Located at a distance of 99 km from the district of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Ajanta Caves are one of the timeless beauties which man has created. These are the Buddhist caves which are carved out of stones using simple tools like chisel and hammer. Though these caves were carved out during 2nd century BC to 6th century AD, they were discovered only in 19th century. These caves were lying deep in the Sahayadri Hills in the curved mountain side, just above the Waghora River. These were discovered by some British officers who were on a tiger hunt. They accidently stumbled upon these ancient caves. These famous caves in Maharashtra are listed among the World Heritage Sites.

This interesting Mumbai travel guide tells some more interesting information about the Ajanta Caves. 30 in number, these caves are placed in a horseshoe shape in the hills.  These caves are dedicated to Lord Buddha and were used by the Buddhist monks to stay while studying their religion. Great works of art and architecture adorn interiors of these caves. Life stories of Lord Buddha are depicted in carvings and paintings in the caves. Besides these, there are many human and animal figures carved there.

Through these murals and carvings, contemporary society of that period is depicted in the Ajanta caves.  All kinds of figures of kings, slaves, commoners, men, women, children, flowers, plants, fruits and animals, birds can be seen on the walls of the caves. Then figure of heavenly bodies like “Yakshas’, Gandharvas, Apsaras, Kinners are also depicted there.

Counted among the famous sightseeing attractions in Mumbai, Ajanta caves, which are 30 in number, are classified into 'Chaitya-Grihas' (stupa halls) and 'Viharas' (dwelling halls).Cave numbers 9, 10, 19, 26 and 29 are known as the 'Chaitya-Grihas' and others are the monasteries  or Viharas.  Great piece of art work can be seen in cave numbers 1, 2, 16 and 17.  These caves reflect the imagination and creativity of the Buddhist monks.  

According to time of their construction, Ajanta Caves are classified into three groups. Oldest groups belonged to the period between 200 BCE and CE 200. Second group was constructed in 6th century and third group belonged to 7th century.

Ajanta caves are a must see attraction near Mumbai.