Wonders of India: Ajanta and Ellora caves
Amazing rock-cut caves in the western ghats of Maharashtra
I am always mesmerized by the kind of sculptures created on monuments built more than thousands year ago with remarkable precision and without modern machinery. Ajanta and Ellora caves definitely rank higher among such architectural marvels of India. Both caves were carved on massive rock of the mountains of western ghats. They are UNESCO world heritage sites and hence, well maintained. It is a top tourist attraction in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, formerly known as Aurangabad.
Ajanta Caves
Even though Ajanta caves are in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, its almost more than 100 km from city center and much closer to Jalgaon which is just around 60 km away.
Ajanta caves are in the mountains, so you will have to climb stone steps to visit them. But the hike is easy and the views are completely worth it! These were carved more than 2,000 years ago in two phases. Situated on  the bank of Waghora river, there are total 30 caves consisting of ancient monasteries and chaityagrihas. Monasteries, also called as Viharas, are typically a structure with central hall with small cells connected to it whereas chaityagrihas are prayer halls.
You will be amazed by the artwork and paintings inside caves, especially Cave 1,2 and 17. Do not miss Cave 26! It is among the last caves excavated and has sculpture of reclined Buddha.
Ellora Caves
Ellora caves are closer to main city and those are also a collection of rock-cut caves. Interestingly, Ellora caves are fusion of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain Art. There are total 34 caves out of which caves 1-12 have Buddhist monuments, Caves 13 to 29 have Hindu monuments and Caves 30 to 34 have Jain monuments.
Main attraction of Ellora caves is the Kailasa temple which is Cave 16, a spectacular architecture carved out of a single rock. The Temple is dedicated to lord Shiva. I am still shocked by the fact that all these caves were crafted by hand using traditional chisel!
Apart from Kailasa temple, Cave 10 should also be on your must-visit list to witness intricate carvings and sculptures, known as Vishwakarma Cave.
Other nearby places to visit:
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is a beautiful blend of nature, culture and history and one of the major tourist hubs of Maharashtra.
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlinga temple in India, just 1 km away from Ellora caves.
Bhadra Maruti Temple
Bhadra Maruti Temple is located in Khuldabad and just 4 km away from Ellora caves. It is one of the famous tourist attractions where the idol of Shri Hanuman is portrayed in sleeping position.
Daulatabad Fort
Daulatabad Fort, also known as Deogiri Fort, was built by Yadava King Bhillama. It is also acknowledged  for its exceptionally well-designed defence system.
Bibi Ka Maqbara
Bibi Ka Maqbara has similar structure of Taj Mahal and hence, called the Taj of Deccan. Its located closer to main city center.
Jayakwadi Dam
Jayakwadi Dam is around 50 km away from main city center and one of the largest irrigation projects of Maharashtra. Do visit this dam to experience breathtaking views.
How to reach Ajanta and Ellora caves:
By Air:
Nearest airport is Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar airport, around 10 km from main town. Cabs or Auto will be easily available from the airport
By Train:
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar railway station is located in main town itself and connected with major cities of Maharashtra. Do note, if you are planning to start with Ajanta caves then Jalgaon railway station is closer and around 60 km away.
By Road:
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is well-connected by national highways and state highways to all parts of the country.