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Ajanta, India
The Ajanta Caves were carved into a horseshoe-shaped cliff above the Waghora River between the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD, then abandoned and forgotten until a British officer stumbled upon them during a tiger hunt in 1819. The caves contain Buddhist monasteries and prayer halls, but their true glory is the surviving murals — narrative paintings of the Buddha's lives and teachings that represent the finest examples of ancient Indian art. The pigments retain their vibrancy after 1,500 years. Audio narration identifies the stories and techniques invisible to the untrained eye.
explore by interest
Caves are closed on Mondays. Carry a flashlight — many paintings are in dim interiors. Photography without flash is permitted. The 500 steps down to the caves and back up are demanding. Allow 3-4 hours.
October through March for comfortable weather. The monsoon creates waterfalls in the gorge but heat and humidity are high. Combine with Ellora Caves, a 4-hour drive or bus ride.