FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about visiting the caves, transport from Aurangabad, and site regulations.
Are the Ajanta Caves open on Mondays?
No. The Ajanta Caves are closed every Monday. They are open all other days from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How much is the entry ticket for Ajanta Caves?
Foreign tourists pay ₹600 at the counter or ₹550 online. Indians and SAARC citizens pay ₹40 at the counter or ₹35 online. Children under 15 enter free.
How far is Ajanta from Aurangabad?
The site is about 100 kilometers from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad). The drive takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic and transport mode.
How do I get to Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad?
You can take a private taxi for ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 round trip. Alternatively, take an MSRTC bus for ₹150 to ₹300. Read more about the Aurangabad Bus Guide.
What is the difference between Ajanta and Ellora Caves?
Ajanta features 30 ancient Buddhist caves known for highly expressive mural paintings. Ellora contains 34 Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain caves known for massive monolithic architecture. Read our Ajanta vs Ellora guide.
Can you visit both Ajanta and Ellora in one day?
Yes, but it requires a fast pace. The sites are far apart. Consider booking a dedicated combo tour if you are short on time. See our One Day or Two? tips.
Which caves are the most important at Ajanta?
Cave 1 contains the famous Padmapani and Vajrapani frescoes. Caves 16 and 17 have the largest number of surviving narrative paintings. Cave 26 is a massive Chaitya hall.
Is photography allowed inside the Ajanta Caves?
Yes, but flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect the ancient frescoes. Tripods require special permission.
What is the best time of year to visit Ajanta Caves?
The best time to visit is from October to March. The winter months offer cooler weather. Try to arrive at 9:00 AM. See our Best time to visit guide.
Who built the Ajanta Caves?
They were carved by Buddhist monks and artisans over two main phases. The first phase was between the 2nd century BCE and the second phase continued until about 480 CE.
Why are the Ajanta Caves so dark inside?
The interiors are intentionally kept dimly lit. This protects the fragile ancient paintings from light damage. Bring a small LED flashlight.
What should I wear to visit the Ajanta Caves?
Wear light, breathable clothing and slip-on shoes. You must remove your shoes before entering many inner shrines. Bring thick socks. See our guide on Cave Dress Code.