Aurangabad Caves

During the 6th and 7th century, the Aurangabad caves were artificially dug out on soft rocks. There are about 10 caves in Aurangabad found in two distinct locations. The western group and eastern group each consisting of 5 caves are a plethora of Tantric Hinduism Architecture and Iconography. Out of these 10 caves the 3rd and the 7th caves are the most fascinating ones. The 3rd cave has scriptures depicting scenes from Jataka Tales and the 7th cave has sculptures of Bodhisattva. Among the 10 caves of Aurangabad, 9 were monasteries.

The 4th cave of the western group is the oldest. There is a Stupa in front in a collapsed condition. The other western caves are Buddhist Monasteries which are also known as Viharas. There are open courts surrounded by open cells. It’s believed that the Viharas were built to give shelter to the Buddhist monks. The 6th and 7th cave falls in the eastern group. These caves depict the most fascinating work of art. There are sculptures of women in exotic hairstyles and ornaments, Buddha and also Ganesha. To the left of cave 7 there are sculptures of Bodhisattva praying to rescue from the 8 dangers of life representing death. A few km away from Aurangabad is the famous monument of Bibi-ka-Maqbara.

Getting there:
The Aurangabad airport is connected to Mumbai, Delhi and Jaipur. There are 2 trains from Mumbai to Aurangabad everyday. There are also several state and luxury buses from Mumbai to Aurangabad. Many star and luxury hotels are available at Aurangabad.