Take a journey out of the city to visit the majestic Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Aurangabad. This full-day sightseeing tour will take you to places that seem to have been born out of a fairy tale: stunning temples carved into rock that astound the imagination.

The amazing Ajanta Caves have been an Unesco World Heritage Site since 1983. They consist of 29 temples and prayer caves cut into the side of the rock. Dating back to the 2nd century, they hold stunningly gorgeous paintings and sculptures that are considered to be Buddhist masterpieces. Much of the art depict the Jataka tales of the Buddha’s previous lives. These pieces of art were created over 800 years and not only document the story of Buddha in his cycle of reincarnations, but also paint a record of life in ancient India. Professional artists and Buddhist monks created these unique and irreplaceable pieces of art under the royal patronage of ancient ruling dynasties.

After you have had your fill of Ajanta’s ancient art, you can admire the famous rock-cut temples of the Ellora Caves. Here you can see an amazing example of different religions living in harmony: the 34 caves contain temples and monasteries of the Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain faiths. Built between the 5th and 10th centuries, these caves also contain gorgeous paintings and sculptures that have helped make them a Unesco World Heritage Site. Cave 16, the Kailash temple, is of particular interest. Though it is carved out of one rock, it appears to be a freestanding temple complex with multiple stories.

The city of Aurangabad is one of the fastest growing cities in the world. And, thanks to the marvelous caves, it is also a tourist hub. Grab this opportunity to see not one, but two Unesco World Heritage Sites and explore the astonished architectural accomplishments that are these rock-cut temple complexes. You won’t regret it!