World Art Day: Exploring India's Stunning Cave Art Heritage

World Art Day | Did you know there are more than 10,000 sites around India where you can see ancient murals carved into rock chambers and cave walls? Much like ancient art galleries, they offer a glimpse into the lives of our ancestors. From imposing paintings to intricate rock-cut sculptures, these age-old caves are a treasure trove of ancient stone art. History and art buffs can have a field day exploring these heritage sites. There are many caves spread across India. Here are a few of the most popular art caves in India that you must tick off your travel bucketlist.

Most Famous Art Caves in India

Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra

Housing ancient monasteries, these incredible caves in Aurangabad take you through 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments. The paintings in these caves depict the life and times of Buddha and pictorial tales from Aryasura's Jatakmala. Some are rock-cut sculptures of Buddhist deities.

UNESCO has termed the expressive paintings of Ajanta as masterpieces that influenced Indian art in the years that followed. The paintings here are known for depicting life-like emotions through the use of gestures, poses and forms.

How to Reach: The Ajanta Caves are located approximately 100 km north of Aurangabad in Maharashtra. Aurangabad serves as the primary gateway to reach the caves.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (IXU), which has domestic flights from major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Udaipur. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Ajanta Caves, which is about a 2.5-hour drive.

• By Rail: The closest railway stations are Jalgaon Junction (about 60 km away) and Aurangabad Railway Station (about 100 km away). Both stations are well-connected to major cities across India. From either station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ajanta Caves. Buses are readily available from Aurangabad Central Bus Station.

• By Road: Ajanta Caves are well-connected by road to major cities in Maharashtra and neighbouring states, including Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Hyderabad, and Indore. You can hire a private taxi or take state-run (MSRTC) or private buses from Aurangabad to Ajanta. The journey by road from Aurangabad takes approximately two to 2.5 hours.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ajanta is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather during this period is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for exploring the caves.

Nearby Places to Visit:

While visiting Ajanta Caves, you can also explore several other significant attractions in the vicinity, primarily around Aurangabad:

• Ellora Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage site located about 100 km southwest of Ajanta. Ellora features 34 rock-cut caves representing three religions: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, dating from the 6th to the 10th centuries CE. The Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) is a monolithic marvel.

• Aurangabad Caves: A group of 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries CE, located closer to Aurangabad city.

• Bibi Ka Maqbara: Known as the "Mini Taj Mahal," this impressive mausoleum was built in the 17th century in memory of Aurangzeb's wife. It bears a striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal in Agra.

• Daulatabad Fort (Devagiri Fort): A historic hill fort about 13 km from Aurangabad, known for its strategic location and impressive architecture.

Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

Located in Maharashtra's Aurangabad, the Ellora Caves are also a UNESCO Heritage Site, like Ajanta. Home to one of the world's largest rock-cut monastery temples, the caves are known for their attractive artwork, which dates back to the period between 600-1000 CE.

One of the caves here houses the world's largest monolithic rock excavations. Also present are various sculptures that depict gods and goddesses from different mythologies. You will marvel at relief panels drawn from the two Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata.

How to Reach: The Ellora Caves are situated approximately 30 km northwest of Aurangabad. Aurangabad serves as the primary access point to the caves.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (IXU), which has domestic flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Udaipur. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Ellora Caves, which is about a 45-minute drive.

• By Rail: The closest railway station is Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB), which is well-connected to major cities across India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a state-run (MSRTC) or private bus to Ellora Caves. Buses are readily available from Aurangabad Central Bus Station.

• By Road: Ellora Caves are well-connected by road to major cities in Maharashtra and neighbouring states, including Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Hyderabad, and Indore. You can hire a private taxi or take state-run (MSRTC) or private buses from Aurangabad to Ellora. The journey by road from Aurangabad takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ellora Caves is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather during this period is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for exploring the extensive cave complex.

Nearby Places to Visit: When visiting Ellora Caves, you can also explore several other significant attractions in the vicinity, primarily around Aurangabad:

• Ajanta Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage site located about 100 kilometres northeast of Ellora. Ajanta features 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves with exquisite murals and sculptures dating from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE.

• Aurangabad Caves: A group of 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries CE, located closer to Aurangabad city.

• Bibi Ka Maqbara: Known as the "Mini Taj Mahal," this impressive mausoleum was built in the 17th century in memory of Aurangzeb's wife. It bears a striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal in Agra.

• Daulatabad Fort (Devagiri Fort): A historic hill fort about 13 km from Aurangabad, known for its strategic location and impressive architecture.

Kanheri Caves, Maharashtra

One of the earliest examples of excellent rock-cut architecture in the Western Ghats, the Kanheri Caves in Mumbai are a sight to behold. Housing a colossal Buddha statue that dates back to the period between the 5^th and 6^th centuries, they are believed to have influenced the Elephanta caves, off the coast of Mumbai.

The cave art here is influenced by Kushana and Gupta art styles. Buddhist monks and traders used these caves as stopovers and places for meditating. As the royal patronage reached new heights, the caves were further embellished with exquisite rock sculptures.

How to Reach: The Kanheri Caves are located within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai, about 30 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services to reach the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, where the caves are located.

• By Rail: The closest railway station is Borivali (approximately 12 km from the park entrance). Borivali is well-connected to Mumbai's suburban train network. From Borivali station, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or a bus to the main gate of Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

• By Road: Kanheri Caves are easily accessible by road. You can drive via the Western Express Highway and follow signs to the National Park in Borivali East.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kanheri Caves is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather during this period is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for exploring the caves and the surrounding Sanjay Gandhi National Park. However, the post-monsoon period (late September to October) can also be a good time with pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak winter.

Timings: The Kanheri Caves are generally open from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm every day except Mondays.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP): The caves are located within this vast green expanse, which itself offers numerous attractions like nature trails, viewpoints, a toy train, and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting (deer, monkeys, and if you're lucky, leopards). You can spend a whole day exploring different parts of the park.

• Tulsi Lake and Vihar Lake: These are two serene lakes located within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. They are important water sources for Mumbai and offer peaceful natural surroundings. While access to certain areas might be restricted for conservation, the views and overall environment are worth experiencing.

• Global Vipassana Pagoda: Located a short distance northwest of the National Park, this impressive golden pagoda is a striking modern Buddhist monument offering meditation sessions and insights into Vipassana philosophy.

• Film City: Situated to the east of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Film City is a sprawling integrated film studio complex. While access for general tourists might be limited to guided tours, it's a significant landmark showcasing India's Bollywood industry.

• Chota Kashmir: Located in the Aarey Milk Colony, which is adjacent to the National Park's eastern side, Chota Kashmir is a small, picturesque garden with a lake offering boat rides. It's a popular spot for families and those seeking a peaceful escape.

Aurangabad Caves, Maharashtra

Tucked away in the Sihaychal Ranges, the Aurangabad Caves constitute 12 impressive rock-cut Buddhist caves. These belong to the 6^th and 7^th centuries and house remarkable carvings and sculptures, which confirm to the Tantra tradition of Buddhism.

The caves showcase sculptures of Buddhist deities, including Nandikesvara, Varaha, Ganesha, Manjusri, Avalokitesvara among others. Look out for the sculptures depicting Hindu deities Ganesha and Durga as these stand as a testament to the religious harmony observed during that age.

How to Reach: The Aurangabad Caves are located a few km north of Aurangabad city in Maharashtra.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (IXU), which has domestic flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Udaipur. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the Aurangabad Caves, which is a short drive of approximately 15-20 minutes.

• By Rail: Aurangabad Railway Station (AWB) is the closest railway station, well-connected to major cities across India. From the railway station, you can easily hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a local bus to reach the Aurangabad Caves. The journey by road takes around 20-30 minutes.

• By Road: Aurangabad city is well-connected by road to major cities in Maharashtra and neighbouring states. You can hire a private taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take state-run (MSRTC) or private buses to reach the Aurangabad Caves, which are located on a hill overlooking the city.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Aurangabad Caves is during the winter months, from October to March.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Bibi Ka Maqbara: Known as the "Mini Taj Mahal," this impressive mausoleum built in the 17th century is a major landmark in Aurangabad and is located relatively close to the city centre, making it easily accessible from the caves.

• Daulatabad Fort (Devagiri Fort): A historic hill fort located about 13 km northwest of Aurangabad. Known for its strategic location and impressive architecture, it's a significant historical site to explore.

• Ellora Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage site located approximately 30 km northwest of Aurangabad. Featuring 34 rock-cut caves representing Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism, it's a must-visit historical and artistic marvel.

• Grishneshwar Temple: One of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Ellora Caves (approximately 30 km from Aurangabad). Pilgrims and those interested in religious sites often visit this temple.

• Panchakki (Water Mill): An ancient water mill located within Aurangabad city. It showcases medieval Indian engineering and offers a serene environment with gardens. It's a relatively short drive from the Aurangabad Caves.

Satkunda Rock Paintings, Madhya Pradesh

Located near Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, the Satkunda rock paintings are said to be more than 5,000 years old. The paintings here are predominantly pictographic and depict the life of forest-dwelling tribal communities of the region.

Scenes of daily activities like hunting have been painted using figural and geometric patterns. Some paintings also depict the flora and fauna of the region. The Satkunda rocks have a resemblance to the Bhimbetka rock shelters. 

How to Reach: The Satkunda Rock Paintings are located near Bhopal in the state of Madhya Pradesh, approximately 24 km from the city.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj International Airport (BHO) in Bhopal, which has flights from major Indian cities. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or a car to reach Satkunda, which is about an hour-long drive.

• By Rail: Bhopal Junction (BPL) is the major railway station, well-connected to various parts of India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or a car to travel to Satkunda. The journey by road will take around one hour.

• By Road: Satkunda is about 24 km from Bhopal and can be reached by car or taxi.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Satkunda Rock Paintings is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather during this period is pleasant and cool, making it comfortable for exploring the outdoor rock art sites.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Bhimbetka Rock Shelters: A UNESCO World Heritage site located approximately 11 km from Satkunda. Bhimbetka is famous for its extensive collection of prehistoric rock paintings, some dating back over 30,000 years.

• Bhopal: Explore the historical and cultural attractions of Bhopal, including Upper Lake and Lower Lake, Birla Mandir, Taj-ul-Masjid, and the State Museum.

• Sanchi Stupa: A significant Buddhist site with ancient stupas, monasteries, and Ashokan pillars, located about 46 km northeast of Bhopal.

• Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated near Bhimbetka, this sanctuary is home to diverse wildlife and offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts.

• Islamnagar Fort: Located a short drive from Bhopal, this 18th-century fort showcases Mughal and Rajput architectural styles.

Udaygiri And Khandagiri Caves, Odisha

The twin hills of Udayagiri and Khandagiri near Bhubaneswar, Odisha, are one of the earliest examples of Jain rock-cut architecture in eastern India. The ancient names of the twin hills of Udayagiri and Khandagiri are Kumari and Kumara parvatas respectively. There are total 33 rock cut caves on both the hills out of which 18 caves are excavated on Udayagiri hill, while 15 are on the Khandagiri hill. While most caves are single storied, a few are double storied, too. They were essentially dormitories for Jain monks.

How to Reach: The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves are located near Bhubaneswar in Odisha, approximately seven kms from the city centre.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, which has good connectivity with major Indian cities. From the airport, you can easily hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, which is about a 15-20 minute drive.

• By Rail: Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) is the main railway station, well-connected to various parts of India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a local bus to reach the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves. The journey by road takes around 20-30 minutes.

• By Road: Bhubaneswar is well-connected by road to other cities in Odisha and neighbouring states. You can hire a private taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take state-run (OSRTC) or private buses to reach the Udayagiri and Khandagiri area, which is located on National Highway 16.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather during this period is pleasant and cool, making it comfortable for exploring the caves and the surrounding area.

Nearby Places to Visit:

• Lingaraj Temple: A prominent and ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Bhubaneswar city, about six km from the caves. It's a significant architectural and religious site.

• Nandankanan Zoological Park: A large zoo and botanical garden located about 15-20 kms from the caves. It's known for its white tigers and diverse flora and fauna.

• Dhauli Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda): Situated on Dhauli hills, about eight kms south of Bhubaneswar, this Buddhist monument commemorates the Kalinga War and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

• Rajarani Temple: An 11th-century Hindu temple in Bhubaneswar, known for its intricate carvings and architectural beauty, located around seven kilometres from the caves.

• Odisha State Museum: Located in Bhubaneswar city, this museum houses a rich collection of archaeological artefacts, sculptures, paintings, and natural history exhibits, providing insights into the state's heritage.

This story was first published on July 31, 2023; and it has since been updated.