The Ajanta Cave

The Ajanta caves are dedicated solely to Buddhism. The caves including unfinished are thirty in number of which five (9, 10, 19, 26 and 29) are "Chaitya-Grihas" and the rest are "Sangharamas" or Viharas (monasteries). Cave 26 by far is most magnificent and has some ornate sculptures. The Ajanta Caves are well known for their fresco paintings. The 30 Chaityas and Viharas have paintings, which illustrate the life and incarnations of Buddha. The interiors are enhanced by a variety of paintings on the ceiling that include geometric patterns, floral and ornamental motifs, a variety of animals, birds and plants.

These 3rd-century caves are fine achievements by Buddhist monks and are considered the finest masterpiece of Buddhist art and architecture.The caves are cut from the volcanic lava of the Deccan and are set in beautiful blooming surroundings. These historical manmade caves comprise of beautiful paintings on the walls and ceilings that depict the life of the Buddha. At Ajanta, the paintings on the walls, illustrate the events in the life of Gautama Buddha.