Ellora Caves

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Why the
Ellora Caves
in Maharashta State
are special

This ancient rock-hewn religious complex is the cumulative work of three major faiths. The monasteries and prayer halls are elaborately carved.

Ellora Caves
tips & insights

History in brief

The Ellora Caves were cut out of solid rock from the 6th to 10th centuries.

34 caves

12 are Buddhist, 17 are Hindu, and 5 are Jain. They were created and are numbered in that order. Most are not real caves but outdoor structures chiseled out of the rock.

Best caves

Buddhist - #10

The highlight is the large chamber with a ceiling carved to resemble wood beams (see photo above). The focal point is a large Buddha relief fronting a stupa.

Hindu - #16

It's by far the largest and most important Ellora monument. The Mount Kailash relief of Lord Shiva is its artistic masterpiece. Note: The temple is not a real cave but a fully exposed outdoor building chiseled out of a hillside.

Jain - #32

It's interesting, but not as grand as #10 and #16.

Getting there

The nearest major city (Aurangabad) is 45 minutes away by road.

Elephanta and Ajanta -
India's other two renowned caves

Click Elephanta and Ajanta to read my pages on them.

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