Ellora Caves ticket price – What is the latest cost for visitors today?

Introduction: Ellora Caves ticket price

Did you know that Ellora Caves, one of the world’s most magnificent rock-cut monuments, charges different ticket prices based on your nationality? This UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts thousands of visitors daily, yet many tourists overpay or miss out on discounts simply because they don’t know the current Ellora Caves ticket price structure.

Whether you’re planning a solo trip, family vacation, or educational tour, understanding the latest Ellora Caves entry fee helps you budget effectively. Located in Maharashtra, India, these 34 cave temples showcase incredible artistry from three religions—Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.

Travel The World Today guides you through every stage of planning your visit. This comprehensive guide covers everything from Ellora Caves ticket price online booking to timings, hidden costs, and money-saving tips. You’ll discover the exact amounts you need to pay today, how to book tickets hassle-free, and what additional expenses to expect.

Let’s explore the complete pricing structure and booking process so you can experience this architectural wonder without any confusion.

Understanding Ellora Caves Entry Fees

The Ellora Caves ticket price varies significantly depending on your nationality and age group. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) manages ticketing and maintains different pricing tiers to make this heritage site accessible to everyone.

Current Ticket Prices for Indian Visitors

Indian nationals enjoy heavily subsidized entry fees at Ellora Caves. Here’s what you need to pay:

• Adults: ₹40 per person
• Children (up to 15 years): Free entry
• BIMSTEC and SAARC citizens: ₹40 per person

These affordable rates make Ellora Caves one of the most budget-friendly UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Your ticket grants you access to all 34 caves across the complex, allowing you to explore at your own pace throughout the day.

Ticket Costs for Foreign Tourists

International visitors pay higher fees, which help fund conservation efforts:

• Foreign Nationals: ₹600 per person
• Foreign Children (up to 15 years): Free entry

The Ellora Caves entry fee for foreigners includes a complimentary booklet about the caves’ history and architecture. This pricing structure aligns with most protected monuments across India, where international tourism helps preserve these ancient treasures.

Special Discounts and Free Entry Days

You can visit Ellora Caves completely free on specific occasions:

• World Heritage Day (April 18)
• Independence Day (August 15)
• Gandhi Jayanti (October 2)

Students with valid ID cards receive discounted rates at most ASI monuments. Groups of 15 or more members can inquire about bulk booking discounts through the Ellora Caves official website.

Ticket Price Comparison Table

Visitor Category	Entry Fee	Validity
Indian Adults	₹40	Full day access
Foreign Tourists	₹600	Full day access
Children (up to 15 years)	Free	Full day access
BIMSTEC/SAARC Citizens	₹40	Full day access
Students (with ID)	₹40	Full day access

How to Book Ellora Caves Tickets Online

Ellora Caves online ticket booking saves you time and helps you avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist season. The ASI launched an official booking platform to streamline the entry process.

Official Website Booking Process

Visit the Archaeological Survey of India’s official website at asi.nic.in or use the dedicated Ellora Caves official website booking portal. The online system operates 24/7, allowing you to book tickets days or weeks in advance.

Online booking offers several advantages:

• Skip the ticket counter queues
• Secure your entry during busy periods
• Receive instant confirmation via email
• Access QR code tickets on your smartphone

Step-by-Step Online Booking Guide

Follow these simple steps for purchasing Ellora Caves tickets online:

Step 1: Navigate to the ASI e-ticketing portal

• Open your web browser and search for “ASI online ticket booking.”
• Select the Ellora Caves from the monument list

2: Choose your visit date

• Pick your preferred date from the calendar
• Check availability (caves have daily visitor limits)

3: Enter visitor details

• Provide names and ages for all visitors
• Select nationality (Indian or Foreign)
• Add email address and phone number

4: Review ticket summary

• Verify visitor count and dates
• Check the total amount payable
• Apply any discount codes if available

5: Complete payment

• Use a credit card, debit card, or UPI
• Confirm transaction through a secure payment gateway

6: Download your ticket

• Save the PDF ticket with QR code
• Take a screenshot as backup
• Carry printed copy or digital version

Payment Options Available

The Ellora Caves ticket price can be paid through multiple secure methods:

• Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, RuPay)
• Debit Cards (all major banks)
• Net Banking
• UPI payments (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm)
• Digital Wallets

Your booking confirmation arrives instantly via email. Keep this confirmation accessible on your phone for smooth entry at the gates.

Ellora Caves Timings and Visiting Hours

Understanding the Ellora Caves timings and entry fee schedule helps you plan your day effectively. The monument follows strict opening hours to protect the ancient structures and manage visitor flow.

Weekly Schedule

Ellora Caves welcomes visitors six days a week:

• Opening Time: 6:00 AM (sunrise)
• Closing Time: 6:00 PM (sunset)
• Last Entry: 5:30 PM
• Closed: Every Tuesday (maintenance day)

These timings remain consistent throughout the year, though the actual sunrise and sunset times vary by season. Always arrive before 5:30 PM to ensure entry, as guards stop admitting visitors after this time.

Best Time to Visit

Plan your visit during these optimal periods:

Early Morning (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM):

• Fewer crowds for photography
• Pleasant weather before noon, heat
• Better light for cave interiors

Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM):

• Cooler temperatures
• Softer lighting conditions
• Less crowded than midday

Avoid visiting between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM during the summer months (March to June). Temperatures can reach 40°C, making exploration uncomfortable.

Closed Days

Besides the weekly Tuesday closure, Ellora Caves may shut down during:

• National security concerns
• Heavy monsoon conditions (July-August)
• Conservation work announcements

Check the Ellora Caves official website before traveling to confirm the caves remain open on your planned date. The website posts real-time updates about closures or restricted access.

Additional Costs You Should Know

Your Ellora Caves ticket price covers basic entry, but several additional charges apply for enhanced experiences. Budget for these extras to avoid surprises at the entrance.

Camera and Video Charges

Photography fees at Ellora Caves:

• Still Camera (regular): Free
• Professional DSLR Camera: ₹25
• Video Camera (personal use): ₹25
• Commercial Filming: Special permission required

Mobile phone cameras are always free to use. You can capture unlimited photos and videos for personal memories without paying extra. Commercial photography or filming requires written permission from ASI authorities weeks in advance.

Guide Service Fees

Hiring an official guide enriches your understanding of the caves’ history:

• Government-approved guide: ₹500-800 (for groups of up to 5 people)
• Duration: 2-3 hours complete tour
• Languages available: English, Hindi, Marathi, and major regional languages

Unofficial guides may charge less but lack proper training. Always verify guide credentials through the ASI-approved guide counter near the entrance. These trained professionals provide accurate historical information and take you through all significant caves.

Audio Guide Rental Prices

Self-guided audio tours offer flexibility:

• Audio guide device: ₹100-150 per person
• Available languages: English, Hindi, Marathi
• Deposit required: ₹500 (refundable)
• Duration: Full-day usage

Audio guides include detailed commentary for all major caves. You control the pace and can replay sections you found interesting. Return the device before 6:00 PM to receive your deposit refund.

Comparing Ellora Caves with Ajanta Caves

Many travelers combine visits to both Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves during their Maharashtra trip. Understanding the differences helps you plan better.

Distance Between Both Sites

The Ellora Caves distance from Ajanta Caves is approximately 100 kilometers:

• Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours by road
• Route: Via NH-211 through Aurangabad
• Best Transport: Hired taxi or private car

Most tourists base themselves in Aurangabad city, which sits between both sites. Ellora lies 30 kilometers from Aurangabad, while Ajanta is about 100 kilometers away. You need two separate days to explore both complexes thoroughly.

Ticket Price Comparison

Both sites charge identical entry fees:

• Indian visitors: ₹40 per person
• Foreign tourists: ₹600 per person
• Children: Free entry (up to 15 years)

Ajanta Ellora Caves online ticket booking follows the same ASI portal system. You can book tickets for both monuments simultaneously through the official website. No combined ticket discount exists, but the affordable Ellora Caves ticket price makes visiting both sites budget-friendly.

Combined Visit Planning

Smart travelers follow this itinerary:

Day 1: Explore Ellora Caves

• Start at 6:00 AM
• Spend 4-5 hours covering major caves
• Return to Aurangabad by afternoon

Day 2: Visit Ajanta Caves

• Depart from Aurangabad early (5:00 AM)
• Reach Ajanta by 8:00 AM
• Explore caves until 3:00 PM
• Drive back to Aurangabad

This schedule allows thorough exploration without rushing. Both sites close on Mondays (Ajanta) and Tuesdays (Ellora), so plan your visit dates carefully.

Tips to Save Money on Your Visit

Maximize your experience while minimizing costs with these practical strategies:

1. Book Tickets Online in Advance: Skip counter queues and occasionally find special online booking promotions on the Ellora Caves official website.

2. Visit During Free Entry Days: Plan your trip around World Heritage Day, Independence Day, or Gandhi Jayanti for completely free admission.

3. Carry Your Own Food and Water: Food stalls near the caves charge premium prices. Pack lunch, snacks, and water bottles to save ₹300-500 per person.

4. Join Group Tours Share guide costs by joining organized tours. Many Aurangabad hotels arrange shared taxis and guides for ₹300-400 per person.

5. Use Student Discounts: Students with valid ID cards pay reduced rates. Always carry your student identification.

6. Skip Commercial Photography: Personal mobile cameras work perfectly fine. Avoid professional camera permits unless you’re a serious photographer.

7. Rent Audio Guides Instead of Hiring Guides Audio guides cost ₹100-150 versus ₹500-800 for personal guides. Choose audio guides for solo or budget travel.

8. Visit During Off-Season Travel between July and September (monsoon) for lower accommodation costs in Aurangabad. Hotels offer 30-50% discounts during this period.

Complete Visitor Information

Planning your visit requires understanding logistics beyond just the Ellora Caves ticket price.

Location and How to Reach

Ellora Caves location details:

• Address: Ellora, Aurangabad District, Maharashtra 431102
• Nearest City: Aurangabad (30 km)
• Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (32 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Aurangabad Railway Station (30 km)

Transportation Options:

Aurangabad City:

• Local Bus: ₹30-50 (MSRTC buses every 30 minutes)
• Auto-rickshaw: ₹600-800 (one-way)
• Hired Taxi: ₹1,200-1,500 (round trip with waiting)
• Rental Scooter: ₹300-400 (per day)

Aurangabad Airport:

• Pre-paid Taxi: ₹800-1,000
• App Cab (Ola/Uber): ₹700-900

From Other Major Cities:

• Mumbai: 340 km (7-8 hours by road)
• Pune: 240 km (5-6 hours by road)
• Nashik: 220 km (4-5 hours by road)

Facilities Available

The Archaeological Survey of India provides modern amenities:

Basic Facilities:

• Clean restrooms near the entrance and cave 16
• Drinking water stations (free)
• Wheelchair accessibility (limited to certain caves)
• First aid medical room

Convenience Services:

• Cloak room for bags (₹10-20 per item)
• Souvenir shops selling books and handicrafts
• Food stalls and refreshment counters
• Parking area (₹30 for cars, ₹10 for two-wheelers)

Safety Features:

• Security personnel at all caves
• CCTV surveillance system
• Emergency contact numbers displayed
• Shaded rest areas throughout the complex

What to Carry

Pack these essentials for comfortable exploration:

Must-Have Items:

• Government-issued photo ID (mandatory for entry)
• Online ticket confirmation (printed or digital)
• Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk 2-3 km)
• Wide-brimmed hat or cap (sun protection)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Water bottles (stay hydrated)
• Small backpack or daypack

Recommended Items:

• Power bank for phone charging
• Portable phone tripod for photography
• Notebook and pen (for sketching or notes)
• Light cotton clothing (modest dress preferred)
• Basic medicines (antihistamines, pain relievers)

What Not to Bring:

• Large luggage or suitcases
• Alcohol or tobacco products
• Pets (except service animals)
• Professional lighting equipment (without permission)

Important Cave Highlights Worth Your Time

Your Ellora Caves tickets grant access to 34 caves, but these five deserve special attention:

Cave 16 (Kailasa Temple): The main attraction represents the pinnacle of rock-cut architecture. This monolithic structure took 150 years to complete. Spend at least 90 minutes exploring every level.

Cave 10 (Vishwakarma Cave): Also called “Carpenter’s Cave,” this Buddhist prayer hall features a magnificent ribbed roof. The 15-foot Buddha statue in preaching posture mesmerizes visitors.

Cave 32 (Indra Sabha): The finest Jain cave showcases intricate carvings of lotus flowers and elephants. Look for the detailed ceiling panels depicting Jain cosmology.

Caves 1-12 (Buddhist Group): These early caves demonstrate the evolution of Buddhist monastic architecture. Cave 5 functioned as a monastery dining hall for 24 monks.

Cave 29 (Dhumar Lena): Features impressive waterfalls during the monsoon season. The triple-headed Shiva sculpture here rivals any Indian temple artwork.

Photography Guidelines at Ellora Caves

Capture memories responsibly while protecting ancient heritage:

Allowed Photography:

• Personal mobile phone cameras (free)
• Standard digital cameras (free)
• Selfies and group photos
• Landscape and architecture shots

Restricted Photography:

• Flash photography inside cave chambers
• Tripods in crowded areas
• Commercial shoots without permission
• Drone photography (strictly prohibited)

Best Photography Spots:

• Kailasa Temple facade (early morning light)
• Cave 16 elephant sculptures
• Waterfall behind Cave 29 (monsoon only)
• Panoramic view from cave 32 entrance

Share your photos responsibly on social media and always tag the location. Your stunning images inspire others to visit and appreciate India’s cultural heritage.

Safety and Etiquette Guidelines

Respect cultural heritage while ensuring personal safety:

Cultural Respect:

• Remove shoes before entering certain sacred areas
• Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
• Speak softly inside cave chambers
• Don’t touch ancient carvings or paintings

Safety Precautions:

• Watch for uneven steps and low ceilings
• Stay on marked pathways
• Keep children supervised at all times
• Avoid climbing on structures

Environmental Responsibility:

• Carry back all waste (no littering)
• Don’t write or carve on walls
• Report any damage to the authorities
• Use the dustbins provided throughout the complex

Following these guidelines preserves the Ellora Caves for future generations while ensuring everyone’s enjoyable visit.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

Maximize your trip by visiting these attractions near Ellora Caves:

Daulatabad Fort (15 km): Medieval fortress with fascinating defense mechanisms. Entry fee: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners.

Grishneshwar Temple (3 km): One of 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Free entry, modest dress required.

Aurangabad Caves (32 km): Lesser-known Buddhist caves with beautiful sculptures. Entry fee: ₹15 for Indians.

Bibi Ka Maqbara (35 km): Often called the “Mini Taj Mahal” of Deccan. Entry fee: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners.

Khuldabad (25 km): Historic town housing tombs of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and Sufi saint. Free entry.

Combine these sites with Ellora Caves for a comprehensive Maharashtra heritage experience. Most travelers spend 3-4 days covering all major attractions around Aurangabad.

Weather Considerations for Your Visit

Plan according to seasonal conditions:

Winter (November-February):

• Temperature: 10-25°C
• Best time to visit
• Pleasant weather for exploration
• Carry a light jacket for early mornings

Summer (March-June):

• Temperature: 25-42°C
• Very hot and dry conditions
• Visit early morning or late afternoon
• Carry sun protection and extra water

Monsoon (July-September):

• Temperature: 22-32°C
• Occasional cave closures due to safety
• Beautiful greenery around the caves
• Waterfall at Cave 29 is active

Post-Monsoon (October):

• Temperature: 20-30°C
• Excellent visiting conditions
• Clear skies for photography
• Moderate tourist crowds

Check weather forecasts before booking your Ellora Caves tickets to ensure comfortable exploration conditions.

Accommodation Options Near Ellora Caves

Stay close to the monument or in Aurangabad city:

Budget Hotels (₹800-1,500 per night):

• Hotel Kailas
• MTDC Holiday Resort Ellora
• Hotel Ellora Heritage

Mid-Range Hotels (₹2,000-4,000 per night):

• The Meadows Resort & Spa
• Kailas Residency
• Hotel Ambassador Ajanta

Luxury Hotels in Aurangabad (₹5,000+ per night):

• Vivanta Aurangabad
• Lemon Tree Hotel
• WelcomHotel Rama International

Homestays and Guest Houses (₹600-1,200 per night):

• Various options in Khuldabad village
• Authentic local experience
• Home-cooked meals available

Book accommodations in advance during peak tourist season (October-March). Many hotels offer package deals, including Ajanta Ellora Caves online ticket booking and transportation.

Travel Insurance and Emergency Contacts

Prepare for unexpected situations:

Important Emergency Numbers:

• Tourist Police: 100
• ASI Ellora Office: +91-2437-244742
• Aurangabad District Hospital: +91-240-2485293
• Emergency Medical Services: 108

Recommended Insurance Coverage:

• Trip cancellation protection
• Medical emergency coverage
• Lost luggage protection
• Accident coverage

Keep physical copies of important documents separate from originals. Store digital copies in cloud storage accessible from your phone.

Conclusion

Understanding the current Ellora Caves ticket price empowers you to plan a memorable visit to one of India’s greatest archaeological treasures. At just ₹40 for Indian nationals and ₹600 for foreign tourists, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers incredible value for your travel budget.

Ellora Caves online ticket booking through the official website streamlines your entry process, letting you focus on experiencing 1,500 years of extraordinary rock-cut architecture. From the magnificent Kailasa Temple to intricate Jain caves, every corner reveals masterful artistry that continues to amaze visitors worldwide.

Travel The World Today encourages you to explore beyond just the ticket price. Plan for additional costs like guide services, transportation, and meals. Visit during off-peak hours for a more intimate experience with these ancient wonders. Combine your Ellora trip with the nearby Ajanta caves for a comprehensive heritage tour.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or curious traveler, Ellora Caves deserve a place on your bucket list. The affordable Ellora Caves entry fee makes this world-class monument accessible to everyone.

Ready to explore Ellora Caves? Visit the Ellora Caves official website today to book your tickets and start planning your unforgettable journey through India’s magnificent rock-cut heritage. Don’t wait—these ancient caves have stood for centuries, and they’re waiting for you to discover their stories.

Book your Ellora Caves tickets now and join millions who’ve experienced this architectural marvel. Share your visit photos, spread awareness about heritage conservation, and inspire others to appreciate India’s incredible cultural legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ellora Caves Ticket Price

Q1: Can I buy Ellora Caves tickets at the entrance?

Yes, you can purchase Ellora Caves tickets at the ticket counter near the main entrance. However, online booking through the Ellora Caves official website saves time and helps you avoid queues during peak season.

Q2: What is the current Ellora Caves ticket price for Indians?

The Ellora Caves entry fee for Indian nationals is ₹40 per adult. Children up to 15 years enter free. BIMSTEC and SAARC country citizens also pay ₹40 per person.

Q3: How much do foreign tourists pay for Ellora Caves tickets?

Foreign nationals pay ₹600 per adult for Ellora Caves ticket price. Foreign children up to 15 years get free entry. This fee includes a complimentary informational booklet.

Q4: Is Ellora Caves online ticket booking mandatory?

No, online booking is not mandatory, but it’s highly recommended. Ellora Caves online ticket booking helps you skip counter lines and guarantees entry during busy periods when daily visitor limits apply.

Q5: What are the Ellora Caves timings?

Ellora Caves timings and entry fee schedule: Open 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry 5:30 PM), closed every Tuesday. Arrive early for better weather and fewer crowds.

Q6: Can I visit both Ajanta and Ellora Caves on the same day?

While possible, it’s not recommended. The Ellora Caves distance from Ajanta is 100 kilometers (3 hours drive). Each site deserves 4-5 hours for proper exploration. Plan separate days for thorough visits.

Q7: Are there any days with free entry to Ellora Caves?

Yes, Ellora Caves offers free entry on World Heritage Day (April 18), Independence Day (August 15), and Gandhi Jayanti (October 2).

Q8: What is the refund policy for online tickets?

Ellora Caves ticket price refunds aren’t available once booked. However, you can reschedule your visit date up to 24 hours before your selected date through the ASI portal.

Q9: Do senior citizens get discounts on Ellora Caves tickets?

Indian senior citizens don’t receive automatic discounts, but the already low ₹40 Ellora Caves entry fee makes the site affordable for all age groups.

Q10: How long does it take to explore all the Ellora Caves?

Plan 4-6 hours to explore major caves thoroughly. Serious archaeology enthusiasts might spend an entire day. Your Ellora Caves tickets remain valid for full-day access.