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Exquisite Mumbai Ajanta Ellora

6 Days

Overview

Itinerary

05N/06D

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the state of Maharashtra, India. These rock-cut cave complexes are renowned for their stunning ancient architecture, sculptures, and intricate rock-cut cave paintings. Here’s a brief overview of both:

*Ajanta Caves:*

  • *Location:* The Ajanta Caves are situated in the Sahyadri Hills of Maharashtra, near the village of Ajanta, approximately 100 kilometers from the city of Aurangabad.
  • *Cave Complex:* Ajanta comprises a series of 30 rock-cut caves that were created between the 2nd century BCE and the 5th century CE. These caves served as Buddhist monastic retreats and include chaityas (prayer halls) and viharas (monastic cells).
  • *Art and Paintings:* The Ajanta Caves are particularly famous for their exquisite wall paintings that depict scenes from the life of Buddha, Jataka tales (stories of Buddha’s previous lives), and other narratives. These ancient frescoes are considered masterpieces of Indian art.
  • *Buddhist Heritage:* The caves played a significant role in the development of Buddhist art and architecture in India and are important historical and religious sites.

*Ellora Caves:*

  • *Location:* The Ellora Caves are located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, approximately 30 kilometers from the Ajanta Caves.
  • *Cave Complex:* Ellora is a vast complex of 34 caves, representing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. These caves were excavated between the 6th and 10th centuries CE.
  • *Rock-Cut Temples:* The Ellora Caves consist of monasteries, temples, and viharas. The most famous among them is the Kailash Temple (Cave 16), a massive monolithic structure dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is considered one of the most remarkable architectural achievements in India.
  • *Diversity of Faiths:* Ellora showcases the coexistence of different religious traditions and serves as a symbol of India’s religious tolerance and cultural diversity.

Both the Ajanta and Ellora Caves are significant archaeological sites and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious history of India. They are a testament to the ancient craftsmanship and artistic prowess of the people who created them. A visit to these caves is a journey back in time to explore the art, spirituality, and history of ancient India.

Mumbai – Aurangabad – Ellora – Ajanta

Itinerary

Day 1 :
Mumbai –Arrival

You will be received by a representative from the airport or railway station and taken to a pre-booked hotel in Mumbai. The rest of the day is free. You can visit beaches, take up market trip, visit Mumbai slum area or enjoy street food of Mumbai. On the other hand, you can also stay back in the hotel and rest for what is coming next in the trip. Overnight stay in Mumbai hotel.

Day 2 :
Explore Mumbai Attractions

The day starts with sightseeing trip that covers almost all top tourist attractions in Mumbai. Top spots visited are Marine drive, St. John church, Chowpatty beach, Malabar hills, Gateway of India, Hutama Chowk, Flora fountain, Juhu beach and others. The trip ends by late afternoon and the rest of the day is free for other activities. Since the next day is tight with activities, people prefer to take rest. If desired, you can enjoy Mumbai on your own. Overnight stay in Mumbai hotel.

Day 3 :
Aurangabad

After early breakfast, you will be transferred to Mumbai airport where you would board a flight to Aurangabad. Once you reach the destination, you will be taken to a pre-booked hotel. After a brief rest, you will be taken on a trip to Daulatabad fort, Aurangabad caves and others. The Daulatabad fort is a 2nd century structure famous for temple and exploration. Aurangabad caves were used during 6th century and today, it is an important exploration spot. You will be taken back to the hotel by late evening. Overnight stay in Aurangabad hotel.

Day 4 :
Aurangabad - Ellora Caves Excursions

This day is completely dedicated to Ellora caves. You will be taken to the caves by morning. You are free to explore the 34 caves temples and other attractions inside the caves. These caves were used between 6th and 10th century AD. It has the largest rock cut temple structures in the world. There are temples of Jainism, Hinduism and Buddhism. You will be taken back to the hotel by late evening for dinner and rest. Overnight stay in Aurangabad hotel.

Day 5 :
Aurangabad - Ajanta Caves Excursions

You will be taken on an early morning drive to Ajanta caves. Buddhist monks took residence inside the cave to protect themselves from heavy rain. They used primitive tools to build massive temples and statues during their stay. The monks built the structures during 1st and 2nd century AD. You will reach the Ajanta caves by early afternoon. After lunch, half-day exploration of Ajanta caves starts. You will be taken back to Aurangabad by late evening. Overnight stay in Aurangabad hotel.

Day 6 :
Departure from Mumbai

Early morning trip to Vihara caves of 5th century and a few other ancient caves of Aurangabad as time permits.

After you will be taken to airport to catch a flight to Mumbai. From Mumbai airport, you can either catch your destination flight or check into any Mumbai hotel and continue your vacation in the city that never sleeps.

Tour Ends