11 Top Attractions to Look for in Ajanata Ellora Caves
Wonders of Ajanata Ellora Caves
Ajanata Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves, located at a distance
of 30 km from Aurangabad City of India, discovered in the period between 5th and 10th
century AD. Listed in the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, these historic caves
are carved out of one peace rock, so also addressed as Rock Cut Caves
The Ajanta Caves, located at a
distance of 40 km from Jalgaon, are another masterpiece of rock cut caves in
the world. Displaying the epic of Buddhism
in the form of sculptures and statues from 200 BC to 650 AD. Listed in World
Heritage Sites in Maharashtra, these are the cluster of 30 caves.
Look for the Buddhist Caves which are one of the earliest sculptures in Ellora.
These statues were created between 5th
and 8th centuries. Visit the Caves 1 to
5 that are excavated between 400 AD and 600 AD, while the caves 6 to 12 were
excavated between mid 7th and mid 8th centuries. These caves are mostly known
as Viharas...
The most exotic Kailash Temple is Cave 16, which is most visited by tourist.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the major thing to look at is the largest rock-cut temple in the world made from
the 3 million cubic feet of rock.
The Hindu Caves in Ellora are constructed
in mid 6th and end of 8th century. Spend
some time for caves 17 to 29 as they are rated as the early caves that were
constructed during the Kalachuri period. Caves 14, 15 and 16 dates back to the
Rashtrakuta period.
The architecture in Jain Caves at Ellora is as old
as 9th and 10th century. Visit the five Jain temples in Ellora which belong to
the Digambara cult. The major attraction in the temple is popular Jain shrine
is the Chhota Kailash, which is Cave 30. The two-storied Indra Sabha (Cave 32)
and the Jagannath Sabha (Cave 33) are not to be missed structures.
Ajanta Cave 27 is again not to be
missed site. It has a Naga Dwarpala ( Huge Gate ) on the outer side of the
temple. The doorway of the temple resembles the shrine doorway of cave 2.
Ajanta Cave 21 main attraction is a
huge gathering hall dates back to 5th and 6th century AD. The gallery of the
hall opens into a court which is supported by 26 pillars, which is definitely a
site to look for.
The main attractions of Ajanta Cave 1
is its construction of horse-shoe shaped scarp. Pay attention to the intricate carvings on its walls and
ceiling narrating the story on the life Lord
Buddha
Ajanta Cave 9 is famous for its massive gathering hall and early
paintings, namely the Frieze of Animals and Herdsmen Naga Worshippers. Watch the
outside view from the Giant Horseshoe Window on the façade full of carving.
Ajanta Cave 2, is just lies besides to
Cave 1, are worth a visit for its famous paintings on its walls, ceilings and
pillars. This cave has pillared lobby on both the ends and a porch, which is
supported by pillars that are ornamented with design.