Chaitya Hall

Chaitya Hall is a large, rock-cut Buddhist prayer hall with a key feature called a stupa, a dome-shaped structure that holds relics. These halls are carved directly into living rock, creating an ancient, enclosed space used for worship and meditation. Often adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, they serve as places for community gatherings and spiritual practice. Chaitya Halls were built in India around the 2nd century BCE to support religious ceremonies and symbolize the Buddhist path to enlightenment. They highlight early craftsmanship in stone architecture and reflect the importance of Buddhism in ancient Indian culture.