Until the 19th century,
the caves of Ajanta and Ellora were secluded in oblivion.
Revealed, these caves stand out as one of the best
examples of rock-cut architecture in history.
Visiting
them is the stuff of Best Indian Tours.
Heritage Tours India ubiquities at best, these architectural
accomplishments can be found in the proximity of the
city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra.
The former served more of Buddhist functions while the latter showcases Brahmanical, Buddhist and Jain aspects.
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In any case, both cave complexes are registered as
UNESCO World Heritage sites, thereby fit for Cultural
Tours India and Culture Holidays India. Presently, these
caves are numbered in relation to their present accessibility
from the entrance. In 1819, Ajanta Caves
proved to be discoveries in transit, with credit to a British
hunting party.
These caves, omnipresent
in superb India Cultural Tours, were hollowed from
granite rock in the inner side of a long valley along
the Waghora River.
The carving of the Ajanta
Caves had an interval of four centuries in between,
the oldest phase being around 2nd century BC. The Vakatakas
and the Guptas handled later constructions.
Ajanta Caves are rife with antiquated paintings done
with the tempera technique, which all depict Buddha.
If the Ajanta caves are not good enough, India Culture
Tours always feature the Ellora caves. |
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There are a total of 34
caves on this site, all carved into the sides of a
basaltic hill.
Elements of Hinduism, Buddhism,
and Jainism were harmoniously incorporated into the
architecture, construction of which was carried out
between 350 to 700 AD.
The caves featuring Jain influences are caves
no. 30 to 34, believed to be the last architectural
work on the site.
Among the caves with Buddhist influences, Cave 10 is
by far the most acclaimed in Culture Tours India. |
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The cave has often been called the "Carpenter's Cave".
In the midst of a cathedral-like stupa hall is a reverential
15-foot statue of Buddha.
Of all the caves with Hindu influences, the most outstanding cave for India Cultural Travel is Cave 16 or the Kailasha Temple. Carved out of solely one piece of rock, this particular temple is richly embellished with sculptures from Hindu mythology.
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