Why the
Ajanta Caves
in Maharashtra State
are special

These ancient Buddhist rock-hewn caves are profusely populated with magnificent sculptures and paintings.

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Ajanta Caves
tips & insights

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History in brief

The caves and their sculptures were chiseled out of the solid rock of a tall river canyon cliff. The first carving period dates from the 2nd century BC. The second occurred around the 5th and 6th centuries. Within a century, the site was abandoned and hidden by jungle growth. This wonder remained forgotten for a thousand years until a British officer on a tiger hunt stumbled upon them in 1819.

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Best caves

There are 29 - some were monasteries, some were prayer halls.  About half of them were never finished. Cave 1 is the top visitor favorite and is noted particularly for its paintings. Cave 2 also has fine paintings. Cave 26 is outstanding for its sculpturing.

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Getting there

The nearest major city is Aurangabad, two hours away by road.

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Ellora and Elephanta -
India's other two major caves

Click Ellora and Elephanta to view my pages on them.

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Ajanta photo by Daniel Chitnis - CC BY 2.0

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