Caves & Rock-Cut — Set 1
Famous Places · गुफाएं और शिलाकृत · Questions 1–10 of 60
The Ajanta Caves, famous for their ancient Buddhist paintings, are located in which state of India?
Correct Answer: A. Maharashtra
The Ajanta Caves are situated in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. They consist of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments dating from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE. These caves are world-renowned for their frescoes and expressive paintings.
Which mountain range houses the Ellora Caves, known for the monolithic Kailasa temple?
Correct Answer: C. Sahyadri Range
The Ellora Caves are located in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra. They feature a unique mix of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut temples. The site is globally recognized for its complex architectural engineering.
The Elephanta Caves, dedicated mainly to Lord Shiva, are located on an island in which city?
Correct Answer: D. Mumbai
The Elephanta Caves are located on Gharapuri Island in Mumbai Harbour. The main cave is famous for the 'Trimurti' sculpture representing three aspects of Shiva. They were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
The Barabar Caves, considered the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India, were built during which period?
Correct Answer: A. Mauryan Empire
The Barabar Caves are located in Bihar and date back to the reign of Emperor Ashoka. They were primarily meant for the Ajivika sect, an ascetic group of that time. These caves feature highly polished interior surfaces and precise stone-cutting.
The Badami Cave Temples, famous for their Chalukyan architecture, are located in which state?
Correct Answer: C. Karnataka
Badami was the capital of the Early Chalukyas and is located in northern Karnataka. The complex has four caves representing Hindu and Jain traditions. These temples are carved out of soft sandstone cliffs.
Which caves in Madhya Pradesh are famous for prehistoric rock paintings belonging to the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods?
Correct Answer: D. Bhimbetka Caves
Bhimbetka rock shelters demonstrate the earliest traces of human life on the Indian subcontinent. The paintings depict daily lives, animals, and hunting scenes of prehistoric humans. It was discovered by archaeologist V.S. Wakankar in 1957.
The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, known for ancient Brahmi inscriptions, are located in which city?
Correct Answer: A. Bhubaneswar
These caves are located in Odisha and were carved out for Jain monks during the 1st century BCE. The Hathigumpha inscription found here provides vital information about King Kharavela. They are significant sites for understanding early Jain history.
The Bagh Caves, which are closely related to the Ajanta style of paintings, are situated in which state?
Correct Answer: A. Madhya Pradesh
The Bagh Caves are a group of nine rock-cut monuments located on the banks of the Baghani River. They represent the peak of Buddhist art and architecture during the Gupta period. Unfortunately, many of the original paintings have deteriorated over time.
In which state are the Junagadh Buddhist Caves, featuring the 'Uparkot' and 'Khapra Kodia', located?
Correct Answer: C. Gujarat
The Junagadh caves are carved into the foothills of the Girnar mountains. They were used as monasteries and monk cells during the 2nd and 3rd centuries. These sites highlight the early spread of Buddhism in Western India.
The Karla Caves, housing one of the largest Buddhist Chaityas (prayer halls) in India, are located near which city?
Correct Answer: D. Lonavala
The Karla Caves are situated in the Sahyadri hills near Lonavala in Maharashtra. The grand Chaitya hall features 15-meter high pillars and a majestic arched roof. It was built around the 2nd century BCE by Buddhist patrons.