Ellora Caves at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Maharashtra |
| Famous For | UNESCO, rock-cut temples, Kailasa Temple |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Duration | 1-2 days minimum |
| Language | Marathi, Hindi, English |
| Nearest Airport | Aurangabad Airport (IXU), 30km from Ellora |
| Nearest Railway | Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB) |
| From Aurangabad | 30 km · 0h 50m |
| Entry Fee | From ₹40 |
| Best For | pilgrims |
Ellora Caves: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Ellora Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Maharashtra, India. It represents a unique confluence of three major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The site features 34 rock-cut caves, showcasing religious art and architecture dating from the 6th to 10th centuries CE.
Ellora is worth visiting for its stunning rock-cut architecture, particularly the monolithic Kailasa Temple (Cave 16). However, the site can get crowded, especially during peak season, and it requires a good amount of walking. The heat during summer months can also be challenging, so plan accordingly.
Ellora Caves: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) | 06:00-18:00 daily | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | Early morning to avoid crowds | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Cave 21 (Rameshwar Temple) | 06:00-18:00 daily | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | Morning or late afternoon | Modest attire |
How to Reach Ellora Caves: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
directions_car Driving to Ellora Caves: Road Routes & Highways
| From | Distance | Drive Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aurangabad | 30 km | 0h 50m | NH-52, NH-52;752H, NH-752H |
train Train to Ellora Caves: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB) — Main railway station, well-connected to major cities.
- From Delhi: 20-24 hours (₹800-2000)
- From Mumbai: 6-7 hours (₹500-1500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Ellora Caves: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (IXU), 30km from Ellora
- Delhi: 1.5 hours (₹3000-6000)
- Mumbai: 1 hour (₹2500-5000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹800-1200
- Uber/Ola: ₹700-1000
directions_bus Bus to Ellora Caves: Services & Timings
- From Mumbai: 8-10 hours (₹800-1500)
Trains more comfortable
Best Time to Visit Ellora Caves: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: October to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: October to March | 15-30 degrees C | The weather is perfect for walking and exploring the cave complex without the di | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: July to September | 25-35 degrees C | The monsoon season offers a unique perspective of Ellora, with fewer crowds and | Be prepared for rain and potential |
| Avoid: April to June | 35-45 degrees C | Avoid visiting during these months due to the scorching heat. Exploring the cave | Some outdoor activities may be limi |
Peak season note: Expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation. Booking transportation and hotels in advance is highly recommended.
2-Day Ellora Caves Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🙏 Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)
The Kailasa Temple is the most magnificent of the Ellora Caves, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Carved out of a single rock, it's the lar…
💡 Tip: Hire a local guide to learn about the temple's history and significance.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🪨 Cave 10 (Vishwakarma Cave)
Cave 10, also known as the Carpenter's Cave, is a Buddhist chaitya hall resembling a wooden structure. It features a large stupa a…
💡 Tip: Look up at the ceiling to appreciate the craftsmanship.
🪨 Cave 12 (Teen Taal)
Cave 12, or Teen Taal, is a three-story Buddhist cave. It features several Buddha statues and intricate carvings depicting Buddhis…
💡 Tip: Pay attention to the different poses and expressions of the Buddha statues.
🌆 Evening (5 PM – 7 PM)
🪨 Cave 32 (Indra Sabha)
Cave 32, known as Indra Sabha, is one of the most important Jain caves at Ellora. It features intricate carvings of Jain deities a…
💡 Tip: Look for the image of Ambika, a popular Jain goddess.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🪨 Cave 30 (Chota Kailasa)
Cave 30, or Chota Kailasa (Small Kailasa), is a smaller version of the Kailasa Temple. It is a Jain cave featuring a monolithic st…
💡 Compare the architecture with the main Kailasa Temple.
🪨 Cave 29 (Dhumar Lena)
Cave 29, also known as Dhumar Lena, is a large Hindu cave dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features impressive sculptures of Shiva and …
💡 Look for the panel depicting the marriage of Shiva and Parvati.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Cave 21 (Rameshwar Temple)
Cave 21, known as the Rameshwar Temple, is a Hindu cave dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features a beautiful lingam and sculptures of …
💡 Offer a prayer at the lingam for a spiritual experience.
Top Places to Visit in Ellora Caves: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 🙏 Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 2 | 🪨 Cave 10 (Vishwakarma Cave) | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 1 hour | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 3 | 🪨 Cave 12 (Teen Taal) | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 1-2 hours | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 4 | 🪨 Cave 32 (Indra Sabha) | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 1-2 hours | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 5 | 🪨 Cave 30 (Chota Kailasa) | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 1 hour | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 6 | 🪨 Cave 29 (Dhumar Lena) | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 1 hour | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 7 | 🙏 Cave 21 (Rameshwar Temple) | ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) | 1 hour | 06:00-18:00 daily |
🙏 1. Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)
The Kailasa Temple is the most magnificent of the Ellora Caves, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Carved out of a single rock, it's the largest monolithic structure in the world.
Honest take: Worth visiting even if you only have time for one cave.
📍 Getting there: Taxi or auto-rickshaw from Aurangabad
🪨 2. Cave 10 (Vishwakarma Cave)
Cave 10, also known as the Carpenter's Cave, is a Buddhist chaitya hall resembling a wooden structure. It features a large stupa and a vaulted ceiling.
Honest take: A must-see for its unique architectural style.
📍 Getting there: Walking distance from Kailasa Temple
🪨 3. Cave 12 (Teen Taal)
Cave 12, or Teen Taal, is a three-story Buddhist cave. It features several Buddha statues and intricate carvings depicting Buddhist deities.
Honest take: Worth the climb for the impressive sculptures.
📍 Getting there: Walking distance from Cave 10
Food & Restaurants in Ellora Caves: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Thali, Vada Pav, Misal Pav, Puran Poli, Bhakarwadi
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Maharashtrian Thali | ₹₹ (₹600-800 for two) | Near Ellora Caves |
| Dosas, Idlis | ₹ (₹300-500 for two) | Aurangabad |
🛺 Street Food: Near Ellora Caves — Vada Pav, Misal Pav, Chaat (₹50-150 per person)
Ellora Caves Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1200/night | ₹1500-2500/night | ₹4000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Ellora Caves: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ajanta Caves | 100 km | ~1.5–2 hrs | Buddhist Caves, UNESCO, Aurangabad |
| Daulatabad Fort | 30 km | ~30–40 min | — |
| Grishneshwar Temple | 1 km | ~20 min | — |
Hotels in Ellora Caves: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Kailas
₹800-1200/night
Near Ellora Caves
Hotel Manas Sarovar
₹900-1300/night
Near Ellora Caves
🏨 Mid-Range
Hotel Krishna Inn
₹1500-2500/night
Aurangabad Road
WelcomHeritage Aurangabad
₹2000-3000/night
Aurangabad
⭐ Luxury
Vivanta Aurangabad
₹4000+/night
Aurangabad
ITC Rama International, Aurangabad
₹5000+/night
Aurangabad
Ellora Caves Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Fake Guides: Verify guide credentials with the tourism office. Agree on a price beforehand.
- ✓ Overpriced Souvenirs: Compare prices at different shops. Bargain for a fair price.
- ✓ Wear comfortable and modest clothing. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- ✓ Available in Aurangabad
- ✓ Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. Obtain a SIM card with a valid ID and address proof.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Ellora Caves
How many days are enough for Ellora Caves?
1-2 days minimum is ideal for Ellora Caves. Day 1 covers Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) and Cave 10 (Vishwakarma Cave), while Day 2 explores Cave 30 (Chota Kailasa) and Cave 29 (Dhumar Lena).
What is Ellora Caves famous for?
Ellora Caves is famous for UNESCO, rock-cut temples, Kailasa Temple.
What is the best time to visit Ellora Caves?
The best time to visit Ellora Caves is October to March. Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for exploring the caves. The days are sunny, and the nights are cool.
How do I reach Ellora Caves from Aurangabad?
Ellora Caves is 30 km from Aurangabad by road, approximately 0h 50m drive via NH-52, NH-52;752H, NH-752H. The nearest railway station is Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB). The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (IXU), 30km from Ellora.
Is Ellora Caves worth visiting?
Yes, Ellora Caves is worth visiting for UNESCO, rock-cut temples, Kailasa Temple. It is especially recommended for pilgrims and can be combined with a visit to Ajanta Caves.
What is the budget for a trip to Ellora Caves?
A 2-day trip to Ellora Caves costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1200/night per night.
What are the timings of Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)?
Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is open 06:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight.
What is the entry fee for Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)?
Entry fee at Kailasa Temple (Cave 16): ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners).
What is the dress code for Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Kailasa Temple (Cave 16).
Is photography allowed at Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)?
Photography is not allowed inside at Kailasa Temple (Cave 16).
What are the timings of Cave 21 (Rameshwar Temple)?
Cave 21 (Rameshwar Temple) is open 06:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon.
What is the entry fee for Cave 21 (Rameshwar Temple)?
Entry fee at Cave 21 (Rameshwar Temple): ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners).