History
Caves of BuddhismIt is believed that the Buddhist caves were all carved between the sixth and seventh century CE. Viharas, or monasteries, make up the majority of these constructions. In a few of these cave monasteries, you'll find shrines with Buddha and 'bodhisattva' sculptures.Cave 5 is one of India's most significant and unusual caves, dating to the middle of the sixth century CE. Two benches stretch the length of the room, with a total length of nearly 18 meters. Several Buddhist sutras were most likely spoken in this cave together in a communal setting. Also known as Vishvakarma's cave because of its beautiful carvings, Cave 10 is a famous tourist destination. The base of the stupa is covered by a large Buddha image, which also covers the drum. The rock-cut balcony is one of the cave's most distinctive features.11 and 12 are referred to as Don Taal and Teen Taal, respectively, and they're equally significant. Esoteric monastic Buddhist architecture may be seen in these two three-story structures.Caves of Hindu OriginThe Kalachuri, Chalukya, and Rashtrakuta dynasties all ruled over India at the time these caves were discovered. Not to be overlooked are the caverns number 14, 15, 16, 21, and 29. Sculpture panels depicting a variety of Hindu deities can be found in Cave 14. After a few steps, you'll find Cave 15. Several notable sculptures cut into the cave's inner walls still have plaster traces, suggesting that the sculptures were painted. Cave 16, also known as the Kailasa is the unrivalled centre piece of Ellora. Despite its appearance, it was cut from a single rock. Two huge elephant sculptures stand guard in the centre of the courtyard, flanked by two towering victory pillars. The lateral walls of the temple have columned galleries adorned with massive carved panels depicting a wide array of gods. The porch of the hall on the second floor has a few lovely remnants of painted decoration that are still visible.Ellora's Rameshwar cave, or Cave 21, is renowned for its stunning carvings. Images of Ganga and Yamuna may be found on either side of the cave. The Cave 29, commonly referred to as Sita ki Nahani by the locals, has an unusual layout and height. The layout of this cave resembles that of Elephanta's Great Cave, and it contains some of the site's most remarkable sculpture.Caves of JainaThe caves 30 through 34 are located in five separate excavations. Six additional Jaina caves may be found on the other side of this hill, as well. The Digambara sect of Jainism is responsible for all of these caves. One caves worth a visit includes Cave 32 or Indra Sabha. Although this cave's lowest story is incomplete, it is one of the most impressive with pillars, sculptures, and paintings on the ceiling..Of all the caves at Ellora, the Jaina caves have the largest number of paintings still extant on ceilings and side walls.
Near by places to Explore
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
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Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, a venerated temple well recognised for its proximity to the Buddhist complex of 12 caverns known as Ellora Caves, is one of the tourist attractions close to Aurangabad. You may locate Dashavtaras completely carved out of pure red stone around halfway to the temple.
- 24 Hrs
- Verul, Maharashtra
- Wheelchair Accessible - No
- Toilet- No
Daulatabad Fort - City of Prosperity
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A 15-kilometer drive from Aurangabad, the district capital and the halfway point to the Ellora Caves, will bring you to Daulatabad (190 57' N; 750 15' E). Muhammad-bin-Tughluq named the city Daulatabad or "the home of riches" when he established it as his capital in A.D. 1327.
- 08:00 - 18:00
- MH SH 22, Daulatabad, Maharashtra 431002
- Wheelchair Accessible - No
- Toilet- No