Navi Mumbai To Ajanta & Ellora Caves

What to expect on your trip?

Ajanta Caves Exploration:

  • Marvel at the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient rock-cut caves adorned with exquisite Buddhist paintings and sculptures.
  • Focus on key caves showcasing intricate murals depicting Buddha's life, Jataka tales, and celestial beings.

Ellora Caves Discovery:

  • Explore the grandeur of the Ellora Caves, featuring rock-cut temples and caves representing Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist traditions.
  • Visit the Kailasa Temple, a colossal structure carved from a single rock, and key caves representing diverse religious influences.

Transportation:

  • Opt for a comfortable cab journey from your starting point to Ajanta and then to Ellora, ensuring a smooth and time-efficient travel experience.

Timings and Entry Fees:

  • Check the opening hours, usually from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, for both Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Inquire about entry fees and any other relevant charges.

Guided Tours:

  • Consider joining guided tours available at both sites to gain insights into the historical and cultural significance of the caves. Guides enhance the understanding of the intricate carvings and paintings.

Photography:

  • Capture the breathtaking artistry but be aware of any restrictions on photography inside certain caves. Some areas may have specific rules to preserve the ancient artifacts.

Comfortable Attire:

  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, as both Ajanta and Ellora involve exploring cave complexes with varying terrain.

Snacks and Refreshments:

  • Pack some snacks and water for the day, as the cave complexes may not have extensive dining options. Ensure you stay hydrated and energized throughout the exploration.

Cultural Experience:

  • Immerse yourself in the cultural and historical significance of both Ajanta and Ellora, appreciating the unique artistic expressions and religious narratives.

Limited Shopping:

  • While there may be limited shopping options, look for local crafts or souvenirs to commemorate your visit, especially in the vicinity of the caves

Local Cuisine:

  • If time allows, savor local Maharashtrian cuisine at nearby eateries, adding a culinary dimension to your cultural exploration.

Recommended Duration:

  • Allocate a minimum of 3-4 hours for Ajanta Caves and a similar duration for Ellora Caves to ensure a comprehensive exploration of key sites.

This one-day combo trip to Ajanta and Ellora Caves promises a condensed yet enriching experience, providing a glimpse into the artistic and religious heritage of Maharashtra. Adjust the duration based on personal interests and the pace of exploration.

Itenary

Ajanta Caves

Chaitya Griha

TChhayadevi Cave

Gupta Vihara

Mahakottal Vihara

Jatakamala Cave

Indra Sabha Cave

Dasavatara Cave

Pancha Pandava Cave

Bodhisattva Cave

Saptasrngi Cave

Mahayana Cave

Indra Sabha Cave

Asadhara Jataka Cave

Ashoka Hall

Mahakantari Jataka Cave

Dasanana Cave

Ellora Caves

Kailasa Temple

Dashavatara Cave

Ravana-ki-Khai

Jain Cave (Indra Sabha)

Jain Cave (Yashodhara Tirtha)

Danteshwar Cave

Buddhist Cave (Dasavataram)

Buddhist Cave (Ganesh Lena)

Chhota Kailasa

Dashavatara Cave

Buddhist Cave (Sita ki Nahani)

Buddhist Cave (Rathsena Cave)

Hindu Cave

Buddhist Cave

Buddhist Cave (Pancha Rathas)

Buddhist Cave (Bhadramurti)

Things to do on your trip

What to SHOP?

While Ajanta and Ellora are primarily renowned for their historical and cultural significance rather than shopping, you can find some local crafts and souvenirs in the nearby areas to commemorate your trip. Here are some items you might consider:

  • Miniature Replicas: Look for miniature replicas of sculptures and carvings found in Ajanta and Ellora. These make for meaningful and artistic souvenirs to take home.
  • Local Handicrafts: Explore nearby markets for traditional Maharashtrian handicrafts, such as wooden artifacts, pottery, or items reflecting the local craftsmanship.
  • Artisanal Products: Support local artisans by purchasing handcrafted items like jewelry, textiles, or artifacts inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
  • Paintings and Artwork: Look for paintings or artwork inspired by the intricate murals and carvings of Ajanta and Ellora. Local artists often create pieces that capture the essence of these historic sites.
  • Traditional Fabrics: Explore local markets for traditional Maharashtrian fabrics or textiles. You may find sarees, dupattas, or other clothing items featuring regional designs.
  • Books and Literature: Purchase books or literature about the history, art, and architecture of Ajanta and Ellora. This can enhance your understanding of the cultural significance of these sites
  • Souvenir Shops: Check out souvenir shops near the caves or in nearby towns for a variety of curated items, including keychains, magnets, and other memorabilia.

While shopping options may be limited directly at the cave sites, nearby towns or cities could offer a more extensive shopping experience. Keep in mind that the primary focus of the Ajanta and Ellora trip is the exploration of the caves and their cultural heritage.

What to EAT?

During your combo trip to Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, you can savor the authentic Maharashtrian cuisine available in the nearby towns. Here are some traditional dishes you should consider trying

  • Poha: A popular breakfast dish made from flattened rice, typically cooked with mustard seeds, turmeric, and topped with peanuts and coriander.
  • Bhakri with Pitla: Bhakri is a traditional flatbread made from millet or sorghum flour, often served with Pitla, a spicy gram flour-based curry
  • Vada Pav: A quintessential Mumbai street food, vada pav consists of a spicy potato fritter sandwiched between a pav (bread) and served with chutneys.
  • Misal Pav: A spicy curry made with sprouted moth beans, topped with farsan (fried gram flour noodles), onions, and served with pav.
  • Sabudana Khichdi: A dish made with soaked tapioca pearls, peanuts, and potatoes, often consumed during fasting periods.
  • Modak: Sweet dumplings filled with coconut and jaggery, often associated with festivals, especially Ganesh Chaturthi.
  • Puran Poli: A sweet flatbread stuffed with a mixture of lentils, jaggery, and spices, commonly enjoyed during festivals.
  • Maharashtrian Thali: Explore local eateries for a traditional Maharashtrian thali, which typically includes a variety of dishes like bhakri, puran poli, bhaji, dal, rice, and more.
  • Kokum Sharbat: Refresh yourself with Kokum Sharbat, a cooling drink made from the Kokum fruit, known for its unique flavor and health benefits.
  • Sol Kadhi: A refreshing drink made from kokum and coconut milk, often served as an accompaniment with meals.
  • Puran Modak: Another variation of modak, Puran Modak is a sweet treat filled with a mixture of jaggery and grated coconut.

While exploring the nearby towns of Ajanta and Ellora, you'll likely find local eateries and dhabas offering these Maharashtrian specialties. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in the regional flavors and enhance your cultural experience during the trip.

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