Ellora Caves: Entry Fee, Timings & Travel Guide for Tourists

Located just 30 kilometers from Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Ellora Caves is one of India’s greatest archaeological and spiritual marvels. With its colossal temples carved directly into the basalt cliffs of the Charanandri hills, Ellora stands out for one defining feature—it’s not just Buddhist.

Unlike Ajanta, which is exclusively Buddhist, Ellora is a confluence of three major religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. The site consists of 34 caves that demonstrate religious coexistence and artistic brilliance, all carved between the 6th and 10th centuries CE.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora is home to the legendary Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)—an architectural feat carved from a single rock that has to be seen to be believed. For both Indian and international travelers, Ellora offers a deep dive into India’s multi-faith past and jaw-dropping craftsmanship that rivals any monument in the world.

Whether you’re on a historical tour, religious pilgrimage, or a photography adventure, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your visit.

In This Blog

Ellora Caves: Quick Facts and Historical Background

Location: Ellora, Aurangabad district, Maharashtra, India
Distance from Aurangabad: Approximately 30 km (around 1 hour by car)
Number of Caves: 34 total
- 12 Buddhist Caves (Caves 1–12)
- 17 Hindu Caves (Caves 13–29)
- 5 Jain Caves (Caves 30–34)
Time Period: 6th to 10th century CE
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Since 1983

Entry Fees: What You’ll Pay to Visit Ellora Caves

Like most archaeological monuments in India, the Ellora Caves are managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The entry fees are different for Indian citizens, SAARC/BIMSTEC nationals, and foreign tourists.

Entry Fees For Indian Citizens

Adults (above 15 years): ₹40 per person
Children (under 15 years): Free

For SAARC/BIMSTEC Country Nationals

Visitors from Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Thailand, Myanmar: ₹40 (same as Indian citizens, with valid ID or passport)

For Foreign Nationals (Non-SAARC)

Entry Fee: ₹600 per person (~$7–8 USD)
Children (under 15 years): Free

Note: Entry tickets can be bought at the counter or online through the ASI website or incredibleindia.org.

Additional Costs and Facilities

Still Camera (non-commercial use): Free
Video Camera (personal use): ₹25
Commercial Videography/Photography: Requires ASI permission
Audio Guide Devices or Apps: Not available on site; download in advance if needed
On-site Guide (Private): ₹300–₹800 depending on group size and duration

Timings and Visiting Days

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
(Entry closes at 5:30 PM)
Closed On: No weekly closing day (open every day)
Peak Hours: 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM (expect larger crowds)

Best Time of Year to Visit in Ellora Caves

October to March: Best weather, especially for walking and photography
July to September: Green landscapes and overcast skies offer dramatic views
April to June: Very hot and dry; avoid afternoon visits if traveling in summer.

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How to Reach Ellora Caves

Though not directly connected by air or rail, Ellora is easily accessible via Aurangabad, which serves as the main transit hub for most visitors.

By Air

Aurangabad Airport (Chikkalthana Airport): 35 km from Ellora
- Domestic flights connect with Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Pune
- From the airport, taxis and auto-rickshaws are available

By Train

Aurangabad Railway Station: Connected to Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, and Nashik
Jalgaon Station: Often used if you’re visiting from Ajanta and heading onward to Ellora

From Aurangabad railway station, you can hire a cab or take a local bus to reach Ellora.

Travel By Road

From Aurangabad: 1-hour drive via Aurangabad–Ellora Road (NH 52)
State Transport Buses (MSRTC): Regular service from Aurangabad Central Bus Stand
Private Tours and Car Rentals: Widely available, including hotel pickups

Local Transport and Access

The road to the caves is well-developed and parking is available near the main entrance
No shuttle buses are needed, unlike at Ajanta
From the entrance gate, it’s a short walk to the first few caves. You can walk between the caves or hire electric carts, especially useful in summer or for elderly visitors

On-site Facilities at Ellora Caves

Restrooms: Clean, well-maintained, available at the main entrance
Drinking Water: Public water points available, but carry bottled water during summer
Cafeteria and Snacks: Small government-run food stalls and private kiosks outside the entrance
Souvenir Shops: Offer miniature sculptures, guidebooks, and postcards
Electric Cart Service: ₹20–₹30 for short trips between distant caves

How Long to Spend at Ellora

The full complex is massive and spread out. The time you’ll need depends on your interest and stamina:

Short Visit (2–3 hours): Focus on Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), one or two Buddhist and Jain caves
Half Day (4–5 hours): Cover highlights from each of the three religious traditions
Full Day (6+ hours): Explore in depth with a guide, especially for serious travelers and history buffs

Must-Carry Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll cover several kilometers)
Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
Cap/hat and sunscreen (especially in hot months)
Light snacks or packed lunch
ID proof or passport (for ticket verification or SAARC discounts)
Power bank (limited charging points)
Guidebook or mobile app for offline cave maps

Accessibility and Caution

Wheelchair access is limited due to stairs, uneven surfaces, and steep climbs
Some caves have narrow entrances, low ceilings, and steep stone staircases
Visitors with mobility issues should consider electric carts and limit their visit to the larger, more accessible caves like Cave 16

Preservation Rules and Visitor Etiquette

Do not touch carvings or murals
Photography is allowed, but no flash, tripods, or drones
Avoid shouting or loud conversations, especially in enclosed caves
Wear modest clothing—many visitors are pilgrims as well as tourists
Smoking and food inside the cave areas is strictly prohibited

Why Ellora Caves Are So Unique

Unlike most single-religion heritage sites, Ellora stands out for its celebration of religious tolerance and artistic exchange. Buddhist monks, Hindu sculptors, and Jain architects coexisted and created a living monument to India’s pluralism.

The Hindu Caves (13–29) are the most elaborate, with temples, mythological panels, and towering deities
The Buddhist Caves (1–12) showcase serene Buddha images, chaityas, and meditative spaces
The Jain Caves (30–34), though smaller, display intricate detailing, symmetrical shrines, and spiritual purity

Each section has a distinct feel, making Ellora not just a monument—but a journey through India’s sacred geography.

Section 1: Buddhist Caves (Caves 1 to 12)

These are the earliest group at Ellora, dating from the 6th to 7th century CE. Though less extravagant than the Hindu caves, they’re deeply peaceful, with serene depictions of the Buddha and monastic architecture intended for meditation and learning.

5 Cave – Maharwada

One of the largest Buddhist caves in Ellora
Features a large hall with long stone benches—suggested to be a dining or congregation hall
Simple, functional architecture reflecting the Hinayana phase of Buddhism

10 Cave – Vishvakarma Cave (Carpenter’s Cave)

The most famous Buddhist cave in Ellora
A chaitya (prayer hall) with a high vaulted ceiling, carved to resemble wooden beams
Houses a large seated Buddha at the end of the hall
Known as “Carpenter’s Cave” because of the ceiling’s resemblance to timber

11 & 12 Cave – Mahayana Phase

These caves are more elaborate and belong to the Mahayana period of Buddhism
Multiple stories with sanctuaries and images of Bodhisattvas
Reflect a shift from meditation-focused architecture to devotional shrines

While these caves may not have the visual drama of the later Hindu monuments, their atmosphere of spiritual quiet and subtle design make them essential for understanding the origins of Ellora.

Section 2: Hindu Caves (Caves 13 to 29)

These are the most elaborate and heavily visited caves in Ellora, carved between the 7th and 9th centuries CE. They showcase bold architectural innovation, massive sculptures, and detailed narratives from Hindu mythology. These caves represent the Rashtrakuta dynasty’s patronage of Shaivism, and many shrines are dedicated to Lord Shiva.

16 Cave – Kailasa Temple (The Crown Jewel of Ellora)

Arguably the most iconic cave in the entire complex—and one of the most astonishing monuments in India—the Kailasa Temple is unlike anything else.

Entire temple carved from a single monolithic rock, top-down
Covers an area double the size of the Parthenon in Athens
Features include:
- Nandi Mandapa (bull shrine)
- Grand central tower (Shikhara)
- Rich panels of Ramayana and Mahabharata scenes
- Massive reliefs of Ravana lifting Mount Kailash and other epic motifs
Despite its size and complexity, it took only about 18 years to complete, likely under the rule of Krishna I of the Rashtrakuta dynasty

It’s not an exaggeration to say you could spend hours just in Cave 16. It’s a destination in itself, showcasing an unmatched combination of engineering, devotion, and vision.

15 Cave – Dashavatara Cave

Precedes Kailasa Temple in construction but contains advanced features
Houses a double-story structure with a central shrine and open courtyard
Walls feature carvings of Vishnu’s ten avatars (Dashavatara), including Krishna, Narasimha, and Varaha
Often overlooked, but a must-see for mythology lovers

21 Cave – Rameshwar Cave

A smaller but beautifully carved cave dedicated to Shiva
Notable for sculptural precision and well-preserved motifs
Includes depictions of the Ganges descending from Shiva’s locks

25–29 Caves – Less Visited but Historically Valuable

Contain Shaivite and Vaishnavite themes
Located further away; ideal for those who want to explore off the main trail

The Hindu caves are dramatic in both scale and narrative ambition, portraying deities, demons, and cosmic events in dynamic, sculptural form. If you have limited time, Cave 16, Cave 15, and Cave 21 should be your focus.

Section 3: Jain Caves (Caves 30 to 34)

Carved slightly later (9th to 10th century), the Jain caves are smaller in scale but highly detailed and focused on spiritual refinement. These caves reflect the Digambara sect of Jainism and are characterized by symmetrical shrines, polished pillars, and fine relief work.

32 Cave – Indra Sabha

The most prominent Jain cave in Ellora
Double-story shrine with beautiful columns, elephant sculptures, and intricate lotus carvings on the ceiling
Central shrine with a seated Lord Mahavira
Ceiling paintings (faded but partially visible), showcasing celestial themes

33 Cave – Jagannatha Sabha

Another double-level hall with detailed sculptural decorations
Reflects both the ascetic and artistic elements of Jain philosophy

The Jain caves are usually quieter and less crowded, offering a peaceful finale to your visit. They also showcase how Jain art emphasizes precision, symmetry, and minimalism compared to the bold grandeur of Hindu caves.

Suggested Cave Visit Route (For Limited Time)

If you have only a few hours, here’s how to maximize your visit:

2–3 Hour Visit (Most Popular Itinerary)

Start with Cave 16 (Kailasa Temple)
Visit Cave 15 (Dashavatara)
Walk toward Cave 10 (Carpenter’s Cave)
Finish with Cave 32 (Indra Sabha, Jain section) if time and energy permit

Half-Day Visit (4–5 Hours)

Begin at Cave 10 (Buddhist section)
Explore up to Cave 12 (multi-level Buddhist viharas)
Move to Hindu caves: 13 through 16, spend more time in Kailasa Temple
Visit Caves 21–22 for detailed reliefs
End with Jain Caves (30–34)

Tips for Exploring the Caves Effectively

Start Early: Avoid midday heat and crowds.
Use a Guide or App: Many sculptures have religious and historical references that are easy to miss without context.
Pace Yourself: Ellora requires a good amount of walking and climbing. Rest frequently, especially in summer.
Focus on Themes: Buddhist caves are meditative, Hindu caves are dramatic, and Jain caves are minimalist. Choose according to your interests if time is limited.
Don’t Skip the Small Caves: Even less-frequented caves may surprise you with their intricate craftsmanship.

Dining Near Ellora Caves

Ellora is located in a relatively rural area, so dining options around the site are basic but functional. You’ll find small cafés, local food stalls, and a few restaurants run by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) or private owners. For more variety, you may prefer eating in Aurangabad.

Food Options at the Site

MTDC Ellora Restaurant

Located near the cave entrance
Offers simple Indian meals: thalis, rice-dal, poha, parathas, and tea
Best for a quick lunch or refreshment during your visit
Clean and hygienic, though limited in menu options

Local Dhabas and Eateries

Small family-run places just outside the cave complex
Serve traditional Maharashtrian meals, including bhakri (flatbread), vegetables, chutney, and buttermilk
Ideal for those wanting to try local flavors at budget-friendly prices

Street Snacks

Vendors sell fresh coconut water, sugarcane juice, vada pav, samosas, and chai
Great for snacking, especially if you’re walking between cave sections

Where to Eat in Aurangabad (Post-Visit)

If you’re staying in or returning to Aurangabad after visiting Ellora, you’ll have many more dining choices.

Tandoor Restaurant & Bar: North Indian cuisine, great kebabs and tikkas
Kream n Krunch Café: Casual dining with continental and Indian options
The Green Leaf: Vegetarian meals with clean, relaxed ambience
That Baat: Traditional Maharashtrian thali experience

Aurangabad caters to a range of budgets, so whether you’re a backpacker or on a family trip, you’ll find something suitable.

Accommodation: Where to Stay When Visiting Ellora

Your accommodation base depends on how long you plan to explore Ellora and whether you’re visiting nearby sites like Ajanta, Daulatabad Fort, or Grishneshwar Temple. Most tourists stay in Aurangabad, which is the closest city and offers a wide range of lodging.

Staying Near Ellora (for Early Access or Short Stays)

MTDC Holiday Resort, Ellora

Basic rooms with standard amenities
Walking distance from the caves
Great for early-morning visits
Budget-friendly; book in advance during tourist season

Ellora Heritage Resort

Small resort offering cottages and simple meals
Ideal for those who want a countryside feel and proximity to the caves

Note: Options near Ellora are limited. If you prefer comfort, air conditioning, or wider services, choose Aurangabad.

Staying in Aurangabad

Budget Options

Hotel Panchavati
Zostel Aurangabad (hostel style)
Backpackers’ Villa

These are clean, centrally located, and good for solo travelers or small groups.

Mid-Range Hotels

Treebo Trend Hotels (multiple locations)
Hotel Green Olive
The Fern Residency

Offer comfortable rooms, Wi-Fi, room service, and convenient access to city attractions.

Luxury and Heritage Hotels

Vivanta Aurangabad by Taj
- Set in a former palace with lush gardens
- Ideal for families or those wanting premium service
WelcomHotel Rama International
- Known for hospitality and a great restaurant

Booking Tip: Hotels fill quickly during the winter tourist season and around festivals, so it’s best to book your stay 1–2 weeks in advance.

Nearby Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

Ellora is surrounded by several major heritage and spiritual sites, making it a perfect base for cultural exploration. You can easily create a 2–3 day itinerary covering these highlights.

1. Grishneshwar Temple

Just 1 km from Ellora Caves
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva
Traditional temple architecture with red stone carvings
No photography allowed inside, and visitors should dress modestly
Note: Men may be required to remove shirts before entering the sanctum

2. Daulatabad Fort

Located about 15 km from Ellora
A medieval hilltop fort built in the 12th century
Famous for its labyrinth-style entryways, massive walls, and panoramic views
A bit of a climb, but worth it for history lovers and photographers

3. Bibi Ka Maqbara

Also known as the “Mini Taj Mahal”
Built by Aurangzeb’s son in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum
Located in Aurangabad city, about 30 km from Ellora
Offers Mughal architecture without the Delhi–Agra crowds

4. Panchakki (Water Mill)

A historical water-powered mill and garden complex in Aurangabad
Often visited alongside Bibi Ka Maqbara
Quiet, lesser-known spot for a short visit

5. Ajanta Caves

About 100 km (2.5–3 hours) from Ellora
Focused entirely on Buddhist art and storytelling
Pairing Ajanta and Ellora makes for a well-rounded cultural itinerary

Sample Itineraries

2-Day Itinerary: Ellora + City Highlights

Day 1: Visit Ellora Caves (start early), Grishneshwar Temple, and Daulatabad Fort
Day 2: Explore Bibi Ka Maqbara, Panchakki, and enjoy Aurangabad’s local markets and food

3-Day Itinerary: Ajanta + Ellora + Aurangabad

Day 1: Full-day Ajanta trip from Aurangabad
Day 2: Ellora Caves and Grishneshwar Temple
Day 3: Daulatabad Fort, Bibi Ka Maqbara, and departure

Travel Tips for Indian and Foreign Visitors

Health and Safety

Carry sunscreen, water, and wear a hat—Ellora gets very hot in summer
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as terrain is uneven
Keep an umbrella or raincoat if visiting during the monsoon

Cultural Etiquette

Respect temple customs, especially at Grishneshwar
Remove shoes when required
Do not touch or lean on ancient sculptures

Money and Payments

Entry tickets can be bought online or with card at the gate
Local food stalls may only accept cash—carry ₹100–₹500 in small notes
ATMs are available in Aurangabad, but not near the Ellora site

Language

Hindi and Marathi are spoken locally
Basic English is understood at hotels, guides, and ticket counters
Consider hiring an English-speaking guide if you’re exploring in depth

Photography Tips

Use natural light—no flash is allowed inside the caves
Early morning provides the best lighting for capturing shadows and carvings
Respect signage in sacred areas (especially in active temples)

Final Thoughts: Why Ellora Caves Are a Journey Worth Taking

Ellora isn’t just a sightseeing stop—it’s an epic carved in stone, where centuries of religious devotion, artistic vision, and cultural exchange come together. Whether you’re marveling at the engineering of Kailasa Temple, meditating in a quiet Buddhist cave, or tracing the fine detail of Jain sculpture, the experience is transformative.

It’s also a reminder of India’s deep-rooted spiritual diversity, where three faiths coexisted—not just peacefully, but beautifully.

Take your time. Walk slowly. Let the stone speak.

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