Ajanta

Aurangabad , Maharashtra

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ajanta Caves are a story in themself. Built from the 600 CE to 2nd century BC, the caves today preserve some of the most important parts of our history. Located in Maharashtra in the Aurangabad district near Jalgaon, the caves consist paintings and sculptures which have been insptration to artists generations after they were created. Depicting the Jataka tales, a story of salvation and reincarnation, these caves have enthralled every person who have stepped into them. There are paintings in every part of the caves except for the floor, some of which are so popular that we treat them as part of our daily lives. Pillars and stone carvings are an active part of the caves and give us a break from the inspiring art all around. There are 30 caves in Ajanta of which 9, 10, 19, 26 and 29 are chaitya-grihas and the rest are monasteries. Before you go make sure you read up on the Jataka tales. From Queen Maya’s dream to Simhala Avadana, they are tales which transport you to an India which we still feel but can never see again. With mysticism and premonitions, their knowledge makes the Ajanta caves a place of special intrigue and wonder. Currently Aurangabad is the nearest Airport point for Ajanta Caves. For rail, Jagaon is the best place to get off. Most people make a day trip from Aurangabad which in turn has a number of great places to put up in. Again, the summers are not enjoyable inside the caves. Opt for winters when the weather is very pleasant and you can experience the magnificent art at your own leisure.