The Kailasa Temple, also known as Cave 16 of the Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, India, is renowned as the world’s largest monolithic rock-cut structure. Carved from a single rock, this architectural marvel stands 32 meters high and extends 78 meters in length. Commissioned by King Krishna I of the Rashtrakuta Dynasty in the 8th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is designed to resemble Mount Kailash, Shiva’s Himalayan abode.
As of 2024, the Ellora Caves complex, including the Kailasa Temple, operates with specific visiting hours. The site is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except on Tuesdays when it remains closed. Entrance fees are ₹40 for Indian citizens and ₹600 for foreign nationals. Special darshan and pooja tickets are available for devotees seeking a more immersive experience.
The temple’s construction is a testament to ancient engineering prowess. Artisans employed a top-down excavation method, removing an estimated 200,000 tons of volcanic basalt rock to create the structure. This technique, combined with intricate carvings depicting deities, animals, and mythological scenes, underscores the temple’s architectural brilliance.
The Kailasa Temple is part of the Ellora Caves complex, which comprises 34 rock-cut temples and monasteries representing Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. This confluence of religious art and architecture highlights India’s rich cultural and religious diversity.
