Ajanta Caves in Aurangabad
· Summer: (20°C-42°C) Moderate to extremely hot
· Winter: (10°C-32°C) Warm and pleasant
· Monsoon: Moderate rainfall
Best time to visit:
June-March
Opening Time: 09:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 05:30 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: Monday
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: INR 10
Children:
N/A
Cameras: N/A
Video Camera: INR 5
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
INR 250
Children:
N/A
Cameras:
N/A
Video Camera:
INR 5
Envoy of mesmerizing Indian wall painting that flourished between 2 BC and 7 AD, Ajanta Caves consist of 30 rock-cut cave monuments. Dedicated to Buddhism and Jataka Tales, the murals on the walls are extremely spellbinding and so are the sculptures and architectural elements of these caves. Carved along a horseshoe-shaped cliff along River Waghora, the caves boast of mystic ambiance and lush green surroundings.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these caves have been designated as the protected monuments by the Archaeological Survey of India. While few caves represent the Hinayana phase of Buddhism, while others are believed to belong to the Mahayana phase. Monasteries, stupas, sanctuaries, viharas, chaitya-grihas and verandas are the main sections. Few of the caves continue to be incomplete.
Murals at Ajanta consist of decorative patterns and are done using a variety of shades. Some equally majestic caves can be found at Ellora at the distance of about 105 km.
Warnings: Carrying a torch can be handy as it may get dark inside the caves.
Connectivites
Road:
Private vehicles are allowed only till the base of caves from where one needs to board the government buses. One should be prepared to trek and walk to enjoy the real beauty of this place.
Railway:
Jalgaon Railway Junction located about 60 km. away is the closest railway head. To reach the caves from this railhead, one can rely on taxis and cabs. State run buses can also be used.
Airway:
Aurangabad Airport (about 107 km.) is the nearest airport which is served by regular domestic flights to and from cities in Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Delhi.