Aurangabad Caves

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Aurangabad caves are set in a valley between the hill ranges of Sihyachal and Satara. The magnificent caves were excavated along the hillside during 2nd and 5th century AD near Aurangabad. The caves are similar but less known than Ajanta and Ellora caves 100 kms away from Aurangabad. There are a total of 12 caves and most of them scatter in different directions merely a short distance away from each other. The reason for such dispersal could be the rock formation of that area, which is very heterogeneous therefore excavation was an arduous task to carry out here. Though a lot of efforts were made to shape these caves but due to unfavorable rock formation many of the caves were left unfinished. All these 12 caves are divided in to 3 sections on the basis of their location. Like the caves that are placed to the western side of the hill falls in the western group. 1,2,3,4 and 5 number caves form the western group. The caves to the eastern side of the hill makes the eastern group. It includes 6,7,8 and 9 number caves. The third and the last group comprises of 10,11 and 12 number caves. These caves are located to the east of the second group.

Out of all the caves, 3 and 7 number caves are the most remarkable of all. Tantric influences can be apparently seen in the architecture of the caves. The caves showcases the architectural brilliance of the past centuries. All the caves are intricately carved with some being bestowed with special style and pattern. The Cave 4 of Western Group group is the oldest cave. The remaining four Western caves are 'Viharas' depicting an early type of Buddhist monastery. Cave 6 which belongs to the Eastern Group has a large statue of Lord Buddha and Cave 7 has forms of women which are barely clad and bejeweled. Cave 3 is basically a Chaitya griha, a place for prayers with a stupa. All these splendid caves are timeless jewels and are reminiscent of the era marked by Buddhism. The must see caves are extremely riveting and and an exclusive tourist attraction in Aurangabad.