Q. Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are called Viharas. What is the difference between the two?

• Vihara is a place of worship, while Chaitya is the dwelling place of the monks
• Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks
• Chaitya is the stupa at the far end of the cave, while Vihara is the hall axial to it
• There is no material difference between the two

Answer: (b) Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks

Notes:

• In Buddhist rock-cut architecture, Chaityas are prayer halls or places of worship, often containing a stupa, while Viharas are monasteries or dwelling places for Buddhist monks.
• Chaityas:
  • Serve as places of worship and assembly, often featuring a stupa (a dome-shaped structure) at one end.
  • They are essentially sacred halls for congregational worship by both monks and the general public.
  • Examples include the chaitya halls at Ajanta, Pitalkhora, and Bhaja.
  • Apsidal vault roof chaitya halls are common.
• Viharas:
  • Function as monasteries or dwelling places for Buddhist monks.
  • They are where monks would live, study, and meditate.
  • Viharas are strategically located near trade routes to allow monks to receive food donations from visiting traders.