Jain caves at Ellora - exquisite poetry on stones!

Jains were the last to arrive and their caves are also the newest at this World Heritage site at Ellora. Built between 9th and 11th century, there are only five caves dedicated to the faith. However, what these caves the lack in numbers, scale and antiquity, they more than make it up in the detailing and sheer beauty of carvings on the stone.

Here is their story!

A beautiful idol at a Jain temple at Ellora

Chhota Kailasa from top

Chhota Kailasa - Jain cave at Ellora

Jain Caves at Ellora

The Jain caves are numbered 30 to 35 and are the last part of the complex if you walk from cave 1 to your left. While the Buddhist and the Hindu caves are right next to each other, the Jain caves are a little bit further away.

Back in the days the caves were plastered completely from the outside as well as inside and richly painted in coloured. Remains of the paint can still be seen, and give an idea of how wonderful these temples must have looked back then. An interesting legend says that when Gods passed over these temples in their chariots, they were not willing to believe that something so beautiful could be created by man. After visiting the caves, even I am amazed at how these magnificent temples were created thousands of years back.

Jain cave at Ellora

Jain Gods at the cave

Another beautiful sculpture of the goddess

The first cave which catches the eye of the traveler is cave 30 which is also known as chota Kailasa temple after the great Hindu temple close-by. It's not as big in size, but the carvings on the walls are simply unmatched. However, the most important caves are cave 32 and 33 which are also known as Indra sabha and Jagannath sabha. It was almost completely dark inside, but I did my best to capture the beautiful of these spaces from inside as well.

Inside the cave on the second floor

Another mesmerised tourist

How to reach Jain Caves at Ellora

The Jain caves are located a little away from the last Hindu temple, Cave 29. If you are already at cave 29, then it's best to simply walk to the Jain caves. If you walk from the main road to cave 29, there is a small diversion on the left which will take you to the caves via a short walking through the forest. This is the shortcut.

If you are at the main entrance to the Ellora caves, take the govt buses which are the only authorised vehicles which can take you all the way to the caves. If it's a hot day, I would recommend taking this bus to the caves. Early morning or during monsoon, you can also easily walk as well.

Secret tip:

Most people start their cave exploration from mini Kailasa, but I recommend taking the flight of steps to a small hill just to the right of Cave 30. It's a bit steep, but what you find above is this small and rarely visited gorgeous Jain temple. It's secluded and not visible from the ground below, and that what makes the visit here more special.

The hidden Jain cave

Intrigued? Check out more about another set of beautiful set of Jain temples in Gujarat at Palitana!