The caves of Ajanta and Ellora are located in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar(erstwhile Aurangabad) district of Maharashtra. The trip to Ajanta & Ellora caves was planned by us after reading and listening so much about these caves. Ajanta and Ellora are separate locations situated approximately 100 kilometers apart from each other. Constructed between the 2nd century BCE to 1000 CE, these caves were carved out of hills. Ajanta is renowned for its paintings and sculptures, particularly associated with Buddhism, whereas Ellora is famous for its sculptures, associated with Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. For those interested in history and art, these caves are excellent destinations.
In the medieval period, Ajanta was largely unknown to the common people, and due to the caves being filled with mud and water over centuries, knowledge of this area had faded. In modern times, British officer John Smith rediscovered this site in the year 1819. He and his companions came to hunt a tiger in these jungles and stumbled upon the series of caves and pillars here. Subsequently, excavations at this site revealed its rich historical heritage. We visited Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar from Pune to explore here, and the complete details are as follows:
➥ Ajanta Caves
Located 106 kilometers from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Ajanta Caves are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These caves, constructed by cutting into a horseshoe-shaped mountain, consist of 29 caves primarily dedicated to the Buddhist religion. The construction of these caves occurred in two phases: the first phase, around 200 BCE, was built by Satavahana rulers, while the second phase, around 480 CE, was under the patronage of the Vakataka rulers.
The life of Lord Buddha and his teachings are depicted with exquisite beauty through paintings and sculptures in these caves. Both major sects of Buddhist doctrine, Hinayana and Mahayana, are showcased in these caves.
The stunning artwork of the Ajanta Caves captivates everyone. Information about these caves can be found in detailed travel accounts of Chinese travelers like ‘Fa Hien’, during the reign of Chandragupta II (380-415 CE), and ‘Hwui Tsang’, during the rule of Harshavardhana (606-647 CE). Besides being Buddhist monasteries, these caves also serve as prayer halls.
The nearby Waghora River enhances the serene atmosphere and natural beauty, ideal for meditation and prayer. There is a very beautiful waterfall near Ajanta Caves. Since this is a historic site, don’t forget to hire a guide, readily available in multiple languages, to enhance your experience.
➥ Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves, located 29 kilometers from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, comprise a group of 34 caves. These caves are dedicated to 17 Hindu, 12 Buddhist, and 5 Jain religious sites. The remarkable blend of these three religions reflects the communal harmony and tolerance of that era. This site is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The construction of Ellora Caves dates back to the period between 600 and 1000 CE, commissioned by the Rashtrakuta rulers. Through these caves of Ellora, we encounter the excellence of art and technology.
The main attraction of Ellora is the Kailash Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which was carved out of a single rock. The most remarkable feature of this monolithic structure is that it was sculpted from top to bottom. This means that first the dome and then subsequently the lower parts were constructed. It is an incredibly beautiful and massive temple that leaves everyone astonished. The caves of Ellora stand as living proof of the glorious history of Indian civilization. Don’t forget to take a guide here as well.
➥ Ghrineshwar Jyotirlinga Temple and Bibi Ka Makbara
In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, other places to visit include the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple and Bibi Ka Maqbara. The Grishneshwar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Men are required to enter the temple by removing all upper garments. The temple exudes a serene and simple atmosphere.
Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad resembles the Taj Mahal in Agra. Its dome is constructed from marble. It was built by Aurangzeb’s son, Prince Azam Shah, in memory of Aurangzeb’s wife.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves have something special that you can experience only by coming here. In these mysterious caves, we not only become acquainted with the artistic skills of ancient India but also begin to experience the grand symbols of past glory in their surroundings. Visiting Ajanta and Ellora will be a truly enriching experience for you. Make sure to come here with your entire family or friends.
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➜ Don’t forget to do this in Ajanta & Ellora Caves: Visit the Kailash Temple in Ellora, hire a guide, and take photographs.
➜ How to reach Ajanta & Ellora Caves: There is an airport in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Flights to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar are easily available from Mumbai and Pune. The nearest railway station, Jalgaon, is approximately 59 kilometers away. You can also reach Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar easily by car, taxi, or bus via road from Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and other places.
➜ Best time to visit Ajanta & Ellora Caves: The best time to visit Ajanta & Ellora Caves is from June to February. Avoid visiting during summers as the rock formations here can become very hot.
➜ Time required to visit Ajanta & Ellora Caves: 2 days and 1 night
Information Source: Authentic information sources available on internet, Various Articles and books on the subject & Interaction with local public.
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