Ellora Caves Near Shirdi | UNESCO Heritage Site

About Ellora Caves

Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Aurangabad, Maharashtra. They contain 34 monasteries and temples spanning Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain religions, dating from 600–1000 CE. These monumental caves were carved out of the vertical face of the Charanandri hills — an extraordinary feat of ancient Indian engineering and artistry.

🏛 Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) — The crown jewel of Ellora and the world's largest monolithic rock-cut structure. Designed to recall Mount Kailash, the sacred abode of Lord Shiva, it was carved from the top down over more than 200 years. The sheer scale and its intricate sculpted panels make it an architectural marvel unlike anything else on Earth.

Ellora is unique in that it represents three major Indian religions side by side — a living testament to the spirit of religious tolerance in ancient India. Over 100 caves exist at the site, of which 34 are open to the public, stretching over 2 km along the Charanandri hillside.

What to See at Ellora Caves

Ellora's 34 public caves are grouped by religion. Each group showcases distinct artistic styles, philosophies, and architectural grandeur worth exploring in depth.

Hindu · Caves 13–29

Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)

The magnificent chariot-shaped monument dedicated to Lord Shiva — the world's largest monolithic rock excavation at 32 metres high, carved from a single basalt rock over 200+ years by the Rashtrakuta dynasty.

Buddhist · Caves 1–12

Buddhist Caves

Large multi-storeyed monasteries used for study and worship. Highlights include Cave 10 (Vishvakarma) — a spectacular prayer hall with a carved Buddha presiding over a ribbed vault ceiling.

Hindu · Caves 13–29

Hindu Caves

Dramatic sculptures depicting Hindu mythology. Cave 15 (Dashavatara) showcases the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu in breathtaking relief panels. Cave 29 mirrors the famous Elephanta Caves.

Jain · Caves 30–34

Jain Caves

Known for intricate, delicate carvings and a serene atmosphere. Cave 32 (Indra Sabha) is the most elaborate — a two-storeyed structure with a beautifully carved courtyard, a jewel of Jain artistry.

How to Reach from Shirdi

Ellora Caves are approximately 130 km from Shirdi. The drive takes about 2.5 hours via MH SH 10. Roads are in good condition — making it a perfect day trip from Shirdi.

Private Taxi (Recommended)

Most comfortable option. Taxis are readily available at all Shirdi hotels. A full-day hire typically covers Ellora plus Aurangabad sights — Bibi Ka Maqbara, Ajanta, Grishneshwar Temple.

State Bus (MSRTC)

MSRTC AC Volvo guided tours depart from Aurangabad's Central Bus Stand each morning. Regular state buses also run to the cave entrance from Aurangabad (30 km away).

By Train

Aurangabad Railway Station is 28 km from Ellora. Tapovan Express, Ajanta Express & Sachkhand Express connect from major cities. Hire a cab from the station to the caves.

By Air

Aurangabad Airport (35 km from Ellora) connects Mumbai, Delhi & Hyderabad. Pre-paid taxis and app-based cabs are available at the airport for onward travel to the caves.

Shirdi to Ellora route tip: Drive via Ahmednagar – Aurangabad highway (NH 160 + MH SH 10). Start by 7:00 AM from Shirdi to make the most of the morning hours. Combine with Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, just 2 km from Ellora, for a spiritually complete day.

Best Time to Visit & Travel Tips

Best season: November to March — cool, pleasant weather ideal for exploring the 2 km cave stretch on foot. Monsoons (July–September) bring a lush green landscape around the hills, creating a dramatic backdrop for photography.

Visit early morning (6:00–9:00 AM) to beat the heat and crowd — especially at the iconic Kailasa Temple.
Wear comfortable walking shoes — the site involves significant walking over uneven rocky surfaces.
Hire a government-approved guide (available at the entrance for ₹500–₹800) to understand the rich symbolism and history of the carvings.
Carry sufficient drinking water and light snacks — the cave complex stretches over 2 km end to end.
Photography is permitted but flash is prohibited inside caves — carry a small torch or use your phone light.
Dress modestly and respectfully as this is an active religious site for pilgrims of all three faiths.
Caves are closed every Tuesday — always plan your Shirdi–Ellora day trip on Wednesday through Monday.
Combine with Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple (2 km from Ellora) for a spiritually complete pilgrimage day trip from Shirdi.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting the Aurangabad region, consider extending your trip to explore more of Maharashtra's heritage gems — all easily reachable from Ellora Caves:

Ajanta Caves (~100 km from Ellora) — Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its stunning Buddhist cave paintings dating back to the 2nd century BCE. A must-visit for art and history lovers.
Grishneshwar Temple (2 km from Ellora) — One of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, making it extremely significant for devotees visiting from Shirdi.
Bibi Ka Maqbara (Aurangabad city) — A stunning 17th-century Mughal mausoleum often called the "Taj of the Deccan," built by Aurangzeb's son in memory of his mother.
Aurangabad Caves (5 km from Aurangabad) — Twelve lesser-known Buddhist rock-cut caves with impressive sculpted figures and far fewer crowds than Ellora.

Ellora Caves