Kailasa Temple Ellora: Know about the history and architecture of this magnificent temple of Lord Shiva located in Aurangabad

Kailasa Temple Ellora: In the Indian state of Maharashtra, the Sri Kailasa Temple is situated at Ellora, in the Aurangabad district. It is a component of the well-known Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple, which is situated in cave number 16, was constructed using Sahyadri Hills basalt rocks. The distance from Aurangabad to the northwest is around 30 kilometers. One of the most striking temples in the world, the Kailasa Temple is renowned for its distinctive rock-cut construction. It was constructed to resemble Mount Kailash in the Himalayas and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The nearby caverns have connections to Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism.

What is Sri Kailasa Temple’s history?

King Krishna I of the Rashtrakuta dynasty constructed Sri Kailasa Temple in the eighth century, marking the beginning of its history. It may be found in the Ellora Caves group as cave number 16. Between 756 and 773 AD, it is thought to have been constructed. One rock was used to create the temple, demonstrating the high level of engineering at the period. Historians estimate that in order to construct its construction, around 40,000 tons of stones were removed. A tale states that the Rashtrakuta ruler became very sick. If the monarch recovered, his queen appealed to Lord Shiva, promising to construct a magnificent temple and fast until she saw its zenith. After the king recovered, the temple’s construction got underway.

Nonetheless, some academics estimate that the building would have taken more than 100 years to finish, while others think it took 18 years. Approximately 7,000 workers must have put in day and night shifts. Mount Kailash in the Himalayas, which is said to be Shiva’s home, served as the model for the temple’s architecture. Invaders like Aurangzeb allegedly attempted to demolish it but were unable to seriously harm its robust construction. The great artistic and religious atmosphere of the Rashtrakuta era is reflected in the temple.

It is even more remarkable since it was cut from top to bottom and was built without the aid of scaffolding. Today, it draws visitors from all over the globe and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.

How does Kailasa Temple’s architecture look?

One Rock Structure: The Kailasa Temple is the world’s biggest monolithic temple, carved from a single basalt rock. About 40,000 tons of stones were removed in order to construct it from top to bottom.

Dravidian Style: With its enormous gopurams and octagonal shikhara (vimana), the temple is a masterwork of Dravidian architecture. Its form is similar to that of the Himalayan Mount Kailash.

Sculptures & Sculptures: The Sri Kailasa Temple’s walls are decorated with elaborate sculptures depicting Shiva, the Ramayana, and the Mahabharata. Its magnificence is enhanced by the pillars, elephants, and Nandi Mandap.

Multi-Level Design: The Garbhagriha, Sabha Mandap, and Nandi Mandap are all part of this two-story temple. A causeway dug into the rock, which is now partly destroyed, connects all of them.

Elephant Foundation: The Sri Kailasa Temple’s foundation is carved with enormous elephants, giving the impression that it is resting on their shoulders. Craftsmanship has this special quality.

What role does the Shri Kailasa Temple play?

Religious Significance: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Shri Kailasa Temple is a unique religious site that is said to be a representation of Mount Kailash in the Himalayas. It enhances the devotees’ sense of spiritual serenity and salvation in addition to serving as a hub of faith and devotion.

Architectural Wonder: Constructed by cutting a single enormous rock, this temple is a unique display of Indian workmanship and ancient engineering. It is one of the most remarkable architectural marvels in the world because of its elaborate carvings, imposing structure, and method of construction, which was based on precise calculations.

World Heritage: Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple is a significant research hub and a popular destination for visitors, historians, and architectural specialists. It is an unparalleled icon of Indian heritage due to its brilliance in history, culture, and the arts.

How do I go to the temple of Shri Kailasa?

By Railway: Aurangabad, 30 kilometers from Ellora, is the closest railway station. There are trains from here to Delhi, Mumbai, and other destinations. From the station, you may take a bus or cab to the temple.

By Road: From Aurangabad to Ellora, it’s simple to get private cabs and state transportation buses. The temple is 30 kilometers from Aurangabad on NH52. Traveling in a private car is also easy.

By Air: Aurangabad (Chikalthana), the closest airport, is about 35 kilometers from the temple. It has connections to Delhi and Mumbai. From the airport, you may take a bus or cab to Ellora.

How much does it cost to enter Shri Kailasa Temple?

Indian visitors must pay Rs 40 per person to enter Kailasa Temple, which covers the whole Ellora Caves complex. In order to support the upkeep of the UNESCO property, foreign visitors must pay a charge of Rs 600 to access the temple and caverns. Children under the age of 15 are admitted free of charge; however, they must be accompanied by an adult.

Common Questions: Kailasa Mandir, Ellora

Q. What is the location of Shri Kailasa Temple?

A. The Shri Kailasa Temple is situated in Ellora, Maharashtra’s Aurangabad district. It is situated in cave number 16 and is a component of the Ellora Caves.

Q. Who constructed the Temple of Shri Kailasa?

A. In the eighth century, King Krishna I of the Rashtrakuta dynasty constructed this temple.

Q. What is Shri Kailasa Temple’s primary architectural style?

A. With its enormous gopurams, elaborate sculptures, and octagonal shikharas, the temple is constructed in the Dravidian style.

Q. Why is Ekashtma Mandir the name given to Sri Kailasa Temple?

A. It is the world’s biggest monolithic temple, constructed by cutting a single massive rock.

Q. How much does it cost to enter Sri Kailasa Temple?

A. Tourists from India pay Rs 40 to enter, while visitors from other countries pay Rs 600.

Q. What level of UNESCO accreditation does Sri Kailasa Temple possess?

A. Its historical and cultural significance is reflected in UNESCO’s designation of it as a World Heritage Site.