5.1 Caves Tradition

In western India, many Buddhist caves dating back to the second century BCE onwards have been excavated. Mainly three architectural types were executed – (1) Apsidal Vault – Roof Chaitya halls (found at Ajanta, Pithalkhora,

Bhaja); (2) Apsidal Vault – Roof pillarless hall (found at Thana – Nadsur); and (3) Flat- Roofed quadrangular hall with a circular chamber at

back (found at Kondivite). In all the caves a stupa at the back is common.

The second important development

chaitya

in the

caves was excavation of Viharas. The plan of

viharas consists of a veranda, a hall and cells

around the walls of the halls. Some of the

Vihara

Residence/

Rest place of Monks

important vihara caves are Ajanta Cave no. 12, Bedsa cave no. 11, Nashik cave no. 3, 10, 17.

Chaitya

Prayer hall

for monks