The Ellora Temple Caves consist of 34 separate religious shrines carved into the actual rock of a basaltic hill and containing a wealth of sculptural and architectural treasures. Carved between the fourth and ninth centuries AD, the caves represent three separate faiths: Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. The 16 Buddhist Caves are the oldest in the group. The Jain Caves illustrate the non-violent, ascetic beliefs of this religion, depicting scenes of pastoral beauty and images such as lotus flowers. In terms of stylistic ambition, the Hindu Caves outdo their neighbours – one cave alone, the Temple of Kailasa, covers twice the area of the Parthenon in Athens and took 100 years to complete. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is the largest monolith in the world and is undoubtedly the most visited site at Ellora.

India Tourism Aurangabad, Krishna Vilas, Station Road, Aurangabad, 431005, Maharastra, India
Tel: (0240) 331 217
Website: www.incredibleindia.org

Air: Mumbai Chhaprati Shivaji International Airport, Aurangabad Airport (domestic flights). Rail: Train: Aurangabad Station. Road: Bus: MSRTC Services to Ellora Temple Caves (from Aurangabad). Car: NH50 towards Nashik and major roads to Ellora (from Pune).

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