Hindu Caves, built from the 8th century to 10th century AD, are the most dramatic and impressive of the Ellora cave temples and are entirely different from the Buddhist and Jain caves. Out of 34 Ellora cave temples, the caves numbering 13 to 29 belongs to the Hindu group.
The cave 14 was a vihara (monastery hall), which was later converted into a temple. The images of goddess Ganga and Yamuna at the doorway and the imposing images of Sapta Matrikas (goddesses) with babies on their lap are notable. The side walls of the cave are lined with the images of Lord Ganesh and goddess Kali. Cave 15, also known as dasa avatara, is a two-storeyed cave temple with the images of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. A panel of this cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. An image of Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja is eye-catching. The massive Kailash Temple in Cave 16 is the world's largest monolithic structure. The temple is carved with scenes from Hindu mythology and each pulsing with drama, energy and passion. The representation of the demon Ravana shaking Mount Kailash is a masterpiece.
Cave 21, also known as the Rameswara, was excavated in the early sixth century. It is the oldest Hindu cave at Ellora and has beautiful sculptures. Surya seated in a chariot is found inside cave 25. Cave 29, also known as Dhumar Lena, dating back to sixth century, has some resemblance with that of Elephanta cave in Mumbai.
