The Ajanta and Ellora Caves, located near Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra, India, are ancient rock-cut cave complexes that hold immense historical and artistic significance. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are renowned for their astonishingly detailed and beautifully preserved Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain cave temples, monasteries, and exquisite sculptures. The Ajanta Caves, dating back to 2nd century BCE to 6th century CE, primarily feature Buddhist art, including stunning frescoes and rock-cut stupas. In contrast, the Ellora Caves, spanning from the 6th to the 10th century CE, showcase a remarkable fusion of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain architecture and iconography. A visit to these caves offers a fascinating journey through India's rich cultural and religious heritage.
Quick Facts
➔ Start point: Aurangabad
➔ End Point: Aurangabad
➔ Duration: 3 days/ 2 Night
Inclusion
How to reach
By Air
➔ To reach the Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad by air, you can take a domestic flight to Aurangabad Airport (Chikkalthana Airport). It's the nearest airport, just 10-15 kilometers away from the caves.
➔ Once you land, you can easily hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach the cave complexes, which are a short drive from the airport.
By Road
➔ To reach the Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad by road, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus.
➔ The caves are well-connected to Aurangabad via NH52, and the journey typically takes around 2-3 hours.
➔ The road trip offers picturesque views of the Maharashtra countryside before reaching these historic cave sites.
By Train
➔ To reach the Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad by train, you can board a train at Aurangabad Railway Station.
➔ The caves are connected to Aurangabad by rail, and the journey usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
➔ From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take local transportation to the cave sites.
Day 1 - Exploring the Ajanta Caves
Day 2 - Ellora Caves and Grishneshwar Temple
Day 3 - Local Sightseeing in Aurangabad
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The best time to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves is during the cooler months of October to March when the weather is pleasant for exploration. Summers can be extremely hot, and monsoon rains can lead to cave closures due to safety concerns.
It's recommended to dress modestly when visiting the caves, covering your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect, especially in religious areas. Comfortable walking shoes are also advisable as you'll be exploring the caves on foot.
Photography policies may vary from cave to cave. In some caves, photography is allowed without flash, while in others, it may be restricted. Be sure to check the rules at each cave and respect them.
Most visitors choose to stay in Aurangabad, where there are a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets. You can easily access the caves by road from Aurangabad.
While it's possible to visit both cave complexes in one day, it can be rushed. It's recommended to allocate a day for each set of caves to fully appreciate their art and history.
There are dining options available near the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, including restaurants serving Indian and local cuisine. It's a good idea to have meals planned during your visit, especially if you spend the day exploring.
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