Ellora Caves

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ellora Caves is one of the largest rock-cut Hindu temple cave complexes in the world. Its artwork and caves date all the way back to 600-1000 CE, making it slightly less ancient than the Ajanta Caves.

Bird’s eye view of Kalish Temple

Its crown jewel is the Kailash Temple (Cave 16), a jaw-dropping cave dedicated to the Hindu God of Shiva. Structurally a little different than Ajanta, the Ellora Caves are split up into three sections, that being:

The 12 Buddhist Caves (caves 1-12)

The 17 Hindu Caves (caves 13-29)

The 5 Jain Caves (caves 30-34)

Hindu cave of Cave 29

Jain cave of Cave 32

The Ellora Caves are a prime example of the religious harmony and melting pot of beliefs in India, as it’s extremely rare to find a complex of ancient caves dedicated to three separate religions anywhere else in the world.

Why You Should and Shouldn’t Visit the Ajanta Caves

Why you should visit the ajanta caves.

I visited the Ajanta Caves first, and I have to say, the Ajanta Caves made a stronger first impression on me.

Another look at Cave No. 26

The caves in Ajanta are absolutely stunning . I was in disbelief while walking around the complex, and 3.5 hours went by so fast – it was hard to leave! I checked out every single cave, and found something interesting or different in almost every one of them.

Intricate sculptures at Ajanta

Gorgeous paintings at Ajanta Caves

Without a doubt, my favourite cave in the Ajanta complex is Cave 26, an impressively decorated ‘chaitya hall’. Other highlights included Cave 19, 1, 2 and 4, although the whole complex was simply amazing.

How awesome are these rock carvings?

Ceiling of Cave No. 1

Something that I found more impressive about Ajanta over Ellora was also the natural surroundings of the caves. The Caves are encompassed in gorgeous, elevated green scenery – providing sweeping views of the valley as you walk around the caves complex. The surrounding nature around Ellora is slightly less impactful.

The scenery surrounding Ajanta

Walking around the Ajanta Caves is easier than Ellora, as it’s only the one set of caves that are up for exploration, and this can be done solely on foot. The sights in the Ellora complex are more spread out, and involve more walking.

Asher at Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are slightly older than the Ellora caves, so you might feel a stronger sense of ancient history here, as the caves date all the way to the BCE era – something that can’t be said about the Ellora Caves.

Cave No. 2 at Ajanta

There might be aggressive touts trying to sell you souvenirs in both sights, but once you actually get into the Ajanta Caves complex, they don’t follow you. When you first arrive at the Ajanta Caves complex, you’ll have to pass through a ‘shopping village’ before you actually see the caves. During this time, there will be store owners trying to aggressively sell you things – simply tell them no in a firm manner, and keep walking if you’re not interested.

Having Cave No. 4 all to myself at Ajanta

Once you actually get to the caves, they can’t follow you in and will leave you in peace (at least until you return back to the shopping village at the end of your visit). This isn’t the case with Ellora, as the touts can actually follow you throughout the complex. Don’t let these experiences deter you from visiting though! It’s still more extremely worth it to visit, despite these minor inconveniences.

Playing with the lighting at Ajanta

One final reason to visit the Ajanta Caves over the Ellora Caves, is that, to me, it’s easier to ‘complete’ exploring the Ajanta complex in a shorter amount of time than Ellora. There are more caves in Ellora, and they are spread out. This can take a bit more time and effort if you want to explore the cave complex thoroughly and completely, and you may end up having to skip some caves (as I did) in Ellora.

Why You Shouldn’t Visit the Ajanta Caves

Ralph at Cave No. 4

The most obvious reason why you might not want to visit the Ajanta Caves is the long distance from Aurangabad to the caves. The Ellora caves are much closer, so if you’re on limited time, that would be a much more suitable option. Visiting the Ajanta Caves can be an all-day thing (if you want to explore deeply), so a 2.5-hour car ride on either side of your day can be time consuming and tiring. It’s a full-on day trip, so you have to prepare for that.

Entrance to Ajanta Caves

Also, if you choose to visit Ellora instead, you could even have time to explore other attractions in the Aurangabad area. This is unlikely to be the case if you visit the Ajanta caves.

Raw rock carvings at Ajanta

To get to the Ajanta Caves, you’ll first have to reach the Ajanta ‘shopping village’, then walk through it, before boarding a run-down bus to the caves. When we visited, this bus cost us an extra 30 INR each, one way. So although fractional, there’s extra costs and time associated with visiting the Ajanta Caves.

Ralph enjoying the Ajanta Caves

Compared to the Ellora Caves, there is less variation in the Ajanta Caves. The Ajanta Caves are more suited to the serious, history-buff or archeologically interested traveller, while the Ellora Caves can be seen as a more family-friendly, all-encompassing experience. The Ajanta Caves are primarily Buddhist caves, while the Ellora Caves feature three different religions, providing more of a point of differentiation.

Why You Should and Shouldn’t Visit the Ellora Caves

Why you should visit the ellora caves.

One of the most intricate caves I’ve ever seen! - Ellora Caves

Although I did mention that the Ajanta Caves had a bigger impact on me, make no mistake – the Ellora Caves are downright gorgeous as well. It is highly likely that you will still get that jaw-dropping, ‘can’t believe this is even real’ moment when visiting the Ellora Caves. In particular, Ellora Cave 16 ( Kailash Temple) is absolutely one of the best things I have seen in all my years of traveling, and something you can’t find at the Ajanta Caves.

Posing at Kailash Temple

There’s more of an ‘overall experience’ at Ellora Caves over Ajanta. At Ellora, you can visit three types of caves (Buddhist, Hindu and Jain), all at three different locations. You’ll get to experience different religions and types of caves, and there’s even a nice waterfall near the alluring Cave 29.

More details of Kailash Temple

Waterfall at Cave No. 29

Apart from Cave 16 and 29, the other caves I would recommend visiting are Caves 10-12 , and 30-32 , which are the Jain caves. To get to Caves 29 and 30+, you’ll need to pay for a buggy vehicle ride which will take you to the caves. You can walk there, but on a hot day this would be unpleasant. The return ride cost 60 INR for one person when we visited. Remember to retain your ticket as you’ll have to show the driver at various points!

You can take a buggy ride to Caves 29 and 30 onwards at Ellora Caves to save you from walking

Sculpture at Cave No. 29

Of course, the biggest advantage of visiting the Ellora Caves over the Ajanta Caves is its close location to Aurangabad. From Aurangabad, it takes approximately 2 hours less time to visit Ellora rather than Ajanta – making it far more accessible.

More sculptures at Ellora

Ellora is full of these fascinating sculptures

The detail in these caves is just insane!

Why You Shouldn’t Visit the Ellora Caves

Inside look at the Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves are a lot busier than the Ajanta Caves. We visited on a weekday, and even then, there were long entrance lines, and it was more difficult to find a cave you could have all to yourself. Although beautiful, it was a little harder to soak in the beauty of the caves with the people around. Still, the crowds are nothing compared to the crowds in places like the Taj Mahal and are overall ‘moderate’ at best.

A look at the rock face at Ellora Caves

If you have limited mobility and want to explore a more compact place, then perhaps Ajanta is a better choice than Ellora. The Ellora complex is very big (in my opinion), and involves a lot of traveling between the three different areas of caves.

Locals at Kailash Temple

Furthermore, if you’re limited on exploration time and you want to see every cave available, I would visit Ajanta. There are more caves at Ellora, which means you need more time explore everything in detail.

Ancient sculptures at Ellora

I also found that the touts were slightly more aggressive at Ellora than Ajanta, as they were located within the caves complex, and some even followed us around the complex after we entered.

Cave No. 11 at Ellora Caves (interior)

Cave No. 11 at Ellora (Exterior)

Which One Should I Visit – Ajanta or Ellora Caves?

Which one should you visit? Ajanta or Ellora? (Pictured here – Ellora Caves)

Both are beautiful, but what if you can only choose one? (Pictured here – Ajanta Caves)

Believe me when I say, you can’t go wrong with either choice. Both cave complexes are majestic, epic, magnetic, and every other superlative you can find.

Cave No. 19 – Ajanta Caves

If you’re short on time, I would visit the Ellora Caves. The shorter travel time will allow you to explore for longer. I also feel that the Ellora Caves gives you a better ‘sampler’ of what these ancient caves look like, as the caves are all varied from one another.

Ralph at Cave No. 19 – Ajanta Caves

Paintings at Ajanta Caves

If you have at least one whole day to explore, I would choose the Ajanta Caves, which are my personal favourite. I felt that the caves were slightly more striking, mysterious and felt more authentic (as it has less visitors than Ellora).

Views overlooking the Ellora Caves complex

However, I would highly recommend visiting both if you have the time. Regardless of which one you visit, there is no doubt that you will be visiting one of the best places in India.

Should I visit the Caves in One Day or Two Days?

Kalish Temple, Ellora

Both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves deserve your full time and attention, and as much as visiting the caves over 2 days is ideal, we know that this isn’t feasible for all travellers. So, the question is – do you actually need two separate days to visit the caves?

Buddha sculpture at Ellora

Our answer is no - we don’t think you actually need two separate days. If you start early enough (at around 6:30am - 7am), you’ll have enough time to explore both caves quite thoroughly and not feel too rushed. The Caves are similar enough that you probably wouldn’t feel the need to spend more than a few minutes in each cave, especially towards the end of your day. To visit the caves in one day, check out the Private Tour of Ajanta and Ellora Caves in One Day tour.

However, if you prefer to take it slow and allow yourself more exploration time, then yes, I would take one day each to explore each cave. To explore the caves over 2 days, check out the Guided Ajanta and Ellora Caves Over 2 Days (Private Tour) experience.

How long should I stay to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves?

I’d say you’ll need at least 2.5 or 3 hours to visit each cave to go at a leisurely pace. Obviously, you’ll have more time if you visit them on separate days.

Stunning rock face of Ellora

If you’re visiting over one day, I would recommend visiting Ajanta first, and then Ellora. Ellora is a lot closer to Aurangabad, so you can always visit on the way back to the city – this avoids you potentially being caught up in midday traffic on the way to Ajanta from Aurangabad.

How to Buy Tickets to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Should i buy tickets online.

Another look at Kailash Temple, Ellora Caves

You can buy your tickets online, or you can buy your tickets at the ticket booth when you reach the caves.

There can be a long line (especially at Ellora), so I would recommend buying your tickets in advance here if you’re not going on a guided tour. This will save you the hassle of frequent ticket checks and keeping a physical copy on you. The issue with buying tickets online is that they separate entries from pre-noon, and post-noon (before 12pm and after 12pm). So if you haven’t quite worked out your schedule and you’re afraid you might miss the entry cut-off time, it’s best to buy tickets on the day, or get your guide to get them for you.

Asher at the Ajanta Caves

If you’re visiting on a tour, choose an option where entrance fees are included, as this takes away the hassle of working all of the above out.

Ticket Prices

Both caves have a foreigner ticket price of 550 INR each (about 7USD). Although entry isn’t the cheapest, it’s completely worth it. If you’re a local, the entry fee is 35 INR for each cave.

Opening Hours

The caves are closed on some days, so consider this carefully.

Please consider the opening hours and days carefully, as the caves are closed for maintenance one day of the week.

Asher at Ajanta

The Ajanta Caves are open every day except Mondays. They are open from 9am – 5pm.

The Ellora Caves are open every day except Tuesdays. They are open from 6am – 6pm.

If you’re planning on visiting both in one day, the only days when you can do this are between Wednesday to Sunday. However, weekends get quite busy with locals visiting, so I would recommend visiting between Wednesday to Friday.

Things To Remember at Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Taking videos is not allowed at the Ajanta Caves.

At Ajanta, taking videos was strictly prohibited, and we actually got told off for taking some videos (we didn’t know this rule beforehand)!

Inside look at the Jain Temples at Ellora

We weren’t totally sure what the rules were at Ellora, but they seemed to be more relaxed, as we were able to take videos without anyone telling us otherwise.

We hope you enjoy visiting the Ajanta and Ellora Caves! Let us know if you found our guide helpful in the comments below!

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Ajanta Caves

How to Plan a Trip to Ajanta Caves

Nestled within the rugged terrain of Maharashtra, India, the Ajanta Caves stand as a testament to ancient artistry and architectural brilliance. This UNESCO World Heritage site, comprising 30 rock-cut caves, offers a mesmerizing journey through time, showcasing exquisite Buddhist paintings and sculptures. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will unravel the secrets of Ajanta Caves, providing you with essential tips for an enriching and enjoyable visit.

Table of Contents

Understanding the History and Significance

Ajanta Caves date back to the 2nd century BCE and the 6th century CE, representing a span of nearly 800 years.
The caves served as a retreat for Buddhist monks, who carved intricate sculptures and painted vibrant frescoes on the cave walls.
The caves are divided into two phases: the earlier Hinayana phase and the later Mahayana phase, reflecting the evolution of Buddhist art.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to explore Ajanta Caves is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Monsoon season (June to September) brings lush greenery but may hinder exploration due to heavy rainfall.
Summers (April to June) can be hot, so it’s advisable to carry water and wear sunscreen.

Getting There

The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport, approximately 100 kilometers away.
Aurangabad is well-connected by rail and road, making it a convenient gateway to Ajanta Caves.
Regular buses and taxis are available from Aurangabad to Ajanta.

Accommodation

Aurangabad offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
It’s advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Some hotels may offer guided tours to Ajanta Caves as part of their packages.

Entry Fees and Timings

Ajanta Caves have specific entry fees for Indian and foreign tourists. It’s recommended to check the latest fees before planning your visit.
Indian, SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries: INR 40
Foreign Tourists: INR 600
Children (Under 15): Entry is free
The caves are open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and it’s wise to arrive early to avoid crowds.

Guided Tours

Engaging a knowledgeable guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical and artistic significance of each cave.
Guides can provide insights into the stories depicted in the paintings and sculptures, enhancing your overall experience.

Must-Visit Caves

While all the caves have unique features, Cave 1, Cave 2, Cave 16, and Cave 17 are particularly noteworthy.
Cave 1 houses the iconic sculpture of the Buddha seated in a preaching pose, while Cave 2 showcases exquisite paintings depicting Jataka tales.

Photography Tips

Photography is allowed in most caves, but it’s essential to check for specific restrictions.
Carry a fully charged camera or smartphone and be respectful of others while taking pictures.

Clothing and Footwear

Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and exploring the rocky terrain.
Some caves may require removing footwear before entering, so it’s advisable to wear easy-to-remove shoes.

Respecting Cultural Sensitivities

Ajanta Caves hold immense cultural and religious significance. Visitors should maintain a respectful demeanor, refraining from loud conversations and inappropriate behavior.
Avoid touching the paintings and sculptures to preserve their integrity for future generations.

Local Cuisine

Aurangabad is renowned for its delectable Maharashtrian cuisine. Don’t miss out on local specialties like Puran Poli, Bhakri, and Bhel Puri.
Carry water and some snacks while exploring the caves, as facilities within the complex may be limited.

Souvenir Shopping

Explore the local markets for handicrafts, artifacts, and souvenirs depicting the artistry of the region.
Bargaining is common in local markets, so be prepared to negotiate for the best prices.

Extended Exploration Options

Consider allocating more than a day to explore Ajanta Caves thoroughly. Extending your visit allows for a deeper understanding of the intricate details and diverse art forms within each cave.
If time permits, you can also explore nearby attractions like the Ellora Caves , which showcase a blend of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist architecture.

Accessibility Considerations

While most of the caves are accessible, some may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check the accessibility of the caves and plan your visit accordingly.
Caves are generally well-lit, but carrying a small flashlight can be helpful, especially in the darker corners.

Weather Preparedness

Ajanta’s weather can be unpredictable, so carrying a light rain jacket during the monsoon season is advisable.
Sunscreen and a hat are essential during the summer months to protect against the strong sunlight.

Educational Significance

Ajanta Caves offer an incredible educational experience for students and scholars alike.
any universities and educational institutions organize field trips to explore the historical and artistic aspects of these caves.
Check with local guides or authorities for special educational programs or workshops that might enhance your understanding.

Conservation Efforts

Be aware of the ongoing conservation efforts within Ajanta Caves. Donations and responsible tourism contribute to the preservation of these cultural treasures.
Avoid littering and follow designated paths to minimize the impact on the fragile ecosystem surrounding the caves.

Cultural Events and Festivals

Check for any cultural events or festivals taking place in Aurangabad during your visit.
Participating in local celebrations can provide a unique perspective on the cultural vibrancy of the region.
Some festivals might include traditional music and dance performances, adding an extra layer to your overall experience.

Local Etiquette

Familiarize yourself with basic local etiquette to ensure a smooth and respectful interaction with the locals.
Greetings, gestures, and a few words in Marathi, the local language, can go a long way in creating a positive connection with the community.

Post-Visit Reflection

Take some time after your visit to reflect on the profound impact of Ajanta Caves. Consider documenting your thoughts and experiences in a travel journal.
Share your experiences with fellow travelers, contributing to the collective appreciation of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Things to Carry

Comfortable Clothing : Wear comfortable and modest clothing suitable for walking and exploring.
Footwear : Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes as there might be some uneven surfaces.
Sun Protection : Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Water Bottle : Stay hydrated, especially if you plan to spend a considerable amount of time exploring.
Snacks : Pack some light snacks to keep your energy levels up during the visit.
Camera : Capture the breathtaking beauty of the caves, but be aware of any photography restrictions.
Valid ID : Carry a valid identification card for entry and verification purposes.
Mobile Charger : Ensure your mobile phone is charged, and consider carrying a portable charger.
Guidebook or Map : Carry a guidebook or map to understand the history and layout of the Ajanta Caves.
Cash : Bring some cash for entrance fees, souvenirs, or any other miscellaneous expenses.

Things to Do

Respect the Rules : Adhere to the rules and regulations set by the authorities for the preservation of the site.
Guided Tour : Consider taking a guided tour to gain insights into the history and significance of the caves.
Silence in the Caves : Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor inside the caves to preserve the serene atmosphere.
Observe Photography Rules : Follow any photography restrictions in place to protect the fragile artwork.
Learn about the Art : Take the time to appreciate and understand the intricate art and sculptures in the caves.

Things Not to Do

No Touching : Avoid touching the sculptures and paintings as the oils from your skin can damage them.
No Flash Photography : Refrain from using flash photography as it can harm the delicate pigments on the cave walls.
No Littering : Keep the premises clean by disposing of trash in designated areas.
No Climbing : Do not climb on the structures or touch any part of the caves beyond designated paths.
Respect Religious Practices : If there are any ongoing religious ceremonies, maintain a respectful distance and observe quietly.

Ajanta Caves stand as a testament to human creativity, resilience, and spirituality. This comprehensive travel guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and tips needed to embark on a fulfilling journey through these ancient marvels. Whether you are an art enthusiast, history buff, or a traveler seeking cultural enrichment, Ajanta Caves promises an immersive experience like no other. As you explore the caves, let the echoes of history resonate within you, and may the vibrant hues of the paintings etch lasting memories in your heart. Ajanta Caves beckon, inviting you to uncover the mysteries and treasures concealed within their timeless embrace.

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How to Visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad & Things to Do in Aurangabad

January 30, 2022

If you are visiting Mumbai or Pune and are looking for hidden caves, history, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you simply have to visit Aurangabad. Not only are there plenty of things to do in Aurangabad and places to see in Aurangabad; you can also visit the famous Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad. Unfortunately, there is a lack of accurate information on the internet for these locations, which is why we have compiled this in-depth guide.

Table of Contents

1 Why to Visit Aurangabad
2 Where to Stay in Aurangabad
3 Places to See in Aurangabad
4.1 Ajanta or Ellora?
4.2.1 How to Get to the Ajanta Caves
4.2.2 Visiting the Ajanta Caves
4.2.2 Tips for the Ajanta Caves
4.3.1 How to Get to the Ellora Caves
4.3.2 Visiting the Ellora Caves
4.3.2 Tips for the Ellora Caves

Why to Visit Aurangabad

Aurangabad is Maharashtra’s fifth largest city with over a million inhabitants and has a rich history, culminating with it once being the capital of the mighty Mughal Empire from 1653 to 1707.

Today, along with its array of historic sites and rich culture, it’s not hard to understand why Aurangabad has been bestowed the moniker ‘Tourism Capital of Maharashtra’. On top of that, the city serves as an excellent platform for visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora.

Where to Stay in Aurangabad

We would recommend that you give yourself 3 full days in Aurangabad in order to see everything, especially the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. It may be convenient for you to stay close to the bus terminal if you are planning on using public transport.

If you are going to hire a private driver, they can pick you up at your hotel. Most hotels in the city are mid-range or budget hotels. If you are looking for luxury, you should check out the hotels around Aurangabad Airport. Below are some of our recommendations:

Luxury: Vivanta By Taj
Mid-Range: Hotel Green Olive
Budget: Hotel Pariwar

Best Places to See in Aurangabad

1. bibi ka maqbara.

Often touted as the ‘Mini Taj Mahal’, the Bibi Ka Maqbara is the most prominent landmark in Aurangabad. Of course, it doesn’t conjure up the same magic as the Taj and isn’t so exquisite.

This mausoleum was built in mid 17th century by Azam Shah, the son of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, as a tribute to his mother Rabia-ud-Daurani. Her mortal remains lie underground flanked by an octagonal marble screen with exquisite designs.

It was designed by the architect Ata-ullah, who coincidentally was the son of Ustad Ahmad Lahauri, the chief designer of the Taj Mahal. It is the sole example of Mughal architecture on the Deccan Plateau. The mausoleum stands at the center of an enormous enclosure and is laid out in a Charbagh style formal garden.

The monument looks better from afar as the closer you get to the monument you see that it lacks proper maintenance and suffers from crumbling decor. It is still worth a visit though, especially if you haven’t seen the Taj.

The Bibi Ka Maqbara is open from 8-20. Entrance is 10 INR for Indian citizens and 250 INR for foreigners.

2. Aurangabad Caves

Often overlooked in favor of the more well known Ajanta and Ellora Caves are the Aurangabad Caves. The complex consists of 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines made up of basalt rock divided in 3 groups that are about a kilometer apart.

The first group of caves consists of caves 1-5, the second group consists of caves 6-9, while the last group is made up of caves 10-12. The caves have intricately carved sculptures from the 2nd century to the 7th century related to Buddhism as well as Hinduism.

Cave 1 & Cave 3 are the earliest excavations here and are probably date back to the second and third centuries. Cave 7 is the most exquisite one which features a panel of six scantily clad female musicians.

This sculpture group is considered to be a cornerstone of Tantric Buddhism. The lush green landscape around the caves just adds to the charm of this place.

The opening hours of the Aurangabad Caves is from 9-17. Entry fee is 10 INR for Indian citizens and 100 INR for foreigners.

3. Daulatabad Fort

Located around 16 km northwest of Aurangabad lies the mighty Daulatabad Fort. It is perched atop a conical hill and lies 200 meters above sea level. The Daulatabad fort was constructed in the 12th century by Yadava general Raja Bhillamraj and was originally known as Devagiri.

It was renamed Daulatabad (City of Fortune) in 1328 by Mohammed Tughlaq, the eccentric Sultan of Delhi, who shifted his capital here. It is surrounded by three layers of defensive walls and a moat making it virtually impossible to penetrate. The fortress has also never witnessed a battle in its lifetime.

The steep and slightly dizzying ascent to the top (700+ steps) will take you past a series of shrewd defenses, huge wooden doors, iron gates, water cisterns, a subterranean passage, and the impressive Chand Minar tower.

Once there, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surroundings. We would advise you to take some water bottles along for the climb.

The fortress is open from 9-18 and it’s best to go early to beat the crowds. Entrance is 10 INR for Indian citizens and 100 INR for foreigners.

4. Panchakki and Baba Shah Musafir Dargah

Panchakki is a 17th-century watermill that is situated in the complex of the Baba Shah Musafir Dargah. Also dubbed ‘Nehar-e-Panchakki, the watermill was built on concepts of medieval Indian architecture and functions on scientific principles.

The water is sourced from an underground water stream 6 km away from Panchakki and is transported through earthen pipes. Originally constructed with the purpose of generating electricity, it was later used to grind grains for the pilgrims of the Dargah.

The tomb of Baba Shah Musafir, a Sufi saint who served as a spiritual adviser to the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, is found here. The complex also comprises a court, a madrasa, a mosque, and a huge 300-year-old Banyan tree. Panchakki is a popular picnic spot in Aurangabad.

The Panchakki water mill is open from 7-18 and entrance is free.

5. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is a famous 18th-century Hindu temple in the village of Verul, just 1 km from the Ellora Caves and about 29 km from Aurangabad. It is a famous pilgrimage site as it is believed to be the last or 12th Jyotirlinga on the earth.

A Jyotirlinga is a devotional manifestation of Lord Shiva, one of the supreme deities in Hinduism. The Shiva Linga is found one level below the front entrance of the temple.

The temple is renowned for its wonderful medieval architecture with intricate carvings of Indian deities and attractive friezes. The temple complex has a lovely tranquility about it that enables you to savor a quiet moment to reflect on things.

This is one of the smallest Jyotirlinga temples in India in terms of size. Cell phones, cameras, and leather items are not permitted inside the temple and men have to go bare-chested to the inner sanctum.

The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is open daily from 5:30-21:30 and the entrance is free.

How to Visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad

One of the main reasons to visit Aurangabad is, of course, its proximity to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Both can be reached easily on a day trip from Aurangabad. Personally, we find the late monsoon to be the best time to visit both, the Ellora and Ajanta Caves.

It turns the hillsides lush green and brings down the temperature considerably. Below we have outlined some practical information to make the most out of your visit.

Should You Visit Ajanta or Ellora?

Personally, we recommend that you visit both complexes as both shine in different ways. However, if you are short on time you may wonder whether to visit Ajanta or Ellora. The Ellora Caves are definitely easier to reach and because most of the art is sculpture, it is a little more impressive than Ajanta.

On the other hand, the complex in Ajanta is significantly older and because it is harder to reach, also off the beaten track. They both cost the same, although it is, of course, more expensive to get to Ajanta. You could also book a tour that will give you a taste of both.

[one_half padding=”0 5px 0 5px”] Ajanta Caves Style: Buddhist Distance from Aurangabad: 105 km Price for Indians: 30 INR Price for Foreigners: 500 INR Opening hours: 09:00-17:30 Closed: Mondays[/one_half]

[one_half_last padding=”0 5px 0 5px”] Ellora Caves Style: Buddhist, Hindu, Jain Distance from Aurangabad: 25 km Price for Indians: 30 INR Price for Foreigners: 500 INR Opening hours: 09:00-17:30 Closed: Tuesdays[/one_half_last]

Visit Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad

The Ajanta Caves are a set of carved Buddhist caves, located about 105 km from Aurangabad. The earliest caves date back to about 200 BC and display some of the most exquisite Buddhist art, including paintings and sculptures. For that reason, they have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to Get to the Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad

By bus: Buses run from Aurangabad several times a day and reach the Ajanta caves within around 3 hours. Please note that the public buses can get very crowded and that you may have to share a seat with another traveler.

The buses terminate at the Ajanta parking lot from which it is a bit of a walk to the ticket counter. In fact, we recommend that you take the shuttle bus to the ticket counter. The shuttle buses cost 40 INR per person.

By car: Alternatively, you could rent a car with or without a driver. If you hire a driver, ask them to drop you off at the viewpoint and pick you up at the parking lot. We recommend that you shop around a bit and find yourself a good and decent driver.

Prices are generally 2200-2400 INR for the day. Please note that some drivers may charge you extra to drop you off at the viewing point. Make sure to discuss that before you leave.

Visiting the Ajanta Caves

We strongly recommend that you arrive at the caves shortly before opening at 09:00 as it is the only way to beat the crowds. Entrance is 30 INR for Indians and 500 INR for foreigners. The site closes at 17:30 every day except on Mondays when the Ajanta Caves are entirely closed for visitors.

Once you pass the ticket counter, you have a bit of a climb ahead of you. To reach the caves you’ll need to climb a set of stairs. There are porters available at the bottom of the stairs, but as long as you are able-bodied, you should be fine on your own.

Once you reach the plateau, the caves are set in a semi-circle around the mountain and consist of viharas and chaityas. The majority are viharas, or monasteries, which are characterized by symmetrical square plans. Chaityas are worship halls and typically more narrow with high ceilings.

Apart from the architecture in and by itself, Ajanta’s main draw is the paintings in the caves. Unfortunately, conservation of the paintings started after considerable decay had already occurred. Today, it can be difficult at times to make out the scenes depicted on the walls.

Across the gorge lies a viewing point from where you can get a beautiful panorama of the caves. It may actually be a good idea to that in the beginning, as a visit to the caves can be quite tiring and you may be tempted to skip it at the end.

Tips for Visiting the Ajanta Caves

First off, we strongly recommend that you read about the different caves before you visit. There is very little information available at the site itself.

Once you get there, there are guidebooks on sale around the entrance and we would recommend that you buy one or hire a guide by the entrance. There are also some guards in front of the caves who will give you some information for a small tip.

You should wear comfortable clothes as well as shoes that can easily be removed. You will need to take off your shoes when you enter the caves. Apart from that, it’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and a sunhat as it can get very hot.

You are allowed to take photos inside the caves but without flash. The caves are kept quite dark to protect the sensitive artwork. You may want to carry a small flashlight to be able to see properly.

There is a restaurant available close to the entrance called MTDC Ajanta. They serve thalis at a decent price and there are Western-style toilets available as well (bring your own toilet paper though). We recommend that you stick to vegetarian food as we found the non-veg dishes to be mediocre.

Visit Ellora Caves from Aurangabad

Similar to the Ajanta Caves, the Ellora Caves also feature ancient Buddhist artwork. Additionally, you can also find Jain and Hindu artwork at the Ellora Caves.

With over 40 caves at the complex, there is plenty to see. The oldest caves date back almost 1500 years and the Ellora Caves are also UNESCO-listed.

How to Get to the Ellora Caves from Aurangabad

Located only 25 km from Aurangabad, the Ellora Caves are much easier to get to than the Ajanta Caves.

By bus: Similarly to the Ajanta Caves you can take a public bus from Aurangabad. The ticket costs approximately 40 INR and the journey takes about 45 minutes. From the bus stop, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the entrance.

By car: Alternatively, you can hire a car with a private driver from Aurangabad. You can shop around a bit, although prices are generally around 1200-1400 INR for the day.

Visiting the Ellora Caves

The caves are open year-round, although 10:00 is probably a good time to arrive. Please note that the complex is closed on Tuesdays. Entrance for Indian costs 30 INR for Indians and 500 INR for foreigners.

Once you pass the ticket counter, you will immediately arrive at cave 16. From here you have caves 17-28 on the left and caves 1-15 on the right (facing cave 16).

In order to get to caves 29-34, you need to take a shuttle bus from cave 16. Tickets for this bus are sold in front of cave 16, costing about 22 INR.

Cave 29 lies somewhat separate from caves 30-34 which means the bus will drop you a crossroads before continuing to caves 30-34. From this crossroad, it’s about a 5-minute walk to cave 29.

Ellora Caves Overview

The main attraction, cave 16, also known as the Kailasha Temple. It is a chariot-shaped monument to the God Shiva. It is King Krishna I how is credited with the construction of the temple. The place is absolutely massive and you could spend an entire day at this ‘cave’ alone.

Unfortunately, this particular ‘cave’ was closed during our visit due to a security threat. It is so monumental, however, we will definitely be back in the future to see it in person.

If you are short on time, make sure to visit caves 10,11,12,14,15,16,21,29,30,32,33 as they are easily the most important ones.

Caves 1-12: Buddhist Caves
Caves 13-29: Hindu Caves
Caves 30-34: Jain Caves

Tips for Visiting the Ellora Caves

Guidebooks to the caves can be bought just after the entrance in front of cave 16. They may cost about 60 INR, but they are definitely worth it. There is next to no information in and around the caves which is a bit disappointing.

There aren’t really any restaurants around the Ellora Caves so we’d advise you to grab food once you get back to Aurangabad. A number of street food stalls lies outside the ticket office, but they may not be the best place to get food with a European stomach. Apart from that, there are a few water vendors inside the complex, but nothing more substantial than that.

The toilets at the Ellora caves were a big letdown for us. They aren’t particularly clean and there is no toilet paper. In fact, when we visited, there wasn’t even running water to wash our hands (or our behinds). We recommend that you bring some wet wipes as well as hand sanitizer.

Now, what do you think? Would you like to visit Aurangabad? Which is your favorite, Ajanta or Ellora? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Hello there, fellow globetrotters! I’m Jacky, a passionate travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust. With several years of experience in online marketing, I leverage my expertise to ensure that you get the best travel advice, tailored for the digital age. My travels have taken me to over 30 countries, and I love sharing those experiences with readers like you. Besides traveling, my other loves are my beloved cats, architecture, art, science fiction, coffee, and all things cute. My travel tips have been featured on lonelyplanet.com and in the EasyJet Traveller magazine.

14 thoughts on “How to Visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad & Things to Do in Aurangabad”

ANY HOTELS NEAR AJANTHA CAVES?

Jacky. Happy Holidays. We are visiting Aurangabad from 07th October 2023 for 04 nights and 5 days. i am sure that your article written explaining all essentials would help us on our tour. Thanks in advance. Vibhuti Kashyap “Ghummakkad”

Thank you, this article was super helpful in my trip.

I think this is the best comprehensive guide on the internet about these caves. Very neatly presented. I will plan my trip soon. Thank you so much.

Thank you Aveek! Enjoy your trip 🙂

Very neatly said- a big thanks 🙏🏻 Wish to visit in Oct’22.

Hi, Thank you for the detailed description. Can you recommend a knowledgeable guide for Ajanta and Ellora? Thanks Prashant

Wonderful, made me confident to take a trip to ellora caves. All doubts cleared. Very nice and precise disruption. Thankyou.

Thank you for your kind feedback! 🙂

Excellent description of the tour..very helpful . Concise and precise.thank you

Thanks for your kind words, Suganya!

Thank you. Very good and detailed information.

This is very comprehensive and useful. I’m from Mumbai and it’s a bit embarassing I’d to read your account to know what to do 😛 Thank you.

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Top Things to do at Ajanta & Ellora Caves – A complete Travel Guide

Venture into the heart of India’s ancient artistic legacy at the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Maharashtra unfold tales from Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism through intricate carvings and murals. As you explore, you’ll discover that things to do in Ajanta and Ellora Caves go beyond mere sightseeing; they offer a profound journey into India’s rich cultural heritage. We recommend exploring these stunning architectural marvels by booking a comfortable chauffeur driven cab from Aurangabad .

Places to eat in Ajanta and Ellora Caves
Best time to visit
How to reach
Timings and Entry Fees
Architecture
Places to stay around Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Things to Do around Ajanta and Ellora

Visit the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple .
Shop at the Mughal Silk Bazaar.
Visit the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb at Khuldabad
Visit the ancient Daulatabad Fort and revel in the magnificence of the structure.
Visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, the final resting place of Aurangzeb’s wife, Rabia-ud-Durrani . Due to its similarity with the Taj Mahal at Agra, it is also called the Mini Taj of the Deccan.

[Also read: Places to visit near Mumbai by road ]

Best Place to Eat in Ajanta and Ellora

Here are some places to eat in Ajanta and Ellora:

Bhoj Restaurant, CBS Road – Indian cuisine
Kailash Restaurant, Railway Station Road – Indian and Chinese food
Tandoor Restaurant and Bar, Station Road East – Indian food
MTDC Ajanta Restaurant, Near Ajanta Caves – Thalis, juices, and more

How to Plan a trip to Ajanta Ellora Caves

Ajanta ellora caves best time to visit.

The best time to visit Ajanta and Ellora caves is from October to February. The temperatures during these months range between 10 and 25 degrees C. During the summer months of March to June the temperatures can soar to 40 degrees C. While the monsoon can be a refreshing period in Maharashtra, your trip can be hit with practical difficulties if the downpour is heavy.

Importance of a Guide during your Visit

Every cave, painting, and sculpture in the Ajanta and Ellora has a story. Without a guide, you will not be able to appreciate their significance.
Although you can read about it online, a local guide can take you through the temples explaining every bit in great detail.
If you don’t know the local language, then it is important to ensure that you find a guide who knows your language.
A knowledgeable Ajanta Ellora tourist guide can help you relive the bygone era and create memories for years to come.

#WorldHeritageDay2021 @UNESCO world heritage sites Ajanta-Ellora caves located near #Aurangabad @maha_tourism @HelloMTDC @tourismgoi pic.twitter.com/VjjGrgLxkd — Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Aviation (@fly_high_IXU) April 18, 2021

How to Reach Ajanta and Ellora from Nashik

When traveling from Nashik, Ellora falls before Ajanta. Here are different ways in which you can reach Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Nashik:

Ajanta and Ellora Caves are situated in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. Aurangabad has a railway station at a distance of around 30 km from the Ellora Caves and 105 km from Ajanta Caves. There are 12 trains from Nashik to Aurangabad . The fastest train is the Dadar – Jalna Jan Shatabdi Express that takes around three hours. Once you reach the Aurangabad Railway Station, you can book a taxi from Aurangabad to Ajanta Ellora Caves and reach your destination in no time.

The distance by road from Nashik to Ellora Caves is around 170-180 km via the Maharashtra State Highway 30. The road distance between Nashik and Ajanta Caves is around 260-265 km via MH SH 25. You can drive yourself or hire a chauffeur-driven Nashik to Ajanta and Ellora Caves taxi. You can also rent a car from Pune and enjoy the journey .

There are no direct flights from Nashik to Aurangabad . Hence, it is advisable to either travel by train or road to reach Ajanta and Ellora.

[Also Read: Explore Maharashtra’s Breathtaking Sea Forts]

How to Reach Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Mumbai

When traveling from Mumbai, Ellora falls before Ajanta. Here are different ways in which you can reach Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Mumbai:

Ajanta and Ellora are situated in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. Aurangabad has a railway station at a distance of around 30 km from the Ellora and 105 km from Ajanta. There are 12 trains from Mumbai CST to Aurangabad. The fastest train is the Dadar – Jalna Jan Shatabdi Express that takes around six hours and ten minutes. Once you reach the Aurangabad Railway Station, you can book a taxi from Aurangabad to Ajanta Ellora and reach your destination in no time.

The distance by road from Mumbai to Ellora Caves is around 340-345 km via the NH160 and Maharashtra State Highway 30. The road distance between Mumbai and Ajanta Caves is around 430 km via NH160. You can drive yourself or hire a chauffeur-driven Mumbai to Ajanta and Ellora caves taxi and enjoy the journey.

Aurangabad has an airport with direct connectivity to Mumbai. The flight time is around one hour and ten minutes. You can book a cab from Aurangabad airport to Ellora Caves (distance of around 36 km) or a taxi from Aurangabad airport to Ajanta Caves (distance of around 105 km).

Download our Savaari car Booking app for a smooth and pleasant journey.

Ajanta and Ellora caves timings and Entry Fees

Here are the details:

Ajanta Caves Timings

The Ajanta Caves are open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM throughout the year. They are closed on Mondays.

Ajanta Caves Entry Fee

Adult Indian nationals: Rs 10
Children below 15 years of age: Free
Foreign tourists: Rs 250
Additional charges for still or video camera: Rs 25

Ellora Caves Timings

The Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesdays . On all other days, they are open from 6 AM to 6 PM .

Ellora Caves Entry Fee

Indian nationals: Rs 30
Foreign tourists: Rs 500
Additional charges for video camera: Rs 25
Car parking: Rs 30

About Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Ajanta Ellora caves represent the rich Indian history and artistry that existed in ancient times. These are caves that have been cut from rocks and offer a glimpse into the glorious past of our country.

Ajanta & Ellora caves are located in which city?

These caves are located in close proximity to the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra. The Ajanta is around 102 km from Aurangabad while the Ellora Caves are around 30 km from the city.

Ajanta Ellora History

Ajanta Caves are the older of the two and date back to the period between the 2nd Century BCE and 480/650 CE . The caves are believed to have been built in two phases – the Satavahana Period and the Vakataka Period. These caves were lost to mankind since they were covered by trees and thick forest for a long period only to be rediscovered in 1819 by the British.

Ellora Caves, on the other hand, date back to the period between the 5th and 10th Century CE . They are divided into Hindu Caves, Buddhist Caves, and Jain Caves.

Today, the Ajanta Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Ajanta Ellora Caves Architecture

While the Ajanta and Ellora are separated by a distance of around 100 km, they are usually, mentioned together since their aesthetics are at par and they are both located in the Aurangabad district. The Ajanta Caves are more about amazing paintings on the Buddhism theme. On the other hand, Ellora Caves are more about architecture and sculpture from three different religions – Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism .

The Ajanta Caves is a cluster of around 30 caves that have been excavated in the shape of a horseshoe. All the caves were connected by a flight of stairs which have now been destroyed. Cave #1 is the most popular cave in Ajanta with authentic paintings and a doorway with Bodhisattva murals.

The Ellora Caves is a cluster of around 34 caves extending over more than 2 km. They are the most exemplary examples of Indian rock-cut architecture. These caves mostly have monasteries with living and sleeping quarters. The Buddhist Caves were built first, followed by the Hindu and the Jain caves.

Importance of Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Ajanta and Ellora are famous for the architectural finesses of ancient India.

Ajanta Ellora Caves Location – Aurangabad district in Maharashtra

These are man-made caves built by carving a huge granite hillside. Ajanta are older than Ellora. Every site has a unique story. Architecturally, they are considered to be heritage properties of the world and are listed with UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Here are some important facts about these caves:

The Ajanta caves date back to around the 2nd Century BCE .
There are many monasteries and worship halls of Buddhist traditions in the Ajanta Caves.
UNESCO believes that Indian Art was influenced by the Buddhist Art of these times.
Ellora is one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world.
Ellora caves date back to the 600-1000 CE period .
There are more than 100 caves excavated at the Ellora site. However, only 34 have been opened to the public. Of these, there are 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu, and 5 Jain caves.

Best Places to Stay around Ajanta and Ellora

Here are some places to stay around Ajanta and Ellora:

Closer to Ellora Caves

WelcomHotel Rama International – Member ITC Hotel Group, Airport Road
Ambassador Ajanta Hotel, Jalna Road
Hotel Modi Grand, Adalat Road
The Fern Residency, Jalgaon Road

Closer to Ajanta Caves

Hotel View Point, Jalgaon-Aurangabad Highway
Hotel New K P Park, Fardapur
The Imperia Residency, Ajanta Road
Four Season Recreation Hotel And Spa, Ajanta Road

Best Road-trips to Ajanta Ellora Caves (Aurangabad District)

Last Updated on February 2, 2024 by Swati Deol

Discover India's Stone Wonders - Things to do in Ajanta & Ellora

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Exploring the Marvels of Ajanta Ellora Caves

When it comes to captivating tales of ancient craftsmanship and architectural brilliance, few places on Earth can match the grandeur of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in India. These remarkable cave complexes, nestled in the heart of the Indian state of Maharashtra, have stood the test of time as a testament to the artistic and engineering prowess of our ancestors. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the history, significance, and sheer magnificence of the Ajanta Ellora Caves.

Table of Contents

A Glimpse into History

Ajanta caves: a spiritual sanctuary.

The journey begins with the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exquisite Buddhist rock-cut monuments and frescoes. These caves, numbering 30 in total, date back to the 2nd century BCE and are spread over two phases of construction. They served as secluded retreats for Buddhist monks, providing them with a tranquil environment for meditation and worship.

The Ajanta Caves are renowned for their captivating rock-cut architecture, with monasteries, prayer halls, and intricately adorned chaitya halls that leave visitors in awe. The most remarkable feature, however, is the mural paintings that adorn the cave walls. These vibrant frescoes depict scenes from the life of Buddha, Jataka tales, and various deities, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic richness of ancient India.

Ellora Caves: A Fusion of Faiths

Moving on to the Ellora Caves, we encounter an even more diverse array of religious influences. Unlike the Ajanta Caves, the Ellora Caves encompass not only Buddhist but also Hindu and Jain monuments, creating a unique amalgamation of faiths in a single complex.

There are a total of 34 caves at Ellora, each dedicated to a different deity or figure from these religions. The highlight of this site is undoubtedly the Kailasa Temple , an architectural masterpiece carved out of a single rock. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a testament to the unmatched craftsmanship of the artisans who toiled for generations to create this wonder.

Significance and Impact

Preservation of heritage.

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves offer a priceless glimpse into India’s cultural and artistic heritage. These caves stand as a testament to the skill, devotion, and creativity of ancient craftsmen who carved these structures out of solid rock. Their preservation is vital not just for India but for the entire world, as they provide invaluable insights into the past.

Spiritual Reverence

For the faithful, these caves hold immense spiritual significance. The Ajanta Caves, in particular, are a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, drawing visitors from across the globe seeking solace and enlightenment. The Ellora Caves, with their diverse religious representation, are a symbol of India’s religious tolerance and cultural diversity.

Visitor Experience

Exploring the caves.

Visiting the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is a journey through time and spirituality. As you explore these subterranean wonders, each cave tells a unique story through its architecture and art. The serene atmosphere within the caves and the soft echoes of history transport you to a bygone era.

Artistic Marvels

The intricate carvings, sculptures, and mural paintings found in these caves are awe-inspiring. The attention to detail and the precision of these ancient artists are nothing short of remarkable. Marvel at the depictions of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures that adorn the cave walls.

Plan Your Visit

Travel tips.

Location : The Ajanta Caves are situated in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, while the Ellora Caves are around 30 kilometers away. Aurangabad is well-connected by air, rail, and road.
Best Time to Visit : The caves are open throughout the year, but the ideal time to visit is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant.
Entry Fee : There is an entry fee for both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, with separate fees for Indian and foreign tourists .
Guided Tours : Consider hiring a local guide to get in-depth knowledge and insights into the history and significance of each cave.

Exploring the Marvels of Ajanta Ellora Caves

Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the state of Maharashtra, India. These caves are a complex of rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments that date back to the 2nd century BCE and the 5th century CE. They are one of the most significant historical and cultural treasures of India.

Here are some key facts and information about the Ajanta Caves:

Historical Significance: The Ajanta Caves are known for their exquisite ancient Buddhist art and architecture. They were used by Buddhist monks as monastic retreats, places for meditation, and worship.
Rock-Cut Architecture: The caves were meticulously carved into the volcanic rock of the Deccan plateau. They consist of prayer halls, monastic chambers, and intricately decorated facades. The caves feature detailed sculptures, paintings, and ornate pillars.
Paintings and Murals: The most famous aspect of the Ajanta Caves is their stunning murals and paintings. These depict various scenes from the life of Buddha, Jataka tales, and other Buddhist themes. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the paintings have amazed visitors for centuries.
Jataka Tales: The caves also contain a series of Jataka tales, which are stories about the previous lives of the Buddha. These narratives are not only artistically significant but also serve as important sources of Buddhist iconography and literature.
Hinayana and Mahayana Influence: The caves represent both Hinayana (Theravada) and Mahayana forms of Buddhism, showcasing the transition of Buddhist art and ideology during that period.
Rediscovery: The Ajanta Caves were abandoned and forgotten for many centuries until they were rediscovered by a British officer named John Smith in 1819. This discovery brought international attention to the site.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1983, the Ajanta Caves were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their cultural and historical significance. They are now protected and preserved for future generations.
Accessibility: The Ajanta Caves are located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. They are easily accessible by road and can be visited by tourists interested in exploring India’s rich cultural heritage.
Conservation: Over the years, efforts have been made to conserve and restore the Ajanta Caves to ensure their preservation. These efforts aim to protect the valuable artwork and historical significance of the site.

Visiting the Ajanta Caves offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the beauty of ancient Indian art and spirituality. It remains a place of inspiration and reflection for people from all walks of life.

Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves are another UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the state of Maharashtra, India, near the city of Aurangabad. Similar to the Ajanta Caves, the Ellora Caves are a remarkable complex of rock-cut cave temples that hold immense historical and cultural significance. Here’s some information about the Ellora Caves:

Historical and Religious Significance: The Ellora Caves represent a fusion of three major religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. The caves were excavated between the 6th and 10th centuries CE and consist of rock-cut monasteries, temples, and viharas (dwelling places for monks).
Rock-Cut Architecture: Just like the Ajanta Caves, the Ellora Caves were meticulously carved out of solid rock, but they encompass a broader range of religious structures. There are a total of 34 caves, with 12 dedicated to Buddhism, 17 to Hinduism, and 5 to Jainism.
Kailash Temple: The Kailash Temple (Cave 16) is the most famous cave at Ellora. It is a colossal monolithic structure dedicated to Lord Shiva and is often considered one of the most impressive rock-cut temples in the world. It features intricate carvings and is designed to resemble Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva.
Hindu Caves: The Hindu caves at Ellora showcase a wide range of deities and mythological stories. They include impressive sculptures and architectural details dedicated to gods and goddesses such as Shiva, Vishnu, Durga, and others.
Buddhist Caves: The Buddhist caves at Ellora include prayer halls, monastic cells, and stupas. They exhibit the transition from early Buddhist rock-cut architecture to the later Mahayana and Vajrayana forms.
Jain Caves: The Jain caves at Ellora are characterized by intricately detailed carvings depicting Jain tirthankaras and legends. They provide insight into Jain religious practices and beliefs.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Ellora Caves, like the Ajanta Caves, were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for their cultural and historical significance.
Visiting Ellora: The Ellora Caves are easily accessible from Aurangabad and can be explored by tourists interested in India’s diverse religious and architectural heritage. It’s advisable to allocate sufficient time to explore the entire complex, as each cave offers unique insights into ancient Indian art and spirituality.

The Ellora Caves, with their intricate carvings, religious diversity, and architectural marvels, are a testament to the rich and harmonious coexistence of different religious traditions in ancient India. They continue to be a source of wonder and inspiration for visitors from around the world.

Ajanta-Ellora Caves History

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a remarkable complex of ancient rock-cut cave temples and monasteries located in the western state of Maharashtra, India. These caves are renowned for their historical, architectural, and artistic significance and have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Here is a brief history of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves:

Ajanta Caves:

Origins: The Ajanta Caves date back to the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE. They were excavated into the rocky cliffs of the Waghora River valley during the reign of various dynasties, including the Satavahanas, Vakatakas, and later the Chalukyas.
Buddhist Legacy: The Ajanta Caves primarily consist of Buddhist monastic complexes and prayer halls, with exquisite rock-cut sculptures and frescoes. These caves served as a center for Buddhist monks to meditate and practice their faith.
Artistic Masterpieces: The caves are renowned for their mural paintings, depicting scenes from the life of Buddha and other Jataka tales. These paintings are considered some of the finest examples of ancient Indian art and provide valuable insights into the culture and history of the period.
Abandonment and Rediscovery: The Ajanta Caves were abandoned and gradually forgotten over the centuries. They were rediscovered by a British officer, John Smith, in 1819, which led to their recognition and global acclaim.

Ellora Caves:

Origins: The Ellora Caves, unlike Ajanta, feature a blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut temples and monasteries. They were excavated between the 6th and 10th centuries CE, spanning the rule of various dynasties, including the Rashtrakutas and Chalukyas.
Religious Diversity: Ellora comprises 34 caves, with 12 dedicated to Buddhism, 17 to Hinduism, and 5 to Jainism. These caves showcase the religious tolerance and artistic diversity of ancient India.
Kailash Temple: The Kailash Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora is particularly famous. It is a massive monolithic structure dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most impressive rock-cut monuments in the world.
Art and Architecture: Ellora features intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting deities, legends, and mythological tales. The architectural and artistic craftsmanship of the caves is exceptional.

Both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves are significant not only for their historical and artistic value but also for the cultural and religious diversity they represent. They remain important pilgrimage sites and attractions for tourists from around the world, offering a glimpse into India’s rich heritage.

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are more than just archaeological wonders; they are a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of India. These caves have the power to transport you to a time of spiritual enlightenment and artistic excellence. As you embark on your journey through these subterranean marvels, you’ll be left in awe of the timeless beauty that our ancestors have left behind.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey through history and spirituality, plan your visit to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Experience the magic of these caves for yourself, and let the echoes of the past guide you through this incredible pilgrimage of the soul.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Ajanta and Ellora Caves

1. what are the ajanta and ellora caves.

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are two distinct UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in the state of Maharashtra, India. They are rock-cut cave complexes known for their historical, religious, and artistic significance.

2. How far are the Ajanta Caves from the Ellora Caves?

The Ajanta Caves are located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of the Ellora Caves. Both sites are easily accessible from the city of Aurangabad.

3. What is the historical significance of these caves?

The caves at Ajanta and Ellora were excavated and adorned by ancient Indian artisans and monks over several centuries, from around the 2nd century BCE to the 10th century CE. They feature remarkable sculptures, paintings, and architectural marvels that reflect the evolution of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.

4. Are these caves primarily Buddhist in nature?

No, both sites include caves dedicated to multiple religious traditions. Ajanta has Buddhist caves, while Ellora features Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain caves, showcasing the religious diversity of ancient India.

5. What is the significance of the Kailash Temple at Ellora?

The Kailash Temple (Cave 16) at Ellora is a monolithic rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a stunning example of ancient Indian architecture and is renowned for its size and intricate carvings. It is often considered one of the most impressive rock-cut temples in the world.

6. Can I visit both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in one day?

Visiting both cave complexes in a single day is challenging due to their distance from each other. It's recommended to plan separate visits or allocate at least one full day for each site to explore them thoroughly.

7. What is the best time to visit the caves?

The best time to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is during the cooler months of October to March, when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor exploration. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September), as some areas may become inaccessible due to heavy rains.

8. Is there an entrance fee to visit the caves?

Yes, there is an entrance fee for both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. The fees may vary for Indian and foreign tourists, and there may be additional charges for photography and videography.

9. Are guided tours available?

Yes, guided tours are available at both sites. Hiring a local guide can enhance your understanding of the historical and artistic significance of the caves.

10. Are there any accommodations and dining options nearby?

The city of Aurangabad, located near both cave complexes, offers a range of accommodations and dining options to suit various budgets. It's advisable to book accommodations in advance during peak tourist seasons.

11. Are there any restrictions on photography and filming inside the caves?

Yes, there are restrictions on photography and filming in certain areas of the caves. It's important to check the specific rules and areas where photography and filming are allowed or prohibited.

12. What is the Entry Fee to Ajant Caves?

It will cost Rs. 40 per person. The Booking website is https://asimustsee.nic.in/ajanta-caves.php

Visiting the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is a unique opportunity to explore India’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Planning your visit well in advance and respecting the rules and guidelines will help you make the most of this extraordinary experience.

How To Visit Ajanta And Ellora

Published: September 7, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Cris Kuo

Maharashtra
Plan Your Trip
Travel Guide
Travel Tips

Introduction

India is a land of rich cultural heritage, and nestled within its boundaries are treasures that showcase the exquisite artistry and architectural brilliance of ancient times. Among these exceptional wonders are the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, located in the state of Maharashtra. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites have stood the test of time, captivating visitors from all over the world with their sheer beauty and historical significance.

The Ajanta Caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, are a collection of 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves adorned with intricate sculptures and exquisite paintings. These caves serve as a testament to the flourishing Buddhist culture that thrived in the region during that era. On the other hand, the Ellora Caves, constructed between the 5th and 10th centuries CE, showcase a harmonious blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions, making them a symbol of religious harmony.

A visit to Ajanta and Ellora offers a unique opportunity to delve into the glorious past of India and experience the artistry that has captivated generations. This comprehensive guide will assist you in planning your trip, providing you with valuable information on how to reach the caves, the best time to visit, entry fees, and the key highlights of each cave complex. So, let’s embark on a virtual journey to Ajanta and Ellora, immersing ourselves in the grandeur of these architectural marvels.

Planning Your Trip

Before setting off on your adventure to Ajanta and Ellora, it’s essential to plan your trip meticulously to ensure a smooth and memorable experience. Here are some key factors to consider when planning your visit:

Duration: Allocate at least two to three days to explore both Ajanta and Ellora properly. Each cave complex has a lot to offer, and rushing through them would not do justice to their magnificence.
Itinerary: Create a detailed itinerary that includes the specific caves you want to visit, the order in which you want to explore them, and any additional attractions in the vicinity that you wish to include in your trip.
Research: Prioritize conducting thorough research on the history, significance, and highlights of the caves. This knowledge will greatly enhance your appreciation of the art and culture embedded within these ancient sites.
Guided Tours: Consider hiring a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights and stories behind the caves’ artwork and architectural elements. Their expertise will enrich your visit and help you truly grasp the historical context of the caves.
Physical Fitness: Keep in mind that exploring the caves requires a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs. Ensure you are physically fit and wear comfortable shoes and clothing to make your journey more enjoyable.
Photography: Confirm the photography rules and regulations at the caves in advance. While photography is generally allowed, certain areas or specific caves may have restrictions or require additional permits.
Food and Water: Carry bottled water and some snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized during your exploration. It’s advised to eat a substantial meal before entering the caves, as there are limited dining options within the vicinity.

By taking these factors into consideration and planning your trip accordingly, you can ensure a seamless and enriching experience as you venture into the mesmerizing Ajanta and Ellora Caves.

Getting to Ajanta and Ellora

Reaching Ajanta and Ellora is relatively easy, thanks to the well-developed transportation network in Maharashtra . Here are the various modes of transportation to consider:

By Air: The nearest airport to Ajanta and Ellora is the Aurangabad Airport, situated around 100 kilometers away. It is well-connected to major cities in India, making it a convenient choice for domestic travelers. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach your destination.
By Train: Aurangabad Railway Station, located approximately 30 kilometers from the caves, is the nearest major railway station. Trains from various cities in India connect to Aurangabad, making it an accessible option for travelers. From the railway station, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Ajanta and Ellora.
By Road: Ajanta and Ellora are well-connected by a network of national and state highways. Regular bus services operate from cities like Aurangabad, Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik to reach these cave complexes. Additionally, private taxis and rental cars are available for a more flexible and comfortable journey.

Once you reach Ajanta or Ellora, you can easily explore the caves on foot. The two cave complexes are located around 100 kilometers apart, so it is essential to plan your transportation accordingly if you wish to visit both.

For those who prefer a hassle-free experience, guided tours and private transportation services are available. These options provide convenience and ensure a smooth journey to and from Ajanta and Ellora.

Remember to check the latest transportation schedules and availability, especially during peak travel seasons, to avoid any last-minute inconveniences. With proper planning and transportation arrangements, you can embark on a memorable journey to witness the magnificence of Ajanta and Ellora.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Ajanta and Ellora is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The temperatures are mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it conducive for exploration and outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall to the region, which can hinder your visit and make the caves slippery and dangerous.

Visiting during the offseason, from April to May, is also an option if you prefer smaller crowds and are willing to bear the slightly warmer temperatures, which can reach up to 35°C (95°F). Nonetheless, it’s important to note that during this period, the weather can be quite hot and dry, so ensure you stay hydrated and carry sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Another factor to consider when planning your visit is the festivals and events that take place in the region. The festivals of Mahashivaratri and Buddha Purnima are celebrated with great fervor in and around Ajanta and Ellora, attracting a significant number of devotees and tourists. These festivals offer a unique cultural experience and a chance to witness the vibrant traditions of the local communities.

It’s recommended to check the local calendar and festival schedules when planning your trip to Ajanta and Ellora, as these events may enhance your overall experience and provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Regardless of the time of year you choose to visit, ensure that you pack appropriate clothing and accessories, such as a light jacket for the winter months or breathable clothing for the summer. Don’t forget to carry comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent to ensure your comfort throughout your exploration of the caves.

By considering the weather conditions, festivals, and personal preferences, you can determine the best time to visit Ajanta and Ellora and make the most of your experience at these remarkable cave complexes.

Entry Fees and Passes

When visiting Ajanta and Ellora, it’s important to be aware of the entry fees and passes required for entry to the cave complexes. Here is an overview of the fees and passes:

Ajanta Caves: The entry fee for Indian citizens is INR 30 per person, while for foreign nationals, it is INR 500 per person. There is an additional charge for photography of INR 25 for Indians and INR 300 for foreign nationals. Visitors can also avail of a composite ticket (valid for two days) for INR 50 for Indians and INR 600 for foreign nationals. This ticket allows entry to all monuments at Ajanta, including the caves.
Ellora Caves: The entry fee for Indian citizens is INR 30 per person, while for foreign nationals, it is INR 600 per person. Similar to Ajanta, there is an additional charge for photography of INR 25 for Indians and INR 500 for foreign nationals. The composite ticket (valid for two days) for Ellora costs INR 50 for Indians and INR 700 for foreign nationals and includes entry to all monuments within the Ellora complex.
Other Charges: There may be additional charges for videography, as well as separate fees for special attractions, such as light and sound shows, if available at the caves. These charges may vary, so it’s advisable to check the latest information before your visit.

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s recommended to verify the current fees and charges on the official websites or with the respective authorities. Some discounts may be applicable for students, senior citizens, and children, so ensure you carry the necessary identification or documentation to avail of these discounts, if applicable.

Visitors can purchase the entry tickets at the designated ticket counters located at the entrance of the respective cave complexes. It is advisable to carry cash in Indian Rupees, as card payment facilities may not always be available.

By being aware of the entry fees and passes beforehand, you can plan your budget accordingly and ensure a hassle-free visit to Ajanta and Ellora Caves.

Exploring Ajanta Caves

The Ajanta Caves are a magnificent display of ancient Buddhist art and architecture, and exploring them is like stepping into a mystical world frozen in time. Here are some key highlights and tips for an immersive experience:

Cave Complexes: The Ajanta Caves are divided into two complexes, the Eastern Complex and the Western Complex. The Eastern Complex houses caves 1 to 8, while the Western Complex consists of caves 9 to 29. Each cave has its own unique design and features.
Art and Sculptures: Marvel at the mesmerizing frescoes, intricate sculptures, and detailed carvings that adorn the cave walls and ceilings. These artworks depict various scenes from Buddhist scriptures, tales of ancient India, and everyday life during that era.
Main Attractions: Some of the must-visit caves include Cave 1 (the Mahachaitya), Cave 2 (the magnificent double-storeyed cave), Cave 10 (the Chaitya griha with stunning paintings), and Cave 16 (the Kailash Temple, a monolithic structure carved out of a single rock).
Guided Tours: Consider hiring a guide who can provide detailed insights and stories behind the artwork, as well as the historical and cultural significance of each cave. They can help you unravel the hidden meanings and symbolism within the paintings and sculptures.
Photography: Photography is generally allowed inside the caves, but flash photography and tripods are prohibited. Respect the rules and regulations and ensure that your photography does not disturb other visitors or damage the delicate artwork.
Footwear and Respectful Behavior: It is customary to remove footwear before entering the caves as a sign of respect. Be mindful of maintaining a peaceful and quiet atmosphere within the caves to preserve their sanctity.
Time Management: Allocate sufficient time to explore each cave thoroughly. It’s advisable to start with the Eastern Complex in the morning and proceed to the Western Complex after lunch, as this route allows for a more convenient exploration.

Exploring the Ajanta Caves is a unique journey through time and artistry. Take your time, absorb the intricate details, and marvel at the ingenuity of the ancient craftsmen who brought these caves to life.

By following these tips and immersing yourself in the beauty of the Ajanta Caves, you can have a truly enriching experience and gain a deeper understanding of the artistic and cultural heritage of ancient India.

Exploring Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a remarkable fusion of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art and architecture. Explore the intricately carved rock-cut caves to witness the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient artists. Here are some tips for a rewarding experience:

Cave Divisions: The Ellora Caves are categorically divided into three main sections: Buddhist caves, Hindu caves, and Jain caves. Each section showcases unique architectural styles and religious symbolism.
Highlights: Some standout caves include Cave 16 (Kailash Temple) – The highlight of the complex, depicting Lord Shiva’s abode, Mount Kailash, with intricate carvings; Cave 10 (Visvakarma) – A beautifully carved Hindu cave dedicated to Lord Shiva; and Cave 32 (Indra Sabha) – Known for its Jain sculptures and stunning ceiling paintings.
Exploration Route: Start your exploration from the south end of the complex to visit the Hindu and Jain caves, and gradually make your way north to the Buddhist caves. This enables a chronological understanding of the development of the different cave styles.
Art and Sculptures: Admire the detailed carvings and sculptures that depict various mythological stories, deities, and historical events. Take your time to appreciate the mastery of the artists who meticulously crafted these stone marvels.
Photography and Preservation: Photography is generally allowed inside the caves, but flash photography, tripods, and touching the sculptures are strictly prohibited to ensure the preservation of the artworks. Respect these rules and help maintain the beauty of the caves for future generations.
Guided Tours: Consider hiring a knowledgeable guide to provide insights into the historical, religious, and artistic significance of each cave. Their expertise will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the Ellora Caves.
Visitor Amenities: Ellora has well-maintained facilities, including restrooms, drinking water stations, and small food stalls. However, it’s recommended to carry a water bottle and some snacks for convenience.

The Ellora Caves offer a mesmerizing journey through different religious and cultural realms. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty and marvel at the grandeur of these rock-cut masterpieces.

By following these tips and embracing the spiritual and architectural wonders of the Ellora Caves, you can have a truly captivating experience and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic heritage of ancient India.

Accommodation Options

When planning a visit to Ajanta and Ellora, choosing the right accommodation is crucial to ensure a comfortable stay. Here are some accommodation options to consider:

Aurangabad: A popular choice for visitors to Ajanta and Ellora, Aurangabad offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays, you’ll find ample options in this bustling city.
MTDC Holiday Resort: Managed by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, this resort is located near the Ellora Caves and offers comfortable rooms amidst lush greenery. It’s a suitable choice for those seeking proximity to the caves and a peaceful ambiance.
Guesthouses and Homestays: A charming alternative to hotels, guesthouses, and homestays provide a more personalized experience. You can choose from a variety of options where locals open their homes, offering a warm and authentic stay experience.
Ajanta-Ellora Road: There are several accommodations available on the road connecting Ajanta and Ellora, making it a convenient choice for those who want to be closer to the cave complexes. These range from mid-range hotels to lodges offering comfortable amenities for travelers.
Online Booking: Utilize various online travel platforms and websites to compare rates, read reviews, and book accommodations in advance. This enables you to secure the best deals and ensures availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, particularly during weekends and holiday periods, to avoid any last-minute inconveniences. Additionally, consider factors such as proximity to the caves, access to transportation, and the availability of facilities and services that suit your needs.

Regardless of the accommodation option you choose, ensure that it meets your comfort and safety requirements and provides a pleasant retreat after a day of exploring Ajanta and Ellora.

By selecting the right accommodation, you can enhance your overall travel experience and make the most of your visit to these remarkable cave complexes.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to the mesmerizing Ajanta and Ellora Caves, the region offers a variety of other attractions that further enrich the overall experience. Here are some notable nearby attractions worth exploring:

Bibi Ka Maqbara: Located in Aurangabad, Bibi Ka Maqbara is often referred to as the “Mini Taj Mahal” due to its architectural similarity. It is the mausoleum of Dilras Banu Begum, wife of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, and is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture.
Daulatabad Fort: Situated in Daulatabad, this medieval fortress showcases impressive military architecture and a network of hidden passages. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and provides insight into the region’s history.
Panchakki: Panchakki, also known as the Water Mill, is an intriguing historical complex in Aurangabad. It features a unique water-powered flour mill and houses the tomb of Sufi saint Baba Shah Musafir.
Aurangabad Caves: These rock-cut caves are located just outside the city and offer a glimpse into the Buddhist art and architecture of the ancient period. The caves include intricate carvings and beautifully preserved paintings.
Grishneshwar Temple: Situated near Ellora, the Grishneshwar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is an important pilgrimage site and boasts a distinct architectural style.
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple: For those seeking spiritual solace, a visit to the famous Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is a must. Located in the city of Shirdi, it is one of the most revered places of worship in India.

These attractions offer a diverse range of experiences, from architectural marvels to spiritual destinations, complementing the cultural exploration of Ajanta and Ellora.

It is advisable to plan your itinerary in advance and allocate sufficient time to explore these nearby attractions while considering their proximity to Ajanta and Ellora. Additionally, check the opening hours and any entry fees required for each site to create a seamless and well-rounded travel experience.

By incorporating these nearby attractions into your visit, you can gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural heritage of the region and create lasting memories.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

To make your visit to Ajanta and Ellora truly memorable, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

Plan Ahead: Research and plan your trip in advance, considering factors such as the best time to visit, transportation, accommodations, and the attractions you want to explore. This will ensure a smoother and more organized experience.
Start Early: Arrive at the caves early in the day to beat the crowds and have ample time to explore each cave at your own pace. This will also allow you to capture photographs in better lighting conditions.
Carry Essentials: Pack necessities such as drinking water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and a mobile charger to stay hydrated, protected from the sun, and ready to capture precious memories.
Respect the Environment: The caves are ancient treasures, so it’s important to be respectful of the surroundings. Avoid touching the sculptures or paintings, refrain from littering, and follow any instructions or guidelines provided by the authorities.
Be Mindful of Clothing: Dress modestly and appropriately, keeping in mind the cultural and religious significance of the sites. It’s advisable to wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees out of respect for the sacredness of the place.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Carry water and snacks during your exploration, as food options inside or near the cave complexes might be limited. Staying hydrated and nourished will help you enjoy your visit without feeling fatigued.
Engage with Guides: Hiring a local guide can greatly enhance your visit, as they can provide valuable insights, historical information, and captivating stories behind the caves’ artwork. Their knowledge will enrich your understanding of the cultural and artistic significance of Ajanta and Ellora.
Take Your Time: The caves are a treasure trove of artistry, and rushing through them would dilute the experience. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details, observe the paintings, and soak in the historical ambiance.
Embrace the Silence: The caves exude a serene and meditative atmosphere. Embrace the silence, put away distractions, and allow yourself to be fully present, immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of these ancient sites.

By following these tips, you can ensure a memorable and fulfilling visit to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, immersing yourself in the wonders of ancient art, culture, and spirituality.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves are truly magical destinations that transport visitors back in time to witness the grandeur of ancient India’s artistic and architectural brilliance. The cave complexes, with their intricate sculptures, stunning paintings, and rich historical significance, offer a captivating journey into the past.

By planning your trip meticulously, considering the best time to visit, exploring nearby attractions, and selecting suitable accommodations, you can ensure a seamless and enriching experience. Be respectful of the heritage and environment, engage with knowledgeable guides, and take your time to truly appreciate the intricate details and stories woven within the caves.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, a spiritual traveler, or simply curious about the wonders of the world, Ajanta and Ellora will leave an indelible impression on your soul. As sunlight filters through the ancient rock-cut facades, illuminating the carefully preserved masterpieces, you will find yourself transported to an era of artistic brilliance, cultural heritage, and spiritual devotion.

Embark on this journey of exploration and discovery, and let the Ajanta and Ellora Caves unravel the mystique of ancient India, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to witness the wonders of the past and immerse yourself in the fascinating tales crafted within the depths of these magnificent cave complexes.

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Which are the Best Caves at Ellora Caves?

Features: Cave temple complex featuring Hiindu, Jain and Buddhist rock cut temples
Opening Times: dawn to dusk, Wednesday to Monday
Best Time to Visit: Late October to early March
Duration: All day
Travelled By: Bus
Cost: Indian/foreigner Rs 10/250
Address: Ellora, Maharashtra, India
Type: Historic site

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Heading to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves? Did you know that there are 34 caves at Ellora? Before you go, read this article to find out the best caves to visit at Ellora Caves, as well as interesting facts, best time to visit and other important information about the caves.

H eading to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves? Did you know that there are 34 caves at Ellora? Before you go, read this article to find out the best caves to visit at Ellora Caves, as well as interesting facts, best time to visit and other important information about the caves.

10 Interesting Facts About Ellora Caves

Together with the Ajanta Caves, the World Heritage Site-listed Ellora cave temples is the epitome of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture
Lying near an important ancient trade route between Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh and the west coast, the Ellora Caves are thought to be the work of priests and pilgrims who used the route
Dating back to the 6 th century A.D., these cave temples were built over five centuries by generations of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monks
These caves were primarily monasteries, chapels and temples for the monks
Unlike the caves at Ajanta, which are carved into a sheer rock face, the Ellora Caves line a 2km-long escarpment, the gentle slope of which allowed architects to build elaborate courtyards in front of the shrines, and render them with sculptures of a surreal quality
Like the caves at Ajanta, Ellora’s caves were also abandoned and forgotten over time
Ellora has 34 caves in total: 12 are Buddhist (600-800 A.D.), 17 are Hindu (600-900 A.D.) and five are Jain (800-1100 A.D.)
The grandest of the Ellora Caves is the awesome Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), the world’s largest monolithic sculpture, hewn top to bottom against a rocky slope by 7,000 labourers over a 150-year period
Historically, the site represents the renaissance of Hinduism under the Chalukya and Rashtrakuta dynasties, the subsequent decline of Indian Buddhism and a brief resurgence of Jainism under official patronage
The increasing influence of Tantric elements in India’s three great religions can also be seen in the way the sculptures are executed, and their coexistence at one site indicates a lengthy period of religious tolerance

Best Time to Visit Ellora Caves India

The Ellora caves face west and therefore are best seen in the afternoon. The best way to see the caves is to start at the south end and visit the Buddhist viharas first (Nos 1-12), followed by the Jain caves at the north end (Nos 29-34) and finally ending with the Hindu caves (Nos 13-28). This allows the Hindu Kailasnatha temple to be seen towards the end.

Official guides can be hired at the ticket office in front of the Kailasa Temple for Rs 700 and upwards. Most guides have an extensive knowledge of the cave architecture at Ellora.

Ellora Caves Information

Buddhist caves (nos 1-12).

Located on the south side of the complex, these caves belong to the Vajrayana sect of the Mahayana (Greater Vehicle) School. The caves include viharas (monasteries) and chaityas (chapels) where the monks worshipped. It has been suggested that the stone-cut structures were ideally suited to the climate which experienced monsoons, and rapidly became the preferred medium over more flimsy and less durable wood.

While the earliest caves are simple, Caves 11 and 12 are more ambitious, and on par with the more impressive Hindu temples.

Ellora Cave 1

Dating back to circa 6 th century A.D., this Buddhist monastery is austerely plain and devoid of any sculptural representations. It consists of an astylar with eight cells. It is possible that the excavation was done for the residence of the stonecutters but was later on used by the Buddhist monks.

Ellora Cave 2

Dedicated to Lord Buddha, this Buddhist monastery dating back to circa 8 th century A.D. consists of a broken veranda, a hypostylar hall with lateral galleries and a sanctum flanked by cells. The monastery is reached through a flight of steps, and consists of a twelve-pillared mandapa with side galleries and a shrine at the rear end.

This cave is notable for its ornate pillars and the imposing seated Buddha, which faces the setting sun.

The monastery is decorated both internally and externally with sculptures of Lord Buddha in different postures and deities of Buddhist pantheon. The side galleries have images of Buddha in the sunken niches, many of them unfinished.

The pillars are adorned with cushion brackets and some are decorated with the pot and foliage motif. The sculptures are massive, particularly, the dvarapalas (door-keepers) which guard the door of the hall and sanctum. The lateral galleries and the walls are decorated with the images of Buddhist pantheon.

The sanctum in the centre of the back wall houses a 3-m-high seated Buddha on a Lion-throne in preaching posture attended by two standing Buddhas while along each of the side walls are five Buddhas accompanied by Bodhisattvas and apsaras (celestial nymphs).

Ellora Cave 3

Similar to Cave 2, this Buddhist monastery has a square central chamber with an image of Buddha on a Lotus-throne. Around the walls are 12 meditation cells.

Ellora Cave 4

This Buddhist monastery is two-storeyed and contains a Buddha sitting under the Bo (pipal) tree.

Ellora Cave 5

Dating back to circa 7 th century A.D., this is a very big and impressive Buddhist monastery and the largest of the single storeyed caves in this group. Known locally as “Maharvada” this Buddhist cave measures 117 feet deep and 59 feet wide. The oblong hall, the two side chapels with cells, an antechamber and a sanctum are the chief architectural components.

The most striking feature of this monastery is two long and low stone benches placed at the centre which stretches throughout its length, flanked by rows of 24 pillars, 12 on each side. The massive pillars in the hall are decorated with paintings. There are attractive carvings on the first pillar on the left.

The monastery has a shrine for Buddha at the rear end and twenty cells for the monks. The sanctum houses Lord Buddha in preaching posture and is guarded by two huge Bodhisattvas. On the left is Padmapani, a symbol of purity; on the right is Vajrapani holding a thunderbolt, the symbol of esoteric knowledge and the popular deity of the sect responsible for creating the caves.

The Buddha here is seated, not cross-legged on the floor as is usual, but on a chair or stool. He demonstrates some of the 32 distinctive marks: three folds in the neck, long ear lobes and the third eye. The mudra here signifies the Buddha’s first sermon at the Deer Park.

The hall seems to have been used for monks as an assembly hall, dining room and also for ritualistic purposes. This cave could have been a place for preaching and learning of the Buddhist principles and teaching, the stone benches being the seats for the mendicant disciples.

E llora Caves 6-9

These four caves can be bypassed as they contain nothing new.

E llora Cave 10 (Top Pick)

Popularly known as “Viswakarma” (the celestial architect) and also as Sutar-ka-jhopra (Carpenter’s hut), this is the only chaitya (chapel) cave in the group. The local carpenters visit the cave frequently and worship Buddha as Viswakarma, the patron of their craft.

The cave is entered through a gate, cut into the natural rock, into a courtyard open to the sky, with cells to the right and left arranged in two storeys. The cells around the courtyard have square-based pillars at the foot of which was a lion facing outwards. The monastery was on the ground floor, and above are what are presumed to have been the monks’ living quarters.

Through the courtyard, one reaches the elaborately carved chapel of Lord Buddha, a typical chaityagriha. The exterior decoration gives the impression that instead of stone, wood was the building material, hence ‘Viswakarma’. The façade has a trefoil window with apsara groups for ornamentation. The main hall is large (26 m by 13 m, 10 m high). The curved fluted ‘beams’ suggest to some the upturned hull of a ship. The chamber has 28 octagonal pillars, each with a vase and foliage capital, dividing it up into a nave and side aisles. The aisle runs round the decorated stupa (dagoba) with a colossal 4.5-m ‘Preaching Buddha’ carved in front of it.

The visitor is filled with awe at the sight of Lord Buddha seated in dharmacakra pravartanamudra, nearly 11 feet in height, visible by the natural light entering through the entrance door and chaitya window in the balcony. Here, the Buddha image is placed on the front part of a large stupa, nearly 27 feet in height.

The roof is a huge arch with imitations of wooden ribs neatly reproduced in stone. The flat portion in between the pillars and the bottom of the stone ribs, known as triforium, is decorated with a series of seated Buddha images flanked by attendant figures.

The huge chaitya arch in front of the chaityagriha has attained the form of a trefoil decoration, unlike the huge pointed horse-shoe arch of earlier chaityas. The arch has three portions, the central one decorated with an attic window at its centre, which also lightens the interior of the cave. Below the other two portions are sunken niches with an image of Avalokiteshwara on the south side and Manjushri on the north side. The niches represent miniature temple shrines and adorned with extremely beautiful decorations imitating a sikhara of contemporary times. The chaitya arch and the balcony decorations are complete with precision and also imitation of wooden architecture. Even the wooden pins at the joints of beams and lintels are imitated in stone.

The upper gallery, reached by an internal flight of steps, was supposed to have subsidiary shrines at either end but the left hand one was not finished. Decorating the walls are loving couples, indicating how much Buddhism had changed from its early ascetic days. You can get a view of the friezes above the pillars which show Naga queens, symbolic precursors of the monsoon, and dwarfs as entertainers, dancing and playing musical instruments. Sunlight pouring through the circular window at the entrance to the cave gives the cave a truly ethereal quality.

The upper gallery is usually closed to public so you will have to give a small bribe to the guard who will then open the door for you to go up to view the upper gallery.

Ellora Cave 11

This two-storeyed Buddhist monastery was found to have a third storey in 1876 when the basement was discovered. The lowest level is a veranda with a shrine and two cells at the back. The middle level has eight front pillars and five rear cells of which only the central three are completed and decorated. The upper level has a porch opening into a long colonnaded hall with a Buddha shrine at the rear. Images of Durga and Ganesh suggest that the cave was later used by Hindus. Cave 11 and 12 illustrate the use of the upper levels of these caves as a residence for monks and pilgrim hostels.

Ellora Cave 12

This is the largest monastic complex at Ellora, or even in entire Maharashtra. The complex is built in three storeys, hence its local name of “Teen Thal”. The huge complex is entered through a huge entrance carved out of natural rock, which leads into a huge courtyard. Steps on the right lead to the first storey which has a shrine in the middle of the rear end. There are nine cells arranged along the side walls of the first storey. It is believed these cells were used for sleeping (note the stone benches). Various sculptural representations of Buddha and subsidiary deities adorn the walls.

A staircase leads to the second storey which is a huge hall divided into three aisles in rows of 8 square pillars. This floor has 13 cells pierced into the side walls and on the back wall. The shrine at the eastern side has a huge Buddha image in bhumisparsa mudra position. The Buddha image is Sujata offering payasa, reminiscent of the events just before the enlightenment of Siddhartha before he became Buddha. On each side of the seated Buddha image is a row of five Bodhisattvas.

The top floor is reached by a flight of steps on the north side. The top storey is a huge hall with nearly equal dimensions to the lower one; there is a shrine and a huge antechamber on the east. The back wall of the hall contains 14 representations of Buddha, seven on the north side and seven on the south side. The seven images on the north side are in bhumisparsa mudra and are of Vipasyi, Sikhi, Vishvabahu, Krakuchhanda, Kanakamuni, Kashyapa and Sakyasimha – all are manusi Buddhas. The seven on the south side are representations of divine Buddha. The rows of seven Buddhas are symbolic of the belief that he appears on earth every 5000 years and has already visited it seven times.

The side walls of the antechamber are adorned with three images of female deities, three on each side. The shrine is adorned with a colossal image of Lord Buddha flanked by Padmapani and Vajrapani.

Ganesh Group Of Caves – Hindu Caves (Nos 13-29)

Where calm and contemplation infuse the Buddhist caves, drama and excitement characterise the Hindu group (Caves 13-29). In terms of scale, creative vision and skill of execution, these caves are in a league of their own. These caves lie in the centre of the group and are the most numerous.

The group of caves located on the top of the hill on the right bank of the stream is known as Ganesha group because of a beautiful and massive image of Ganesha (Elephant God). This is a group of 17 caves, most of them dedicated to Shiva. The excavation belongs to the 8 th -9 th century A.D. All these temples were cut from the top down, so it was never necessary to use scaffolding – the builders began with the roof and moved down to the floor.

Most of the cave temples have a simple ground plan with a sanctum, antechamber and hall but rarely with a pillared hall. Some of them are painted with Hindu mythological themes. The main colours are white, green and blue. A number of caves contain a Siva-linga and the sculpture of Maheshmurti on the rear wall. Doorkeepers guard the cave entrances.

Ellora Cave 13

This cave is a plain room; it could have been a granary.

Ellora Cave 14

Belonging to the 7 th century, this cave is is single storeyed and the last of the collection from the early period. It is locally known as “Ravan-ki-Khai” because of the sculpture of Ravana shaking the Kailasha, a popular theme at Ellora. This cave temple was probably dedicated to the Sakti cult. The sidewalls on the hall are scooped into several compartments containing the sculptural compositions of Hindu mythology. The sanctum is separated from the back wall by a circumambulatory passage, opening into a hypostylar hall. The sanctum door is flanked by flywhisk bearers, gigantic guards and River Goddesses respectively.

The figurative panels show a Vaishnava (Lord Vishnu) theme on one side and a Saiva (Lord Shiva) theme on the other, depicting religious harmony.

The wall of the hall also contains a panel of seven-divine-mothers. The emphasis on female divinities suggests prevalence of Sakti worship.

Ellora Cave 15

Belonging to the 8 th century A.D., this cave temple is locally known as “Das Avatara Cave” because of the ten incarnations of Vishnu depicted here. The entire temple is planned on a grand scale, executed on an elevated platform and entered through a rock-cut gateway which leads to a courtyard. In the middle of the courtyard is a small raised square hall called Natya Mandapa (Hall of Dance) containing the famous inscription of Dantidurga, a Rastrakut ruler (758-756 A.D.).

The main structure is double storied. The ground floor has massive square sectioned pillars with four cells, and is plain and devoid of any sculpture. The upper floor is dedicated to Lord Siva. The sanctum door is beautifully carved and is guarded by two huge doorkeepers.

In the huge pillared hall is Nandi the bull (Vehicle of Siva) seated majestically. The sidewalls are divided into several compartments and sculptured panels have been brought in bold relief. The Northern side sculptures belong to Shaivite theme while those on the Southern side belong to Vaishnavism.

The two-storey temple contains a mesmerising Shiva Nataraja, and Shiva emerging from a lingam (phallic image) while Vishnu and Brahma pay homage.

Kailasa Temple in Ellora Caves (Cave 16) (Star Attraction)

The Kailasa Temple is the most magnificent of all the rock-cut structures at Ellora, and is completely open to the elements. It is the only building that was begun from the top. Carved out of 85,000 cubic metres of rock, the design and execution of the full temple plan is an extraordinary triumph of imagination and craftsmanship. Excavating three deep trenches into the rock carving started from the top of the cliff and worked down to the base. Enormous blocks were left intact from which the porch, the free standing pillars and other shrines were subsequently carved. The main shrine was carved on what became the upper storey, as the lower floor was cut out below.

It is said that ten generations worked on it and it took more than 200 years for its completion. The temple was planned and begun under the Rastrakuta king Dantidurga (735-757 A.D.) and the major work went on in the reign of Krishna I (757-773 A.D.). The artistic activities of Kailasa were carried out in several phases and spread over many reigns of the Rastrakuta rulers.

This cave is locally known as Kailasa or Kailasanatha, the abode of Shiva, the patron deity of the temple. Mount Kailasa (6700 m), the home of Siva, is a real mountain on the Tibetan plateau beyond the Himalaya. Its distinctive pyramidal shape, its isolation from other mountains, and the appearance to the discerning eye of a swastika etched by snow and ice on its rock face, imbued the mountain with great religious significance to Hindus and Buddhists alike. Kailasa was seen as the centre of the universe, and Siva is Lord of Kailasa, Kailasanatha. To imitate the real snow-covered peaks, the sikharas here were once covered with white plaster.

Kailasanatha is a temple complex with all essential elements of a temple, including a main shrine, Nandi shrine, gateway, surrounding cloisters and subsidiary shrines. The temple is richly carved with niches, pilasters, windows and cornices. The entire temple is decorated with gigantic images of deities, amorous couples, freizes of epic scenes along with faunal, floral and geometric designs. After completion of the temple, there is evidence of renewed plaster and painting between the 9 th and 11 th century A.D.

The temple is 50 m long and 33 m wide and the tower rises 29 m above the level of the court. At the entrance gate, the threshold between the profane and sacred worlds, the goddesses Ganga and Yamuna form the door jambs. Just inside are two seated sages: Vyasa, the legendary author of the Mahabharata, and Valmiki to whom the Ramayana has been ascribed. In the porch four columns carry the North Indian vase and foliage motif, a symbol of fertility and well-being. On each side of the doorway there are images of Kubera, the god of wealth, with other symbols of well-being such as the conch shell and the lotus. Two more figures complete the welcoming party. They are Ganesh (left), the elephant headed son of Siva, bringer of good fortune, and Durga (right), Siva’s wife who fought the demons.

In the antechamber opposite is Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. In the courtyard, to your right and left are free-standing elephants. On the left round the corner is a panel depicting Kama, the god of desire, carrying his bow and five arrows, one for each of the senses. On the far wall to your left of the entrance, behind the pillars, is the shrine of the Three River Goddesses – Ganga (centre), Yamuna (left) and Saraswati (right). Symbolically they stand for purity, devotion and wisdom respectively. This is a good place to photograph the central shrine. The two carved monolithic pillars are probably stylized flagstaffs indicating royal patronage – a practice that Asoka popularized in the third century BC.

The main temple is called Rang-Mahal (Painted Palace) because after its completion the temple was plastered and painted. Rang-Mahal is rectangular in plan. The seven-metre high plinth is decorated with life-size elephants and mythical animals and friezes illustrating two great epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata.

The main temple has a Vadya, Mandapa, Nandi Mandapa, a pillared hall, an antechamber and a small sanctum surrounded by five subsidiary shrines (Panchayatana). The ceilings of the sanctuma, antechamber and the hall have pendentive rosettes, goddess Anna-Purna and Dancing Siva respectively. The entire temple is also decorated with beautiful paintings.

Lankeshwara temple carved in the Northern corridor is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple consists of a pillared hall, antechamber, sanctum, and Nandi shrine. On the parapet wall outside is a freize of amorous couples carved in brass relief. The pillars and walls are decorated with a number of interesting panels. The sanctum houses a linga and the back wall is carved with the Maheshmurthi in low relief.

There are two distinct levels taking the worshipper from the courtyard by two staircases flanking the central hall, to the lower level with its processional path and then rising even higher to the upper level of the mandapa.

Around the central shrine is a colonnaded Central Assembly Hall gouged from the rock, which in places overhangs menacingly. Inside this cloister is a series of panels portraying Siva and Vishnu myths. The whole can be viewed as a sort of instructional picture gallery, a purpose it served for worshippers from ancient times who could not read.

The south facing wall has Ramayana stories – Ravana offering his heads; Siva and Parvati with Nandi the bull and the lingam (creative power); Siva playing the vina; Siva and Parvati playing dice in a spirit of harmony; the marriage of Siva and Parvati; the origin of the lingam, the symbol of Siva and creative (male) energy; Siva dancing and Siva tricking Parvati. The panel on the south of the mandapa of Ravana shaking Mount Kailasa, attempting to carry it off, disturbing Parvati and her attendants, one of whom is seen frightened and fleeing, and Siva restoring order with the movement of his toe.

Along the north-facing wall are stories from the Mahabharata above and Krishna legends below. The panels include Krishna stealing buttermilk; Vishnu as Narasimha, half man, half lion; Vishnu reclining on Ananda the serpent inbetween incarnations; Vishnu the Preserver. Finally there is Annapurna, Goddess of Plenty.

The inner porch contains two panels, Siva as Lord of Knowledge and Siva as Bhairava killing the Elephant Demon.

Steps lead to the upper floor which contains a mandapa (central hall) of 16 stout pillars arranged in groups of four, with aisles that correspond to the cardinal points leading to an open central area. At the far end is the garbhagriha (shrine) with Ganga and Yamuna as door guardians. Inside is the yoni lingam, symbol of Siva’s creative power. Running around the back is a passageway with five small shrine rooms off it, each with a replica of the main temple. There is a Nataraja painting on the mandapa ceiling. There are remnants of paintings on the porch ceilings (particularly to the west) where you will see apsaras, dwarfs and animals. The temple rises in a pyramid, heavier and more squat looking than later towers in the north. The shape suggests enormous strength. As you leave, the path to the left leads up and around the temple giving an interesting bird’s-eye view of the magnificent complex.

Various sculptures carved here in the temple are not here by accident but by deliberate design. Every sculpture has a meaning and a purpose. The two elephants and the free standing Pillars of Victory in the courtyard reflect Rashtrakuta’s supremacy and power. The figures of Sankha-Nidhi, Padma-Nidhi and the panel of Gajalaxmi in the courtyard symbolise their prosperity. The enormous animals supporting the superstructure of Kailasanatha show the great importance given to the animal world in Hindu mythology. The entire temple complex is surrounded by a raised pillar corridor decorated with huge panels of mythological stories.

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Ellora Cave 21

This cave temple locally known as “Rameshwara” is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Excavated in the 7 th century A.D., it has a courtyard with a raised platform and a hall consisting of sculptured pillars on both sides. The sanctum at the back of the hall contains a Siva-linga inside.

The Nandi platform, which is in the middle of the courtyard, is massive and decorated with figures of Gods and Goddesses. The richly carved pillars and pilasters support the beautiful façade.

On the outside of the parapet wall a long freize of elephants and amorous couples are carved with great beauty and rich imagination. A panel of River Goddess executed outside the cave is a masterpiece of Ellora art.

Elaborately carved doorframe with floral decoration, guarded by massive figures and sculptured chapels is the main attraction of this cave. The sculptured chapels consisting of a number of figures of Gods and Goddesses in Hindu mythology reveal religious and social aspects of ancient India.

Ellora Cave 29

This cave temple locally known as “Dhumar-lena” or “Sita-ki-nihani” after a beautiful cut figure of river goddess Yamuna mistakenly named as Sita. It is dedicated to Siva and impresses the visitor by its sheer massiveness and enormous figure sculptures.

Dating back to the 8 th century A.D., the temple has a unique ground plan. The 26 fluted pillars with the corresponding pilasters support the entire structure. The main hall is divided into a central nave with two aisles on either side. The hall is entered through three porticos in the South, North and West respectively. The sanctum containing a Siva-linga in the back wing of the cave has four entrances in the cardinal directions. Huge doorkeepers accompanied by female attendants guard each side. The doorkeepers are very tall reaching almost to the roof of the cave.

The walls of the portico and veranda are carved with beautiful sculptures. The artist has chiselled out the sculptures with beautiful compositions and great imagination and skill. The proportionate figures have beautiful hairdo, fine thin drapery and striking ornaments.

During the monsoon, the stream becomes active and water cascades down on the eastern side of the cave, offering a fantastic view of the waterfall from the eastern balcony.

Jain Caves (Nos 30-34)

The Jain caves are an anticlimax after the Hindu ones, but they have an aura of peace and simplicity. They lack the artistic vigour and ambitious size of the best Hindu temples, but they are exceptionally detailed. The caves are 1km north of the last Hindu temple (Cave 29) at the end of the bitumen road.

Ellora Cave 30

Locally known as “Chhota Kailasa” (Little Kailasa), this Jain cave belongs to the early 9 th century. It was intended as a smaller scale replica of the Kailasanatha Temple but never completed. The columned shrine has 22 tirthankaras with Mahavira in the sanctuary.

Ellora Cave 31

This Jain cave has beautiful aesthetics on the facade as well as in front of the entrance. There are lovely rock pools in front of the entrance which provides a wonderful setting to the cave. Elephants busts jut out from the facade of the cave facing in all four directions.

Ellora Cave 32 (Top Pick)

This a double storied cave temple dedicated to the Digambar sect of Jainism and dates back to the 10 th -11 th century A.D. It is the finest of the Jain series and is dedicated to Mahavir. The temple is locally known as “Indra Sabha” (Assembly Hall of Indra) because of the Matanga figure mistakenly identified with Indra. The gateway leads to an open courtyard, having a monolithic elephant and a huge monolithic pillar. The pillar has quadruple images on the top which represents the glory of Jain religion facing all four directions.

The small hall has an entrance on all four sides and houses a quadruple image of Lord Mahavira. The façade wall is also decorated with sculptures. The walls are covered with Suparswanath, Gomteshvara, Matang and Siddhaika sculptures.

The main temple is two storeyed. The ground floor contains a veranda flanked by chapels, a big hall, an antechamber, and a sanctum. The chapels in the veranda house Lord Mahavira and the walls are decorated with the sculptures of Jain deities. The walls of the hall are decorated with a number of panels of Jain deities. Inside the small sanctum there is an image of Lord Mahavira seated on a Lion-throne, with fly whisk-bearers on both sides and umbrellas over his head.

The upper floor consists of a big veranda, pillared hall, and a sanctum. The side walls of the veranda have huge and beautiful sculptures of Matanga (God of Wealth) and Ambika (God of Prosperity). The entire upper floor represents a sculptural picture gallery. The walls are decorated with sculptures and the entire cave was also painted at one time. The sanctum houses Lord Mahavira and guardians of earlier Jain tirthankaras guard the door. The most notable feature of the upper floor is the varied and variegated designs of the pillars. The ceiling is richly carved with a massive lotus at the centre and you can see signs of painted figures among the clouds.

Ellora Cave 33

This cave temple is known as Jagganatha sabha or court of Jagannatha (Lord of the World). Dedicated to the Digambara sect of Jainism, this cave dates back to the 10 th -11 th century A.D. The main temple is double storied.

The lower floor consists of a veranda, a pillared hall, an antechamber, and a sanctum. The veranda is decorated with a sculpture of Matanga (God of Wealth) and Siddhaika (Goddess of Prosperity). While the walls of the hall are sculptured with Jain deities, the sanctum houses Lord Mahavira on a lion throne in meditation pose. A low door cell on the rear wall and a square hole in the floor were perhaps for concealing objects of value. The pillar designs are striking and are distinguished by their perfect finish and meticulous precision.

The upper floor consists of a veranda flanked by chapels, a big pillared hall, and a sanctum on the rear wall. The upper floor is very beautifully carved and painted. The hall consists of 12 decorative pillars decorated with Tirthankara panels and paintings on the walls.

Gardens and Surrounding Area of Ellora Caves Aurangabad

The Ellora cave complex is situated in beautiful grounds. The area in front of Cave 16 is particularly picturesque and is covered with green grass and yellow flowers. This is a great spot to take photos of the cave complex as well as photo shots of the exterior facade of Cave 16.

If you happen to be around in the evening around the time of closing a band of monkeys make their way down to the grounds in front of Cave 16. They are a bunch of langurs (black-faced Indian monkeys) who are rather aggressive so keep your distance. It’s fun watching them run around and create a nuisance of themselves.

Canteen within Ellora Caves Complex

If you plan to spend the entire day at the Ellora caves, there is a lovely cafeteria in the centre of the complex near the Kailasha temple. Steps lead down to the courtyard from where you can order delicious vegetarian thalis for lunch, as well as chips, ice creams or drinks.

FAQs About Ellora Caves India

Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Ellora Caves. If you have any other questions, please leave them in the ‘Comments’ section below.

Who Built Ellora Caves?

The Ellora Caves lies near an important ancient trade route between Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh and the west coast. For this reason, the caves are thought to be the work of priests and pilgrims who used the route. Dating back to the 6 th century A.D., the Ellora cave temples were built over five centuries by generations of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monks.

How to Reach Ellora Caves?

The easiest and most affordable way to get here is to take the government bus from the Central Bus Stop in Aurangabad town. It takes about 30 minutes and drops you in front of the entrance gate for Ellora Caves. If you plan to take a bus, it is advisable to hire an auto rickshaw inside the cave complex to transfer you between the different sections of the caves. For example, the Jain caves are located a fair distance from the Hindu caves. Instead of taking a long walk between the two sets of caves, there are auto rickshaws who will take you for a small sum from the Jain caves to the Hindu caves. You can take a public auto rickshaw (share with other people) or a private one just for yourself.

Other transport options include auto rickshaws and taxis from Aurangabad town. Of course, you can also organise a private car with chauffeur from your hotel or any travel agency in Aurangabad.

Distance from Aurangabad to Ellora Caves

Ellora Caves is located 30 kms northwest from Aurangabad.

Distance between Ajanta and Ellora Caves

The distance between Ajanta and Ellora Caves is 107km. Ellora Caves is located closer to Aurangabad.

Ellora Caves Timings

Ellora Caves is open from dawn to dusk, Wednesday to Monday. It is closed on Tuesday.

Ellora Caves Location

Ellora Caves,

Aurangabad,

Maharashtra,

Tell us what you think. Are you planning to visit Ellora Caves? If you’ve been here before, what were your favourite caves and why?

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My wife is not very mobile, is there a way for her to be able to see some of these caves? Do some have wheel chair access?

Hi Reece, There are Palanquins available for the less mobile visitors. There are attendants ready to carry your wife around, both up and down the many stair cases. This is one of those attractions where she will be well looked after.

Just wanted to let you know that the information on this page is so detailed and thorough. I will be reading this page when I go to Ellora Caves. Thank you.

Enjoy your trip to Ellora Caves. 🙂

I enjoy what you guys tend to be up too. This kind of clever work and coverage! Keep up the wonderful works guys.

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Ajanta And Ellora Caves To Grishneshwar Temple Best Places To Visit In Aurangabad

Ajanta and Ellora Caves To Grishneshwar Temple: 5 Best Places To Visit In Aurangabad

Web Desk Updated: Feb 26, 2024 7:07 AM IST

Aurangabad's Arcane Adventures: 5 Gateways to Mughal Majesty

Aurangabad is a historical city in Maharashtra that served as the erstwhile capital of the Mughal dynasty for many years. Nicknamed the 'City of Gates', Aurangabad is a bustling tourist hub offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and architecture.

From the UNESCO-recognized Ajanta and Ellora caves to the Panchakki watermill, Bibi ka Maqbara, and Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad spoils you with choices when it comes to sightseeing. This article covers the top 5 attractions in Aurangabad that should be on every traveler's itinerary.

1.Ajanta and Ellora Caves: A Journey Through India's Artistic Legacy

Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, the Ajanta and Ellora cave complexes are among India's most astonishing historical sites, decorated with exquisite paintings and rock-cut sculptures.

No wonder these architecturally marvelous man-made cave networks are UNESCO World Heritage sites, drawing history aficionados from across the globe.

2.Bibi Ka Maqbara: The Taj of the Deccan in Splendor

Built in the 1660s, Bibi ka Maqbara is often compared to the iconic Taj Mahal, owing to its striking resemblance to the marble monument in Agra.

Known as the 'Taj of the Deccan', it was commissioned by Mughal ruler Aurangzeb as a loving tribute to commemorate his wife Dilras Banu Begum. The distinguishing aspects are the hexagonal shape, four minarets, and elaborate dome structure of Bibi Ka Maqbara, making it a majestic mausoleum.

Do explore the perfectly manicured gardens, walkways dotted with fountains, and subterranean structures for a peek into its charming Mughal-era heritage.

3.Panchakki: Witnessing Ingenious Medieval Engineering

Panchakki, a 17th-century watermill located in the old Aurangabad city, is known for its intriguing water-operated grinding mill, which has been functioning since medieval times. Literally meaning 'water wheel', the Panchakki hydraulic system was devised by Mughal governor Malik Ambar to grind grains for pilgrims.

This early form of hydropower engineering continues to draw historians and tourists alike. Walk through the sprawling garden, dotted with fish-filled tanks, fountains, and artificial waterfalls, giving it a tranquil vibe.

Do spend time gazing at the still-working mill and water channel flowing with shaped pillars supporting the underground ducts.

4.Daulatabad Fort: Majestic Stronghold of the Deccan

Soaring at a height of 200 meters, Daulatabad fort is one of Maharashtra's best-preserved medieval forts, dating back to the 11th century.

Built on a hilltop, Daulatabad fort served as a mighty outpost for successive rulers owing to its strategic location and steep fortress wall running across 5 kilometers.

There are multiple gateways, bastions, and ramparts well-maintained over the years, flaunting excellent defense planning. Worth exploring are the royal baths adorned by stone carvings and the infamous torture chamber, still leaving tourists spooked!

The panoramic view from the summit makes climbing up the towering fort complex totally worthwhile.

5.Grishneshwar Temple: Embracing Spirituality Amidst Architectural Beauty

The serene Grishneshwar temple complex encloses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India, which are sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Beautiful carvings and artwork adorn this temple, constructed using red rocks in the 18th century. According to legends, the temple derived its name from King Grushmashya, after whom the town of Grishneshwar is named.

The sanctum sanctorum houses the Jyotirlingam, which is nothing but a pillar of light symbolising Shiva's radiance. Surrounding areas make for peaceful nature walks to enjoy the spiritual ambiance.

Summarising Aurangabad's Timeless Appeal

With religious shrines juxtaposed against Mughal-style mausoleums and forts, Aurangabad is truly a living museum, offering glimpses into a historically opulent era. Your Aurangabad checklist, packed with UNESCO wonders, architectural marvels, breezy picnic spots, and sacred destinations, will guarantee an unforgettable holiday. So take some downtime exploring these must-see places of tourist interest to appreciate the many textured layers that shape Aurangabad's composite heritage.

Topics News">Ajanta and Ellora caves
Topics News">Aurangabad
Topics News">Best Places To Visit in Aurangabad
Topics News">Bibi-Ka-Maqbara
Topics News">Daulatabad Fort
Topics News">Grishneshwar Temple
Topics News">Panchakki

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Why You Need To Visit Ajanta And Ellora Caves In Aurangabad India

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COMMENTS

Best Time To Visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves
June to March are the best months to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves. It becomes a little difficult to travel around and explore the caves in summers April-May. Winters and Monsoon are ideal as the climate is pleasant from October to March and June to September which is the best time to visit the caves. Avoid summers if you don't want the sun to ...
Ajanta Ellora Caves: All You Need To Know Before Your Trip In 2023
June to March is the best time to visit Ajanta Ellora Caves due to pleasant weather. From June to September (monsoon) the region receives average to plenty of rain showers, which make the exploration experience a delight. While during months of November to February the temperature drops moderately.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves in India: What to Know Before You Go
There are 34 caves at Ellora dating from between the 6th and 11th centuries AD, and 29 caves at Ajanta dating back to between the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD. The caves at Ajanta are all Buddhist, while the caves at Ellora are a mixture of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain. Funds for the construction of the caves were provided by various rulers.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves
How to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Pin Ajanta Caves are located 100km north of Aurangabad and take almost 3 hours to reach (road conditions are variable). They are open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., daily except Mondays. ... November to March is the best time to visit the caves when it is (relatively) cool and dry. The summer months can be ...
Ajanta Ellora Caves: All You Need To Know Before You Take A Trip In 2023
Best Time To Visit Ajanta Ellora Caves. The best time to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is during the winter months, from November to February. This term presents the most enjoyable weather with cool temperatures, making it comfortable for sightseeing and exploration. The scorching summers (March to May) can be harsh, and the monsoon season ...
Holiday Guide to Ajanta and Ellora Caves, India
Whereas the Ellora Caves are less than 60 minutes (by bus) from Aurangabad City, the Ajanta Caves are over two hours away. You can go by motorbike, private taxi as well as by bus. A typical bus ticket could be as little as US$10 per person, and there are bus services leaving as early as 08:30 hours. Best Time to Visit the Ellora and Ajanta Caves
Ajanta And Ellora Caves
The best time to visit Ajanta Ellora Caves is June to March as the pleasant weather makes the exploration a delight. Till September the region receives an average of plenty of rain showers, which also make for a beautiful day. The caves have a historical significance which attracts tons of history buffs and if you wish to connect to the past ...
Ajanta Ellora Caves Entry Fees, Timings & Itinerary
Visit the Ajanta Ellora Caves. Know its Timings, History, Entry Fees, Photos, Address, Itinerary, Nearby Places, How to Reach, Stay and More. Monday, April 1, 2024 ... November to March is the best time to visit the caves, as it is relatively cool and dry. Places to Visit Near Ajanta Ellora Caves. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple; Panchakki ...
Discovering the Best Time to Explore Ajanta and Ellora Caves
These caves of Ajanta and Ellora, dating back to the 2nd century BC, are famous everywhere for their intricate carvings, sculptures, paintings, and rock-cut architecture. Ajanta and Ellora caves are the best places to spend holidays due to their unique structure. If you are curious to see the caves this time and want more information then stay ...
Top 8 things to do in Ajanta Ellora Caves for sure this year
Best time to visit: June to March : Entrance fees: INR 30. Free for children under 15. Timings: 8 am to 5 pm: Open Days: Tuesday - Sunday: Must Visit: Ajanta caves, Grishneshwar Temple, Bibi Ka Makbara, Daulatabad Fort: Distance from Aurangabad airport: 30 km away from Ellora and 100 km from Ajanta caves. Events
Trip to Ajanta & Ellora Caves
Ajanta and Ellora Caves, though are often addressed as one, have some differences: Distance: Both the caves are 100 km away from each other. Ajanta Caves is 104 km from Aurangabad, while Ellora Caves is 29 km away from Aurangabad. Shape: Ajanta Caves are carved in a horse-shoe shaped rock.
How to Visit Ajanta and Ellora [One Day Itinerary]
How to Visit the Ellora Caves and Temples. We arrived at the Ellora Caves area by 14:00. It was pretty hot and pretty busy too, so we took the advice of Mr Hussein to focus our time here. Ellora is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and combines Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples and caves. There are 17 Hindu caves, 12 are Buddhist and 5 are Jain.
Ajanta & Ellora Caves: Travel Guide & Itinerary 2020
The best time to visit Ajanta Ellora caves would be during the Ellora Ajanta International Festival, showcasing Indian culture and folklore that takes place during October. Also Read: UNESCO World Heritage Sites In India (Updated 2020) Plan Your Tour With Us.
Ajanta And Ellora Caves: Rock-Cut Wonders
4.2 Best Time to Visit. The best time to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is during the winter months, from November to March. The weather during this time is pleasant, allowing visitors to explore the caves comfortably. It is advisable to avoid visiting during the monsoon season, as heavy rains can hinder travel and make the caves inaccessible.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves: History, facts, Best Time to visit & Information
The best time to visit Ajanta and Ellora caves is from June to March. Winter and Monsoon are an ideal time to visit these caves as the climate is quite pleasant. Timings: The Ajanta and Ellora caves open from 9 am till 5 pm. Ajanta caves are closed on Mondays while Ellora caves are closed on Tuesdays.
Should I visit the Ajanta or Ellora Caves?
Although the Ajanta and Ellora caves are in the same district of Aurangabad, and in the same state of Maharashtra, they are actually quite far away from each other. The Ellora Caves are closer to the city of Aurangabad, as they are only about a 50-minute drive (32.2km) away. The Ajanta Caves, on the other hand, are located over 100kms away from ...
How To Plan a Perfect Trip To Ajanta Caves
Consider allocating more than a day to explore Ajanta Caves thoroughly. Extending your visit allows for a deeper understanding of the intricate details and diverse art forms within each cave. If time permits, you can also explore nearby attractions like the Ellora Caves, which showcase a blend of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist architecture.
How to Visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad & Things to Do
Visit Ellora Caves from Aurangabad. Similar to the Ajanta Caves, the Ellora Caves also feature ancient Buddhist artwork. Additionally, you can also find Jain and Hindu artwork at the Ellora Caves. With over 40 caves at the complex, there is plenty to see. The oldest caves date back almost 1500 years and the Ellora Caves are also UNESCO-listed.
Top Things to do at Ajanta & Ellora Caves
The best time to visit Ajanta and Ellora caves is from October to February. The temperatures during these months range between 10 and 25 degrees C. During the summer months of March to June the temperatures can soar to 40 degrees C. While the monsoon can be a refreshing period in Maharashtra, your trip can be hit with practical difficulties if ...
Exploring The Marvels Of Ajanta Ellora Caves
The best time to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is during the cooler months of October to March, when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor exploration. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September), as some areas may become inaccessible due to heavy rains. 8. Is there an entrance fee to visit the caves? Yes, there is an entrance fee for ...
How to Visit Ajanta and Ellora
Best Time to Visit. The ideal time to visit Ajanta and Ellora is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The temperatures are mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it conducive for exploration and outdoor activities.
Which are the Best Caves at Ellora Caves?
Like the caves at Ajanta, Ellora's caves were also abandoned and forgotten over time; Ellora has 34 caves in total: 12 are Buddhist (600-800 A.D.), 17 are Hindu (600-900 A.D.) and five are Jain (800-1100 A.D.) ... Best Time to Visit Ellora Caves India. The Ellora caves face west and therefore are best seen in the afternoon.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves To Grishneshwar Temple: 5 Best Places To Visit
From the UNESCO-recognized Ajanta and Ellora caves to the Panchakki watermill, Bibi ka Maqbara, and Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad spoils you with choices when it comes to sightseeing. This article covers the top 5 attractions in Aurangabad that should be on every traveler's itinerary. 1.Ajanta and Ellora Caves: A Journey Through India's Artistic ...

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