Cave No. 10, Ajanta

Cave No. 10 at Ajanta is also a chaityagriha similar to  Cave No. 9. It has a similar shape but larger in size. This is a large chaityagriha and inscription on its facade dated to the 2nd century B.C.

This was the the first cave discovered in Ajanta in April 1819. John Smith, a British Army Officer noticed the arch of this cave and this led to the discovery of other caves here.

It is apsidal on plan and consists of a large central hall, nave flanked by two aisles 

separated by a row of 39 octagonal pillars. The paintings on the pillar contain Buddha figure. 

At the apsidal end is a rock stupa. 

The cave consists of two periods of paintings, the earlier dated to 2nd century B.C and the later 4th – 6th century A.D.

The whole of this cave has been painted but only few painting were retained, which they were at one time completely adorned. There are paintings of Budha poses in the ceiling.