The cave temples at Ellora, excavated between the sixth and tenth centuries AD, are a fascinating showcase of the evolution of Indian sculptural art. Dedicated to three religions-Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism-the carved edifices combine soaring scale with intricate detail. They stand as testimony both to the mastery of the sculptors, as well as to the enduring power of a uniquely Indian aesthetic vision shaped by a long tradition of religious diversity. This book provides a succinct overview of Ellora's historical background and discusses the development of the site in relation to religious contexts as well as architectural and artistic ones. The author examines the ways in which the ascendance of different religions in western India influenced the construction of cave temples and rock-cutting activity. A detailed description of the site, brought to life using numerous plans, maps and photographs, makes the book invaluable to all visitors to Ellora. Written by an acknowledged expert on the Ellora caves, this accessible and readable book will be welcomed by general readers as well as informed tourists interested in India's most famous cave temples. Book jacket.