Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Nestled in the lush canopies of Aurangabad region, Ajanta and Ellora caves of India are one of the famous World Heritage Sites of India. Just 364 kms away from the hustle and bustle of the glamorous Mumbai city, Ajanta and Ellora caves are located amidst the serene ambiance of deep jungles.

Perhaps the most amazing discoveries of past millennium, Ajanta and Ellora caves are the handcrafted rock caves of ancient times. Ajanta and Ellora caves are positioned merely 100km and 30 km respectively from Aurangabad in Maharashtra.

These treasures of our country was discovered by a British officer named John Smith in 1819. There are 34 caves in Ellora and 29 caves in Ajanta which are perfect testimony of India's rich architectural heritage and communal harmony.
Ajanta caves are carved out by the laborious Buddhist monks in 200 B.C from the deep curved mountain side, lying in Sahyadri hills. These caves mainly consists of Budha sculptures, ancient paintings and exquisite frescos. Among the 29 caves, 5 caves of Ajanta served as Chastiyas (Temples) and 24 caves as Viharas (Monasteries). These caves also includes panels which displays the stories of Jatakas, a rich tale of different incarnations of Lord Buddha and image of nymphs and princesses among others.

Ellora caves regarded as the wonder of 4th century are the true specimens of religious harmony. These caves are built from 350 A.D to 700 A.D and are dedicated to three different religion viz, Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. The 12 caves on the South are of Buddhists and 17 caves in center are dedicated to the Hindus while five caves to the North belongs to the Jain's.

A huge statue of Budha seated on a two storey structure of stupa is the prime attraction of these caves. Along the state of Budha, this stupa also has dwarfs dancing and making music. In cave 16 there is a Kailasa Temple which was built by removing 200, 000 tones of rock and took a century for completion.

On the north to the Ellora caves and a mile away from central caves lies the Jain caves. The ceiling of cave number 32 showcases a beautifully designed lotus flower. These caves usually portray the Jain philosophy and traditions. In other cave you will find the Goddess Vakshi on her lion under mango tree, laden with fruits. Jain caves have the intricate designs and rich paintings on its walls and ceilings that will we a visual treat to your eyes.

By Jolly Mazumdar