Maharashtra · 2nd century BCE – 6th century CE
Ajanta Caves
Buddhist Murals & Cave Paintings
PaintingArchitecture
THE FULL STORY
The Ajanta Caves are among the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian painting. Their murals depict Buddhist stories, Jataka tales, royal courts, everyday life and religious themes.
Historical context
Ajanta demonstrates the sophistication of painting, storytelling and Buddhist artistic traditions in ancient India.
Cultural significance
The caves preserve a rare visual archive of Buddhist thought, courtly life and artistic exchange across ancient India.