Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Located in Aurangabad in Maharashtra, the Ajanta Temple is home to the most stunning rock-cut caves. These caves were carved way back in the 2nd century BCE and presently are claimed by the UNESCO World Heritage Site for their Buddhist artwork. Inside the temple, you will encounter all the elaborate sculptures and murals that tell the sagas of Buddha’s life and also the ancient “Jataka Tales”. You will find 29 caves in total, which offers a peek into the unique work of ancient artistry and the profound cultural roots of India. Visiting this beautiful and ancient temple will enable you to marvel at its architecture, take in the calm setting of the place and also learn about the history of Buddhism.
Quick Details
Ajanta Temple Address: Ajanta Caves Road, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India
Ajanta Temple Timings: Open daily from 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (IXU), approximately 104 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Jalgaon Railway Station, about 59 km away
Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing
Main Attractions: Buddhist rock-cut caves, ancient murals, intricate carvings, and paintings
About Ajanta Temple
Photo: Dey.sandip / Wikimedia Commons
Ajanta Temple, located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, is known for its ancient rock-cut caves that go way back to the 2nd century BCE. These caves display the best illustration of Indian architecture and are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 29 caves are perfectly carved into the cliff, which overlooks the Waghur River. The architecture of the Ajanta Temple Maharashtra consists of elaborate prayer halls, stupas and pillars, along with monastic living areas, also called viharas. In Cave 1, you will encounter the well-known paintings of Vajrapani and Bodhisattva Padmapani, and Cave 26 features a massive reclining Buddha.
How To Reach Ajanta Temple
Photo: Sanjay Indiresh / Pexels
You can easily reach the city of Aurangabad, as it’s perfectly connected with various cities across the nation via road, air and rail. Here are the ways you can get to the temple:
By Air: Aurangabad Airport is the closest airport to the Ajanta Temple at a distance of 104 kilometres. You can take a direct flight to Aurangabad from cities like Hyderabad, Mumbai, and even Delhi. Once you reach the place, take the local transport or a taxi to get to the Ajanta Caves, which will take around 2.5 hours to reach.
By Rail: The closest railway station to Ajanta Temple is Jalgaon Junction, which is roughly 59 kilometres from the spot. You can take a train from Delhi, Pune and Mumbai as it is connected to the Jalgaon junction. After reaching the station, you can take a bus or a taxi, and it will take 1.5 hours to reach the Ajanta Temple address.
By Road: The Ajanta Temple is perfectly connected with all the cities nearby by road. Travelling via road will take 104 kilometres from Aurangabad. You can either hire a cab or drive to the place. Private and state-run business operates regularly between Ajanta, Aurangabad and Jalgaon.
Things To Do At Ajanta Temple
When you visit this exemplary temple, you will learn about its past which once prevailed here in detail. However, there are several other activities that you can do when you come to explore and marvel at this ancient site. Here are some of the things you can do at Ajanta Temple:
1. Examine The Ancient Caves
Photo: Setu Chhaya / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Delve into history by exploring the 29 rock-cut caves at Ajanta. These caves, dating back over 2,000 years, contain mesmerising murals and carvings that depict the life of Buddha. Each cave has its own unique architectural design and artistic value, offering visitors a deep understanding of India’s cultural heritage.
2. Study The Buddhist Murals And Sculptures
Photo: Priyanka Singh / Unsplash
The Ajanta caves are home to some of the finest examples of Buddhist art. The intricate murals and sculptures showcase stories from Jataka tales and the life of Buddha. These artworks, created using natural dyes and pigments, have retained their brilliance even after centuries, making them a must-see for history and art enthusiasts.
3. Take A Guided Expedition
Photo: Sanjay Indiresh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Enhance your visit by opting for a guided tour. Expert guides provide detailed insights into the historical and religious significance of the caves. A guided tour will help you understand the artistic techniques used by ancient craftsmen, the stories behind the murals, and the architectural brilliance of the caves.
4. Relish The Scenic Surroundings
Photo: Priyanka Singh / Unsplash
Ajanta Temple is located amidst lush green hills and valleys. Take time to enjoy the scenic beauty that surrounds the caves. You can trek to nearby points, offering panoramic views of the landscape, which adds a peaceful and serene touch to your historical exploration.
Places To Visit Around Ajanta Temple
Apart from taking Ajanta Temple photos and checking out the beautiful architecture and history of this temple, you can also visit some of the places nearby. Below, listed are some of the popular sites you can check out when visiting the temple:
1. Ajanta View Point
Photo: Jayesh Paranjape / Wikimedia Commons
Ajanta View Point offers a spectacular panoramic view of the entire Ajanta Caves complex from a distance. This viewpoint, located on a hilltop, allows visitors to appreciate the horseshoe-shaped gorge in which the caves are carved. It’s an ideal spot for photography and to grasp the scale and beauty of the caves. The serene surroundings make it a peaceful stop before heading to the main caves.
Distance From The Temple: 4 km
Timings: 24 Hours
2. Ajanta Museum
Photo: Natasha Khaitan / Wikimedia Commons
Located near the entrance of the Ajanta Caves, the Ajanta Museum houses various artefacts, replicas, and exhibits that provide insight into the history, art, and culture surrounding the caves. The museum helps visitors understand the significance of the Buddhist murals and sculptures inside the caves. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts who want to learn more before or after exploring the caves.
Distance From The Temple: 2 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (closed on Fridays)
3. Saptakunda Waterfalls
Photo: Diksha Jadhav / Wikimedia Commons
Saptakunda Waterfalls is a hidden gem located near the Ajanta Caves. This natural attraction offers a refreshing break from exploring the historical site. Surrounded by lush greenery, the cascading waterfalls are perfect for a short trek and provide an ideal setting for relaxation. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy nature and take in the beauty of the region’s landscape.
Distance From The Temple: 3 km
Timings: 24 Hours
Where To Stay Near Ajanta Temple
Photo: Max Vakhtbovycn / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Several accommodations near Ajanta Temple cater to various budgets of travellers and Jalgaon and Aurangabad being closer to the caves, you can also opt to stay in these cities. Some of the staying options you have are MTDC Ajanta Fardapur, Hotel Ajanta Resort, and Hotel Padmapani Park.
Where To Eat Near Ajanta Temple
Photo: Aditya Mara / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
You can find a few small restaurants and eateries near the Ajanta Caves complex to try some local snacks and meals. For a wider variety of cuisine, including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, head to nearby towns like Fardapur or Jalgaon. Some of the options you will get are MTDC Foothill Restaurant, Hotel Ajanta Green Restaurant, Ajanta Caves Restaurant, and Lalaji Farsan.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Abhideo21 / Wikimedia Commons
Ajanta Temple is an important sightseeing spot, keeping it crowded all around the year. If you are making a plan to visit the caves, here are some of the tips to explore it the best way.
- Start early to explore the Ajanta Caves and avoid large crowds.
- Carry water and sun protection, as temperatures can rise during the day.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain inside the caves.
- Photography is allowed in most areas, but avoid using flash to protect the murals.
- Visit between October and March for the best weather conditions.
- The caves remain closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
- Carry some snacks, as dining options are limited near the caves.
- Don’t forget to check the Ajanta Temple timings before visiting so that you visit the site during those hours.
Ajanta Temple stands as an epitome of ancient Indian artistry and spirituality. By exploring its rich history and breathtaking architecture, you gain a deeper appreciation of India’s cultural heritage. Plan your visit with TripXL and immerse yourself in this extraordinary destination. Don’t miss the chance to witness the magnificent frescoes and sculptures that narrate the stories of Buddhism and ancient life in India.
Cover Photo: Siddhesh Mangela / Unsplash
