5 Fascinating Caves to Force you to Travel to India
What is the best fascinating caves you have ever explored? You are yet to visit the best if you have not visited the caves mentioned in this article!
India is amongst the oldest civilizations in the world. Therefore, it has countless caves scattered throughout the nation. They are also some of the finest in the world that is why to visit these places you should book the last minute flight tickets to India from flyopedia.
Moreover, some of them are mysterious, some of them are sacred. However, all of them are equally fascinating. They are the pinnacle of old-world art, ancient culture, and lifestyle.
The below listed Indian caves are enough to compel you to travel to India:
1. Elephanta Island Caves, Mumbai
Seven rock-cut caves make up the Elephanta caves. UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are located on an island 7 km away from Mumbai, accessible by ferry. Also, the caves are of ancient Hindu and Buddhist origin.
- Age
The Elephanta caves date back to 6th century AD.
- Main Attractions
Mahesh Murti: The most fascinating sight is perhaps the idol of Lord Shiva in three different forms or personas, namely- the creator, the preserver, and the destroyer.
Rock Art: Countless interesting rock sculptures and pieces of art can be witnessed at this amazing cave.
- Unique Features
Mandala: The location of the main temple and the other temples is in harmony with the mandala It is an ancient diagram that represents our relationship with the infinite or the world beyond.
Setting: The picture-perfect setting of the caves on the island is awe-inspiring.
2. Badami Caves, Karnataka
Badami Caves are a group of 4 sandstone caves connected by a flight of stairs. Also, the first cave is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Second and third are devoted to Lord Vishnu. The last cave pays tribute to Jainism.
- Age:
Constructed during the 6th to 7th centuries.
- Main Attractions
Full of Masterpieces: The Badami caves are riddled with exquisite sculptures and paintings. The first cave, for instance, has 81 statues of Lord Shiva, including an 18-armed depiction of ‘Nataraj.’
Hindu Architecture: The caves exemplify Hindu architecture. Further, the rock-cut architecture of the sandstone hill demonstrates the ‘Chalukyan’ style of architecture. Hence, all of the four caves contain halls, pillars, verandahs, rock carvings, painting, and exotic idols of gods.
- Unique Features
Setting: The caves are situated at the mouth of a ravine. Also, the scenic view of the sea is serene.
Oldest Temples: The Badami Cave temples are amongst the oldest temples in India.
3. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Aurangabad
Ajanta and Ellora caves are an excellent reason for you to travel to India. Twenty-nine caves make up Ajanta, whereas Ellora caves are thirty-four in number.
The former are all devoted to Buddhism, while the latter pay tribute to Buddhism, Jainism as well as Hinduism.
- Age:
The Ajanta Caves were built in two parts, i.e., 2nd century BCE and 6th century. Ellora Caves, on the other hand, was built between the 6th-11th centuries.
- Main Attractions
Ajanta: The finest Buddhist masterpieces, including metaphorical paintings, and highly detailed sculptures. Additionally, these artworks are pivotal in Indian Art.
Ellora: The caves are brimming with intriguing idols, inscriptions, paintings, and everything in between.
- Unique Features
Largest Rock-Cut Temple: The Ellora caves are home to one world’s largest single monolithic rock excavation, known as the Kailasha temple.
Advanced Architecture: The highly intricate design and the finesse of the Ajanta and Ellora caves make them India’s most visited caves.
4. Dungeshwari Cave Temple, Bihar
Dungeshwari Cave Temple is the site where Lord Buddha meditated. Furthermore, three Tibetan-style caves make up Dungeshwari. Buddha achieved enlightenment 12 km away from the place.
- Age:
The time of construction of the cave is a mystery.
- Main Attractions
Golden Idol: There is a marvelous golden statue of Lord Buddha right in the center of the cave. In addition, there is a statue of the Hindu goddess, Dungeshwari.
The Ambiance: The caves garner a powerful atmosphere of divinity. Hence, Chinese and Buddhist devotees from all across the world frequent the cave.
- Unique Features
Getting to the Cave: The caves are situated away from the city. Therefore, reaching the place is a fun activity in itself. In addition, you can hire a private vehicle, or take a motorcycle tour to the area. The beautiful surrounding also makes for a beautiful hiking trail.
5. Tabo Caves, Himachal Pradesh
If you are a cave-lover, Tabo in Himachal Pradesh must be a part of your bucket-list. Tibetan prayer flags embellish the caves, as it is a meditation site for Buddhist monks.
- Age:
Over a thousand years old.
- Main Attractions
Tabo Monastery: One of the caves is connected to the Tabo Monastery complex. Moreover, a visit to the monastery is a must.
The Fascinating River View: The caves overlook the pristine Spiti River. Also, its setting offers some of the best views of the naturally-blessed Lahaul and Spiti Valley.
- Unique Features
Caves are still Used: During the harsh winter months, the caves are used by monks to pray and meditate, even today. Also, there are multiple well-constructed rooms inside the cave. It is perfect for the seekers of serenity.
Carved out of Hills: The Tabo caves are no ordinary caves, as they are cut out of hills. Some of the caves are hard to access as they are so far up in the ranges. However, if you are in for some rock-climbing, then it could be fun exploring them.
So, how many have you witnessed? These caves are not only ideal for cave-lovers, but also history-buffs, archaeological enthusiasts, offbeat travelers, and anyone with wanderlust.
Moreover, caving is gaining widespread popularity amongst travelers of all sorts. As a result, the diverse Indian subcontinent has proved to be a gold mine. It is particularly famous amongst international tourists.
Travel to India, and explore the remarkable caves reminiscent of the days long gone. The caves are gripping stories and legends surrounding them.
