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The Exquisite Caves: 4 Days offered by supplier M16678 (read about supplier) Key Information: Tour Duration: 4 day(s) Group Size: 2 - 10 people Destination(s): India   Specialty Categories: Caving   Archeology/History   Season: February Airfare Included: No Tour Customizable: No Minimum Per Person Price: 1400 US Dollar (USD) Maximum Per Person Price: 1500 US Dollar (USD)

Beginning in the 2nd century BC and continuing for 900 years, twenty six caves were chipped out of a horseshoe shaped cliff. The early followers of the Buddha created an isolated haven, shrouded in the darkness of the caves where they could meditate in peace. The exquisite Buddhist paintings and sculptures created by using simple tools in the glow of lamps rank among the world's most important cultural treasures and has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Although the Jataka tales form the main theme of the paintings, also depicted are scenes from contemporary courtly life all demonstrating a startling degree of sophistication. In the Ajanta paintings we see the brilliant union between sacred and secular art.

Nearby is Maharashtra state's most phenomenal ancient monument, the Ellora caves which carried on the legacy of Ajanta from the 7th century AD and was subjected to Buddhist, Jain and Hindu influences. The sculptures at Ellora are massive in form and the entire spectrum of carvings pulsates with life and energy. The phenomenal rock cut Hindu temple of Kailash which is carved out of a hillside is the world's largest monolith is the site's principal attraction. Ellora too, is a World Heritage site declared by UNESCO.

Tour Itinerary:

Day 1, February 25th: Delhi - Aurangabad by air.

Day 2, February 26th: Aurangabad - Ajanta Caves.

Day 3, February 27th: Aurangabad - Ellora Caves.

Day 4, February 28th: Aurangabad - Delhi by air.

Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.

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Also see tour packages in:
Asia   India   Outdoor: Land Rambler   Caving   Archeology/History  

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