Ajanta Ellora Caves All You Need To Know Before You Take A Trip In 2025

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are praised for their deep historical importance and stunning ancient craftwork such as sculptures, carvings, paintings, etc. These remarkable sites feature 64 rock-cut caves close to Aurangabad and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tourists often come here to learn more about the Buddhist culture and their ancient stories. Therefore, such features make Ajanta Ellora Caves a major tourist attraction site. 

If you’re planning a visit, we have everything you are required to know before visiting. This guide covers the history, best times to visit, opening hours and entry fees, how to get there, a map, key attractions, things to do, and where to stay.

Quick Enquiry
Quick Enquiry
Make A Call
Call Us
Chat with us
Whatsapp Us

History Of Ajanta Ellora Caves

History Of Ajanta Ellora Caves

The Ajanta Caves were created between the 2nd century BCE and around 480 to 650 CE. Historian Walter Spink who was a prominent history scholar states that they were built in two phases which were the Satavahana Period and the Vākāṭaka Period. Also, some caves were never finished and others were only partly constructed.

On the other hand, the period of Ellora Caves is more recent. It spanned from the 5th to the 10th century CE. The Ellora Caves are divided into three sections which are Hindu Caves, Jain Caves, and Buddhist Caves. Together, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Difference Between Ajanta And Ellora Caves

Difference Between Ajanta And Ellora Caves

Ajanta Elora caves are often taken into consideration as one unit but they differ in several ways: 

  1. Distance: The Ajanta Caves are 104 km from Aurangabad and the Ellora Caves are 29 km from the city.
  2. Construction Period: The Ajanta Caves were built between 200 BCE while the Ellora Caves were constructed later from the 5th to the 10th century CE.
  3. Purpose: The Ajanta Caves primarily possess viharas and Buddhist monasteries. The Ellora Caves include religious hubs for Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
  4. Sponsorship: The Ajanta Caves were funded by various rulers, especially from the Vakataka and Satvahana dynasties.

Key Attractions Of Ajanta Ellora Caves

Key Attractions Of Ajanta Ellora Caves

Here are some of the main sites of Ajanta Ellora Caves that need to be explored. 

  • Ajanta Caves 

While visiting here make sure to check out Cave 1, Cave 2, Cave 4, and Cave 17.

  • Cave 1: One of the most famous caves is Cave 1. It is famous for its original paintings. The grand entrance is decorated with Bodhisattva murals and the sidewalls depict essential moments in Buddha’s life including his civilization and his transformation into many forms.
  • Cave 2: This cave is known for its complex ceiling designs that feature patterns of devils, birds, etc.
  • Cave 4: This one is one of the largest monasteries in Ajanta. It is unfinished but still has the spark and magic. 

Ellora Caves

Ellora Caves

Here, you must visit Cave 1, Cave 2, and Cave 16.

  • Cave 1: This cave is a simple vihara with 8 monastic cells.
  • Cave 2: This cave also features a statue of Buddha seated on a lion. The entrance displays a remarkable carving of Maitreya Buddha and Padmapani holding a lotus.
  • Cave 16: Also referred to as the Kailash Temple, Cave 16 is one of the most powerful attractions at Ellora. It is a major pilgrimage spot for devotees of Lord Shiva. The temple’s gopurams symbolize Mount Kailash which is the religious residence of Lord Shiva.

Timing and Fees Of  Visiting These Historical Caves

Timing and Fees Of  Visiting These Historical Caves

To fully enjoy your visit to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, it’s important to arrive on time. The Ajanta Caves timings are 9:00 am to 9:30 pm and it remains closed on Mondays. The Ellora Caves are open all day. Keep these timings in mind to make the most of your visit.

Keep in mind: 

  • Closed: On Mondays 
  • Regular timings on other days: 9:00 am to 9:30 pm

On the other hand, INR 40 (for Indians) per person is charged to visit this site. INR 60 is charged for foreign tourists, and for the camera, you have to pay INR 25. In addition to that, there is no fee for children below 15 years of age. 

Best Time to Visit Ajanta Ellora Caves

Best Time to Visit Ajanta Ellora Caves

The best time to visit Ajanta Ellora Caves is from June to March when the weather is pleasant. From June to September, the monsoon season brings enjoyable rain showers that improve the experience. From November to February, temperatures cool down which makes it a comfortable time to explore. However, avoid the summer months from March to May as it can get quite hot during the day.

Conclusion 

The Ajanta Ellora Caves is a must-visit destination to get a deeper insight into the Buddhist culture and other religions like Hinduism and Jainism. Fortunately, Rajasthan Tours India is here to guide you in terms of planning your trip to Ajanta Ellora Caves. We offer hassle-free, tailored, and affordable itineraries for you which upscale your travel experience to extraordinary one. 

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide To Visiting The Taj Mahal

Whatsapp Logo

Quick Enquiry