Caves 1-12 are Buddhist, 13-29 are Hindu and 30-34 are Jain, excavated in that order.

Some believe that the Hindu temples were constructed before the Buddhist temples, but since there are no inscriptions to that effect, it is difficult to determine exactly when they were built. Perhaps, all religions thrived peacefully at that time because the dynasty in power was tolerant of different religions. The first caves were excavated during the rule of the Chalukyan dynasty. The rock cut Kailasanatha Temple, in the centre of the group, is a fine example of the south Indian architectural style promoted by the Rashtrakutas.

The circular carving, not seen in Buddhist architecture till date, can be seen in the front hall, in the Nandi shrine and all over the large Kailasanatha Temple. Jain temples that were built later, also adopted this design. There are three unfinished, half-cut temples in the vicinity.