Ajanta and Ellora Caves trace their origin between the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD. Ajanta Cave Temples are dedicated to Lord Buddha.
Location: Near Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Built in: During 2nd century BC – 6th century AD
Dedicated to: Lord Buddha
Significance: Listed as a World Heritage Site
Attraction: Cave temples cut out of rocks
The pictorial carvings and murals at Ajanta depict the modern society of those times. The artistic sculptures presented every kind of populace from kings to slaves, from men to women, from children to beasts along with flower plants, fruits, and birds. There are some figures that portray the inhabitants like ‘Yakshas’, ‘Kinneras’ (half human and half bird), ‘Gandharvas’ (divine musicians) and ‘Apsaras’ (heavenly dancers).
The thirty caves are divided into ‘Chaitya-Grihas’ (stupa halls) and ‘Viharas’ (dwelling halls). In order to reach each cave, one has to flight of steps that are preserved in their original structure. The Cave 9, 10, 19, 26 and 29 are known as ‘Chaitya-Grihas’, which were used for the worship of the Lord. The remaining caves are ‘Sangharamas’ or ‘Viharas’ that was used for the housing purpose of the followers and students of Buddhism.
The caves are numbered as per their present access from the main entrance and were not erected in the same order. From an artistic point of view, Cave 1, 2, 16 and 17 are really important and possess remarkable pieces of art that can certainly beat the art of the modern world. The walls of these caves are adorned with murals that are maintained to provide the same charm and vibrancy of the bygone era
How to reach Ajanta and Ellora Caves:-
Aurangabad, which is about 99 km from Ajanta and 30 km from Ellora, can be reached directly from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Udaipur airports. All types of cabs and buses are available from there.
Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (IXU)
How to Reach Ajanta and Ellora Caves by Road:-
Ajanta Caves are connected to a network of excellent roadways with Mumbai, Pune, Ahmednagar, Jalgaon, Shirdi, Nasik, Dhule, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Indore, Bijapur, and Aurangabad. Numerous bus services are running to Ellora from Aurangabad Central Bus Station, but the Maharashtra State Tourism Corporation (MTDC) Bus Service is most reliable. There is a luxury bus tour departing daily (except Tuesdays) at 9:30 AM from the MTDC office. In addition to Ellora, the tour also includes several famous sites in Aurangabad.
How to Reach Ajanta and Ellora Caves by Train:-
Jalgaon and Aurangabad are the two railway junctions. These junctions are very well-connected via major trains from all across India. The train ride is very convenient, comfortable and pocket-friendly. You will have to book the tickets well in advance via IRCTC or Travel Agent. Taxis can be easily hired from these destinations.
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