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Kailasanatha and other temples at Ellora and Ajanta Caves
Despite the dominance of Buddhist Viharas at Ajanta and Ellora Caves, the complex also houses various Hindu and Jain temples. The caves showcase a perfect fusion of different aspects of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. Among several Hindu shrines, Kailash Temple is a must-visit site in Ellora Caves. It is located in Cave 16 and is dedicated to Lord Shiva; the temple derives its name from the Mt. Kailash, a mountain in the Himalayas where Lord Shiva supposedly resides.
The Kailasanath Temple is the largest monolithic structure in the world and the shrine is carved out from a massive single rock. The temple is embellished with carvings of various figurines of gods and goddesses. One of the best sculptures present in the temple is that of Lord Vishnu incarnated into a man-lion and fighting a demon. In addition to this temple, there are many other Hindu shrines scattered within the complex.