Ellora Caves

Home to the world’s largest monolithic excavation, the Kailasa, Ellora caves are located at a distance of around 30 km from Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra, India. Ellora caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site and date back to 350-700 AD. The cave temples at Ellora are dedicated to three different religions, namely; Buddhist, Hinduism and Jainism. The communion and influence of three leading cultures has imparted a unique aesthetic ambience to these structures in terms of their architecture. These cave temples were patronized by Chalukya – Rashtrakuta rulers and flourished under the guidance of several other rulers. The construction of these temples was a way of bringing salvation to the ruling monarchy and glorifying their dedication towards their faith and religion.

There are over 100 caves in the region but only 34 caves have gained prominence owing to their outstanding architecture and intricate detailing in artwork. It is understood that the caves were carved out during a period when the influence of Buddhism was declining and Hinduism was again manifesting itself as a leading religion. The caves built around 800- 1000 AD show a powerful influence of Jainism denoting the rise and spread of Digambara sect. Out of 34 famous caves; 12, 17 and 5 caves are dedicated to Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism respectively.

The Buddhist caves numbered from 1 – 12 were mostly monasteries with an exception of Cave 10. Caves 2, 5, 6, 10, 11 and 12 attract visitors with their impressive sculptures and paintings. Cave 2 has a central chamber supported by 12 pillars with a massive statue of Buddha on a lion-shaped throne inside the shrine. Cave 5 is also known as Maharwada cave after the local Mahar tribe as the cave was used by these tribesmen during the rainy season. The assembly hall inside the cave has carved benches and shrine statue of seated Buddha. Cave 6 houses fine sculptures of goddess Tara and Buddhist goddess of wisdom and learning, Mahamayuri. Cave 11 and 12 are three floored with a Buddhist shrine along with images of Hindu deities Durga and Ganesh in cave 11 and cave 12 representing seven incarnations of Buddha.

The Hindu caves, 13 – 29, encircle the Kailasa temple and are at the centre of the complex. The walls of these caves are adorned with events from Hindu mythology and are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Cave 16, the most spectacular structure in the cave complex, is a splendid example of temple architecture and is known as Kailasa temple, after the abode of Lord Shiva, Kailash Parvat. The other must-see Hindu caves are caves 14, 15, 21, 25 and 29. Out of the 5 Jain caves, cave 32, the Indra Sabha, is a visual treat for visitors with its intricate carvings, elaborate artwork and rich decorations. Jain caves reflect the teachings and philosophies of Digambar sect and date back to 800 AD.

The most appropriate time to visit Ellora caves is during the monsoon when this Deccan region is turned green with lush flora and all the rivers and streams are brimming with cool water. The famous Ellora Dance festival is held every year in the month of March at the cave site. You can reach Ellora by road from Aurangabad (15 km) which is a domestic airport with direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai international airports. There is also a state bus service to Aurangabad from practically every city in Maharashtra and the city is also well connected with Mumbai and Pune via rail route. You can take a day tour from Aurangabad to Ellora caves or if you want to stay in the lap of nature, there are some good options available.