Ajanta Caves

Ajanta CavesIndia is a country filled with thousands of Buddhist caves that used to be the home of former Dalai Lama monks. Over the years, Buddhism started to vanish away and all caves were abandoned. After many years these secretive caverns were rediscovered by the British colonists who were looking for gold, spices and historical symbols.  One of the main Indian symbols is the massive Ajanta Caves located 2 hours away from the Indian city of Aurangabad. 

Within the solid caverns, tourists will come across a marvelous architectonic structures made of 32 grottos cut in stone by workers of the period who used only traditional hammers. After meticulously carving the solid rock, craftsmen managed to come up with real works of art. The basaltic stone of the walls was being completely curveted into beautiful figures and shapes of the period.

Dating back from the 5^th century BC, these caves have been considered works of art of the Buddhist religion. After being buried by the abundant Indian vegetation, they were rediscovered after nearly 1300 years, in 1983. That same year, Ajanta Caves were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and they have been ranked as a magnificent cultural patrimony of India. Some of the faces sculpted within the caves were highlighting average people that existed hundred of years ago.  Other magnificent sculptures included religious shapes, artistic designs and columns.
Others features worth admiring within Ajanta are the drawings. The beautiful coloration nearby major sanctuaries are showcasing the religious side of India. The Buddha was highly esteemed and worshiped by the people who really believed in his powers and predicaments. Out of the array of different caves, tourists are mostly drawn by the first two because they have significant carvings and astonishing displays. Cave number 2 comes along with massive pillars positioned at the entrance. Inside the cave travelers will admire the tall ceiling and the beautiful paintings that surround the place. Photo By: danchitnis

The whole process of painting and drawing was extremely meticulous and attentive. Most works were made of wet plaster that had in its composition dung, clay, hay and lime. Because the plaster was humid it had the capacity to absorb color and keep it into the wall for an extended period of time. Some colors even had in their composition several peculiar ingredients like plants, stones and minerals.  Overall, the beautiful attraction manages to gather hundreds of visitors annually due to its uniqueness and controversial history. Although years have passed and the people have evolved, Buddhism is still considered a sacred religion practiced in several Indian communities.
Those fascinated by caves and mysterious civilizations can also pay a visit to Elephanta Caves, another magnificent attraction positioned nearby. Featuring similar sculpturing and traditional purposes, the place will surely catch travelers ‘attention. Overall, India is a country with so much to offer when it comes to attractions. Other places of interest located in Maharashtra are Bibi Ka Maqbara-an impressive Muslim grave, Shaniwar Wada-a gorgeous palace fort and the Sanjay Gandhi National Park among numerous others.