What to Wear in Ajanta

Shoes you can kick off

You go barefoot or in socks into most of the caves, so you will take your shoes off a dozen times or more. Slip-on sneakers, sandals with a back strap or loafers save a lot of bending and lace-tying. Carry a pair of cotton socks: the rock floors are uneven, and in the hot months the stone outside gets very warm by midday.

Clothes for the climb

A flight of steps leads up from the shuttle stop, and the terrace between caves is open to the sun. Light, loose cotton works best: a kurta with straight trousers, a cotton shirt, or a long skirt you can walk in. The caves are an ancient monastery and a working heritage site, so shoulders and knees covered is the sensible choice, though no one enforces a dress code. A hat and sunglasses help on the terrace; you will take them off inside anyway.

Season by season

October to February is warm by day and cool at dawn. From November to January, early mornings can be chilly, so carry a light jacket or shawl for the drive and the first hour, then pack it away. From March to June the gorge is hot and the midday sun reflects off the rock, so wear pale colours and drink plenty of water. From June to September, the steps and the path to the viewpoint get slippery, so wear shoes with grip and bring a light rain jacket rather than an umbrella, which is awkward on the narrow paths.

Colours for photos

The rock is dark grey-brown basalt, and the murals are rich in ochre, red and green. Rust, ochre, cream and white stand out against the cliff without clashing with it. Black and dark grey vanish into the cave interiors.

Local textiles

Paithan, south of Aurangabad, gives its name to the Paithani silk saree, one of Maharashtra's most prized weaves. Look for it in Aurangabad rather than at the cave stalls. Save it, and the nine-yard nauvari, for a wedding or a festival, not for the steps at Ajanta.