Ellora Caves

Why the Ellora Caves in Maharashta State are special
This ancient rock-hewn religious complex is the cumulative work of three major faiths. The monasteries and prayer halls are elaborately carved.

Ellora Caves tips & insights
History in brief
The Ellora Caves were cut out of solid rock from the 6th to 10th centuries.

34 caves
12 are Buddhist, 17 are Hindu, and 5 are Jain. They were created and are numbered in that order. Most are not real caves but outdoor structures chiseled out of the rock.

Best caves

• Buddhist - #10
  The highlight is the large chamber with a ceiling carved to resemble wood beams (see photo above). The focal point is a large Buddha relief fronting a stupa.
  
• Hindu - #16
  It's by far the largest and most important Ellora monument. The Mount Kailash relief of Lord Shiva is its artistic masterpiece. Note: The temple is not a real cave but a fully exposed outdoor building chiseled out of a hillside.
  
• Jain - #32
  It's interesting, but not as grand as #10 and #16.

Getting there
The nearest major city (Aurangabad) is 45 minutes away by road.

Elephanta and Ajanta - India's other two renowned caves
Click Elephanta and Ajanta to read my pages on them.

Location in India