The Ajanta caves are 108 kms north-east of Aurangabad .The caves are carved in the rock face which is in the face which is in the form of a horse-shoe through which flows the stream Waghora.Situated in this beautiful surroundings are 30 Buddhist caves some unfinished comprising of either viharas (monastic halls) or
chaityas(chapels)containing important examples of Buddhist architecture.Despite its age ,most of the frescoes and sculptures are remarkably well preserved .Natural light illuminates the caves at certain times of the daywhich leave you awestruck by the sheer brilliance of its architectural splendour.The Ajanta caves is placed in the World Heritage List of Monuments & a true "Wonder of the World".The Ellora caves are 29 kms Noth-West of Aurangabad.This rock-cut caves were constructed between sixth to the tenth century A.D & are included in the World Heritage.There are about 34 caves-12 Buddhist,17 Hindu,5 of Jain faith.
History
A wonderful example of cave temple architecture, the world heritage Ellora caves own elaborate facades and intricately carved interiors. These carved structures on the inner walls of the caves reflect the three faiths of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. These exotic caves were carved during 350 AD to 700 AD period.
The Chalukya - Rashtrakuta rulers (7th - 10th cnetury) were the main patrons of the cave temples of Ellora. Many kings and Merchants donated huge sums of money for the construction of these cave temples. Some religious beliefs and ethical codes forced the rulers to encourage the buliding of these temples. Building of these temples was supposed to give salvation and religious excellance to the kings.
The enchanting cave shrines of Ellora are an added value to the great Indian Heritage.
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