Aurangabad:  Aurangabad is the gateway to Ellora and Ajanta two of the most interesting historical sites in India. These 2000 year-old man-made caves were literally scooped out of solid rock by Buddhist monks who chose these sites for their seclusion. When the echo of the chisel faded, so did the world's memory of the caves. Till the beginning of the 19th century, when a British hunting party discovered Ajanta, and the glory of the caves went on show for the world to see. These caves contain not only remarkable sculptures but also very well preserved wall paintings, many still glowing with their original colors. They are truly legends in stone and tributes to man's devotion and triumph over nature.

ELLORA: About an hours from Aurangabad, Ellora represents to the world the finest and greatest in terms of sheer magnificence of Indian sculpture. The awe-inspiring, mammoth Kailash Temple is carved out of solid rock. It is dedicated to Mount Kailash of the Himalayas, the abode of Lord Shiva. This monolithic structure is a very rare phenomenon that demanded the most careful planning, based not on what was added but what was removed ! Ellora is a repository of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain religious expression, a sheer volume of information in carved pageantry. Thirty-four shrines synthesize Indian religion and Indian passion for sculpture. The Ramayana and Mahabharata are also depicted here in carvings as also the many-faceted personality of Lord Shiva. Ellora is a priceless page out of history.

AJANTA: About four hours from Aurangabad lies Ajanta - a series of caves, hewn out of rock by Buddhist monks who found sanctuary here and left a legend for posterity. These 30 caves with 24 monasteries and 5 temples have wall paintings and sculpture of an aesthetic appeal that is timeless. The craftsmanship astounds scholars and art lovers even today. Some of the most exquisite paintings depict the life and teachings of Buddha as well as his earlier life as a prince. The Ajanta caves are like chapters of a splendid epic tale in visual form. Natural light brightens the caves at different times of the day leaving visitors awe-struck by the sheer brilliance of those ancient masters who created this marvel of art and architectural splendor.