The Ajanta Caves, located in Maharashtra, are renowned for their exquisite Buddhist wall murals. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, these murals depict various Jataka tales and Buddhist themes.
1. Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra
Another treasure in Maharashtra, the Ellora Caves also boasts of impressive collection of murals alongside its rock-cut architecture. The Ellora Caves murals feature Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions.
2. Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
In Tamil Nadu, the Sittanavasal Cave’s unique Jain murals are a must. Dating back to the 7th century, these murals are done in the fresco-secco style.
3. Sittanavasal Cave, Tamil Nadu
The Mattancherry Palace in Kerala, also known as the Dutch Palace, houses a stunning array of murals. Created in the 16th century, these paintings blend Hindu mythology and royal life.
4. Mattancherry Palace, Kerala
The Meenakshi Temple in Tamil Nadu is an architectural masterpiece with its tall ‘gopuram’ and vivid murals. These murals illustrate the divine stories.
5. Meenakshi Temple, Tamil Nadu
In Kerala, the Padmanabhapuram Palace is famous for its beautifully preserved murals. Dating back to the 16th century, these paintings are known for their mythological themes.
6. Padmanabhapuram Palace, Kerala
Kanchipuram, often referred to as the ‘City of Thousand Temples,’ is home to several ancient murals. Noteworthy among them are the murals in the Kailasanatha Temple.
7. Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
The Shekhawati region in Rajasthan boasts vibrant frescoes that adorn havelis and mansions. These 18th and 19th-century murals cover courtly life, battles, folklore, and mythology.
8. Shekhawati Murals in Rajasthan, India
The Jogimara and Sitabenga Caves in Chhattisgarh are known for their ancient cave paintings, which are among the earliest examples of human art in India.
9. Jogimara and Sitabenga Caves, Chhattisgarh
The Maratha Palace in Thanjavur is celebrated for its exquisite frescoes. These murals, dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, include detailed depictions of royal life, divine figures, and mythology.