Caves and Stupas
Buddhism and Jainism pioneered the art of rock-cut architecture in India. These caves, carved from solid rock, had two main parts — the Chaitya (hall of worship) and the Vihara (monastery), where monks lived and meditated. Around 1,200 Buddhist and Jain cave structures exist across India, with the most famous found in Ajanta, Ellora, Nasik, Karle, and Aurangabad.
The stupa, evolving from pre-Buddhist burial mounds, was a hemispherical dome built over sacred relics — often remains of the Buddha, revered monks, or holy scriptures. The relics were enclosed in a chamber at the stupa’s base, while gateways at the four cardinal points featured intricate carvings, showcasing the sculptor’s artistry.
Some of the finest examples of Buddhist sculpture adorn the stone railings and gateways surrounding ancient stupas. These sacred mounds were built to house the relics of the Buddha or revered monks, with detailed relief carvings depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life and teachings. The Bharhut Stupa, dating to the 2nd century B.C., is among the earliest surviving examples, though it now resides in the Kolkata Museum.
The more famous Sanchi Stupa was expanded during the same era. While the dome itself was simple, its ornate gateways, inspired by traditional wooden architecture, showcased remarkable craftsmanship. This influence of wood design also extended to the rock-cut cave temples that followed.
Caves were carved into hillsides and served as shrines or temples for monks. When wealthy patrons funded these excavations, artisans recreated entire monastic complexes within the rock — including stupas, chaitya (worship halls), and viharas (monasteries) — similar to those found in free-standing structures.
The most elaborate examples are found in the western Deccan region, particularly at Karle, where the caves feature intricate rock-cut architecture. These caves have rectangular entrances leading to spacious worship halls that end in an apse containing a miniature stupa, showcasing both devotion and exceptional craftsmanship.
