As an avid traveler, I have journeyed to many places across the globe. However, the Ajanta Ellora Caves Tour in India have made a lasting impression on me. These caves are a true hidden gem, and I believe that more people should be aware of the ajantaellora caves. So, in this blog post, I’m going to be your tour guide on guided tours through the captivating Ajanta Ellora Caves.
Introduction to Ajanta Ellora Caves
The Ajanta Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are located in Maharashtra, India. They are a collection of 64 caves that were meticulously carved out of rock over a period of 800 years, beginning from the 2nd century BC. The Ajanta Ellora Caves history is divided into two groups – the Ajanta Caves and the Ellora Caves.
The Ajanta Caves are a collection of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments that date back to the 2nd century BCE. Known for their Ajanta Caves paintings and ajanta buddhist caves, they depict the life of Buddha and other Buddhist legends. Conversely, the Ellora Caves, a group of 34 rock-cut shrines built between the 6th and 10th centuries CE, are a mix of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments, including the ellora jain caves and hindu cave temple, and are renowned for their rock cut architecture.
History and significance of Ajanta Ellora Caves
The Ajanta Ellora Caves are not only significant from a cultural and historical perspective, but they also showcase the Ajanta cave architecture and rock cut architecture of ancient India. These caves were built by skilled artisans and craftsmen who used only chisels and hammers to carve out the rock. It is believed that the caves were built by monks who used them as monasteries and prayer halls.
The Ajanta Ellora Caves also played a pivotal role in the spread of Buddhism and Jainism in India. The ajanta frescoes and ajanta fresco paintings in the caves depict the life of Buddha and other Buddhist legends, as well as the teachings of Jainism. These caves are a living testimony to the rich cultural heritage of India and are a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.
How to reach Ajanta Ellora Caves
The Ajanta Ellora Caves are located in Maharashtra, India, and can be reached by air, rail, and road. The Ajanta Ellora distance from the nearest airport, Aurangabad Airport, is 100 km. The nearest railway station is Aurangabad Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The caves are also well-connected by road, and buses and taxis are easily available from Aurangabad.
Best time to visit Ajanta Ellora Caves
The best time to visit the Ajanta Ellora Caves Tour is between October and March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The summer months from April to June can be scorching hot, with temperatures soaring up to 40 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season from July to September can be unpredictable, with heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. It is best to avoid visiting the caves during the monsoon season.
Tourist attractions in and around Ajanta Ellora Caves
Apart from the Ajanta Ellora Caves Tour, there are several other tourist attractions in and around the area, contributing to the aurangabad tourism. The Bibi Ka Maqbara, also known as the mini Taj Mahal, is a must-visit for anyone interested in Mughal architecture. The Daulatabad Fort, located 16 km from Aurangabad, is another popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, is also located nearby and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Ajanta Ellora Caves tour guide – what to expect
When you visit the Ajanta Ellora Caves, you can expect to be transported back in time to ancient India. The caves are a marvel of architectural and artistic brilliance, and the Ajanta Caves paintings and ajanta cave art, as well as the Ellora Caves sculptures and ellora sculptures, are a sight to behold.
The caves are open to visitors from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm, and the Ellora Caves entrance fee is INR 40 for Indians and INR 600 for foreigners. Audio guides, which provide detailed information about the history and significance of the caves, are available for rent at the entrance. It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear as the caves involve a lot of walking and climbing. Whether you’re on a day tour or a private tour, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.
Tips for exploring Ajanta Ellora Caves Tour
Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to the Ajanta Ellora Caves:
- Start early to avoid crowds and beat the heat.
- Carry a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated.
- Wear comfortable footwear as the caves involve a lot of walking and climbing.
- Hire a guide to get a better understanding of the history and significance of the caves.
- Respect the cultural and historical significance of the caves and do not touch or deface any of the paintings or sculptures.
Accommodation options near Ajanta Ellora Caves
There are several accommodation options near the Ajanta Ellora Caves, ranging from budget to luxury, which you can consider while planning your Ajanta Ellora Caves tour package. The MTDC Holiday Resort and Hotel Kailas are two popular options for budget travelers embarking on an ellora ajanta caves tour. The Taj Gateway Hotel is a luxury option that offers stunning views of the Ajanta Caves. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
Other things to do near Ajanta Ellora Caves
Apart from the Ajanta Ellora Caves Tours, there are several other things to do near the area, contributing to the rich Aurangabad tourism. The Aurangabad Caves, located just 9 km from the Ajanta Caves, are a group of 12 Buddhist caves that date back to the 6th and 7th centuries CE. The Panchakki Watermill, located in the heart of Aurangabad, is a unique watermill that was used to grind grain for the pilgrims visiting the city.
Conclusion – why Ajanta Ellora Caves should be on your travel list
The Ajanta Ellora Caves, also known as ajantaellora, are a true hidden gem of India and are a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture. These caves are a testament to the artistic and architectural brilliance of ancient India and are a living testimony to the rich cultural heritage of the country. So, if you’re planning an Ajanta Ellora Caves tour package or an ellora ajanta caves tour, make sure to include the Ajanta Ellora Caves in your itinerary. You won’t regret it! If you wish to explore the Ajanta and Ellora Caves you can let us know we can add in your tour.
