Cave 1

Cave 1 at Ajanta contains the world's most celebrated ancient murals — a 5th-century Mahayana Buddhist vihara housing the iconic Bodhisattva Padmapani and Bodhisattva Vajrapani paintings, considered among the finest examples of ancient art anywhere on earth. A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Included in the Ajanta Caves entry fee. The paintings are breathtaking even in the cave's limited light; eyes adjust within minutes. Arrive early — this cave draws the largest crowds and often has viewing queues.