ABOUT THE
Attraction
Around 30 km away from Aurangabad in Maharashtra lie the Ellora Caves, an architectural site of Buddhist importance. These caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, date back to about 1,500 years ago and are considered one of the finest examples of Indian rock-cut architecture. Of the several caves at Ellora, 12 are dedicated to Buddha. These Buddhist caves are believed to have been carved between the 6th and 10th century AD.
With several viharas (monasteries) and chaityas (prayer halls), these are spectacular from the inside. But one of the most important and unique caves in Ellora is Cave 5 which harks back to the mid-6th century CE. Inside this cave is a large hall with two long benches in the centre. It is believed that the cave was once an assembly hall. Cave 2 and 6 also deserve a special mention for their stunning architecture and historic significance. Cave 2 has ornately carved pillars and a striking statue of Lord Buddha facing the west. Cave 10, boasting a beautiful rock-cut balcony, is also referred to as the cave of Vishwakarma (the god of architecture). The interior of the cave is replete with intricate carvings and is also believed to be the only chaitya in all the Buddhist caves of Ellora.
HOW TO
REACH
By Bus
Buses and cabs ply to Ellora Caves from Aurangabad
By Train
The nearest railway station is Aurangabad, approximately 30 km away
By Air
The nearest airport is Aurangabad, about 30 km away
OTHER ATTRACTIONS
Kanheri
Carved out of comparatively soft basalt rock in the Sihaychal range of mountains on the outskirts of Mumbai, these 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines with 109 special entrances are one of the oldest caves in the country.
Pitalkhora Caves
14 caves at Pitalkhora date back to the 3rd century BC, making them the earliest forms of rock architecture in the country.
Deur Kothar
Deur Kothar is an archaeological site known for Buddhist stupas that were discovered in 1982. These stupas date back to the Mauryan dynasty and were declared a monument of national importance in 1988.