Unveiling Hidden Secrets of Ajanta and Ellora Caves you won’t Find Anywhere Else!

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are two of India’s most iconic historical sites, nestled in the state of Maharashtra. These rock-cut wonders are not just visually captivating but also provide invaluable insights into India’s religious and cultural history. If you’re a history enthusiast or a travel lover, you might have already heard about these caves, but do you know the fascinating lesser-known facts that make these sites so unique? Ajanta Caves, built in two phases, date back to the 2nd century BCE, and Ellora, a sprawling complex with 34 caves, offers a breathtaking multi-religious experience. Both of these caves are UNESCO World Heritage sites and hold centuries of history, stunning art, and extraordinary craftsmanship. Let’s dive deeper into some of the lesser-known yet fascinating details about these ancient marvels.

1. Ajanta Caves Were Created in Two Phases

You all might have read about Ajanta Ellora caves in India, but what if I told you that the Ajanta caves were developed in two completely different phases? The first phase of the caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, focused more on simple structures like Viharas (monasteries) used by Buddhist monks. However, the second phase, from the 5th to the 6th centuries CE, saw the emergence of vibrant and intricate paintings that depict scenes from Buddhist mythology. These two distinct phases reflect a shift in artistic style and religious emphasis, with the later caves showcasing magnificent frescoes and sculptures that are considered masterpieces of Indian art.

2. Ellora is a Unique Multireligious Complex

While most people know Ellora for its impressive Buddhist caves, the site is actually home to three major religions—Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. The Ellora Caves consist of 12 Buddhist caves, 17 Hindu caves, and 5 Jain caves, making it an extraordinary testament to India’s historical religious harmony. Each set of caves features its own distinct style of art and architecture. The Buddhist caves mainly contain monasteries and prayer halls, while the Hindu caves are dedicated to various deities, and the Jain caves are characterised by their intricate carvings of Tirthankaras. This convergence of three religions at one site makes Ellora an important symbol of India’s cultural diversity.

3. The Kailasa Temple is a Monumental Achievement

Among the Ellora caves, Cave 16, also known as the Kailasa Temple, is a truly remarkable site. Carved out of a single monolithic rock, this temple is the largest such structure of its kind in the world. What makes it even more impressive is the fact that it was carved from top to bottom, with no visible break in the rock. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features intricate carvings of various Hindu deities. Its sheer size and the complexity of its design make it a marvel of ancient engineering and architecture, and it’s one of the most photographed spots at Ellora.

4. Ajanta’s Paintings are Made from Natural Pigments

The Ajanta Caves are famous for their stunning frescoes, but what you may not know is that the colours used in these ancient paintings are made from natural pigments. These pigments were sourced from a variety of minerals, plants, and other organic materials, showcasing the ancient artisans' understanding of chemistry and the natural world. The vivid reds, greens, blues, and yellows have remained surprisingly well-preserved over centuries, offering a window into the artistry of the past. These paintings depict Buddhist legends, the life of Buddha, and Jataka tales, making them an essential part of understanding Buddhist culture.

5. Ajanta Was Forgotten for Centuries

You may have heard about the rediscovery of the Ajanta caves, but do you know the fascinating story behind it? In 1819, John Smith, a British officer, stumbled upon the caves while on a tiger hunt. The caves had been abandoned for centuries and were completely hidden under thick vegetation. John Smith’s accidental discovery of Ajanta was a turning point, as it brought the long-forgotten caves back into the global spotlight. This discovery led to renewed interest in the site and its preservation, eventually earning it the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. Craftsmanship with Simple Tools

What makes the Ajanta and Ellora Caves even more remarkable is the fact that they were carved using very simple tools—mainly hammers and chisels. The precision and intricate detailing that went into each sculpture and painting, done with such rudimentary tools, speak volumes about the skill and dedication of the artisans who worked for centuries to create these masterpieces. Every curve and contour of the rock surfaces was carefully shaped, resulting in architectural and artistic works that have stood the test of time.

7. Ajanta Caves Are Higher Than Most Caves in India

Most caves in India are located close to the ground, but the Ajanta and Ellora caves are located at a much higher elevation—about 70 meters above the surrounding terrain. This unique positioning not only adds to their magnificence but also makes it a lot harder to discover them. The location of these caves adds to their mystique and offers a stunning panoramic view of the lush surroundings, especially during the monsoon season when the landscape is at its most vibrant.

8. Ellora Caves Span Several Centuries

The Ellora caves span a significantly longer period of time compared to Ajanta. While the Buddhist caves at Ellora date from the 5th to 8th centuries CE, the Hindu caves were carved from the 7th to 10th centuries and the Jain caves from the 9th to 12th centuries. This expansive timeline allows visitors to see how artistic styles and religious beliefs evolved over centuries. The caves at Ellora are a rich tapestry of historical and cultural changes, giving us a deeper understanding of India’s development over time.

9. Varaha’s Triumph – A Colossal Sculpture at Ellora

In Ellora’s Cave 5, one can witness the majestic sculpture of Varaha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This larger-than-life carving depicts Varaha lifting the Earth goddess out of the cosmic ocean, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. The sheer size and intricate details of this sculpture make it a standout feature of Ellora. It is a perfect example of how the Ellora caves are rich in both religious symbolism and artistic excellence, showcasing India’s cultural and spiritual legacy.

10. Ajanta’s Murals Tell Captivating Stories

The murals at Ajanta are not just beautiful works of art; they also tell fascinating stories. The walls of the caves are adorned with vivid depictions of Buddhist stories, including the life of Buddha and tales from the Jataka, which narrate the previous lives of Buddha. These paintings are so well-preserved that they provide an almost cinematic experience, bringing the ancient world to life. As you wander through the caves, you’ll feel as though you’re stepping into a time machine that transports you to an era thousands of years ago.

How to Reach

• Ajanta and Ellora Caves are located about 100 km apart.
• The closest airport to Ajanta is in Jalgaon, 50 km away, with flights from Mumbai and Ahmedabad, while Aurangabad, 100 km from Ajanta and 30 km from Ellora, is the closest city to Ellora and has a well-connected airport.
• Both Jalgaon and Aurangabad are accessible by train, with excellent connections to major cities across India.
• Road access is also available, with Ajanta Caves connected to major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad.
• Private and government buses regularly run between Aurangabad and Ellora. Within Aurangabad, local transport options include auto-rickshaws, taxis, and MTDC buses, which also provide tours to Ajanta and Ellora, along with other local attractions.