About Ajanta Ellora Caves
The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a remarkable complex of ancient rock-cut caves located in the state of Maharashtra, India. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are renowned for their exceptional architectural and artistic significance. The Ajanta Caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, consist of 30 Buddhist caves adorned with intricate paintings and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha. In contrast, the Ellora Caves, spanning a broader historical timeline from the 6th to 10th centuries CE, encompass 34 caves featuring Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religious art, with the Kailash Temple being a prime example of architectural excellence. These caves are a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and continue to captivate visitors with their historical and artistic splendor.
Legends about Ajanta and Ellora Caves
According to local legends, these caves were excavated under the patronage of Buddhist and Hindu rulers and date back to as early as the 2nd century BCE. The legends suggest that the caves were created by a race of superhuman architects and builders known as “yakshas” and “yakshinis,” who worked tirelessly through day and night, carving out the intricate caves and sculptures as acts of devotion.
How to Reach Ajanta Ellora Caves
The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport, which has regular flights from major Indian cities like Mumbai and Delhi. Aurangabad Railway Station is well-connected to various parts of India, making train travel another option. If you’re traveling by road, you can reach Ajanta and Ellora Caves via well-maintained highways from major cities in Maharashtra and neighboring states. Once you arrive in Aurangabad, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach these historic cave complexes and explore their ancient Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut temples and artworks.
Best Time to Visit Ajanta Ellora Caves
The best time to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, India, is during the winter months from November to February. During this period, the weather is cool and comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the cave complexes. The scorching heat of summer is best avoided, and the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, may lead to cave closures due to safety concerns. The winter months offer pleasant conditions for enjoying these ancient marvels, both in terms of weather and reduced crowds, enhancing your overall experience.
Top 10 places to visit in Ajanta Ellora Caves
The Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, India, offer a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. Here are the top 10 places to visit within these cave complexes:
Ajanta Caves (Buddhist Caves):
- Cave 1 (Vihara): Known for its exquisite sculptures and paintings, including the famous “Bodhisattva Padmapani.”
- Cave 2 (Vihara): Features an intricately carved facade and stunning sculptures.
- Cave 4 (Vihara): Renowned for its depiction of the life of Buddha, with a magnificent statue of reclining Buddha.
- Cave 9 (Chaitya Hall): The only chaitya hall in Ajanta, notable for its stupa and beautifully detailed carvings.
- Cave 16 (Mahayana Vihara): Features a magnificent sculpture of Buddha preaching to his disciples.
Ellora Caves (Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain Caves): 6. Kailash Temple (Cave 16): A masterpiece of rock-cut architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva, with intricate carvings and a massive sculpted chariot.
- Cave 10 (Vishwakarma Cave): A beautifully adorned Buddhist vihara with impressive sculptures.
- Cave 32 (Indra Sabha): Known for its exceptional Hindu artwork and the largest monolithic rock excavation in the world.
- Cave 32 (Jagannatha Sabha): An ornate Jain cave featuring intricate carvings and sculptures.
- Cave 33 (Chhota Kailash): A smaller replica of the Kailash Temple, showcasing stunning Jain architecture.
These caves showcase the diversity of religious and artistic heritage in India, making them a must-visit destination for history and art enthusiasts.
Popular Ajanta Ellora Tour Itinerary
A popular tour itinerary for visiting the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, India, typically spans 2 to 3 days. Here’s a suggested itinerary to explore these remarkable cave complexes:
Day 1: Arrival in Aurangabad
- Arrive in Aurangabad, the nearest major city to Ajanta and Ellora.
- Check-in to your hotel and rest after your journey.
Day 2: Ajanta Caves Exploration
- Early morning departure for Ajanta Caves (approximately 2.5 to 3 hours drive from Aurangabad).
- Explore the Ajanta Caves, beginning with Cave 1 and progressing through the complex.
- Take breaks to admire the magnificent rock-cut Buddhist sculptures and paintings.
- Enjoy a packed lunch or return to Aurangabad for lunch.
- In the afternoon, visit more Ajanta Caves, especially Cave 16 (Mahayana Vihara) and Cave 26 (Chaitya Hall).
- Return to your hotel in Aurangabad in the evening.
Day 3: Ellora Caves and Kailash Temple
- Depart for Ellora Caves (approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour drive from Aurangabad).
- Explore the Ellora complex, starting with the impressive Kailash Temple (Cave 16).
- Spend ample time appreciating the intricate carvings and architecture of this remarkable structure.
- Visit other significant caves, including Cave 10 (Vishwakarma Cave), Cave 32 (Indra Sabha), and Cave 33 (Chhota Kailash).
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near Ellora.
- Continue your exploration of Ellora, visiting Jain and Hindu caves.
- Return to Aurangabad in the evening.
Day 4 (Optional): Local Sightseeing in Aurangabad
- If you have an extra day, you can explore Aurangabad’s local attractions, such as Bibi Ka Maqbara (mini Taj Mahal), Daulatabad Fort, and Panchakki (watermill).
- Alternatively, you can choose to relax and shop for local handicrafts.
Day 5: Departure
- Check out from your hotel in Aurangabad.
- Depending on your travel plans, either depart for your next destination or continue your journey through Maharashtra.
This itinerary allows you to delve into the captivating world of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, with ample time to appreciate the intricate art and historical significance of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Adjust the duration of your stay based on your interests and pace of exploration.
Optional Add Ons
If you have 2 to 5 more days to explore beyond the Ajanta and Ellora Caves and want to discover more of Maharashtra’s cultural and historical heritage, you can include additional destinations in your itinerary. Here are some nearby places to consider:
1. Aurangabad Local Attractions (1-2 Days):
- Spend more time exploring the local attractions in Aurangabad, such as Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort, Panchakki, and the Aurangabad Caves.
2. Lonar Crater Lake (1 Day):
- Visit Lonar, a unique meteorite impact crater lake, approximately a 4-5 hour drive from Aurangabad. Explore the lake, its temples, and the surrounding wildlife sanctuary.
3. Shirdi (1-2 Days):
- Shirdi, known for the Sai Baba Temple, is about a 3-4 hour drive from Aurangabad. Spend time at the temple and explore the serene surroundings.
4. Nasik (1-2 Days):
- Nasik is known for its historic temples, vineyards, and the Kumbh Mela. It’s a 4-5 hour drive from Aurangabad.
5. Pune (2-3 Days):
- If you’re willing to travel a bit farther (about 7-8 hours from Aurangabad), Pune offers a vibrant cultural scene, historic sites, and museums.
6. Mumbai (2-3 Days):
- Extend your trip to Mumbai (around 7-8 hours from Aurangabad) to experience India’s bustling financial and entertainment capital, with attractions like the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and Elephanta Caves.
Ensure you adjust the duration of your stay in each destination based on your interests and travel pace. These additional destinations will provide you with a diverse and enriching experience of Maharashtra’s cultural, historical, and natural beauty.
Benefits of Hiring a Tour Operator
Hiring a tour operator offers a range of benefits, including expert knowledge and local insights, streamlined planning and logistics, and enhanced convenience and safety. Tour operators possess in-depth destination knowledge, ensuring that you make the most of your trip by visiting the best attractions, enjoying authentic experiences, and navigating potential language and cultural barriers. They handle all aspects of your journey, from transportation and accommodations to guided tours and reservations, saving you time and effort. Additionally, tour operators often have established relationships with local suppliers, granting access to exclusive experiences and ensuring a smooth and safe travel experience, ultimately maximizing your enjoyment and peace of mind.
Top 10 Best Ajanta Ellora Tour Operators in Delhi India
Ajanta Ellora Tours by Indus Trips
Indus Trips is a leading Ajanta Ellora Tour Operator offering quality and value for money tours of all major destinations in India from Delhi. From Home/Hotel/Airport pick up till drop they manage everything in-house. They also customize tours as per client requirements with choice of accommodation, transportation and activities. Services are reliable and prices are good.
Phone: +91 9810954649 – Parveen Kumar
Website: https://allindiatourpackages.in/
Ajanta Ellora Luxury Tours by Odin Tours
Odin Tours is a reputable travel agency known for crafting unforgettable and immersive travel experiences. They specialize in Ajanta Ellora Luxury Tours. Whether it’s a cultural journey, an adventure in the great outdoors, or a luxurious escape, you can count on them for best deals. With a team of knowledgeable experts and a dedication to customer satisfaction, Odin Tours is your gateway to discovering the India’s wonders with ease and excitement.
Call: +91 9810594172 – Mr.Mukul Azad
Website: https://odintours.com/
Cox & Kings
Cox & Kings is a renowned tour operator offering Ajanta and Ellora tour packages. Their packages typically include visits to the historic cave temples, guided tours, and exploration of the rich cultural heritage of the region. Website: www.coxandkings.com
Thomas Cook India
Thomas Cook India provides diverse Ajanta and Ellora holiday packages, including options for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and travelers seeking to explore the ancient caves. Their packages aim to capture the essence of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Website: www.thomascook.in
MakeMyTrip
MakeMyTrip, a popular online travel portal, offers customizable Ajanta and Ellora tour packages. Travelers can choose from a range of options, including guided tours, accommodation, and exploration of the historic caves. Website: www.makemytrip.com
Yatra.com
Yatra.com provides a variety of Ajanta and Ellora travel packages, covering historical and cultural experiences, guided tours, and exploration of the magnificent cave temples. Website: www.yatra.com
Kesari Tours
Kesari Tours specializes in organizing Ajanta and Ellora tours that focus on the region’s historical significance, art, and culture. Their packages often include visits to other nearby attractions as well. Website: www.kesari.in
TravelTriangle
TravelTriangle connects travelers with local Ajanta and Ellora tour operators to create personalized itineraries. Travelers can customize their trips to include guided tours, exploration of the caves, and nearby sightseeing. Website: www.traveltriangle.com
SOTC India
SOTC India offers a range of Ajanta and Ellora tour packages that encompass various experiences, including historical tours, art exploration, and relaxation amidst the cultural heritage. Website: www.sotc.in
Akbar Travels
Akbar Travels offers a variety of Ajanta and Ellora tour packages that include guided tours of the cave temples, visits to nearby attractions, and cultural experiences. Website: www.akbartravels.com
Goibibo
Goibibo provides Ajanta and Ellora tour packages catering to a wide range of travelers, from history enthusiasts seeking to explore the caves’ architecture to art lovers interested in the ancient sculptures. Website: www.goibibo.com
Incredible India Tours
Incredible India Tours offers Ajanta and Ellora tour packages that often include guided tours of the cave temples, exploration of the ancient artwork, and visits to nearby historical sites. Website: www.incredibleindiatours.in
Ajanta Ellora Caves Travel Facts
Here are some travel facts about the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Maharashtra, India:
Location: The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India, with Ajanta about 107 kilometers from the city of Aurangabad and Ellora about 30 kilometers away.
Cave Complexes: The site consists of two distinct cave complexes. Ajanta has 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves, and Ellora has 34 caves representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.
Historical Significance: These caves date back to ancient India, with construction spanning over several centuries, from the 2nd century BCE to the 10th century CE.
Architectural Styles: The caves showcase various architectural styles, including rock-cut architecture, monolithic temple structures, and exquisite sculptures.
Religious Diversity: The caves represent Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, reflecting the religious and cultural diversity of ancient India.
Ellora Kailash Temple: The Kailash Temple at Ellora is a remarkable monolithic structure carved from a single rock, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most impressive achievements in rock-cut architecture.
Paintings and Sculptures: Ajanta Caves are renowned for their beautiful wall paintings depicting stories from Buddha’s life, while Ellora features intricate sculptures and carvings.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: The entire complex is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting history enthusiasts, archaeologists, and art connoisseurs from around the world.
Best Time to Visit: The caves are best visited during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
Local Cuisine: Aurangabad, the nearest city, offers local Maharashtrian cuisine and delicious street food.
Transport: The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport, well-connected to major Indian cities. Regular bus services and trains also connect Aurangabad to other cities in India.
Accommodation: Aurangabad provides a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to upscale resorts, catering to different traveler preferences.
Conservation: Conservation efforts are in place to preserve the delicate paintings and sculptures, ensuring the cultural heritage remains intact for future generations.
Photography: Photography is allowed in the caves but may be subject to certain restrictions to protect the ancient artwork.
Local Traditions: Visitors can interact with local artisans and observe traditional crafts, such as sculpture and painting, in the nearby villages.
Safety: The caves are generally safe for visitors, but it’s advisable to follow safety guidelines and respect the cultural and historical significance of the site.
Ajanta Ellora Caves Tour FAQs
Q: What are the Ajanta and Ellora Caves?
A: The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a complex of ancient rock-cut caves in Maharashtra, India, renowned for their rich cultural and historical significance. Ajanta primarily features Buddhist caves, while Ellora includes Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves, showcasing remarkable rock-cut architecture, sculptures, and paintings.
Q: How do I reach the Ajanta and Ellora Caves?
A: The nearest major city is Aurangabad, which has an airport and railway station. From Aurangabad, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the caves.
Q: What is the best time to visit the Ajanta and Ellora Caves?
A: The best time to visit is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be scorching, and the monsoon season (June to September) may lead to cave closures.
Q: Are there entry fees to visit the caves?
A: Yes, there are separate entry fees for Indian and foreign tourists. There may be additional charges for photography and video recording.
Q: How much time should I plan for a visit to Ajanta and Ellora?
A: Plan at least one full day for each complex. Ajanta may require more time due to the distance between caves, while Ellora can be explored in a day.
Q: Can I hire a guide at the caves?
A: Yes, you can hire guides at the entrance of both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Guides provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the caves.
Q: Are there facilities like restrooms and food stalls near the caves?
A: Yes, both complexes have restrooms and food stalls where you can purchase snacks and refreshments.
Q: Is photography allowed inside the caves?
A: Photography is generally allowed in most caves, but there may be restrictions in a few. Check for signs and guidelines at the entrance of each cave.
Q: Are the caves wheelchair accessible?
A: Some of the caves have limited wheelchair accessibility, but the terrain can be uneven. It’s advisable to check in advance for accessibility options and assistance.
Q: Are there any nearby attractions to explore along with the caves?
A: Yes, there are other attractions in the vicinity, such as Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort, and Panchakki, which you can explore if you have extra time in Aurangabad.