Ajanta

Introduction and history: Situated 100 kilometres from the city of Aurangabad, Ajanta caves are one of the most magnificent Buddhist caves in the entire India. John Smith, a British captain, accidentally discovered them in 1819, while on a hunting expedition. The 29 caves at Ajanta provide a unique combination of architecture, sculpture and paintings. The carvings and the paintings in the caves depict the life stories of Lord Buddha. Along with this, several types of human and animal figures are also carved out of the rocks.

What to see and when to go: There caves are divided into ‘Chaitya-Grihas’ (Stupa halls) and ‘Viharas’ (dwelling halls). Around five of these caves (9, 10, 19, 26 and 29) are ‘Chaitya-Grihas’. The rest of the caves are ‘Sangharamas’ or Viharas (monasteries). The caves 1, 2, 16 and 17 are important from the art point of view. It is said that if you are in Maharashtra, Ajanta caves are a must visit, so you can travel any time throughout the year.

Things to do: Cave 1 & 2 depict paintings including, variety of designs, scrollwork, geometric patterns, miniature seated Buddha’s, dream of the Buddha’s mother, Maya and the birth of the Buddha, procession of female devotees carrying offerings and scenes from the Hamsa Jataka and Vidhurapandita Jataka. Caves 4 & 6 are Viharas or Monasteries of architectural interest. Cave 9, 10, 12 & 15A, are Chaitya Halls of the Hinayana period. Each cave has something special hidden from the history.

Accommodation: There are hotels available at Aurangabad depending on the tourist’s pocket. Holiday resort at Fardpur is just 4 km from caves and provides clean and comfortable accommodation.

Related links:
• Official Website: http://www.ajantacaves.com

See also (nearby places): Dalutabad fort, Ghrishneshwar Temple, Ellora Caves, Khuldabad, Lonar, Shani Shignapur, Pariyon ka Talab (Lake of Fairies), Paithan, Pithalkora, Shirdi, Nasik.