Best Time to Visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves (Complete Seasonal Guide 2026)

Introduction

The Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves (Verul Caves) in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar are among the most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. These magnificent rock-cut caves, carved between the 2nd century BCE and 10th century CE, showcase extraordinary Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain art and architecture.

Located in Maharashtra and easily accessible from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad), Ajanta and Ellora attract thousands of domestic and international tourists every year. From ancient murals and intricate carvings to the iconic Kailasa Temple, every corner reflects India’s rich cultural heritage.

However, choosing the best time to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves plays a crucial role in your overall experience. Weather conditions directly affect sightseeing comfort, crowd levels, photography quality, and travel convenience.

So, what is the best season to visit Ajanta and Verul (Ellora) Caves? Let’s explore the ideal time to plan your trip, season by season.

🌤️ Winter (October to March) – Best Time to Visit Ajanta & Verul Caves

Temperature: 10°C to 25°C

Winter is considered the best time to visit Ajanta and Verul (Ellora) Caves because the weather is cool, pleasant, and perfect for sightseeing.

✅ Why Winter is the Ideal Season

• Pleasant Climate: The weather remains cool and comfortable, making long walks and exploration easy.
• Perfect for Sightseeing: Exploring the vast cave complexes of Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves becomes more enjoyable without the summer heat.
• Best for Photography: Clear skies and soft winter sunlight enhance the carvings, murals, and sculptures, creating ideal photography conditions.
• Lush Green Surroundings: After the monsoon, the hills and nearby riverbanks appear fresh and green, adding natural beauty to your visit.
• Comfort for Families & Seniors: Moderate temperatures make it suitable for families, senior citizens, and group travelers.
• More Exploration Time: You can comfortably spend hours admiring the intricate rock-cut architecture and ancient paintings without feeling exhausted.

📅 Travel Tip: Plan your trip between October and March for the most comfortable and memorable experience at Ajanta and Verul Caves.

🌧️ Monsoon (June to September) – Ajanta Ellora in Its Most Scenic Form

Temperature: 20°C to 30°C

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves become a verdant haven during the monsoon season. A whole different travel experience is created when the arid hills of Marathwada come alive with new flora, foggy views, and cascading waterfalls.

✅ Why Visit Ajanta Ellora in Monsoon

• Lush Green Landscape
  The surrounding hills turn vibrant green, making the entire region look fresh and beautiful.
• Natural Waterfalls Around the Caves
  Rainwater flowing down the rocky hills creates small waterfalls near Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves, offering stunning scenic views.
• Perfect for Nature Lovers
  If you enjoy greenery, misty weather, and peaceful surroundings, the monsoon is a magical time to explore Ajanta Ellora.
• Excellent for Photography
  The foggy hills, flowing water, and dramatic skies create unique and beautiful photography opportunities.

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⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind

• Occasional Heavy Rainfall
  Sudden showers may interrupt sightseeing plans.
• Slippery Stone Pathways
  The caves are accessed through stone steps and pathways that can become slippery due to rainwater.
• High Humidity & Fog
  Humidity levels may increase, and sometimes fog can reduce visibility.

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🌿 Final Advice:
Monsoon is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful seasons to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves, especially for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. However, visitors should be cautious & prepared for rain. If you don’t mind occasional showers, this season offers a uniquely scenic experience.

☀️ Summer (April to June) – Ajanta Ellora Caves Best Time to Visit Guide

Temperature: 30°C to 45°C

Summer in the Ajanta Ellora region is known for its intense heat. Temperatures often rise above 40°C, which can make outdoor sightseeing challenging. For travelers searching for Ajanta Ellora Caves best time to visit, summer is usually not the first recommendation due to the harsh climate.

However, with proper planning, you can still explore Ajanta and Ellora Caves safely.

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🔥 What to Expect During Summer at Ajanta Ellora Caves

• Extremely Hot Weather
  The region experiences dry heat, especially from late morning to evening.
• Strong Sunlight
  Direct sunlight can make walking between cave sections tiring.
• Less Tourist Crowd
  Compared to winter, Ajanta Ellora Caves may be less crowded during summer.

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✅ Travel Tips for Visiting Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Summer

• Visit Early Morning
  The best way to explore Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves in summer is to start as soon as the caves open.
• Avoid Afternoon Hours
  Do not plan your visit between 12 PM and 4 PM when the heat is at its peak.
• Stay Hydrated
  Carry enough water to prevent dehydration while exploring Ajanta and Ellora.
• Wear Light & Protective Clothing
  Use sunglasses, caps, breathable cotton clothes, and consider carrying an umbrella for sun protection.
• Take Frequent Breaks
  Rest in shaded areas and avoid rushing through the caves.

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🌡️ Is Summer the Best Time to Visit Ajanta Ellora Caves?

When discussing Ajanta Ellora Caves best time to visit, winter (October to March) is widely considered the most comfortable season. Summer is not ideal due to the extreme heat.

If possible, plan your Ajanta and Ellora Caves trip during cooler months. But if summer is your only option, following the above precautions will help you make your visit safe and manageable.

📊 Ajanta Ellora Caves Best Time to Visit – Quick Comparison

Season	Temperature	Best Months	Recommended For
Winter	10°C–25°C	October–March	Sightseeing, photography, family trips
Monsoon	20°C–30°C	June–September	Nature lovers, scenic photography
Summer	30°C–45°C	April–June	Early morning visits only

Final Verdict: When Should You Visit?

If you’re wondering about the Ajanta Ellora caves best time to visit, the clear answer is:

👉 October to March (Winter Season)

This period offers comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and the best overall sightseeing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Which month is best to visit Ajanta and Ellora caves?

Ans. November to February is considered the most comfortable period.

Q. Can I visit Ajanta and Ellora caves during monsoon?

Ans. Yes, but be cautious of slippery paths and occasional heavy rainfall.

Q. Is summer a good time to visit?

Ans. Not ideal due to extreme heat, but early morning visits are manageable.

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