Rating
0.0/5.0
Location
Aurangabad , Maharashtra
Category
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Coordinates
Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India - View on Google Maps
Theme: UNESCO World Heritage Site • Aurangabad • Maharashtra
Quick Information
About Ellora Caves
Ellora (e-?l?r-?, IAST: V?r??) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. It is one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world, featuring Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monuments, and artwork, dating from the 600–1000 CE period. Cave 16, in particular, features the largest single monolithic rock excavation in the world, the Kailasha temple, a chariot shaped monument dedicated to Shiva. The Kailasha temple excavation also features sculptures depicting the gods, goddesses and mythologies found in Vaishnavism, Shaktism as well as relief panels summarizing the two major Hindu Epics.
There are over 100 caves at the site, all excavated from the basalt cliffs in the Charanandri Hills, 34 of which are open to public. These consist of 12 Buddhist (caves 1–12), 17 Hindu (caves 13–29) and 5 Jain (caves 30–34) caves, each group representing deities and mythologies prevalent in the 1st millennium CE, as well as monasteries of each respective religion. They were built close to one another and illustrate the religious harmony that existed in ancient India. All of the Ellora monuments were built during Hindu dynasties such as the Rashtrakuta dynasty, which constructed part of the Hindu and Buddhist caves, and the Yadava dynasty, which constructed a number of the Jain caves. Funding for the construction of the monuments was provided by royals, traders and the wealthy of the region.
Although the caves served as monasteries, temples and a rest stop for pilgrims, the site's location on an ancient South Asian trade route also made it an important commercial centre in the Deccan region. It is 29 kilometres (18 miles) north-west of Aurangabad, and about 300 kilometres (190 miles) east-northeast of Mumbai. Today, the Ellora Caves, along with the nearby Ajanta Caves, are a major tourist attraction in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra and a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ellora Caves is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. During this period, temperatures are moderate, making it comfortable to explore the attraction and enjoy outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July to September) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall, while summers (April to June) can be extremely hot. Early morning and late afternoon visits are recommended for the best experience and photography opportunities.
Tip: Check the local weather forecast before your visit and carry appropriate clothing based on the season.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Ellora Caves is located in Aurangabad. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach the attraction.
By Train: Aurangabad has well-connected railway stations with regular train services from major cities across India. From the railway station, local transport options like taxis, auto-rickshaws, or buses are available. For detailed travel information, check our how to reach guide.
By Road: Aurangabad is accessible by road via national and state highways. You can drive your own vehicle, hire a taxi, or use intercity bus services. Use our distance calculator to plan your route. The roads are well-maintained and offer scenic views during the journey.
Local Transport: Once in Aurangabad, you can use local buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, or ride-sharing services to reach Ellora Caves.
Explore more attractions and travel information in Maharashtra.
Location: View location on Google Maps or check the map below for precise directions.
Entry Fees & Timings
Entry Fees: Please check the official website or contact the attraction authorities for current entry fees. Fees may vary for Indian nationals, foreign tourists, and children. Some attractions offer discounted rates for students and senior citizens.
Visiting Hours: The attraction is typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, timings may vary on weekends, holidays, or during special events. It's advisable to verify the exact opening and closing times before your visit.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning (around 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) are recommended for the best experience and to avoid crowds.
Note: Some attractions may require advance booking or have specific entry requirements. Check the official website for the latest information.
Things to Do
- Explore the Attraction: Take your time to explore Ellora Caves and appreciate its architecture, history, and natural beauty.
- Photography: Capture beautiful moments and scenic views. The attraction offers excellent photo opportunities throughout the day.
- Learn the History: Read about the historical significance and cultural importance of this attraction. Information boards and guided tours are often available.
- Enjoy Local Culture: Experience the local traditions, cuisine, and hospitality around the area. Explore more about Aurangabad culture and attractions.
- Shopping: Explore nearby markets for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional items.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit other popular attractions in the vicinity to make the most of your trip. Check out all attractions in Aurangabad.
- Theme Exploration: Explore more UNESCO World Heritage Site attractions across India.
Travel Tips
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before visiting and dress accordingly. Carry water, sunscreen, and hats during summers.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll likely do a lot of walking.
- Safety: Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings. Follow safety guidelines provided at the attraction.
- Photography: Respect photography rules. Some areas may restrict photography or require permits.
- Time: Allocate at least 2-3 hours for a proper visit to fully explore the attraction.
- Guides: Consider hiring a local guide for a more informative and enriching experience.
- Parking: Arrive early if you're driving, as parking spaces may be limited during peak hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ellora Caves
What is Ellora Caves?
Ellora Caves is a popular tourist attraction located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. Ellora (e-?l?r-?, IAST: V?r??) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. It is one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world,...
What is the best time to visit Ellora Caves?
The best time to visit Ellora Caves is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Early morning and late afternoon visits are recommended for the best experience.
How to reach Ellora Caves?
You can reach Ellora Caves by air, train, or road. The nearest airport and railway station are in Aurangabad. From there, you can use local transport like taxis, auto-rickshaws, or buses to reach the attraction.
What are the entry fees for Ellora Caves?
Entry fees may vary for Indian nationals, foreign tourists, and children. Please check the official website or contact the attraction authorities for current entry fees and any discounts available for students and senior citizens.
What are the visiting hours?
The attraction is typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, timings may vary on weekends, holidays, or during special events. It's advisable to verify the exact opening and closing times before your visit.
What are the things to do at Ellora Caves?
Visitors can explore the attraction, take photographs, learn about its history and cultural significance, enjoy local culture and cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and visit nearby attractions to make the most of their trip.
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