Ajanta Caves Open Time — Days, Hours and Best Time to Visit

Planning a trip and wondering about the Ajanta caves open time? The caves are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday, and closed on Mondays, according to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). This guide covers the Ajanta caves open time in detail, the best hours and season to go, how long to plan and how to reach the caves from Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar).

Ajanta Caves Open Time

The official Ajanta caves open time is 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The caves are open on all days except Monday. These hours are listed by the ASI for the site, but timings can occasionally change on public holidays or for maintenance, so it is wise to confirm shortly before you travel.

Knowing the Ajanta caves open time helps you plan the full day, because the drive from Aurangabad is long and you will want to spend unhurried hours inside the caves.

Which Day Are Ajanta Caves Closed?

Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays. This is different from Ellora Caves, which are generally closed on Tuesdays. If you plan to see both, this is useful: you can visit Ellora on a Monday and Ajanta on a Tuesday or later, so neither site is missed. Our Ajanta vs Ellora caves guide explains how the two sites compare, and the Ellora caves timings page covers the Ellora side.

Best Time of Day to Visit

Within the Ajanta caves open time, the early morning is generally the most comfortable window. Arriving soon after 9:00 AM means cooler weather, smaller crowds and better light for the first caves, especially in summer. Late afternoon can also be pleasant, but you will need to watch the clock, because the caves close at 5:00 PM and you should plan to finish before then.

Because the caves are in a gorge above the Waghur River, the walk between caves involves steps and some uneven ground. Starting early gives you time to take breaks. If you reach later in the day, prioritise the most famous caves first, such as Caves 1, 2, 16 and 17, which are known for their paintings; our art of Ajanta Caves guide explains why.

Best Season to Visit

October to March is generally the best season to visit, since temperatures are more comfortable for walking. Summers can be very hot, with highs around 40°C, so early arrival matters if you travel between April and June. The monsoon brings heavy rain, but also lush green surroundings, so some travellers prefer it despite slippery paths. Whichever season you choose, the Ajanta caves open time stays the same, so only your comfort changes.

How Long to Spend at Ajanta

Most visitors spend about 3 to 4 hours inside, which is enough for the main caves. If you love painting and sculpture, you may want more. Add roughly 2 to 2.5 hours each way for the drive from Aurangabad. This means that to use the Ajanta caves open time well, you should leave Aurangabad early. Many visitors reach the area near Fardapur, also called Ajanta T-Point, which is the nearest bus station, and then continue to the caves.

Entry Fee

As listed by the ASI, tickets are roughly Rs 40 for Indian visitors and Rs 600 for other foreign visitors, with free entry for children under 15. Online booking is available. Fees are revised from time to time, so check the latest rates before you go.

Reaching Ajanta on Time

Ajanta is about 100 km from Aurangabad. The nearest airport is Aurangabad, and the nearest railway station is Jalgaon. For a full road guide, see our how to reach Ajanta Ellora caves page and Aurangabad to Ajanta and Ellora caves distance. A private taxi is the easiest way to arrive soon after the Ajanta caves open time, because the driver can leave early and you do not depend on bus schedules. See our Ajanta Ellora taxi services, Ajanta and Ellora Caves from Aurangabad, Ajanta and Ellora Caves tour and Ajanta Ellora caves tour package for options. For the full overview, read our Ajanta Cave Maharashtra guide.

Visitor Tips

• Reach close to the Ajanta caves open time of 9:00 AM to avoid heat and crowds.
• Do not plan a Monday visit, as the caves are closed.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as there are steps and uneven paths.
• Carry water, a cap and a light snack, especially in summer.
• Follow ASI rules on photography and flash inside the caves.
• Check timings once more before you leave, in case of special closures.

With the Ajanta caves open time in mind, a small amount of planning makes the long drive worthwhile and leaves you time to enjoy one of India’s finest ancient art sites.

Ajanta Caves Open Time — FAQs

1. What is the Ajanta caves open time?

Ajanta Caves are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday, according to the Archaeological Survey of India. They are closed on Mondays. Please confirm before you travel, as timings can change on special days.

2. Which day are the Ajanta Caves closed?

Ajanta Caves are closed on Mondays. Ellora Caves are closed on Tuesdays, so plan your two-site trip with these two different closed days in mind.

3. What is the best time of day to visit Ajanta Caves?

Arriving close to the opening time is usually best, since mornings are cooler, quieter and good for photography. Summer afternoons can be very hot, so early arrival helps.

4. What is the best season to visit Ajanta Caves?

October to March is generally the most comfortable season. Summers can reach about 40°C, and the monsoon brings heavy rain but also green surroundings and the Waghur River at its best.

5. How much time do I need at Ajanta Caves?

Most visitors spend about 3 to 4 hours exploring the main caves, and longer if they are interested in the paintings. Add 2 to 2.5 hours each way by road from Aurangabad.

6. What is the Ajanta Caves entry fee?

As listed by the ASI, tickets are roughly Rs 40 for Indian visitors and Rs 600 for other foreign visitors, with free entry for children under 15. Fees are revised periodically, so check the latest rates before you go.

7. Is there a lunch break at Ajanta Caves?

The ASI lists a continuous 9 AM to 5 PM schedule and does not mention a lunch break. Carry water and a snack, and confirm on the day if you are planning a late visit.

8. How can I reach Ajanta Caves from Aurangabad in time for opening?

Ajanta is about 100 km from Aurangabad, roughly 2 to 2.5 hours by road. A private taxi leaving early in the morning lets you arrive close to opening time. Call 9860080525 or WhatsApp to book.