If you thought India is all about palaces and forts, there is a big surprise awaiting you. India is also a country with the most spectacular rock-cut caves and temples. They are a wonderful specimen of ancient India, which was artistic and simply breathtaking. Built across different timelines, these amazing works of art have stood the test of time and still stand tall and beautiful even after centuries. They have all become great tourist destinations, and people from across the country and abroad come to be mesmerized by their unfathomable beauty. Most of these monuments have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and it would not be wrong to say that nowhere else are there such a wealth of rock-cut temples. 

Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, near Chennai on India’s southeastern Coromandel Coast, was a celebrated port city of the Pallava rulers. It was during this period in the 6th Century CE that these majestic rock-cut temples in India were made. These are a group of monuments including, rock-cut cave temples, monolithic temples, and bas-relief sculptures. The group of monuments at Mahabalipuram occupies a distinct position in classical Indian architecture. The mandapas or the rock-cut caves have amazing carvings on them, and the sculptural representations are lifelike and graceful. The rathas (chariot) or the monolithic temples display all the features of the contemporary temple with rich carvings and artistic motifs. The temple walls depict many Hindu Gods in full size. The temples in Mahabalipuram are among the most beautiful rock-cut temples in India. 

Ajanta and Ellora

Coming to India and not visiting the Ajanta and Ellora rock-cut temples in Maharashtra can be the biggest mistake one can make. Spread over a few kilometres, the Ajanta and Ellora cave temple complex showcases the most amazing form of Indian architecture. The sheer magnanimity and complexity of the carvings throughout the many caves will leave you awestruck. Built around the 2nd century BC, the Ajanta cave complex has a total of 29 caves, including prayer halls and residential caves. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features fresco paintings all over, which are simply fantastic works of art.

The Ellora cave complex is also renowned for its amazing fresco paintings. Spread over 2 km and with 34 caves, the Ellora cave complex stands among the world’s largest rock-cut caves. A tour of the Ajanta and Ellora Cave complex is like taking a walk through history, allowing you to relive the architecturally rich legacy of India.

Badami Cave Temples

The erstwhile capital city of Badami, during the rule of Chalukyas, still attracts tourists from across the globe to see the most amazing rock-cut architecture of India. Dating back to the 6th century AD, the Badami Cave complex has four incredibly beautiful caves made of red sandstone. Located not too far from Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, Badami is a picturesque destination with the cave temples being the biggest attraction.

The first cave welcomes you with a life-sized depiction of the 18-handed Natraja in 81 dance poses, while the third cave showcases giant-sized images of Lord Vishnu. Even the roofs and giant pillars are artistically carved, telling a tale of India’s rich culture and heritage.

Elephanta Caves

A quick ferry ride from the Gateway of India in Mumbai will take you to Elephanta Caves on an island of the same name. Located in the western state of Maharashtra, the rock-cut Elephanta Caves from the 5th to 6th centuries AD are among the most famous rock-cut caves in India. The quaint island of Elephanta is dotted with magnificent rock-cut caves dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, and at most times is thronged with tourists from all around. Cave 1 is the centre of attraction, primarily because of its huge structure and amazing workmanship. This grand 39-square-meter structure is supported by enormous columns. At the entrance of the gate stands an imposing 7-meter-tall rock-cut structure of Lord Shiva. Its majestic look instills a belief in the wonders of Lord Shiva, and this is why he continues to be worshiped today as the Creator, the Preserver, and the Destroyer. The representation of Hindu deities in life-size is truly worth admiring. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Elephanta Caves make for a perfect day trip from Mumbai and are a must-visit when in India.