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Ellora, Maharashtra, India

Ellora, Maharashtra, India

About the Ellora

Ellora, also known as Verul, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. It is one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world, featuring Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments, and artwork dating from the 600-1000 CE period. The Ellora Caves represent a remarkable blend of architectural styles and religious harmony, showcasing the religious tolerance of ancient India.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ellora is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the caves and other attractions.

Trip Duration

1 day 2 days
A minimum of 1-2 days is recommended to explore Ellora Caves and nearby attractions properly. If you want to delve deeper into the art and history, consider extending your stay.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Ellora

Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Activities / Things To Do in Ellora

  • Explore the Caves Spend ample time exploring the various caves, paying attention to the architectural details, sculptures, and paintings. Start with Cave 16 (Kailasa Temple) and then explore the Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves in sequence. Each cave offers a unique perspective on the religious beliefs and artistic styles of its era.
  • Visit the Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) The Kailasa Temple is the centerpiece of Ellora and a must-see. Marvel at its colossal size, intricate carvings, and the engineering marvel of its construction. Allow sufficient time to appreciate its grandeur and explore its various sections, including the elephant sculptures and the panels depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
  • Hire a Guide Consider hiring a local guide to gain a deeper understanding of the history, mythology, and artistic significance of the caves. A knowledgeable guide can provide valuable insights and point out details that you might otherwise miss.
  • Photography Capture the beauty of the Ellora Caves through photography. The play of light and shadow creates stunning visuals, especially during the early morning and late afternoon. Remember to respect the sanctity of the site and avoid using flash photography inside the caves.
  • Visit the Grishneshwar Temple Located near Ellora, the Grishneshwar Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Ellora Best Restaurant | Your Ultimate Dining Guide

Hotel Kailas
Hotel Kailas
★★★★

4

Popularity

Green Leaf Vegetarian Cuisine
Green Leaf Vegetarian Cuisine
★★★★★

4.4

Popularity

Garikipati Restaurant (Agro tourism)
Garikipati Restaurant (Agro tourism)
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Accommodation

Hotel Ujjain Pride
Hotel Ujjain Pride
★★★★★

4.6

Popularity

Ellora Heritage Resort
Ellora Heritage Resort
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

Hotel Kailas
Hotel Kailas
★★★★

4

Popularity

How to Reach Ellora

Air

The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (IXU), which is well-connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ellora.

Car

Ellora is well-connected by road. You can reach Ellora by car.

Bus

Ellora is well-connected by road to major cities in Maharashtra and neighboring states. State transport buses and private buses operate regularly to Ellora from Aurangabad, Mumbai, Pune, and other cities. You can also hire a taxi or drive your own car.

Train

Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB) is the nearest railway station, well-connected to major cities across India. Taxis and buses are readily available from the railway station to Ellora.

Important Notes

Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle.
Respect the religious significance of the caves and dress modestly.
Photography is allowed, but flash photography may be restricted in some caves.
Be aware of monkeys, especially if you are carrying food.
Hire a guide to get the most out of your visit.
Check the opening hours of the caves before your visit.
Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.

Ellora Nearby Destinations

Aurangabad

Aurangabad

A historical city with Mughal-era monuments and Ajanta Caves nearby.

Distance : 30 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.3

Popularity Score : 4.4

Must Visit : Bibi Ka Maqbara (Mini Taj Mahal), Daulatabad Fort, Ajanta Caves.

Daulatabad

Daulatabad

A historical fortified citadel located near Aurangabad, known for its strategic location and architectural brilliance.

Distance : 17 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.2

Popularity Score : 4.3

Must Visit : Chand Minar, Bharat Mata Temple, and the ingenious water management system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Ellora Caves?
Ellora Caves are significant for their rock-cut architecture, religious harmony, and ancient art. They represent a unique confluence of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How many caves are there in Ellora?
There are 34 caves in Ellora, comprising 12 Buddhist caves (caves 1-12), 17 Hindu caves (caves 13-29), and 5 Jain caves (caves 30-34).
Which is the most famous cave in Ellora?
The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is the most famous and impressive cave in Ellora. It is the largest single monolithic rock excavation in the world.
What is the best way to get around Ellora?
The best way to get around Ellora is on foot. The caves are relatively close to each other, and walking allows you to fully appreciate the details. You can also hire a rickshaw for shorter distances.
Is photography allowed inside the caves?
Yes, photography is allowed inside the caves, but flash photography may be restricted in some areas. It's best to check with the authorities before taking photos.
Are there restrooms available at the site?
Yes, restrooms are available near the main entrance and at some locations within the complex.

Location Map

Coordinates: Latitude 20.0267, Longitude 75.1067 (Ellora, Maharashtra, India)