Multiple choice

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

  1. Vihara is a place of worship, whereas Chaitya is the dwelling place of the monks.

  2. Chaitya is a place of worship, whereas Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks.

  3. Chaitya is the stupa at the far end of the cave, whereas Vihara is the hall axial to it.

  4. There is no material difference between the two.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Chaityas refer to the halls enclosing the stupas. Chaityas were probably constructed to hold large numbers of devotees for prayer. Viharas, on the other hand, are constructions built in ancient India in order to provide resting places for the wandering Buddhist monks.

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