India is well known for its enriched bygones. From east to west and south to north, there are oodles of specimen enunciating the rich Indian history and cultural aspect. Amidst them all, Ajanta Ellora caves are quite prevalent.
Near Jalgaon, Maharashtra, in Aurangabad, Ajanta caves have been situated presenting a group of monastic caves subsuming a number of Buddhist learners and monks. However, Ellora caves are not just dedicated to Buddhism, but also to Hindus and Jain including Buddhist. Ellora caves are completely in reach of human beings.
These are the epitome of heart-stirring carvings, structures, architecture, and all the aspects have made it get a secured place in UNESCO as World Heritage Site. Let’s explore more regarding Ajanta Ellora caves, how it came into existence and all Ajanta caves information here.
Ajanta Ellora Caves History
Ajanta Ellora caves’ history dates back the time when this treasure trove was a mystery for India. It’s believed that, it was in 1819, that a British officer discovers it. Ellora caves are particularly known as Elura or Verul, a short version of Elapura, an ancient name. In the ancient references, like, 812 CE Baroda inscription, it has also got mentions.
There is a total of 30 caves present in Ajanta caves Maharashtra, parted in two groups mainly. One group belongs to the Satavahana period and another to the Vakataka period from the BCE 2nd century to CE 1st century. However, in Ellora, there are 34 caves. Among these, 17 are Hindu caves, 12 Buddhist caves, and 5 Jain caves.
Ellora Caves Mystery
The construction of the carved Kailasa Temple is a big Ellora caves mystery. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is believed to be carved of one rock and also that; it took 18 years for its construction. But in reality, it doesn’t seem so. From architecture to rock, everything is a mystery. To give a perfect shape to Kailash Temple, large rocks were carved but there are no traces of those stones. It’s also the largest one among all megalithic edifice so far.
The archaeologists think there’s probably an underground city exists where the temple’s strange tunnels end up. All in all, Ellora caves mystery is still unveiled.
Architectural Aspect
The architectural attractions admire tourists the most. The outer appearance of Ajanta caves is in a horseshoe shape, which itself is quite appealing. Ajanta caves paintings and sculptures are extremely appreciated. This large wall Ajanta caves paintings, showcase the murals. The brilliant artwork has become the inspiration for today’s artists. Sailing on the equal lines, Ellora cave’s architecture is also of top class. Its central attraction point is the Lord Buddha statue of 15-meter lengths in Buddist group caves’ cave 10. In Hindu caves, the Kailasanatha Temple is quite captivating. It resembles with Mount Kailash with toppings of white plaster and has been constructed from a large stone.
Ajanta Ellora Caves Opening Time and Entry Fees
- 9:00AM – 5:30PM
On all National holidays, Ajanta Ellora caves remain open, however, on Monday, Ajanta caves and on Tuesday, Ellora caves stay closed.
Check entry fees, details here:
- Indian: Rs. 30 per head
- Foreigner: Rs. 500 per head
If one wants to carry a video camera then extra charges of Rs. 25 are required to pay.
How to reach Ajanta Ellora Caves
Ajanta Ellora caves best time to visit is June to March. Just two months, April and May are not ideal to go there because of summers. There are two modes to reach this historical place. Here is the way:
- By Rail
The railway connections to Aurangabad are connected to Pune and Mumbai and the major cities. The nearest rail stations are Aurangabad and Jalgaon Stations. Ajanta Ellora caves from Pune is 333.5 km away. You can book your tickets in advance for a comfortable journey.
- By Road
From Ellora caves, the distance of Aurangabad is 30km and from Ajanta caves, it’s of 100km. You can get a number of state-run buses to reach there or even can hire your own cab. Ajanta Ellora caves from Mumbai, is 426.5km away. You can pass out this long way by hiring a cab or plying a bus. The Aurangabad highway is well connected to major Indian parts, like, Indore, Jaipur, Mumbai, Bijapur, Delhi, Udaipur etc. So, the vehicle can easily be arranged to reach here.
- By Air
Aurangabad airport is the closest one. So, one can take flight from anywhere and reach here by air too. After reaching the airport, cab facility is also available.
So, when are you planning to visit the treasure of India? Make your plans soon and delve in the beauty of Ajanta Ellora caves. For more Ajanta caves information, you can comment in comment box.
