Historical Places In India- Ajanta Ellora Caves.

The Ajanta and Ellora caves are ancient rock-cut structures in India that were built over a period of centuries. They are known for their Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain artwork and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

The caves were built in two phases, the first starting around the second century BCE and the second occurring from 400 to 650 CE, according to older accounts.

Ajanta Caves 

The Ajanta Caves were built in two phases, starting around the second century BCE and continuing until the 6th century CE.

The caves are located in the Sahyadri ranges of the Western Ghats.

The caves were used as monasteries and worship halls for Buddhist traditions.

The caves contain paintings and sculptures of the Buddha, as well as stories from the Jatakamala.

The caves were also used as resting places for pilgrims and merchants, and as a retreat for monks during the monsoon season.

Ellora Caves

The Ellora Caves were built over a period of 400 years, from the 6th to the 10th century CE. 

The caves are located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra. 

The caves include temples and monasteries for the Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religions. 

The caves were built into a high basalt rock wall. 

The caves include the Kailasha temple, which is considered a notable example of temple construction in India. 

The Ajanta and Ellora caves are considered masterpieces of Buddhist religious art and have had a significant influence on the development of Indian art. 

What is the story behind Ajanta Ellora Caves?








   

   The Ajanta Caves were built in a period when both the Buddha and the Hindu gods were simultaneously revered in Indian culture. According to Spink and other scholars, the royal Vakataka sponsors of the Ajanta Caves probably worshipped both Hindu and Buddhist gods.