{"id":610,"date":"2018-01-23T12:19:50","date_gmt":"2018-01-23T12:19:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/?p=610"},"modified":"2019-03-01T09:35:58","modified_gmt":"2019-03-01T09:35:58","slug":"historical-caves-in-india","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/historical-caves-in-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Caving experience awaits at the Historical Caves in India"},"content":{"rendered":"

History lies in every inch of India and even the caves are not left behind. There are myriad of Historical Caves in India. These are treasures of breathtaking sculptures, carvings, legends and even many stories from recent history. A perfect blend of spirituality, history, mystery and adventure lies in these caves. From the many dark, damp and daring caves, we have brought a fine selection. Get ready for an enthralling caving experience!<\/p>\n

Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra<\/h3>\n

\"Ajanta<\/p>\n

Ajanta and Ellora Caves rank on the top when talking about most famous caves in India. The 29 viharas in Ajanta belong to 2nd century BC to 480 AD and promote Buddhism. The masterpiece of India\u2019s hillside rock cut architecture, Ajanta Cave houses worship halls and ancient monasteries. Both Ajanta and Ellora are counted as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ellora caves showcases Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism and are over 100 in numbers but only 34 are open to public. These largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes dates back to 600-1000 AD. Religious harmony of India is very well illustrated in these caves.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Expressive paintings which showcase emotions via pose, gesture and form.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Rock cut sculptures which are cites as amongst the finest surviving examples of ancient Indian art.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Exquisite architecture.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Kailasa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at Cave 16 in Ellora Caves.<\/p>\n

Badami, Karnataka<\/h3>\n

\"Badami<\/p>\n

Showcasing the immense love of the Chalukayas towards architecture, Badami Cave Temples entice tourists with their splendid beauty. The carved out caves have existed since 6th and 7th century AD. Intricate pillars, magnificently etched sculptures, lavish brackets and engraved ceiling panels adorn the four temples. Out of which three belong to Hinduism and one is revered for Jainism. Cave 1 is holy abode of Lord Shiva whereas Cave 4 is the shrine of Jain Saints. Lord Vishnu is the presiding deity of Cave 2 and 3. The artistic quality and sculptural grandeur makes Badami Cave temples a must see caves in India.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Wonderful paintings and sculptures of the Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Hindu God Shiva posed as Nataraja
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Sculptures of Mahishasura Mardini, Ganesha with two hands, Ardha Nareeshwara etc.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Remarkable murals<\/p>\n

Elephanta Island Caves, Maharashtra<\/h3>\n

\"Elephanta<\/p>\n

Elephanta Caves can\u2019t be skipped when talking about the top 10 caves in India. Consisting of two Buddhist and five Hindu caves, the Elephanta is listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. An exciting ferry rides takes you to Gharapuri where these 5th century caves are nestled.\u00a0 The caves are an archeological treasure of precious statutes which are in their ruins. Excavated out of the single solid basalt rock, the caves are rich in sculptural content. Two lateral chambers, one sanctum sanctorum, numerous shrines and courtyards are the essential parts of the Elephanta Caves.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Sanctum sanctorum preserving the lingam of Lord Shiva
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0A huge hall with two columnades
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0An elegant Maheshmurti portraying Lord Shiva in three forms
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Various idols of Hindu God Shiva
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Carving of Yogishvara, Lord of Yoga grabs the attention instantaneously<\/p>\n

[Also read about heritage hotels in\u00a0 Maharashtra.<\/a>]<\/strong><\/p>\n

Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, Orissa<\/h3>\n

\"Udayagiri<\/p>\n

The finely ornate caves of Udayagiri meaning Sunrise Hill and Khandagiri meaning Broken Hills are partly naturally and partly artificial. Owning a historical, archaeological and religious importance, these caves were built during 2nd century BC. There are 15 caves in Khandagiri and 18 in Udayagiri and were carved out for dwelling of Jain monks. Udayagiri features several important monuments of history and art. However, the caves of Khandagiri are thronged by local Brahmins. Both the viharas are known as lena in the inscriptions are were formerly titled as Katak Caves or Cuttack Caves.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Ranigumpha \u2013 a double storied monastery
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Treasures of sculptures and reliefs
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Rani ka Naur is extensively carved and elaborately embellished
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Tiger Cave which has a fa\u00e7ade in the form or a tiger\u2019s mouth astonishes all<\/p>\n

Tabo, Himachal Pradesh<\/h3>\n

\"Tabo<\/p>\n

Feel the spiritual aura that is apparent everywhere in the Tabo Caves. The vibes are so strong that you can\u2019t resist yourself from going into a state of reverie or meditation. These rock cut caves in India are divided into of a couple of smaller caves for dwelling and lodging and a couple of bigger ones as assembly halls. Beautiful and vibrant prayer flags outside the premises indicate that monks are using the caves for meditation. Overlooking the luxuriant Sapiti River, the Tabo Caves can be easily reached after a 15 minute trek to the foothills of the Trans-Himalayas.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Tabo Caves are located just above the beautiful Tabo Monastery which is counted as the holiest.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Beautiful murals, although in their ruins never fails to entice visitors.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0A panoramic view of the Tabo village from the terrace of the monastery should not be missed.<\/p>\n

[Check out Himachal Pradesh heritage hotels here.<\/a>]<\/strong><\/p>\n

Undavalli and Mogalarajapuram Caves, Andhra Pradesh<\/h3>\n

\"Undavalli<\/p>\n

An unmatched tranquility prevails at the 7th century Undavalli Caves. The well-preserved site houses shrines of Hindu Gods like Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. Architectural grandeur of the Mogalarajapuram makes it one of the must see caves in India. The heritage caves of India honor Narasimha Swamy and Anantapadmanabha Swamy. Skilled craftsmanship is excellently displayed on the walls of the viharas. Buddhist monks are believed to have rested here. A confluence of Buddhism and Hinduism is observed here.\u00a0 Many mysteries are associated with a 9 kilometer underground passage which leads to Mangalgiri Mountain.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Huge idol of Lord Vishnu in reclining posture and has been carved out of a single block of granite.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Statues of Lord Vinayaka and Lord Natraja at the Mogalrajapuram grabs the interest.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Get enthralled by the breathtaking views the hills and emerald foliage from the top of the Undavalli Caves.<\/p>\n

Trichy Rock Fort Temple and Pallava Caves, Tamil Nadu<\/h3>\n

\"Trichy<\/p>\n

Trichy Rock Fort Temple is divided into the lower cave and the upper cave. The lower case displays many bas-relief images. Locate at a height, the upper cave temples are also known as Lalitankura. Built on a rock, the visually appealing fort lures many. Two pilasters and four pillars support the south facing cave temples. Built in 7th century, Pallava rock cut cave temples astonishes with shrines that are empty but have dwarapalakas carved on the fa\u00e7ade.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Pillars possessing unique designs. They are octagonal in the middle and cubical from the top and bottom.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Big bas-relief engraved on the western wall of upper cave temple grabs the attention.<\/p>\n

Borra Caves, Andhra Pradesh<\/h3>\n

\"Borra<\/p>\n

With a depth of 80 m, the Borra Caves are the deepest cave in India. The natural cavern are formed by amassing of limestone. Some stalactite and stalagmite formations are named as per there shapes. River Gosthani meanders through these caves. As per legends the stream or the river over the limestone caused the formations of the caves. Counted as the largest viharas in the nation, the caves showcase a variety of speleothems and were found in 1807. It is no wonder that these caves are positioned in the top 10 caves of India.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Natural formations of Lord Shiva with his beloved Parvati
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Naturally formed Shivalingam and idol of the cow known as \u2018Kamdehnu\u2019 are hard to miss
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Communication with the tribal people dwelling in the area is one of its kind experience.<\/p>\n

Dungeshwari Cave Temples, Bihar<\/h3>\n

\"Dungeshwari<\/p>\n

Dungeshwari Cave Temples holds the epithet of \u2018Mahakala Caves\u2019. Buddha is believed to have spent time here mediating before proceeding towards Bodhgaya. Time flies by at the cave temple in spiritualism and meditation. These cave temples are a must visit for persons seeking tranquility and optimum peace. A mystical energy flows in the air because of the association of this place with Lord Buddha. So the shrine holds utmost importance for anybody who is looking out to follow the trail of Lord Buddha\u2019s sojourn.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Golden idol of Lord Buddha exhibiting strict penance.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0A huge Buddha statue is one of the two caves.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Sculpture of Hindu Goddess Dungeshwari is also enshrined within the cave.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Two small shrines that commemorate an interesting event from the life of Lord Buddha.<\/p>\n

Pataleshwar Cave temple, Maharashtra<\/h3>\n

\"Pataleshwar<\/p>\n

Pataleshwar Cave temple is the holy abode of Lord Shiva and Lord Pataleshwar. A fine example of rock cut architecture, the entire place is carved out of the single block of stone. Gigantic pillars support the sacred place. True to its name \u2018Pataleshwar\u2019 meaning lord of underground civilization, the shrine is below the ground level. Possessing similar architecture of the Elephanta and Ellora Caves, the shrine was left incomplete but still cast a structural spell.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Dramatically arranged circular stones at the entrance.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Amazing ornate carvings on the black rock.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Huge idols of Sita, Nandi and Ram and other Hindu God and Goddesses.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0A brass bell hung at the main entrance
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0A grain of rice with around 5000 characters inscribed on it is placed in the museum within the complex.<\/p>\n

Karla Caves, Maharashtra<\/h3>\n

\"Karla<\/p>\n

Dating back from 3rd to 2nd century BCE, Karla Caves are also one of the finest examples of the ancient rock-cut caves. Eloquently describing the early Buddhist temple art in India, the caves are decorated in way that looks like the wooden architecture. Karla Caves have gained popularity because of the Grand Chaitya i.e., Cave 8, which is carefully preserved and is the largest. A humongous 15 \u2013 meter pillar is positioned in one of cave known as Veluraka in olden times. The designs and carvings on the caves are so elegant that is clearly reflect the mesmerizing beauty of the past.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Carved Elephants head in an aisle containing 37 pillars
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Statue of Buddha
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Ashokan Pillar in the front with a closed stone door and torana in between
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Vaulted interiors and arched entrances are the remarkable features of these caves.<\/p>\n

Bhimbetka Cave, Madhya Pradesh<\/h3>\n

\"Bhimbetka<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Displaying the earliest traces of human life, Bhimbetka is termed to be an archeological site of the Paleolithic Age. It is really surprising to know that around 30,000 years Old Stone Age rock paintings are found here. This has enabled Bhimbetka to achieve the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site. More than 500 natural caves are adorned with the day-to-day scenes of the people of pre-historic times. A war scene and a dancing scene are the center of attraction. Bhima, famous character of Mahabharata rested here for a while along with his brothers and thus the name of the place implies \u2018Siting place of Bhima\u2019.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Drawing skills of the Early Man.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Rock tortoise \u2013 an interesting spot to spend some time at.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0A temple just a little up from the Caves provides immense serenity.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The painting of a man being attacked by a Red Bison is visible only when the sun shines bright.<\/p>\n

Sittanavasal Cave Temple, Tamil Nadu<\/h3>\n

\"Sittanavasal<\/p>\n

Sittanavasal Cave Temple is famous for its scenic beauty. The word Sittanavasal means \u2018the abode of great saints\u2019. True to its name, these natural caves are the place where Jain monks apparently meditated. The 2nd century AD Jain temple complex is also known as Arivar Koli. An important characteristic of the murals that adorn the abode is that these are made up of mineral dyes and make Sittanavasal must see caves in India.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Frescos paintings which are quite similar to that of Ajanta Caves.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0A praiseworthy painting of a pond full of ducks, lotus flowers, fish and swans.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0It is interesting to note that only white, black, orange, yellow, blue and green pigments are used to paint the elegant frescos.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Samava-Sarana, a beautiful hall where Tiranthakaras deliver sermons after enlightenment.<\/p>\n

[Explore the heritage of Tamil Nadu with our exclusive packages.<\/a>]<\/strong><\/p>\n

Koteshwar Temple Cave, Uttarakhand<\/h3>\n

\"Koteshwar<\/p>\n

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is nestled on the holy banks of Alaknanda River. The cave of this holy place is ancient one and most popular Hindu pilgrimage. According to mythology, Mahadev mediated here while on his way to Kedarnath. It is said that the almighty hide himself from the demon Bhasmasur and prayed to Lord Vishnu for his help. Don\u2019t forget to take a holy dip in the river Alaknanda. The most famous cave temple is thronged by devotes in the month of August and September.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Naturally formed Shivalingams on which water drops fall continuously.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Mind-boggling visuals of the nature in the surroundings.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The sculpture of Nandi, holy bull of the Hindu God Shiva.<\/p>\n

Varaha Caves, Tamil Nadu<\/h3>\n

\"Varaha<\/p>\n

Articulately portraying the rock-cut architecture of India, Varaha Caves date back to 7th century. Graciously honoring Varaha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the caverns also have religious significance. Having exited since the 7th century, the revered destination is also listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. A sculpture of Varaha i.e. boar lifting Earth or Bhudevi stands out amongst the rest. The entrance is marked with a beautiful mandapa with two semi-columns and two pillars with one doorkeeper on each.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Sculptures of Lord Vishnu
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Naturalistic Pallava art at the panels of the complex
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The Gajalakshimi panel
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Carving son the northern panel
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Panel of Lord Shiva
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Different figurines of other God and Goddesses<\/p>\n

Mawsmai Caves, Meghalaya<\/h3>\n

\"Mawsmai<\/p>\n

Mawsmai Cave is highly celebrated and a well-known landmark of Cherrapunjee. A magical and dark mystery lies inside the cavern. Get enthralled by looking at the constant dripping of the water from the roof. Explore the caves by walking and sometimes kneeling down. Well-lit caverns features huge and small openings and chambers. Entry points are large whereas exists are small, this add a fun to the place. A spine tingling, awe-inspiring and mysterious aura lingers on at the place and lures everybody towards this one of the must see caves in India.<\/p>\n

What to see?<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Passage that looks almost impassable
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Unique variety of flora and fauna
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Formations of stalagmites and stalactites
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Beautiful joining of roof of the cave with the floor to form pillars<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

History lies in every inch of India and even the caves are not left behind. There are myriad of Historical Caves in India. These are treasures of breathtaking sculptures, carvings, legends and even many stories from recent history. A perfect blend of spirituality, history, mystery and adventure lies in these caves. From the many dark, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":626,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[3],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/610"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=610"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/610\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1112,"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/610\/revisions\/1112"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=610"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=610"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.heritagehotelsofindia.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=610"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}