NEED TO KNOW
LOCATION At Ellora, 19 miles (30 km) from the city of Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra, India
DATE OF CONSTRUCTION
7th to 11th centuries
DAYTIME TEMPERATURES
Jan: 70°F (21°C); Apr: 86°F (30°C); Jul: 79°F (26°C); Oct: 77°F (25°C)
Ellora’s famous “caves,” which are actually a series of temples and monasteries carved into the side of the Charanadari Hills, represent the apogee of Indian rock-cut architecture. They are unique for their large size, architectural mastery, and above all, for representing, side by side, three of India’s major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Set on an ancient trade route, the 34 monuments saw merchants, priests, and pilgrims refresh themselves both physically and spiritually on their way to the ports of India’s western coast.
Practical Information
Getting There and Around Aurangabad is connected to some of India’s major cities, including Delhi and Mumbai, by air, rail, and road. Taxis to the site are available from nearby towns.
When to Go Plan your visit for the winter (Oct–Feb), when temperatures and humidity are lower.