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Planning A Trip To The Ajanta Ellora Caves

Are you craving for some adventure? Or do you want to take your family out to explore the ancient history of India? A trip to the Ajanta Ellora caves is what you need. It will let you get lost in a long-forgotten era that existed in Indian history. These caves is known as the historical places of maharashtra with 64 rock cuts prove the presence of impressive artistry that will bewilder and amaze at the same time. Located in close proximity to the city of Aurangabad, people from all around the world come to visit these caves for their rich historical significance and grandeur. History buffs take note!

Ajanta Ellora – An Ancient Memory

Its timeput your history caps on. The Ajanta Ellora caves are located at two different sites, although within the same region, which leaves you a lot of ground to explore. The Ajanta caves history states that they were made between the second century BCE till 650 or 480 CE, whereas those of Ellora were made between the 5^th century CE and 10^th century CE. But that’s just the data.

These are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and you will love how the caves have retained their allure over innumerable years. You will be intrigued by the sheer craftsmanship on offer and come to think of it- they were supposedly crafted only by hand in those times with just a chisel and hammer for support! This is perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the caves.

Location & Ways To Reach

Ajanta Ellora caves are situated in Northern Maharashtra which is around 250 miles (400 kilometres) from Mumbai. The 2 cave sites are two hours away from each other. Not that you need to worry since they are amongst the most popular attractions in India and are thus accessible through several means of transportation. Here is a brief guide to help you explore hassle free:

By train: The closest transportation service can be found via the Aurangabad railway stations. The caves of Ellora are only at a 45 minutes distance while those in Ajanta are 1.5 hours away. You can travel from Mumbai till Aurangabad in just 6 or 7 hours.
By air: You can travel from your city or country to the Aurangabad airport by air. After that, the caves stand at a distance of 100 kms from the airport.
By road: Several roads and highways connect Aurangabad to the neighbouring cities including Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. You may take a bus or travel in your car all the way to the caves.

After you reach Aurangabad, you can either conveniently rent a car or hire a taxi to drive you to and from the cave sites. There are daily inexpensive and guided tour buses issued by the government from Aurangabad as well that you can hop on to receive the experience of a virtual Ajanta Ellora travel guide. They are comfortable Volvo buses that are air-conditioned so no need to worry about the heat or pack dollops of sunscreen! You can book the tickets in advance at the bus stands.

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Best time for a visit – Fees and timings

The best year-round visit time for the Ajanta Ellora caves is between November and March, because of the pleasant and cool weather. The region is blessed with average to heavy rainfall between June and September, making the experience delightful but full of practical snags. During the months of November till February, a moderate drop in temperature can be felt. The summer months between March and May can get really hot, especially during the daytime. It is advisable to avoid this season for a planned visit.

The Ajanta caves timings are from 9 am till 5 pm. They are open on all days except for Mondays. Entry per head for Indians is INR 35 and for foreign tourists it is INR 550. For children below 15, the charges are nil and the camera charges are INR 25. The Ellora caves remain open till 5.30 PM on all days except for Tuesdays. Entry fees are INR 40 for Indians and INR 600 for foreign tourists. The other charges are the same.

Ajanta Ellora awaits history, architecture and culture enthusiasts

What is it that binds you to your country? Your culture and its history. India showcases its most ancient of memories stored away in these caves for everyone to appreciate. The caves of Ajanta have some sophisticated and ancient paintings that can rarely be found in all of India, while the caves of Ellora are known for the extraordinary architecture they portray. The sculptures of both are worth visiting once in your lifetime.

Before coming in to visit, it might be wise to book proper accommodation near the caves. It will take you 4 to 5 hours to explore the caves in full detail. Try to be early and stay alert at all times. Save yourself from the hawkers and people who tend to charge heavily increased prices. Maintain cleanliness to abide by Government rules. This is your chance to go on a trip back in time like no other!