Introduction to Ellora Caves, Aurangabad
The Ellora Caves, located near Aurangabad, India, are a series of 34 rock-cut caves that have been carved out of the cliffs along the Charanandri hills. These caves, which date back to the 6th to 10th centuries AD, are an important religious and architectural landmark in India, and a popular tourist destination.
Ajanta and Ellora Caves are two of the most famous tourist attractions near Aurangabad city, located in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Both of these sites are UNESCO World Heritage sites and are known for their intricate carvings and paintings that showcase the rich history and culture of India.
Ajanta Caves, which were discovered in the 19th century, are a series of 29 rock-cut Buddhist monasteries and temples. These caves were built between the 2nd century BCE and the 6th century CE, and are considered to be one of the finest examples of Buddhist rock-cut architecture in the world. The caves are also known for their intricate murals, which depict scenes from Buddhist mythology, as well as daily life in ancient India.
Ellora Caves, on the other hand, are a series of 34 rock-cut temples and monasteries that were built between the 6th and 10th centuries. These caves are unique because they showcase the coexistence of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism in ancient India. The caves are famous for their intricate carvings and sculptures, including the famous Kailasa Temple, which is considered to be one of the largest rock-cut structures in the world.
History
The Ellora Caves are believed to have been built by various Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain dynasties between the 6th and 10th centuries AD. During this period, Aurangabad was a major center of Buddhism and Hinduism, and the caves were used as places of worship, meditation, and learning.
What Makes Ellora Caves, Aurangabad a Tourist Destination
The Ellora Caves are considered one of the most important tourist destinations in India, and for good reason. The caves are a unique blend of religion, art, and architecture, and showcase the skill and creativity of the ancient Indian artisans who created them. They are also a testament to the religious tolerance that existed in ancient India, as the caves feature both Hindu and Buddhist sculptures and carvings.
How to Reach Ellora Caves from Aurangabad
Aurangabad is well-connected by road, rail, and air, and reaching the Ellora Caves is easy from the city. The caves are located approximately 30 km from Aurangabad, and visitors can reach them by hiring a taxi, taking a local bus, or taking a train to the nearby Ellora railway station. You can hire private cab from Aurangabad to Ellora cab one day Trip
Major Attractions
There are 34 caves at Ellora, each with its own unique history and architecture. Some of the most popular attractions include the Kailasa Temple, which is considered one of the largest rock-cut temples in the world, and the Buddhist Viharas, which feature elaborate carvings and sculptures.
Timings and Entry Fees
The Caves are open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day, and the entry fee is INR 30 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreign tourists. Visitors should also note that there is an additional fee for still and video cameras.
Conclusion and FAQs
The Caves are an important historical and architectural landmark in India, and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Aurangabad. Whether you’re interested in religion, art, or history, the Ellora Caves are sure to leave a lasting impression.
FAQs:
- When are the Ellora Caves open to visitors? The Ellora Caves are open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.
- How much does it cost to visit the Ellora Caves? The entry fee is INR 30 for Indian nationals and INR 500 for foreign tourists.
- How can I reach the Ellora Caves from Aurangabad? You can reach the Ellora Caves from Aurangabad by hiring a taxi, taking a local bus, or taking a train to the nearby Ellora railway station.
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