Ajanta Caves

About Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves are a group of magnificent rock-cut Buddhist caves in Maharashtra, famous for their rock-cut images and paintings, Buddhist monasteries and remarkable architecture. The caves are situated in a horseshoe-shaped gorge near the Waghora River, and are some of the best remaining examples of ancient Indian Buddhist art, having been cut into volcanic rock over many centuries. The caves are home to beautiful paintings illustrating the stories from the Jataka tales, the Buddha's life, royal scenes, daily life and religious practices. The intricately carved sculptures, prayer halls and monks' rooms give a glimpse into the artistic and spiritual legacy of ancient India.
The Ajanta Caves have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are one of the most significant heritage sites in Maharashtra today. Visitors can tour the rock-cut monasteries and chaityas, view the ancient paintings and learn about the history of Buddhist art and architecture. The followers of history, archaeology, art, architecture, photography and ancient Indian culture are especially drawn to Ajanta.

Best Time to Visit Ajanta Caves

October to March is the best time to visit the Ajanta Caves as the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities and exploring the caves and their surrounding area. Walking around this archaeological site and spending time outdoors is especially suitable during the winter months.
It can be extremely hot during the summer months between April and June, so heading out early in the morning is better. The monsoon months of July through September are rainy and have greener environments, which create wonderful scenery around the gorge, but may make walking outside the gorge more difficult.

Ajanta Caves: Places, Experiences & Food

Places to Visit in Ajanta

• Ajanta Caves
• Waghora River Valley
• Ajanta View Point
• Ajanta Archaeological Museum
• Cave 1
• Cave 2
• Cave 9
• Cave 10
• Cave 16
• Cave 17
• Cave 19
• Cave 26
• Ellora Caves
• Bibi Ka Maqbara
• Daulatabad Fort
• Panchakki
• Aurangabad Caves
• Grishneshwar Temple
• Khuldabad

Things to Do in Ajanta Caves

• Explore the ancient Ajanta Caves
• Admire the famous Buddhist murals
• Study the intricate rock-cut sculptures
• Explore the ancient chaitya halls
• Buddhist monasteries carved into the cliffs
• Visit the celebrated paintings in Cave 1
• Explore Cave 2 and its elaborate artwork
• See the ancient chaitya halls of Caves 9 and 10
• Visit Cave 16 and its historic paintings
• Explore the artwork of Cave 17
• Admire the sculptures inside Cave 26
• Jataka stories depicted in the murals
• Ancient Indian rock-cut architecture
• Dramatic gorge and surrounding landscape
• Visit the Ajanta Archaeological Museum
• Scenery around the Waghora River valley
• Explore the heritage of ancient Buddhist India
• Take a day trip to nearby Ellora Caves
• Visit Daulatabad Fort
• Explore Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad
• Discover local history and traditional culture
• Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs
• Enjoy traditional Maharashtrian cuisine

What to Eat Near Ajanta Caves

• Maharashtrian Thali
• Vada Pav
• Misal Pav
• Kanda Poha
• Sabudana Vada
• Sabudana Khichdi
• Thalipeeth
• Pithla Bhakri
• Zunka Bhakri
• Bharli Vangi
• Batata Bhaji
• Matki Usal
• Kothimbir Vadi
• Kanda Bhaji
• Batata Vada
• Puran Poli
• Bakarwadi
• Pav Bhaji
• Samosa
• Kachori
• Bhajiya
• Dabeli
• Naan Qalia
• Marathwada Thali
• Shrikhand
• Basundi
• Modak
• Jalebi
• Gulab Jamun
• Amrakhand
• Piyush