Oldest Monument: Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves, located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, are considered to be the oldest monument among the given options. These caves are known for their exquisite rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments that date back to the 2nd century BCE and the 480 CE. Here is a detailed explanation:
Ajanta Caves:
- The Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and consist of 30 rock-cut cave monuments.
- These caves were built in two phases: the first phase includes caves 9, 10, 12, 13, and 15A, which were constructed during the Satavahana dynasty (around 2nd century BCE).
- The second phase includes the remaining caves, built during the Vakataka dynasty (around 5th century CE).
Qutub Minar:
- Qutub Minar, located in Delhi, is a historical monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- It was built in the early 13th century CE by Qutb-ud-din Aibak.
- While it is an ancient monument, it is not as old as the Ajanta Caves.
Khajuraho:
- Khajuraho, located in Madhya Pradesh, India, is famous for its group of Hindu and Jain temples.
- These temples were built between the 10th and 12th centuries CE.
- Although they are ancient, they are not as old as the Ajanta Caves.
Taj Mahal:
- The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is one of the most iconic monuments in the world.
- It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century CE.
- The Taj Mahal is relatively more recent compared to the Ajanta Caves.
In conclusion, among the given options, the Ajanta Caves are considered to be the oldest monument, dating back to the 2nd century BCE.