Ajanta Buddhist caves

The cave monasteries were built between 200 BC and 600 AD. The earliest of the caves were simple and did not contain representations of the Buddha. Later caves became more decorated and contained multiple carvings of Buddha. The caves are carved into the cliff side along a river where it makes a U-turn and has carved deep into the surface rock. The caves are on the outside of the bend overlooking the river below. The countryside is much like Grants Pass in the early summer time. It is a quiet and peaceful place, well suited for contemplation, even with a constant flow of tourists.