Situated 30 kms from Aurangabad, Ellora caves - a UNESCO World Heritage Sight - has a total of 34 caves and are carved into the sides of a basaltic hill. The cave complex houses Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples and are the finest examples from the Chalukya, Kalachuri and Rashtrakuta periods.
17 Hindu Caves (13-29)
The Kailasha temple known as Cave 16, carved from a basaltic rock in a structure which symbolises Mount Kailash is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The entrance features a low Gopura.
The Kailas temple is also the biggest monolithic rock-cut structure in the world. When you enter the temple premises, you can see the sculpture of Shiva's mount Nandi (the sacred bull). The temple premises consists of two structures, one is the Shiva temple and the second is the Nandi Mandapa. A rock bridge connects the Nandi Mandapa to the porch of the temple.
The stories related to Ramayana, Mahabharat, Lord Vishnu and Lord Siva are carved beautifully on the walls. The images of Goddesses and Gods sculpted on the walls are representations of the female and male principles.
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| Stone Sculptures From Ellora caves |
Here each and every carving is unique. Watch the sculpture of Parvati and Lord Siva with Parvati holding the hand of the Lord while he has placed his left hand on her shoulder during their wedding. The sculptures with their sensuous poses and pouting expressions are a way of giving importance to the wellbeing and love of life.
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| Stone Sculptures From Ellora caves Terrace outside the main shrine with sculpture of Flying DemiGod (first from 2nd row) |
The basement level of the temple houses artwork of Shaivism, Vaishnavism and Shaktism.
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| Stone Sculptures From Ellora caves |
Cave 29
The carvings in Cave 29 are large .
Cave 29, also called Dhumar Lena is integrated with natural waterfall called "Vale Ganga". You can watch these waterfalls from the southern balcony of the rock cliff.
A natural pond is formed near the cave area.
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| View from Cave 29, Ellora |
5 Jain Caves (30-34).
Jain monuments are far from Ellora caves entrance. Visitors can reach these caves by bus or private vehicles.
Cave 30 shows a dancing Indra. The panels at the entrance also feature other deities, musicians and dancers.
Cave 33 is a two storeyed cave with twelve massive pillars and elephant heads projecting towards the porch, all carved out on a single rock. This cave is also known as Jagannatha Sabha. Cave 32 also known as Indra Sabha is a two storeyed cave complex.
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| Stone Sculptures From Ellora caves |
The Buddhist caves are located on the southern side of the Ellora cave collection. Cave 1-9 are monasteries or viharas. The rock cut caves consists of viharas (praying halls), living quarters, kitchens etc.
Caves 11 and 12 are three-storied Mahayana monastery caves with idols, mandalas carved into the walls, and numerous goddesses and Bodhisattva-related artwork belonging to the Vajrayana Buddhism.
Cave 10 is called the Visvakarma Cave, a major Buddhist prayer hall. It houses a Buddha statue and a prayer house. Multi storey entry is possible into this cave.
Cave 5 is unique because it is designed as a hall with two parallel refectory benches in the center with a Buddha statue in the rear.
This is a lifetime experience to stand amongst such incredible ruins. If you are a fan of history and love to travel, then Ellora Caves must be in your list.
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