Top Sights
Cave 1
Cave 1
Cave 1 is a Vihara (monastery) and is renowned for its elaborate carvings and well-preserved murals. It features scenes from the Jataka tales and the life of Buddha. The Padmapani Bodhisattva mural is a highlight.
Expect to be mesmerized by the detail and vibrant colors of the paintings. The intricate sculptures on the pillars and doorways are equally impressive. Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited to protect the artwork.
Allow ample time to appreciate the artistry. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking and climbing stairs. Be mindful of the crowds, especially during peak season.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Mondays
Best Time: Morning - softer light for viewing murals
Getting There: Taxi/Bus from Aurangabad, then short walk
Honest Take: Worth it for art lovers, skip if you dislike crowds
Insider Tip:
Bring a small flashlight to better view the murals in dimly lit areas.
Cave 2
Cave 2
Cave 2 is another Vihara known for its intricate carvings and paintings. The cave features a verandah supported by pillars and a central hall with cells for monks. The paintings depict various Jataka tales and scenes from Buddha's life.
The artwork in Cave 2 is incredibly detailed and showcases the skill of the ancient artists. Look for the depiction of the 'Dream of Maya' and other significant events. The atmosphere is serene and contemplative.
Take your time to observe the details of the artwork. The cave can get crowded, so be patient. Remember to respect the site's historical and religious significance.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Mondays
Best Time: Morning - natural light enhances murals
Getting There: Taxi/Bus from Aurangabad, then short walk
Honest Take: A must-see for history buffs, skip if pressed for time
Insider Tip:
Look closely at the ceiling paintings, which are often overlooked.
Cave 4
Cave 4
Cave 4 is one of the largest monasteries in Ajanta. It features a massive unfinished doorway and numerous cells for monks. The scale of the cave is impressive, showcasing the ambition of the ancient builders.
The cave provides a glimpse into the monastic life of the Buddhist monks. The unfinished state of the doorway offers insight into the construction techniques used. The sheer size of the cave is awe-inspiring.
Explore the different sections of the cave and imagine what it would have been like to live there. Be careful while walking, as the floor can be uneven. The unfinished doorway is a testament to the scale of the project.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Mondays
Best Time: Afternoon - less crowded
Getting There: Taxi/Bus from Aurangabad, then short walk
Honest Take: Worth seeing for its scale, skip if mobility is an issue
Insider Tip:
Imagine the sounds and activities that would have filled this space centuries ago.
Cave 6
Cave 6
Cave 6 is a two-storied monastery. The lower level is unfinished, while the upper level contains a Buddha image and intricate carvings. This cave provides insight into the evolution of the monastic complexes.
The two-story structure is unique among the Ajanta caves. The upper level offers a closer look at the Buddha image and the surrounding artwork. The unfinished lower level reveals the construction methods.
Climb to the upper level to appreciate the Buddha image. Pay attention to the details of the carvings on both levels. Be mindful of the steps, as they can be steep.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Mondays
Best Time: Morning - cooler temperatures
Getting There: Taxi/Bus from Aurangabad, then short walk
Honest Take: Interesting for its unique structure, skip if you have limited time
Insider Tip:
Compare the finished and unfinished levels to understand the construction process.
Cave 10
Cave 10
Cave 10 is one of the oldest Chaitya halls (prayer halls) at Ajanta. It features a large stupa and a vaulted ceiling. The cave provides insights into the early Buddhist practices.
The hall's acoustics are impressive, allowing sound to travel clearly throughout the space. The stupa is a central focus, representing the Buddha's enlightenment. The atmosphere is peaceful and reverent.
Take a moment to appreciate the acoustics of the hall. Walk around the stupa and observe the details of its construction. Be respectful of the religious significance of the site.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Mondays
Best Time: Afternoon - better light for photography
Getting There: Taxi/Bus from Aurangabad, then short walk
Honest Take: Important for understanding early Buddhism, skip if you prefer murals
Insider Tip:
Try whispering near the stupa and listen to how the sound carries.
Cave 17
Cave 17
Cave 17 is renowned for its well-preserved murals, particularly the 'Coming of Simhala' and 'Vessantara Jataka' depictions. It is a Vihara (monastery) with intricate carvings and paintings. The cave's artwork provides insights into the social and cultural life of ancient India.
The murals in Cave 17 are among the best-preserved in Ajanta. They showcase a variety of scenes, from royal processions to everyday life. The colors are vibrant, and the details are remarkable.
Allow ample time to study the paintings and understand the stories they tell. Bring a guidebook or hire a local guide to learn more about the artwork. Be respectful of the historical and religious significance of the site.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Closed: Mondays
Best Time: Morning - ideal for studying the paintings
Getting There: Taxi/Bus from Aurangabad, then short walk
Honest Take: A must-see for art lovers, skip if you are not interested in detailed paintings
Insider Tip:
Focus on the 'Coming of Simhala' mural for a fascinating story.