Indian Cave Paintings

The caves of Ajanta and Ellora are a series of Buddhist monasteries and prayer halls carved out of living rock. The digging of the Ajanta caves was initiated in the 4 th century AD. Over the centuries, 29 such caves were dug by Buddhist monks, and used as cells and monasteries. These caves are adorned with sculptures of animals, guards and deities, and paintings of courtly life and Buddhist tales. Amidst these are several sculptures of Buddha.

The caves of Ellora are replete with carvings inspired by Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. These date back to the 7 th century AD. The Kailasa Temple in Ellora is a magnificent structure carved out of solid rock. It is a full sized temple, flanked by elephants on either side. The rock art of the Ajanta and Ellora caves is a tribute to the mastery of the artisans of yore. Other cave paintings in India have been discovered in the Ramgarh hill caves in Chhattisgarh.

Famous Caves in India :
Ajanta Caves : These caves are the most magnificent examples of rock cut architecture and cave paintings. The Ellora caves are over 10 centuries old and represent elaborate sculptures of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain faiths. While the caves at Ajanta dates back to the 5th century and contain paintings and sculptures of major events in the life of Lord Buddha.

Ellora Caves : These caves are the most magnificent examples of rock cut architecture and cave paintings. The Ellora caves are over 10 centuries old and represent elaborate sculptures of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain faiths. While the caves at Ajanta dates back to the 5th century and contain paintings and sculptures of major events in the life of Lord Buddha.

Elephanta Caves : The green island of Elephanta is famous for world's wonder rock-cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The most remarkable feature of these caves is the mammoth representation in stone of the various heads of Shiva, depicting his several moods.

Udayagiri & Kandhagiri Caves : Not many caves have got as much significance after the Maharashtrian caves as much the Khandhagir and Udaygiri Caves have. These caves are considered to be the one of the most sacred Jain pilgrimage centers situated in Orissa.

Aurangabad Caves : Aurangabad caves are a travellers paradise that illustrate the tales from the "Jatakas", a large collection of stories about the previous incarnations of Lord Buddha.

Borra Caves : The natural formations of Borra caves are unique, and are breathtakingly beautiful. There are several interesting structures inside the caves, including a mushroom formation, a temple, a mosque, and a church.

Karla & Bhaja Caves : Beyond Lonavala are picturesquely situated three sets of caves, Karla, Bhaja and Bedsa that are full of historical interest. Karla caves are also the largest Chaitya caves in India.

Kanheri Caves, Maharashtra : There are 1000 caves situated in this cave site that belong to Buddhism, believed to have been dated between 2nd to 9th centuries AD.

Yana Caves, Karnataka : Experience the wilderness holiness and loneliness in this limestone rock dome paradise. Yana is known for its unique rock formations and is a haven for rock climbers.