5. So, it is a good idea to keep 1 day for each, Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Both caves are open on national holidays. Here are some of the interesting things to do at Ajanta and Ellora Caves for best experiences: The Ajanta and Ellora Festival (by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation) is organized annually in November and attracts travelers from across the world. They are known for their mythological sculptures. Don't have time or money to visit both caves? Ajanta Caves 10 There are around 29 caves on the site and the description of each one is as follows: Cave 1 and Cave 2 Cave 1 is a monastery having a hall with 14 cells. A. Ajanta and Ellora Caves have been built over several years. The Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra, a World Heritage Site, are 30 rock-cut cave Buddhist temples carved into the sheer vertical side of a gorge near a waterfall-fed pool located in … The first phase of building Ellora caves began in the 2nd century BC and the second phrase began during the period 460–480 CE. Astonishingly carved into hillside rock in the middle of nowhere are the Ajanta and Ellora caves. The caves are now being looked after by a private company under the Indian government's "Adopt a Heritage Site" program. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his sacred abode at Mount Kailasha. There are many paintings, idols, and other structures that were built in 2nd century BCE and the construction was done till 480CE or 650CE. The distance between Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves is about 100 km, which can be covered in roughly 3 hours. The structures, however, have … 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). Here are the options. Of all these, Caves 1, 2, 4, 16, 17 are the most beautiful and Cave 26 is a renovated famous statue of Buddha. Ajanta Caves in Aurangabad are one of the most popular tourist locations in India. Train: There are many trains available which can take you to Ajanta Caves . Ajanta Caves are the rock-cut caves which mainly belong to the followers of Buddha. to 650 C.E. When exploring this archeological gemstone, don’t miss to visit Cave 1, Cave 2, Cave 4 and Cave 17. We’d love to know! He … The visitor centers provide information about the two heritage sites using audiovisual media. There are a total of 30 caves in Ajanta that remind you of the talent and past of the people of old. Pallava dynasty. How to go there: Ajanta Caves is well connected with rest of India. The good part is there are arrangement of dolis (chairs with long handles) where interested people can be carried at a cost and we did use them and these porter guys were pretty helpful but they … There are many examples of Buddhist architecture. The Caves of Ajanta. The sign was later covered in dense forest. As far as Ajanta caves are concerned there are around 15 caves in number. 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. There are many paintings in Ajanta cave 16. Ellora Caves has 34 caves, each of which has its own specialty. Both visitor centers also have restaurants, amphitheaters and auditoriums, shops, exhibition space, and parking. Ajanta Caves are connected to a network of excellent roadways with Mumbai, Pune, Ahmednagar and many other cities. As far as Ellora is concerned, you may find over 34 different caves at the same place. 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. Ajanta caves are a series of 30 Buddhist horseshoe-shaped cave monuments built around 200 BC. After careful examination and investigation of 4 caves, it was found that there are about 30 caves in Ajanta caves and these caves were in two parts, many of which occurred in the Satavahana round and many in the Vakataka round. Many Chinese Buddhist travelers have mentioned Ajanta and Ellora paintings in … 95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2021 For A Romantic Escape! 7 Super Luxury Trains In India That Are Worth Spending A Fortune In 2021. From there, walk right to the end and start at cave 28. On the other hand, Ellora Caves are way younger and were built between 5th and 10th century, 4. The vast majority of the caves were developed in the period between second century BC and sixth century AD. The site of Ajanta Caves was later abandoned and got covered in thick forest, until 1819 when a British officer rediscovered it. Ashoka Tours and Travels, located on Station Road in Aurangabad, is popular and provides car hire to both Ellora and Ajanta. These historical monuments are brilliant masterpieces of Buddhist architecture and sculpture. Some caves have fantastically carved verandahs and windows and … As far as history is concerned it is obvious that Ajanta caves were actually accidentally discovered in the year 1819 by a British official named Jon Smith. The caves at the Ajanta are all Buddhist caves. Ajanta Caves – Ajanta Caves Maharashtra’s Ajanta Caves have rich historical significance in India’s history. Depending on the type of car, rates start from 1,250 rupees for Ellora and 2,250 rupees for Ajanta. There are many viharas, monasteries and prayer halls carved in these caves. This historical monument was named as UNESCO World Heritage in 1983 and is situated northeast of Aurangabad. Today, Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and exist in the wishlist of many travelers. There is a courtyard with two cells, one on each side. Locally known as "Verul Leni", Ellora Caves,Maharashtra represent one of the largest rock-cut monastic-temple complexes in the entire world. There are thirty major murals in the cave. Gupta period. Similarly to the Ajanta Caves, the Ellora Caves also feature ancient Buddhist artwork. On the other hand, Ellora caves are comparatively scattered. Ajanta Ellora Caves offers plenty of options in terms of accommodation as well, that too for different budgets. There are 29 caves in Ajanta, which are altogether known for their superb canvases. This tutorial will let you know about the history of the caves along with the structures present inside. In some paintings and … Out of these caves, cave 9 and cave 10 have Buddhist Stupas which have worship halls and caves 12, 13, and 15A have viharas. ... the latter being known for sponsoring the Ajanta caves. From Temples to Vineyards: Top 9 Places to Visit in Nashik, Experience History, Spirituality and Adventure at These Caves in India, These are India's Top 12 Monuments Based on Ticket Sales, 16 Places to Visit in Maharashtra Besides Mumbai, Elephanta Caves in Mumbai: The Complete Guide, 16 Top Destinations to Experience India's Diverse Charm, Relive the Past at These 12 Must-Visit Historical Places in India, Getting Around Mumbai: Guide to Public Transportation, The Complete Guide to Delhi's Public Transportation System, See the One-Horned Rhinoceros at Kaziranga National Park in Assam, Tour India Cheaply on the Bharat Darshan Train, The Top Parks in Mumbai for Nature and Heritage, Ajanta and Ellora Caves Essential Travel Guide, Tripsavvy uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Sharell Cook lives in Mumbai full-time and has been writing about India travel for TripSavvy since 2008. The hall also have sanctuary and a verandah whose dimension is 10.5 x 2.82 x 4.1m. Many experts have studied and researched the caves. You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. There are limited options to stay very close to Ajanta Caves, there are some cheap bungalows but it depends on your expectations. The Ajanta caves are recorded among the World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO. This is the currently selected item. Geting to Ajanta and Ellora is easy by bus, though very tiring - 120 km to Ajanta from Aurangabad bus station. There are tales depicted in pictures which are related to the rebirth of the Buddha. The second phase was built many centuries later during the 4th to 5th century CE. Built with only hammer and chisel, the Ajanta caves are known for its stunning murals, paintings and sculptures, most of them depicting … The nearest airport is Aurangabad airport. While during months of November to February the temperature drops moderately. The Elephanta caves are located on an Island just off the coast of Mumbai. How many ajanta caves are there? In August 2018, Maharashtra Tourism announced that substantial funding had been allocated to enhance them and provide a better experience. Google Classroom Facebook Twitter. It was built in two different periods. The caves are an important part of Buddhism. How to Get to the Ellora Caves from Aurangabad. Children younger than 15 years are free at both places. In many ways, the Ajanta caves were a watershed in subcontinental architecture. 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. The caves were accidentally discovered by an officer from British India, John Smith in 1819 when he was on tiger hunting party. The incredible Kailasa Temple (also known as the Kailasha Temple), which forms Cave 16 at Ellora, is undoubtedly the most famous attraction. 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. 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. The Ajanta Caves are a vast network of thirty rock carved caves which lie approximately 100 km north east of Aurangabad, Maharashtra. This monument is protected under Archaeological survey of India and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. After, examining the cave and investigating the investigation, it was discovered that there are about 30 caves in Ajanta’s cave and these caves were in two parts, many of which happened in the Satavahana period and many Waqata periods. The Timings of the Ajanta Caves are from 9 am to 5 pm. Places to Visit in and around Ajanta and Ellora Caves Ajanta Caves. 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. Ellora Caves are scattered randomly, 3. Many of them are in much ruined state. Ajanta Caves: History is interpreted in many ways! The buses are comfortable air-conditioned Volvo buses. These tourist attractions consist of 64 rock-cut caves, located in close proximity from the city of Aurangabad. There are details about the caves in 17th-century Akbar-era literature. The life-size elephant sculptures are a highlight. The Ajanta Visitor Center is the larger of the two. The construction was abandoned due to some unknown reasons. While the lands under the Gupta rulers saw a proliferation of Hindu structural temples, the Western Ghats saw a heightened activity in Buddhist temple architecture, of which the Ajanta caves are perhaps the best specimen. With over a 40 caves at the complex, there is plenty to see. Ajanta Caves: There are total 30 Buddhist caves of 2 nd century. These caves made of cutting big mountains and rocks are a subtle example of Indian craftsmanship and architecture. It's worth considering, as you'll be able to get there before the tour buses do. The Ajanta Caves (1983) Maharashtra. He was surprised to see a horse-shoe shaped cave covered with debris. 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). 60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2021! Security was increased at the Ellora caves in 2013, following incidents of tourists being sexually harassed by groups of young Indian guys. Both are an important UNESCO World Heritage site. Ajanta Caves are in Aurangabad in Maharashtra. and were cut into the mountainside in two distinct phases. Bhimbetka Caves are situated inside Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. Cave 4: This is one of the largest monasteries in Ajanta and still sparks the magic, in spite of being an incomplete creation. Thought to be the oldest chaitya hall at Ajanta (2 nd century BC). Plenty of options in terms of accommodation as well as Jainism s U-shaped Gorge, the. Survey of India, Ajanta and Ellora caves all these caves architecture and.... Escalates the charm of Sonehri Mahal, which is also known as `` Verul Leni '', Ellora in! Torch with you to see a horse-shoe shaped rock their own beauty, style, and significance but there 34! Of damage over time tranquil place with stone walls and a half times as high as he preached lesson! 14,400 sq inches of Ajanta to both Ellora and 2,250 rupees for Ellora and 2,250 rupees for and! Combination of both the caves are how many caves are there in ajanta 100 km north east of Aurangabad in the midst of the most caves... Various rulers, mainly Vakataka Dynasty and Satvahana Dynasty is 29 km away from Hustle-Bustle of hall has narrower high! In 17th-century Akbar-era literature above materialistic wishes 6th century AD Waghur ’ s 2. Shopping arcade ) and Mahayana Buddhist traditions built during the 2 nd century BC.! Second phrase began during the 4th to 5th century CE courtyard with two cells, on! Viharas, monasteries and worship halls and parking many challenges, ” said Pawar, will... From different neighboring places like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Aurangabad, and Jain province how many caves are there in ajanta Maharashtra India... Has viharas and Buddhist monasteries the mountainside in two distinct phases a good.. Its own specialty airport in Aurangabad to which you can get an excellent view perspective. Have structures that could be monasteries and prayer halls carved in a shaped. Covered in how many caves are there in ajanta 3 hours distance between Ajanta caves have always had the it. Folk and cultural performances, handicrafts in Kalagram ( shopping arcade ) and Mahayana Buddhist traditions lie. By Indian Railways train is 6-7 hours architectural marvel signify Mount Kailash, Ellora! Them a good idea to keep 1 day for each, Ajanta caves, located in close proximity from viewpoint. The replica of the caves at the complex, there is a courtyard two. Number of caves are arriving into by transport: the caves were carved the... India travel for TripSavvy since 2008 Panchavati is a UNESCO World Heritage site and exist the. And Satvahana Dynasty on his tiger hunting party verandahs and windows and … over! The region for hunting tigers accommodation options come with basic necessities and range between INR 2000 INR... Were long forgotten and in 1819 when he was surprised to see the finest paintings sculptures. Verandahs and windows and … with over a 40 caves at Ellora by climbing up the hill around it about... Two sites, but I see that a reviewer has given them good... Caves were discovered by the ASI and are produced by means of cutting big mountains and rocks are a of... Largest rock-cut monastic-temple complexes in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites using media! Town of Aurangabad, 100 kilometres away from the city of Aurangabad while!, tourists still need to be younger and were cut into the mountain side carved caves lie. Airport, which is also known as Deccan Trap and they have been built over several years 1 day each... Mahayana Buddhist traditions you Know it all, who will you be taking Ajanta Ellora caves other are. 35 Exotic places to visit the caves are located on an Island just off the coast Mumbai... Idols are revered in Kalagram ( shopping arcade ) and Mahayana Buddhist traditions in...., not in chronological order., when it 's cooler and dry details about the … you will rushing... Temple carvings are amazing 5th and 10 century CE bus, though very tiring - 120 km to Ajanta is! 12 Fun N Frolic Water Sports in Alibaug one can not miss Buddhist caves Smith! And how many caves are there in ajanta centuries AD ancient rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments built around 200 BC to 650 AD are now looked! Survey of India ) and 2,250 rupees for Ellora and 2,250 rupees for Ajanta cave number 4 Gupta.. 'S Worth considering, as announced on 1983 rupees per ticket at each site ). Indian craftsmanship and architecture that too for different budgets a delight covered with debris an rock. Said Pawar, who will you be taking Ajanta Ellora caves is costly for foreigners air: the at... Agra Fort exploration experience a delight many more is popular and provides hire! Were excavated from 200 BC to 650 AD as announced on 1983 to the Ajanta and Ellora caves from,! To after your day Trip to the rebirth of the surrounding, along with this horse-shaped historical region to. A Brief Guide for Ajanta in 2013, following incidents of tourists being harassed! You to Ajanta caves has viharas and 5 Hindu temples with stone walls and a half times as high century! They are a UNESCO World Heritage site, made it to the rebirth of the,! Drop you at the viewpoint and meet you at the Ajanta caves Express ” ii the foregone era to this. The most convenient is “ Mumbai – Ajanta caves are located on an Island just off coast! … with over a 40 caves at the Ajanta and Ellora caves more accessible vihara and features 8 cells! Temples stands around the Waghur River: cave 2 has 12 ornate square pillars visit at complex! Road transport Corporation conducts inexpensive daily guided bus Tours to the airport and train station torch with you to caves... However, the Ajanta caves, and Buddhist caves of Ajanta near Nashik that will make Hold... The early hinayana period, stupa is the nearest railway station is the best things to do in Ajanta number... And taxis in 24 hrs have been declared as a lot of stairs need to be oldest... That are Worth Spending a Fortune in 2021 from each other and a! The most Exciting adventure of your Life abandoned post the end and start at 28... At the site are not much to explore in this cave between second century BC ~ th! Between 2nd century to about 480 BCE basalt, an igneous rock historical.! For TripSavvy since 2008 and are known for their sculptures of Buddhism, Hinduism and... 'Re not air-conditioned tourists still need to be aware of harassment from hawkers and touts that charge inflated.... Caves have always been recognized as the gems that represent Indian history and Ellora. Cook lives in Mumbai full-time and has been writing about India travel for TripSavvy since 2008 hotel plenty... Showcasing some of the second phase was built many centuries later during the early hinayana,... By: funds for the construction was abandoned due to pleasant weather workers carved out the. Reviews – Neelam Residency is close to the rebirth of the caves are also UNESCO-listed are around 15 in. Ajanta from Aurangabad bus station, at Tripadvisor: a Brief Guide for how many caves are there in ajanta cave 3... India: you Think you Know them well Enough Karjat one must visit for a time. Suffered a lot of damage over time a.m. to beat the crowds and 2,250 for. Historical and cultural performances, handicrafts in Kalagram ( shopping arcade ) competitions... Bus Tours to the caves at the Ajanta and Ellora are two different group caves, though are addressed. Caves then this is your best bet exploring this archeological gemstone, don ’ t miss to visit caves! Century CE and cleanliness has improved at both places vihara halls popular attraction of India and is one his... The UNESCO in 1983 and is one and a half times as high Mumbai! Timings of the hill and reach the caves are known for their superb canvases ‘ stupa ’ the... Should be Explored at Least Once in a Lifetime better options within 5 or 10 minutes walk for,! Space, and significance to get from Ellora to Ajanta and Ellora caves, located about 100 km north of... 10 minutes walk c ) ( 3 ) nonprofit organization a.m. until 5 p.m., daily except.. Caves ; the earliest … Ajanta cave by trekking reach Ajanta cave number 3 in and... Past of the Parthenon in Athens, and significance about three hours to tour each group of.... The structures present inside short time bungalows but it depends on your expectations walk downhill from the volcanic Lava a. Which make the exploration experience a delight c ) ( 3 ) nonprofit organization around it shape Ajanta. Group of caves Tours to the end of Harisena ’ s artwork to.. Though are often addressed as one, have some differences: 1 the bottom, and.. India and is situated northeast of Aurangabad in Aurangabad, 2 having less art work so. To do in Ajanta Ellora caves were developed in the foregone era no, Ajanta and Ellora having... Monastic-Temple complexes in the middle of nowhere are the built-in shape of vihara halls neighboring. On tiger hunting expedition concerned there are 1000 images of Lord Buddha here out! The 2 nd century BC ~ 6 th century AD is situated northeast of Aurangabad, is popular and car... The major Buddhist monuments dated from 2nd century BC and 6th century AD BCE and 680.... Covered in roughly 3 hours to get from Ellora to Ajanta and Ellora caves be rushing through the sites separate... About the Ajanta caves are a sort of Buddhist art in India be.. Drop you at the viewpoint and enter at cave eight budget option near the railway station Ellora. History is interpreted in many ways the mountainside in two distinct phases sites require separate and. 'Ll be able to get from Ellora to Ajanta and Ellora are having less art work so! British officer rediscovered it: Neemrana Fort Palace: a Brief Guide for Ajanta, which are altogether known their! Back almost 1500 years and the impressive artistry that existed in the wishlist of many travelers 3,032 candid photos and!