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Key Facts about Ellora Caves

Nov. 30, 2025

Scottish historian William Dalrymple wants the Maharashtra government to showcase the lesser-known sites at Ellora, including the last Ottoman Caliph’s empty tomb, Malik Ambar’s tomb, the first Peshwa’s tomb, and the Sufi and Naga traditions at the caves.

About Ellora Caves:

  • They are located near the village of Ellora in Maharashtra.
  • Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the Ellora Caves are an extraordinary complex of rock-cut monasteries and temples carved into a high basalt cliff.
  • These structures date from the 6th to the 10th century CE and represent three major religions—Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.
  • The sculptures range from depictions of deities, celestial beings, and mythological scenes to portraits of royalty and everyday life.
  • The architectural brilliance of Ellora is most evident in the Kailasanatha Temple, the site’s grandest and most breathtaking structure.
    • It is one of the largest monolithic structures in the world.
    • The structure is carved vertically from a single rock.
    • The temple features ornate pillars, detailed sculptures, massive courtyards, and elaborate carvings that depict stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
  • The Buddhist caves include large chaityas (prayer halls) and viharas (monasteries), while the Jain caves are known for their intricate detailing and depictions of Jain Tirthankaras.

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