AQI
67
Average Nightly Rate : 2000
Ajanta, Maharashtra, India

Ajanta, Maharashtra, India

About the Ajanta

The Ajanta Caves are a series of 30 rock-cut cave monuments that date from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE. These caves, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983, are renowned for their Buddhist cave paintings and sculptures, which are some of the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art. The caves depict the Jataka tales, stories of the Buddha's previous lives, as well as scenes from daily life and mythological narratives. They offer a unique insight into ancient Indian society, culture, and religious beliefs.

Best Time to Visit

October to March (Winter season). The weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring the caves. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rainfall and humidity and avoid peak summer (April to May) due to high temperature.

Trip Duration

1 day 2 days
One day is sufficient to see the main caves. An extra day allows for a more relaxed pace and possible side trips.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Ajanta

Caves
Caves

Popularity

Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Activities / Things To Do in Ajanta

  • Explore the Caves Spend time exploring each of the 30 caves, observing the intricate paintings and sculptures. It's recommended to start with the well-preserved caves like Cave 1, Cave 2, Cave 16, and Cave 17.
  • Photography (Restrictions Apply) Capture the beauty of the caves through photography, but be aware that flash photography is strictly prohibited inside the caves to protect the delicate paintings.
  • Visit the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Museum Learn more about the history and significance of the Ajanta Caves at the ASI Museum located near the site. The museum displays artifacts and provides context to the caves.
  • Enjoy the Scenic Views Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, especially from the viewpoint overlooking the horseshoe-shaped gorge where the caves are located.
  • Day Trip to Ellora Caves (If time permits) Consider a day trip to the Ellora Caves (approximately 100 km away), another UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a diverse range of rock-cut temples representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.

Ajanta Best Restaurant | Your Ultimate Dining Guide

Hotel Kailas
Hotel Kailas
★★★★

4

Popularity

Trupti Milk And Snacks Bar Pvt. Ltd.
Trupti Milk And Snacks Bar Pvt. Ltd.
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

MTDC FootHill Restaurant
MTDC FootHill Restaurant
★★★★

3.8

Popularity

Shree Hotel Saiprasad Pure veg Restaurant
Shree Hotel Saiprasad Pure veg Restaurant
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Ajanta Caves Restaurant
Ajanta Caves Restaurant
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Kaveri Family Restro
Kaveri Family Restro
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Grand Thali Restaurant
Grand Thali Restaurant
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Hotel Nisarg Restaurant and lodging
Hotel Nisarg Restaurant and lodging
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Accommodation

MTDC Ajanta Fardapur
MTDC Ajanta Fardapur
★★★★

3.8

Popularity

Hotel ajanta green restaurant & resort
Hotel ajanta green restaurant & resort
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

MTDC Guest House
MTDC Guest House
★★★★

4

Popularity

Ajanta Hill Resort Fardapur
Ajanta Hill Resort Fardapur
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

President Cottage
President Cottage
★★★★

3.9

Popularity

Hotel Kailas
Hotel Kailas
★★★★

4

Popularity

Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Hotel Krishna Inn
Hotel Krishna Inn
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Ajanta Hill Resort Fardapur
Ajanta Hill Resort Fardapur
★★★★★

4.8

Popularity

How to Reach Ajanta

Air

The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (IXU), which is approximately 100 km from Ajanta. From Aurangabad, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ajanta.

Bus

Ajanta is well-connected by road. State transport buses and private buses operate between Ajanta and major cities like Aurangabad, Jalgaon, and Mumbai. You can also hire a taxi or drive your own car.

Train

The nearest railway station is Jalgaon Junction (JL), which is approximately 60 km from Ajanta. From Jalgaon, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ajanta. Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB) is another option, though slightly further away.

Important Notes

Photography is allowed, but flash photography is strictly prohibited inside the caves.
Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Carry a water bottle and snacks, as options within the cave complex are limited.
Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the caves. Guides are available at the entrance.
Respect the site and follow the rules and regulations.
Entrance tickets are required to enter the caves. You can purchase them online or at the ticket counter.
Be aware of monkeys around the site and keep your belongings secure.
Baggage Counter facility is available at the entrance.
Wheelchair access is limited at the site.

Ajanta Nearby Destinations

Ellora Caves

Ellora Caves

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its rock-cut Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples.

Distance : 84 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.6

Popularity Score : 4.6

Must Visit : Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), Cave 10 (Buddhist Chaitya), and Cave 32 (Jain Indra Sabha).

Aurangabad

Aurangabad

A historical city with Mughal architecture, including Bibi Ka Maqbara (a replica of the Taj Mahal).

Distance : 83 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.3

Popularity Score : 4.2

Must Visit : Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort, and Aurangabad Caves.

Daulatabad

Daulatabad

An imposing 12th-century fortress located near Aurangabad.

Distance : 82 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.5

Popularity Score : 4.5

Must Visit : Visit the Chand Minar and explore the intricate defensive structures.

Grishneswar Jyotirlinga Temple

Grishneswar Jyotirlinga Temple

One of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Distance : 84 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.4

Popularity Score : 4.4

Must Visit : Attend the morning or evening aarti and witness the religious fervor.

Shree Bhadra Maruti Mandir

Shree Bhadra Maruti Mandir

A unique temple where Lord Hanuman is in sleeping position.

Distance : 84 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.3

Popularity Score : 4.3

Must Visit : Offer prayers and witness the distinct idol of Hanuman.

Khuldabad

Khuldabad

Known as the 'Valley of Saints', containing tombs of several Sufi saints.

Distance : 77 KM (approx)

Rating : 3.8

Popularity Score : 3.8

Must Visit : Visit the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and the dargahs of Sufi saints.

Pitalkhora Buddhist Caves

Pitalkhora Buddhist Caves

Early Buddhist rock-cut cave temples.

Distance : 75 KM (approx)

Rating : 3.9

Popularity Score : 3.9

Must Visit : Visit the sculptures and carvings inside the caves.

Lonar Crater

Lonar Crater

A unique hypervelocity impact crater.

Distance : 107 KM (approx)

Rating : 4

Popularity Score : 4

Must Visit : Visit the Lonar Lake and explore the surrounding jungle.

Paithan

Paithan

Known for Paithani sarees.

Distance : 124 KM (approx)

Rating : 3.6

Popularity Score : 3.6

Must Visit : Visit the Sant Eknath Maharaj Temple and the Paithani saree weaving centers.

Shirdi

Shirdi

One of the most famous pilgrim sites.

Distance : 155 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.7

Popularity Score : 4.7

Must Visit : Visit the Sai Baba Temple.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Ajanta Caves?
The best time to visit Ajanta Caves is from October to March (winter season) when the weather is pleasant.
Are there any restrictions on photography inside the caves?
Yes, flash photography is strictly prohibited inside the caves to protect the delicate paintings.
Are there any accommodation options near Ajanta Caves?
Yes, there are accommodation options near the caves, including the MTDC Resort, guesthouses, and homestays. Alternatively, you can stay in Aurangabad, which offers a wider range of hotels.
How long should I spend at Ajanta Caves?
Ideally, you should spend 1-2 days at Ajanta Caves to explore all the caves and appreciate their art and architecture.
Is it possible to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves in one day?
While it's possible to visit both caves in one day, it would be a very rushed trip. It's recommended to dedicate at least one full day to each site.
Is there an entry fee for the Ajanta Caves?
Yes, there is an entry fee for the Ajanta Caves. You can purchase tickets online or at the ticket counter.

Location Map

Coordinates: Latitude 20.5475, Longitude 75.7014 (Ajanta, Maharashtra, India)