Caves are one of the most intriguing geographical wonders on the planet. These treasure chests are perfect options for travellers who love history and mystery. India is also home to some mysterious caves which are globally renowned. But beyond the Ajanta and Ellora, there are myriad caves in India which are still undiscovered and hidden from the eyes of travellers.
For those who crave a more off-the-beaten kind of experience, here are five lesser-known caves that promise a journey through time.
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves , Bhubaneshwar, Odisha
Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves are two of the lesser-known cave gems in India. These caves in Bhubaneshwar are set on twin hills and are among India’s earliest Jain rock-cut shelters, dating back to the 2nd century BC. These were founded during the reign of King Kharavela of the Mahameghavahana dynasty. These are surprisingly underexplored by mainstream tourists. As you climb the hill, intricate carvings leap out from the rock. The Hathigumpha inscription, carved into a massive elephant-shaped rock is simply amazing. The caves were once meditation retreats for Jain monks, and the silence here feels almost sacred.
Badami Caves , Karnataka
Badami is gaining recognition among curious travellers who are interested in learning about Indian heritage. However, it still doesn’t get the kind of recognition it deserves compared to other famous caves in India. Yet, its four cave temples, carved into red sandstone cliffs, offer one of the most striking examples of early Chalukyan art. The first is dedicated to Shiva, featuring a stunning 18-armed Nataraja, the second and third celebrate Vishnu, and the fourth cave is about Jain Tirthankaras.
Barabar Caves , Bihar
Barabar Caves in Bihar are probably older than Ajanta’s paintings or Ellora’s Kailasa temple. These caves were carved into the granite hills of Bihar around the 3rd century and were commissioned during the reign of Emperor Ashoka and his son Dasharatha. These are believed to be the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India. When you speak inside, your voice reverberates in haunting echoes!.
Jogimara and Sitabenga Caves, Chhattisgarh
Jogimara and Sitabenga Caves are another set of lesser-known cave attractions in India. These are hidden deep in the heart of the Ramgarh hills of Chhattisgarh. Also the cave from ancient India dates back to around the 3rd century. The Sitabenga Cave has a natural rock platform that resembles a stage, with seating carved into the stone — suggesting it may have been used for performances or community gatherings. Visiting these caves feels like walking into a forgotten chapter of Indian art history.
Pandavleni Caves, Maharashtra
On a hill overlooking Nashik city lie the Pandavleni Caves, a cluster of 24 Buddhist rock-cut monuments dating from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE. Despite being just a short drive from one of Maharashtra’s busiest pilgrimage centers, they remain a tranquil escape steeped in spiritual history. These caves were carved by Buddhist monks who sought solitude for meditation and teaching. At sunrise, the view of Nashik bathed in golden light makes the climb worthwhile.
For those who crave a more off-the-beaten kind of experience, here are five lesser-known caves that promise a journey through time.
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves , Bhubaneshwar, Odisha
Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves are two of the lesser-known cave gems in India. These caves in Bhubaneshwar are set on twin hills and are among India’s earliest Jain rock-cut shelters, dating back to the 2nd century BC. These were founded during the reign of King Kharavela of the Mahameghavahana dynasty. These are surprisingly underexplored by mainstream tourists. As you climb the hill, intricate carvings leap out from the rock. The Hathigumpha inscription, carved into a massive elephant-shaped rock is simply amazing. The caves were once meditation retreats for Jain monks, and the silence here feels almost sacred.
Badami Caves , Karnataka
Badami is gaining recognition among curious travellers who are interested in learning about Indian heritage. However, it still doesn’t get the kind of recognition it deserves compared to other famous caves in India. Yet, its four cave temples, carved into red sandstone cliffs, offer one of the most striking examples of early Chalukyan art. The first is dedicated to Shiva, featuring a stunning 18-armed Nataraja, the second and third celebrate Vishnu, and the fourth cave is about Jain Tirthankaras.
Barabar Caves , Bihar
Barabar Caves in Bihar are probably older than Ajanta’s paintings or Ellora’s Kailasa temple. These caves were carved into the granite hills of Bihar around the 3rd century and were commissioned during the reign of Emperor Ashoka and his son Dasharatha. These are believed to be the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India. When you speak inside, your voice reverberates in haunting echoes!.
Jogimara and Sitabenga Caves, Chhattisgarh
Jogimara and Sitabenga Caves are another set of lesser-known cave attractions in India. These are hidden deep in the heart of the Ramgarh hills of Chhattisgarh. Also the cave from ancient India dates back to around the 3rd century. The Sitabenga Cave has a natural rock platform that resembles a stage, with seating carved into the stone — suggesting it may have been used for performances or community gatherings. Visiting these caves feels like walking into a forgotten chapter of Indian art history.
Pandavleni Caves, Maharashtra
On a hill overlooking Nashik city lie the Pandavleni Caves, a cluster of 24 Buddhist rock-cut monuments dating from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE. Despite being just a short drive from one of Maharashtra’s busiest pilgrimage centers, they remain a tranquil escape steeped in spiritual history. These caves were carved by Buddhist monks who sought solitude for meditation and teaching. At sunrise, the view of Nashik bathed in golden light makes the climb worthwhile.
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