Located in the Ellora Caves of Maharashtra, India, the Ellora Kailasa Temple , also known as the Kailash Temple -stands as a testament to human creativity, skill, and devotion. This architectural marvel, believed to have been constructed in the 8th century, is a monolithic structure carved out of a single massive rock. The Kailasa Temple is not only a significant religious site for Hindus but also a wonder of engineering and art, attracting thousands of tourists and devotees from around the world.
What is so unique about Kailasa (Kailash) Temple:
The Kailasa Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. It is a part of the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises a complex of 34 monasteries and temples, including Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain structures. What makes the Kailasa Temple stand out is its unique construction technique, as it is entirely carved out of a single rock, making it one of the largest monolithic structures on Earth.
The temple measures approximately 164 feet long, 109 feet wide, and 98 feet high, and is carved from a single rock that is estimated to weigh over 200,000 tons. The exterior of the temple features intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, animals, and mythological figures, showcasing the artistic brilliance of the craftsmen who created it. The level of detail and precision in the carvings is astonishing, with each sculpture exhibiting exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Kailasa Temple is its construction technique. The temple was carved from top to bottom, starting with the roof and gradually moving downwards. The entire structure was chiseled out of the rock using hammers, chisels, and pickaxes, without the use of any modern tools or machinery. The intricate carvings were done by hand, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the artisans who created this masterpiece.
The interior of the Kailasa Temple is equally awe-inspiring. The temple is designed in the form of a chariot, with columns, pillars, and sanctums carved out of the rock. The central hall, known as the mandapa, is supported by 16 pillars, each adorned with intricate carvings of gods and goddesses. The sanctum sanctorum houses the lingam, a representation of Lord Shiva, and is surrounded by elaborately carved walls and ceilings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
How to reach Kailasa (Kailash) Temple Ellora:
By Air: The nearest airport to Ellora is the Aurangabad Airport (IXU), which is approximately 30 kilometers away from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ellora.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Ellora is the Aurangabad Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ellora.
By Road: Ellora is well-connected by road to various cities in Maharashtra and neighboring states. You can reach Ellora by bus or by hiring a taxi from nearby cities like Aurangabad, Mumbai, Pune, or other major cities in the region.
Once you reach Ellora, you can easily access the Kailasa Temple by local transportation, such as taxis or auto-rickshaws. The temple is a part of the Ellora Caves complex, which also includes other rock-cut temples and monasteries, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.