Ellora Caves: Situated, History, Timings, Entry Fee, Architecture, Images & More Detailed information

Table of Contents.

• Ellora / Verul Caves Timings and Entry Fee: Essential Information for Visitors
  • Book Ellora Caves Tickets Online
• History of Ellora Caves
• Architecture of Ellora Caves
• Where is Ellora Caves situated?
• How to Reach Aurangabad Ellora Caves?
• Ellora Caves Image
• Ellora Caves Related FAQ
• Historical places in Aurangabad.

Ellora Caves Timings and Entry Fee: Essential Information for Visitors

Ellora Caves, located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, is one of India’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To make the most of your visit, it’s important to be aware of the timings and entry fee structure.

Ellora / Verul Caves Opening & Closing Timings and Entry Fee

History of Ellora Caves

• The Ellora Caves, carved between the 5th and 10th centuries, are nestled within the conglomerate rock of the Satmala mountain range within the Sahyadri range.
• Here, we can explore 34 caves.
• It offers unique views of art, sculpture, and architecture from the eras of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.
• 1951 – National Monument Designation:
• The Government of India officially declared the Ellora Caves a ‘National Monument,’ transferring the responsibility for their preservation and maintenance to the Archaeological Department of India.
• 1983 – UNESCO World Heritage Site Recognition:
• UNESCO included the Ellora Caves in the list of World Heritage Sites, acknowledging their immense cultural and historical value.
• 1983 – Other Heritage Sites Recognized:
• In the same year, UNESCO also recognized other significant monuments, such as the Ajanta Caves, the Taj Mahal in Agra, and the Agra Fort, for their cultural importance.

Architecture of Ellora Caves

If we consider the architectural style, you can see this different architectural style here. Virupaksha Temple in Karnataka and Kailasanatha Temple in Kanchipuram have similar architectural styles.

Ellora Caves: Division of 34 Caves

• The Ellora Caves consist of 34 rock-cut caves, divided into three distinct groups based on religious affiliations:

1. Buddhist Caves:
   • Cave Numbers: 1 to 12
   • These caves represent the early phase of Ellora and are dedicated to Buddhist deities, showcasing intricate carvings and monastic spaces.
2. Hindu Caves:
   • Cave Numbers: 13 to 29
   • These caves are known for their grand sculptures and temples, including the famous Kailasa Temple in Cave 16.
3. Jain Caves:
   • Cave Numbers: 30 to 34
   • These caves exhibit Jain philosophy and artistry, with detailed carvings of Tirthankaras and ornate structures.

Each section reflects the harmonious coexistence of different religions in ancient India and their architectural brilliance.

1. Buddhist Caves (Cave No. 01 to 12)

• In the southern part of Ellora Caves you find Buddhist Caves No. 01 to 12.
• Considering these caves, the entire caves are carved in this rock.
• This includes Chaitya-griha which was used as a place of worship for Buddhist monks.
• There is a meditation idol of Gautama Buddha, on the wall there are carved figures of Dhammachakra Buddha and Buddhist Vibhuti idols from Emperor Ashoka’s time on the wall.
• Ellora Buddha caves display sculptures of animals like elephants and snakes, representing Buddhist elements.
• On the ceiling of the caves, lotus-shaped paintings are carved in color in stone.
• Viharas were built as residences for bhikkhus. You can see structures like kitchens, bathrooms, restrooms, etc.

2. Hindu Caves (Cave No. 13 to 29)

• Right in front of the Ellora Caves in the central part of the entrance you get to see the Hindu Caves section.
• Sculptures of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh deities are found in Cave No. 15.
• Along with them, we get to see Dasi women, Nrityagini women, and the sculpture of Lord Shiva in Tandava dance art.
• Among the Hindu caves, the most significant is cave number 16, known as the Kailash cave. Notably, this cave stands out for its architectural grandeur and intricate carvings.

3. Jain Caves (Cave No. 30 to 34)

• Five of the caves are Jain caves.
• In the northern part of the Ellora Caves, there are the Jain Caves.
• We can observe the architectural influence of the Buddhist caves on the Jain caves.
• Given the striking resemblance between the carvings in the Buddha and Jain caves, scholars propose a shared architectural influence.
• The Jain cave houses a sculptured mudra and prayer hall of the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, Parshvanatha.

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