The Kailasa Nath Temple, more famously known as Kailasa Temple, is one of the magnificent rock-cut temples located in Ellora, Maharashtra, India. This temple forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site under Ellora Caves. It was built back in the 8th century during the ruling of Rashtrakuta King Krishna I. It is an honor and a memorial to Lord Shiva and is supposed to be one of the largest monolithic structures anywhere in the world. The temple is 32 meters (about 107 feet) high and 78 meters (about 255 feet) long. It was carved out of a single rock, which makes it an extraordinary feat of ancient engineering and artistry.
The Kailasa Temple is famous for its excessive carvings and brilliant architecture. The complex is surrounded by a large courtyard with a circle of smaller shrines. In addition, the major shrine has an imposing spire and detailed reliefs showing scenes from Hindu mythology. The construction of the temple involved the removal of some 200,000 tons of rock, and according to some estimates, it would have taken approximately 18 years to complete. The Kailasa Temple reflects the workmanship and imagination of ancient Indian craftsmen and even now is among the most widely visited places by tourists.
Udupi Sri Krishna Temple 2024 :Booking & Timings
How to Book Darshan Tickets for 2024 Kailasa Nath Temple
How to Book Darshan Tickets for 2024 Kailasa Nath Temple
As of now, the Kailasa Nath Temple in Ellora does not have a specific online booking system for darshan tickets like some other temples in India. The entry tickets for the Ellora Caves, which include the Kailasa Temple, can be purchased through the official ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) website or at the entrance of the site.
Steps to Book Tickets Online:
- Visit the ASI website: Go to the official ASI website (https://asi.payumoney.com).
- Select the site: Choose “Ellora Caves” from the list of monuments.
- Choose your date: Pick the date you plan to visit the temple in 2024.
- Select the number of tickets: Choose the number of tickets you need. The prices may vary for Indian citizens and foreign tourists.
- Make the payment: Pay securely through the available options like credit card, debit card, or net banking.
- Download your ticket: Once payment is successful, download or print your e-ticket.
Kailasa Nath Temple Darshan Timings
| Day | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Thursday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Friday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| 7:00 PM |
The Kailasa Nath Temple follows the general timings of the Ellora Caves complex. Devotees can visit the temple at the following times:
| Darshan Type | Timings |
|---|---|
| General Darshan | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Special Pooja | 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM |
The temple is open every day except Tuesdays when the Ellora Caves complex remains closed. Morning hours are considered ideal for darshan as the temple is less crowded, offering a peaceful spiritual experience.
Ticket Prices for Kailasa Nath Temple Darshan
The entrance fee for the Ellora Caves also covers your visit to the Kailasa Nath Temple. However, for those wishing to perform special pooja or get closer to the deity, additional tickets may be required. The prices for 2024 are as follows:
- General Entrance: ₹40 for Indian citizens, ₹600 for foreign nationals
- Special Darshan Ticket: ₹100 per person
- Special Pooja Ticket: ₹500 per person
Children below the age of 15 can enter for free. It is advisable to carry a valid ID for age and nationality verification at the ticket counter.
Here’s a simple table showing the ticket prices for visiting Kailasa Nath Temple (part of Ellora Caves) in 2024:
| Category | Ticket Price (INR) | Ticket Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Citizens | 50 | – |
| Citizens of SAARC & BIMSTEC Countries (Nepal, Bhutan, etc.) | 50 | – |
| Foreign Tourists | 600 | Approx. 8 USD |
| Children (Below 15 years) | Free | Free |
Note: The prices could be updated as per the government updates; hence it is better to check the official website of ASI before you visit.
Dress Code for Temple Visit
As the Kailasa Nath Temple is considered a pious destination of Lord Shiva, one needs to don decent and respectful attire. Men and women alike are supposed to dress appropriately while visiting the temple.
For Men: Traditional dresses like dhoti-kurta or formal trousers and shirts will be suitable. Short pants and sleeveless tops or torn jeans are strictly not permitted.
For Women: Sarees, salwar kameez, or long-length skirts with tops are very much welcome. But short skirts and outfits that reveal certain portions of the body are strictly not permitted.
Dress Code shows respect to the sanctity of the temple and helps visitors fully immerse in the spiritual experience.
Dos and Don’ts at the Temple
While visiting the Kailasa Nath Temple, one needs to mind the following do’s and don’ts to keep the temple clean, safe, and sacred. Here are a few:
Do’s:
- Be silent and maintain respect for the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
- Remove footwear before entering the temple.
- Offer your devotional prayers with sincere and loyal spirits.
- Follow the instructions given by the priests and staff of the temple.
Don’ts:
- Do not litter; use the bins.
- Do not touch or climb any of the sculptures or carvings.
- Alcohol, tobacco products, and non-vegetarian food are not allowed within the temple premises.
- Loudspeakers and loud music are not allowed within the temple.
- Unclean or improper clothes are not allowed.
- Do not click photographs inside the inner sanctum; only with permission can you do so.
Important Dates and Festivals in 2024
Several important festivals and events are celebrated at the Kailasa Nath Temple every year. These events are the best times to visit the temple as they are filled with spiritual energy and special rituals. Here is a table of important dates for 2024:
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mahashivratri | March 8, 2024 | A grand celebration dedicated to Lord Shiva |
| Shravan Mondays | July – August 2024 | Special poojas and prayers every Monday during the Shravan month |
| Diwali | November 1, 2024 | Festival of lights, special offerings to Lord Shiva |
| Kartik Purnima | November 15, 2024 | Celebrates the full moon and Lord Shiva’s blessings |
These festivals attract large crowds, so it’s best to book your tickets early if you plan to visit during these times.
Facilities at Kailasa Nath Temple, Ellora
The Kailasa Nath Temple offers several facilities to make your visit more comfortableAnd easy to access. In the temple complex, you can find toilets, drinking water stall, and benches. And also, Ellora Caves does maintain pathways and signboards which make it easy to move across. For elderly and handicapped visitors, wheelchairs are available at the entrance. Nearby the temple is a small canteen where you can have simple vegetarian snacks and meals.
Accommodation Available Near Kailasa Nath Temple
There are a number of hotels and lodges around Ellora Caves and Aurangabad city. They offer all amenities to the tourists. From budget guest houses to luxurious hotels, the choice can be made according to personal taste. Some of the options are:
MTDC Guest House, Ellora: A government-run guest house close to the caves.
The Meadows Resort, Aurangabad: A luxury resort having all modern facilities.
Budget Hotels: There are many cheap options in the surrounding towns like Aurangabad.
Booking your room in advance will also be prudent, especially during tourism peaks and festivals.
IMPORTANT LINKS :-
OFFICIAL WEBSITE – CLICK HERE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can one photograph inside the temple?
Photography is permitted in the outside areas of the temple, but only with permission is it allowed to take photos inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.
Q2: Is any guided tour available?
You may hire a local guide who will explain the history and importance of the Kailasa Nath Temple along with the other Ellora Caves.
Q3: How long does it take to visit?
Allocate at least 2-3 hours for the Kailasa Nath Temple and other caves in the Ellora complex.
Q4: Are there places to park?
Yes, there are parking facilities near the entrance of the Ellora Caves.
Q5: Can I take food along with me?
No, one is not permitted to bring food inside the temple complex; however, you may get snacks and drinks from the canteen near the caves.
Q6: May I do special pooja in the temple?
Yes, special pooja tickets are issued for those who want to perform special rituals in the temple.
Q7: The best time to visit the temple
The best time to visit is during the winter season from October to February when the climate is excellent.
Q8: Is there any charge for darshan?
Yes, a general entry fee applies to Indian and foreign nationals: ₹40 for Indians and ₹600 for foreigners. Special darshan and pooja tickets are also available.
Q9: Dress Code
You should dress modestly and traditionally while visiting the temple. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or other revealing outfits.
Q10: Does the temple open every day?
No, Ellora Caves and Kailasa Nath Temple are closed on Tuesdays.