Ellora Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 34 rock-cut caves from the 6th to 10th centuries, showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art and architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploration
Ellora Caves
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 34 rock-cut caves from the 6th to 10th centuries, showcasing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art and architecture.
"You'll be awestruck upon entering, and by the time you leave, you'll be amazed."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Carry Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially during warmer months. Limited options inside the complex. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)
Cave 16
A colossal temple carved top-down from a single rock, dedicated to Lord Shiva. A true monolithic marvel.
Buddhist Caves (Caves 1-12)
Caves 1-12
Explore the serene monasteries and prayer halls, showcasing the early Buddhist influence on the site.
Hindu Caves (Caves 13-29)
Caves 13-29
Witness the grandeur of Hindu deities and mythological scenes intricately carved into the rock.
Jain Caves (Caves 30-34)
Caves 30-34
Discover the peaceful Jain temples, featuring detailed sculptures and a distinct architectural style.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Carry Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially during warmer months. Limited options inside the complex. :water_wave:
Hire a Guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and intricate details. Guides are available at the entrance. :man_detective:
Visit Kailasa Temple First
Many visitors recommend starting with Cave 16, the Kailasa Temple, as it's the most iconic. :star:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Carry Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially during warmer months. Limited options inside the complex. :water_wave:
Hire a Guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and intricate details. Guides are available at the entrance. :man_detective:
Visit Kailasa Temple First
Many visitors recommend starting with Cave 16, the Kailasa Temple, as it's the most iconic. :star:
Respect the Site
These are ancient religious sites. Be mindful of your behavior and dress modestly. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the sheer scale, intricate carvings, and architectural brilliance of Ellora Caves, particularly the Kailasa Temple. The site is praised for its historical significance, showcasing a unique blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain art, reflecting ancient India's cultural harmony. While some damage from historical invasions is noted, the remaining glory leaves visitors speechless and proud of their heritage.
"An ancient rock-cut cave temples located around 30
kms from Aurangabad in Ellora. These caves are a popular tourist attraction and is visited by tourists. It consists of 34 cave temples belonging to Buddhism, Hindu and Jain religions. The main highlight is the Kailash temple which is built from one single rock.These cave temples were built between the 4th & 9th
centuries. It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage
Site. There are photographers as well as guide
services. Also, there are few local vendors selling
informative books, souvenirs etc. Wheelchair facility is
available for senior citizens and physically
handicapped. The entrance fees are Rs. 40 per Indian and Rs. 600 per foreigner. The best time to visit these cave temples is from November to March. It is closed on Tuesdays. These cave temples are an ideal place for families, history lovers photographers as well as architecture buffs. It is a must visit and should not be missed when in Ellora."
Hitesh Valvi
"Indian Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism all the history important artifacts at one single place.
Loved it.
Enjoyed it.
Bring water and good stamina and definitely take a guide."
AMAN KUMAR
"Ellora Caves are beautiful, green, and serene, but lack basic security. Accessible cave areas are slippery and unsafe, and only cash payments are accepted, which troubles visitors. I urge Pune Tourism Department to take precautionary steps for safety and improve visitor experience."
Vignesh S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Pune, you can hire a rented car for a comfortable journey, especially if traveling with family. The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or train to Aurangabad and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to Ellora Caves.
The most convenient way to travel between Ajanta and Ellora Caves is by hiring a private car or taxi. This allows for flexibility and comfort, especially if you have luggage or are traveling with companions. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
Yes, there are state-run buses from Aurangabad to Ellora Caves. These are a budget-friendly option, though they might be more crowded and less comfortable than a private car.
Absolutely! Ellora Caves is a popular day trip from Aurangabad. You can hire a taxi for the day to explore the caves and other nearby attractions.
The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (IXU), which has flights connecting to major Indian cities. From Aurangabad, you can take a taxi or bus to Ellora.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ellora Caves are typically open from sunrise to sunset, usually around 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. It's advisable to check the official timings before your visit as they can vary.
There is an entrance fee for Indian citizens and a slightly higher fee for foreign nationals. Children usually have free entry. Check the official ASI website for the most current pricing.
Generally, a single entry ticket is sufficient. However, if you plan to visit multiple ASI-protected monuments in the region, inquire about composite tickets that might offer savings.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of Ellora Caves, but tripods and professional video equipment might require special permission or incur additional fees. Always check for signage.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance can save you time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
To truly appreciate the scale and detail of the 34 caves, it's recommended to allocate at least 4-6 hours. Many visitors spend a full day exploring.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and consider hiring a local guide at the entrance to understand the history and significance of each cave. You can also explore at your own pace.
Yes, licensed guides are available for hire at the entrance of Ellora Caves. They can provide valuable insights into the art, history, and religious significance of the site.
The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is a must-see. Other highlights include the Buddhist caves (1-12) for their monastic architecture and the Hindu caves (13-29) for their elaborate sculptures.
Accessibility can be challenging due to the uneven terrain and stairs within the caves. Some areas might be difficult to access for those with mobility issues. It's best to inquire locally about specific accessible routes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited food options available just outside the main entrance of Ellora Caves. It's advisable to carry your own snacks and water, or plan to eat before or after your visit.
You can find local Maharashtrian cuisine, snacks, and beverages at eateries near the caves. For a wider variety, it's best to dine in Aurangabad.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks into the Ellora Caves complex. However, please ensure you dispose of any waste responsibly in designated bins.
📸 📸 Photography
The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) offers numerous stunning photographic opportunities. The intricate carvings throughout all the caves, especially the facades and interior sculptures, are highly photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone usage is generally prohibited at protected archaeological sites like Ellora Caves to preserve the heritage and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Bring plenty of water and snacks. Exploring can be tiring for little ones. :apple:
* Focus on a few key caves rather than trying to see all 34. The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is a must-see. :star:
* Consider hiring a guide who can make the history engaging for children. :man_detective:
* Ensure comfortable footwear for everyone, as there's a lot of walking and uneven terrain. :sneakers:
🚶 Solo Travelers
+1Tips for solo travelers:
* Consider joining a small group tour for a more social experience and shared insights. :bustsinsilhouette:
* Utilize local guides to gain a deeper understanding of the historical and religious context. :man_detective:
* Allow ample time to wander and absorb the atmosphere without feeling rushed. :clock1:
* Stay in Aurangabad and take a day trip, or look for guesthouses near the caves for a more immersive experience.
🏛️ History & Art Enthusiasts
+1Key aspects for enthusiasts:
* Focus on the architectural techniques and the engineering marvels behind the excavation. :hammerandwrench:
* Study the iconography and narratives depicted in the sculptures, which offer insights into ancient beliefs and stories. :scroll:
* Appreciate the stylistic differences between the Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves. :gem:
* Learn about the historical context of the site, including the patronage and the periods of construction and damage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monolithic Marvel: Kailasa Temple
+1This monolithic masterpiece is not just a temple but an entire complex, featuring courtyards, pillars, and multi-story structures, all carved from the living rock. The precision and detail are astonishing, leading many to question how such a feat was achieved without modern technology. It's a riddle in stone that continues to awe visitors centuries later.
+1The Kailasa Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the harmonious coexistence of religions, as it stands amidst Buddhist and Jain caves, showcasing a rich tapestry of Indian spiritual heritage.
A Tapestry of Faiths: Religious Harmony at Ellora
The Buddhist caves often feature monasteries, prayer halls, and sculptures of Buddha and Bodhisattvas, reflecting a period of monasticism and philosophical inquiry. The Hindu caves are known for their dynamic sculptures of deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Durga, as well as elaborate depictions of mythological stories. The Jain caves, though fewer in number, are characterized by their serene ambiance and detailed carvings of Tirthankaras.
This blend of faiths is not just historical but also a powerful message of unity. Visitors can witness how different spiritual traditions flourished side-by-side, leaving behind an enduring legacy of art, architecture, and spiritual exploration.
+1The Art of Rock-Cut Architecture
The techniques employed were incredibly sophisticated, involving detailed planning and precise execution. The excavation process often started from the top and worked downwards, as seen in the Kailasa Temple, or from the facade inwards for other caves. This method allowed for the creation of complex interior spaces and detailed exterior ornamentation.
These caves are not just architectural wonders but also repositories of ancient Indian art. The sculptures and reliefs found within the caves depict religious narratives, mythological figures, and daily life, offering invaluable insights into the culture and beliefs of the time.
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