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Karla and Bhaja caves
Lonavala & KhandalaBuddhist Rock-Cut Caves
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Overview
These ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves are amongst the oldest caves in India, and date all the way back to 3rd century BC.
Suggested Duration - 2 to 2.5 hours
What To Expect?
Located approx. 7 kms apart from each other, the Karla and Bhaja caves display beautiful rock-cut architecture. Get smitten by the tall pillars, stupas, inscriptions and sculpted depictions!
Tips
- The entrance fee for both Karla and Bhaja caves is Rs. 5 each.
- Both the caves are open all days between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
- Wear comfortable footwear for the ultimate cave exploration experience.
Karla and Bhaja Caves Overview: A Monument of National Importance
Karla and Bhaja Caves, located near Lonavala in Maharashtra, are among the most fascinating tourist attractions due to their impressive architecture and rich historical significance. These caves, nestled in the Western Ghats, were once a vital part of the ancient trade route connecting the Deccan Plateau with the Arabian Sea. Representing Buddhist architecture and heritage, they stand as enduring monuments of India's spiritual and artistic past.
Karla and Bhaja Caves Information
| Famous For | Buddhist architecture, ancient trade route, cultural and historical heritage |
|---|---|
| Timings | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | June to February |
| Entry Fee | INR 25 for Indian nationals; INR 250 for foreign nationals |
| Time Required | 2 to 3 hours |
| Nearby Attractions | Lohagad Fort, Bhushi Lake, Kune Waterfalls, Rajmachi Fort, Tiger’s Point |
Interesting Facts to Know About Karla and Bhaja Caves
The Karla and Bhaja Caves are over 2000 years old and were built between the 2nd Century BC and the 5th Century AD by Buddhist monks. These caves served as sanctuaries for meditation and worship and reflect the intricate craftsmanship of the Satavahana period. The Karla Caves house grand prayer halls and monasteries, while Bhaja Caves are famed for their peaceful location and scenic beauty. One of the notable shrines here is dedicated to Ekveera Devi, a revered local goddess. Their elevated location also adds to their majestic appearance and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Top Things to Explore in the Karla and Bhaja Caves
- Ancient Rock-Cut Architecture:Admire carved pillars and sculptures that showcase early Buddhist art.
- Rock Climbing at Bhaja Caves:Experience a thrilling adventure in the rocky surroundings.
- Outdoor Activities:Participate in outdoor sports at nearby adventure camps.
- Kune Waterfalls:Enjoy a refreshing natural bath under the scenic waterfall near the caves.
Ways to Reach Karla and Bhaja Caves
- By Rail:The nearest railway station is Malavi Railway Station, just 3 km away. Local auto rickshaws are easily available from there.
- By Air:Pune International Airport is located 62 km from the caves. Cabs and taxis are readily available for a 1.5-hour drive to the site.
- By Road:The caves are well-connected by road and make for a great road trip destination. Highways from nearby cities are smooth and accessible for private or rental vehicles.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Karla and Bhaja caves
How to explore a place by yourself?
"Adventure is out there!" - You just need to know the 'whats' and the 'hows' of it. You need to realize the things that will make exploring a place completely worthwhile and satisfy all of your travel cravings. This can be achieved by - Taking Yourself Out To Eat At A Restaurant Learn The Public Transportation Routes Check Out A Local Planetarium Or Observatory Take A Drive To The Nearest Coastal Town Or National Park Join A Group Of Tourists On A Sightseeing Tour Take Pictures At A Botanical Garden Go Shopping At A Local Farmers Market
How to choose a destination to travel to?
Travelling is exhilarating - and a little bit intimidating too. You are venturing into the unknown and you really have very little ideas about what things will be like there when you arrive. It's always a massive learning curve when you leap into the new (which is why it's important to thoroughly research a travel destination before you go.) Some of the important things to keep in mind while deciding on a destination to travel are :Figure out how to travel to a destination, where to stay and what are the things to do amongst other things. Trip Ideas by MakeMyTrip brings you a plethora of knowledge about a destination ranging from images and videos to lists of all the activities Read posts by travel bloggers who have been there and if needed email them Watch documentaries and reach out to people who have been there
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