The ancient Ajanta Ellora caves in Aurangabad, carved out of solid rocks by human hands, are situated in Maharashtra.

The 34 caves at Ellora and 29 at Ajanta are an architectural masterpiece which depict ancient India's rich cultural heritage.

The caves could have remained hidden from the world as they did for thousands of years, but thanks to a British Army Officer, John Smith who discovered them accidentally in 1819 while on a hunting expedition in the area.

Ajanta Caves
The famous Ajanta caves are situated about 99-kms away from Aurangabad district in the state of Maharashtra. These caves are regarded as a world heritage site and were carved out from the 2nd century BC to 6th century AD. They are placed in a horseshoe shape about 3.5 m away from the village. The river Wagura, a mountain stream flows along the bottom of the ravine. This river falls from a height of 200 ft, thus making a series of waterfalls. The sound of the waterfalls can be heard in the caves also.

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.

Ellora Caves
The famous Ellora caves are located in the lap of the Chamadari hills. These historical caves are regarded as world heritage and are situated 18 miles northwest of Aurangabad. The Ellora Caves are as old as 300 years. At first sight, the Ellora appears to the visitors as an asymmetrical ridge of rock, emerging vertically from the ground.

The exquisite carvings and paintings found in Ellora are its major highlights. These carvings have marks of Hindu, Jain and Buddhsim expressions. The wooden beams, graceful angles, steps and the mystical figures of gods and goddesses are absolutely spellbinding. They exhibit the creative excellence of the artist of that time.

How to reach there

• By Air :
  Chikalthana Airport located at Aurangabad (106 km) is the nearest airport. It is connected through regular flights with all major Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur and Udaipur.
  
  
• By Rail :
  Jalgaon (59 km) is the nearest railhead from where express trains are available to reach Mumbai and Delhi. Aurangabad is another important railway station which connects to all the major cities of the country including Mumbai, Delhi, Agra and Bhopal.
  
  
• By Road :
  The Tourist Attractions in Ajanta Ellora Caves can be accessed via Aurangabad which is well connected to all neighbouring cities by state run buses.