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Bhaja Caves, Lonavala Overview
The caves of Karla and Bhaja situated near Lonavala in Maharashtra are one of the oldest rock-cut caves in the country which were built during the 160 BC. Both the caves belong to a different sect of Buddhism and are of immense importance to Buddhist culture. The Bhaja Caves comprise of 22 caves sculpted out of a massive rock and belongs to Hinayana phase of Buddhism which lasted from 2nd to 1st century BC. On the other hand, Karla Caves constitutes the largest chaitya temple that represents a perfect architecture and culture of the Hinayana period. Karla Caves were built during the reign of Satavahana dynasty. The caves are now declared as a monument of national importance by Archaeological Survey of India.
The Bhaja Caves lie very close to the main road that connects Lonavala to other major cities. The caves are situated amidst the lush greenery and peaceful ambience. You will be mesmerized by the picturesque waterfall that is situated next to the caves. The sound of water gushing from the waterfall and cool breeze will rejuvenate your mind and soul. If you want, you can even take a dip in the waterfall.
There are other interesting places to visit near Bhaja Caves including Visapur and Lohagad forts. In addition to the ancient Buddhist caves, there is also a small cave that houses 14 stupas, of which five are located inside and nine are outside the cave. If you are curious to learn more about Buddhism then these caves are a perfect place to visit.
More on Bhaja Caves
Architecture of Bhaja Caves
Both the caves of Bhaja and Karla share similar architectural style and are a perfect illustration of wooden architecture of ancient India. Chaityagriha is the most important part of the caves which has a beautiful horseshoe-shaped gateway and houses splendid images and sculptures of Lord Buddha. The caves are also a rich source of knowledge about the lifestyle of the people belonging to ancient times. A carving of a woman playing a table, a musical instrument, on the wall of this cave showcases the prominent use of tabla in India two thousand years ago.
Various sculptures in the Bhaja Caves are adorned with ornaments, garland and striking headdress which showcases the extensive use of jewelleries by both men and women. The last cave in the series has an elegant waterfall which swells up during the monsoons thereby enhancing the beauty of the place.
Stupas in Bhaja Caves
There are also 14 stupas located in the Bhaja Caves which houses the treasure and other possessions of the monks who resided there in the past. Of the 14 stupas, five are positioned inside the cave while nine are situated outside. The stupas located outside also has an inscription that elucidates information about three monks namely Dhammagiri, Ampinika and Sanghdina. The shrines are known for their intricate carvings and beautiful structure.
Important Caves in Bhaja Caves
Cave VI- This cave constitutes two-chamber on the sides and three on the back portion. The name of ploughman’s wife, Bodhi, is carved on the cell door which implies that this vihara was gifted by her.
Cave IX- The structure of this cave is similar to the Cave VIII situated at Pandavleni. The walls of the cave are embellished with broken figures of animals and rail pattern. There is also a verandah in this cave.
Cave XII- One of the oldest Chaityagriha in the country is located within this cave. The architecture of the cave is inspired from Mauryan architectural style with polished walls and horseshoe-shaped window fixed above the arched door. The portico comprises of several windows and balconies.
Cave XIII- This cave is 30 feet long and 14.5 feet deep which houses remains of wooden architecture that seems to have been destroyed due to fire.
Best Time to Visit Bhaja Caves
The most suitable time to visit Bhaja and Karla Caves is during the winter and spring months which last from October to March. The weather during the summer season is hot and unbearable with day temperature soaring up to 40 degree Celsius. The weather gets very humid in the monsoon season. Pune receives a lot of rain and it becomes quite difficult to explore the place even with appropriate rainfall protection gear.
Travelling Around Bhaja Caves
Transportation system is well developed in the city and you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach several tourist spots. If you want, you can also hire a private guide while exploring the caves.
Stay near Bhaja Caves
There aren’t many options to stay near Bhaja Caves, however, the best place to make arrangements for your accommodation is the MTDC. MTDC has a luxurious resort at Karla and in addition to this; you can also arrange your stay in various affordable hotels in Lonavala city.
Sightseeing around Bhaja Caves
In addition to the historic caves of Karla and Bhaja, you can also visit many other interesting places around these caves. Elephanta Caves, Kanheri Caves, Hindu Temple, Visapur Fort and Lohagad Fort are few of the places you can visit while your excursion to Bhaja Caves.
Shopping at Bhaja Caves
Pune presents to its travellers a wide variety of market places ranging from street shops to the fancy malls with international brands. It is indeed a paradise for those who love and love for shopping! Amanora Town Centre and Phoenix Market City are two major shopping destinations in Pune.
If you want to shop for some saris and jewelleries then you should head to the Laxmi Road which is one of the oldest shopping places in the city. The bakeries and restaurants of M.G. are must-visit places while in Pune. You can also visit the Fashion Street which is packed with inexpensive fashionable items and leather goods.
Local Experiences around Bhaja Caves
Being one of the growing cosmopolitan cities in India, Pune displays a mixture of different cultures. People of different castes, states, creed, religion and economic background reside in the city. The locals here are amiable, welcoming and are full of spirit. In addition to their usual work life, the majority of the people here are interested in music, spirituality and various forms of arts and crafts.
Nightlife at Bhaja Caves
Kalyani Nagar and Koregaon are the two most happening places in Pune, mostly frequented by the youngsters. These places are situated very close to Hyatt Regency and can be reached within 10 minutes of drive. Known for the nightlife, there are many bars, pubs, fast-food chains, and restaurants located at this place.
Also known as Greenwich Village of Pune, Koregaon Park has beautiful and green gardens, old bungalows and low rise buildings. The area is popular for its organic food cafes and juice bars along with inexpensive, ethnic restaurants.
Food at Bhaja Caves
The city is flooded with restaurants and food joints that serve mouth-watering local cuisines. The dominant flavour of Pune comprises of lots of garlic, chillies and coconut. The majority of traditional delicacies are made of bajra and jowar. Of all the specialities of Pune, do not miss out on pedas, chewda and bhakerwadi.
Restaurants near Bhaja Caves
Restaurants in Pune offer a wide spectrum of cuisines ranging from Indian to Chinese, Italian and Continental. Few of the popular restaurants in the city are Shravan Restaurant (F.C. Road, Shivaji Nagar), The Viceroy & Tuan, The Blue Diamond (Koregaon Road), The Bullocks Restaurant cum Pub, Chung Fa Chinese Restaurant, etc.
If you want to try some delicious fast food then you should explore a few of the restaurants in the city including Get Together Pizza Hot, Shree Chinese Fast Food, Sheen Chinese Fast Food, Hot Breads, etc.
Travel Itinerary for Bhaja Caves
An excursion to Bhaja Caves forms a major component of the travel packages to Lonavala, Pune and Khandala. You can hire a taxi and start early from any cities aforementioned to reach the place. For a major part of the day, you can explore the caves and enrich your understanding of Buddhism. On the next day, you can head to Lohagad Fort and Visapur Fort. These regions are known for trekking expeditions.
Tips for Visiting Bhaja Caves
1. Hire a private guide while visiting the caves.
2. A long and steep staircase needs to be climbed in order to reach the caves which in turn might be problematic for older people.
How to Reach Bhaja Caves?
The nearest railway station to Bhaja Caves is the Malavali Railway station. From here the caves are situated at a distance of 5 km and the same can be covered on foot. It takes around 2 hours to explore the entire 22 caves, including the 5 km small trek.
The nearest airports are located at Pune and Mumbai at a distance of about 64 km and 110 km respectively. You can hire a private taxis to reach the caves from the airport.
Pune is well connected to all the main cities of Maharashtra as well as the rest of the country by road. There are regular bus services available to Pune from cities including Mumbai, Nasik,
