The temples at the Ellora Caves, Maharashtra, are not only
known for its significance as a pilgrimage site that throws
light on the emergence of tantric art style and religious
tolerance exercised in the ancient times, but it is also a
world heritage site according to UNESCO for its architectural
genius. You too can partake of some excellent vibes that circulate
through these rock-cut temples on your tour to Ellora, arranged
by Tourism of Central India.
Built over five centuries by cutting through tonnes of rock,
The Ellora temples are a mix of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain
pilgrimage sites that can be toured sequentially from
right to left on the basalt Charanadari Hill in Ellora.
This mountainside lacks the sheer drop of Ajanta Caves that
allow the temples to have courtyards too.
Since the ancient village of Verul (now Ellora) lay
on the ancient Deccan trade route of dakshinapatha
that kept the site in constant view and widely documented
in literature, the caves at Ellora didn't need to be discovered
again unlike the caves at Ajanta. However, you can experience
the stunning architectural marvels that have attracted international
and national tourists in throngs on your tour to Ellora Caves.
Of the 34 rock-cut temples, 12 are Buddhist monasteries
(vihars) and prayer halls (chaityas) built under the ruling
Chankyas from 600 to 800 AD. The sculptures and paintings,
unlike those in the Ajanta caves, correspond to the Vajrayana
school of Buddhism where earthy tantric art was the dominant
form of expression. The best example of architectural genius
is the three-storeyed Buddhist monastery of Tin Tala.
You can appreciate the dwarapalas flanking each door and the
Boddhisattavas on your tour of Ellora Caves, arranged
by Tourism of Central India.
The next five centuries saw the emergence of Hinduism and
Jainism in the region that is evident from the 17 Hindu
temples and the 5 Jain temples built from 600 -1000
AD. The most significant temple (architecturally and religiously)
is the world's largest monolithic temple - Kailash Temple.
Devoted to the worship of Shiva, it is the host to the annual
Ellora Dance and Music Festival. One of the famous Shiva sculptures
is the one where he slays the demon Andhakasura that you cannot
miss on your tour to Ellora Caves.
The best Jain architectural masterpiece is the two-storeyed
Indrasabha temple that you must also visit on your
tour to Ellora Caves with the specialized travel packages
from Tourism of Central India.
Aurangabad is the closest city to Ellora Caves that
is well connected with the major cities and towns of Maharashtra
and India by air, rail and road.
Tourism of Central India offers specialized tour booking,
and travel packages for Ellora Caves, Maharashtra. To book
your tour, or for more information, please fill the form below.
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