10 Breathtaking Cave Temples In India You Need To See

Ellora Caves, MaharashtraEllora Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 100 caves, of which 34 are open to the public. These caves represent Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism and display remarkable rock-cut sculptures and paintings.Elephanta Caves, MaharashtraElephanta Caves are another UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising seven caves dedicated to Hindu and Buddhist deities. Trimurti, the main attraction of these caves, is a colossal statue of Shiva in his three-headed form.Ajanta Caves, MaharashtraDating back to the 2nd century BCE to the 7th century CE, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a set of 29 caves famous for their mural paintings and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha and his teachings. Pancha Rathas, Tamil NaduAlso known as the Five Rathas, these are five rock-cut temples in the shape of chariots located in Mahabalipuram. They are carved out of a single rock and are dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses. Karla Caves, MaharashtraKarla Caves are a group of Buddhist rock-cut shrines from the 2nd century BCE to the 5th century CE. The main attraction of these caves is the Chaitya Hall, a well-preserved rock-cut prayer hall.Bhaja Caves, MaharashtraBhaja Caves are another set of Buddhist rock-cut monuments made up of 22 chambers, with some of the most notable ones being the Chaitya Hall, the Vihara Hall, and the 14 stupas that house the relics of Buddhist monks.Masrur Temples, Himachal PradeshMasrur Temples are a cluster of 15 rock-cut temples carved out of a single sandstone hill. These temples are dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses and are influenced by the Nagara style of architecture. Udayagiri And Khandagiri Caves, OdishaThese are a pair of hills that contain 33 rock-cut chambers that date back to the 1st century BCE to the 1st century CE. They are associated with Jainism and Hinduism and display various religious motifs.Varaha Cave, Tamil NaduLocated in Mahabalipuram, Varaha Cave is a rock-cut Hindu temple that dates back to the 7th century CE. It is dedicated to Vishnu in his boar incarnation. Bhimbetka Caves, Madhya PradeshSituated inside Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhimbetka Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains some of the oldest artworks of mankind. These caves are believed to be the shelter of the Pandavas during their exile.