7 Oldest Caves You Can Visit In India

What mysteries are concealed within the uncharted depths of these caves? What enigmatic secrets do they safeguard, and what awaits beyond their obsidian entrances? From our earliest days and continuing into the present, caves have held an enduring fascination for many of us. India, in particular, boasts a wealth of remarkable caves, several of which house extraordinary works of art and sculpture. When discussing caves in India, it's impossible not to mention Ajanta and Ellora, nestled within lush forests. These caves served not only as shelter but also as conducive environments for monastic existence. In this blog, we present to you the six most renowned caves in India that offer a unique window into the country's rich artistic traditions.

# Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Aurangabad

The Ajanta and Ellora Caves, located in the city of Jalgaon in Maharashtra, unquestionably rank among India's most renowned caves and are a must-visit destination. These caves, designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exemplify the pinnacle of Indian rock-cut architecture. Throughout their history, these caves have provided refuge for individuals of diverse religious backgrounds, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Ajanta comprises a collection of 29 caves dating from the 2nd to the 6th century AD, while Ellora comprises 34 caves dating from the 6th to the 11th centuries AD. The Ajanta caves primarily showcase Buddhist heritage, whereas the Ellora caves exhibit a blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain influences. The paintings and sculptures housed within these caves stand as a testament to the architectural mastery achieved during their respective eras.

# Elephanta Caves, Mumbai

Situated a mere 10 kilometers from Mumbai, the Elephanta Caves rank as one of India's most renowned cave complexes. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these caves are located on Elephanta Island, a place imbued with its own captivating historical heritage. The primary cave is sprawled across Gun Hill and is adorned with remarkable sculptures portraying Lord Shiva in various poses and manifestations. Intricately detailed panels also depict the five stages in the life of an ascetic, culminating in the portrayal of Lord Shiva. The main cave is notably the most intricate among the three caves, which are alternatively known as the eastern and western wings of the primary cave, suggesting that these wings might have functioned as residences for ascetics.

# Badami Caves, Karnataka

The Chalukyas had a profound appreciation for architecture, and the Badami Caves stand as a testament to their architectural prowess. These caves hold immense religious significance and are located at the entrance of a gorge, originating from the 6th and 7th centuries AD. Among the four caves found here, three are dedicated to Brahminical deities, and the fourth is a Jain temple. These caves are adorned with exquisite sculptures featuring representations of Hindu gods, Mahavira, and other Jain Tirthankaras. In Cave 1, you'll encounter carvings of an 18-armed dancing Shiva, a two-handed Ganesh, and various other figures. Caves 2 and 3 are dedicated to Vaishnavism and Shaivism, respectively.

# Tabo, Himachal Pradesh

The Tabo Caves are located directly across from Tabo village in the Spiti Valley. These caves were skillfully carved into the hillsides and had a dual purpose – they served as places for Buddhist monks to meditate and find shelter during harsh winter conditions. Some of the more spacious caves were employed as meeting halls, while the smaller ones were used as living quarters. As you venture into these caves, you'll encounter numerous prayer flags, signaling that meditation practices continue to be observed within these sanctuaries. The ambiance inside these caves aligns with what one would anticipate in such places: serene and tranquil.

# Dungeshwari Cave Temples, Bihar

Located approximately 12 kilometers from Bodhgaya, the Dungeshwari Cave temples rank among the most renowned cave temples in India. They hold profound religious significance for Buddhists, as it was in these caves that Gautama Buddha devoted time to meditation and grasped the importance of the middle path on the journey to enlightenment. Two shrines stand as monuments to this momentous event. Within one of the cave temples, a golden statue portrays the emaciated form of Buddha, symbolizing his period of penance, while the other temple houses an immense Buddha statue. Additionally, a statue of the Hindu goddess Dungeshwari is found within the cave. Locally, these caves are also known as the Mahakal caves. Beyond attracting Buddhists, for whom these caves are among the holiest sites in India, they also draw the general public seeking solitude and tranquility.

# Undavalli Caves, Andhra Pradesh

The Undavalli Caves, positioned on the banks of the River Krishna and situated approximately 8 kilometers from Vijaywada in Andhra Pradesh, are an absolute must-visit due to their remarkable demonstration of rock-cut architecture. These caves, meticulously hewn from solid sandstone, were dedicated to the Vishnukundin kings. Within one of the caves, you will encounter an immense statue of Lord Vishnu reclining, a sight that is truly captivating. Other sanctuaries within the cave are devoted to the Trimurti: Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. On the first floor, you'll also find depictions of Lord Buddha and the broader aspects of Buddhism. As a visitor, the exquisite craftsmanship showcased in these caves will undoubtedly leave you deeply impressed.

# Khandagiri Caves, Odisha

Khandagiri Caves, situated in the vicinity of Bhubaneshwar, comprise a cluster of 15 caves, representing some of the earliest instances of Jain rock-cut architecture. These caves are thought to have been utilized during the reign of King Kharavela. The most significant among them is the Ananta Cave, which features depictions of women, athletes, and elephants.