There is a multitude of caves in India in many different parts and regions. Some of them have been formed naturally while some have been hand carved into caves several years ago. These magnificent and alluring caves are hidden amidst forests and the valleys of India are like the buried treasure of heritage caves. Most of the natural caves are Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist cave temples.
A Must-Visit List of the Top 8 Heritage Caves in India:
Apart from the religious importance of these caves, extraordinary sculptures and carvings also make these caves popular and known. Some of the heritage caves in India are listed as under:
1. Badami Caves, Karnataka
The cave temple located in Badami is a popular tourist spot in Hampi. The fourth cave dates back to the 6th century, the time of the reign of Chalukya’s Empire. One of the caves is dedicated to Lord Shiva temple, one is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the remaining smaller cave is a Jain temple cave.
The Badami cave is close to Agastyatirtha Tank and Bhutanatha temples which are located close. The view looks just like a postcard. If you are in Hampi, you are sure to find many small caves dedicated to many Hindu lords.
Location: Bagalkot District, Karnataka
Highlights: Rock-cut temples, intricate carvings, Dravidian architecture
Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to Reach:
- By Air: Hubli Airport (106 km)
- By Train: Badami Railway Station
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Hubli or Bagalkot
Experience Tips:
- Visit Timing: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
- Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners.
- Activities: Explore the four main caves, each dedicated to different deities.
- Travel Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes, carry water, and respect the historical site.
Read Also:
- Ultimate Guide Badami Cave Temples – Best Time, Entry, Fee, Reach
- Top 10 facts about Hampi, Karnataka
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2. Ajanta and Ellora, Maharashtra
The Ajanta and Ellora caves are no doubt one of the most spectacularly cut caves located in Northern Maharashtra. There are a total of 34 caves in Ellora dating back from the 6th to 11th century and there are mainly 29 caves present in Ajanta dating back to the 2nd century BC to the 6th century AD.
The Ajanta caves are all Buddhist caves while the Ajanta caves are a combination of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain. The caves have been named under UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is simply mind-blowing how so much work can be done to carve out of hands.
Location: Aurangabad District, Maharashtra
Highlights: Ancient Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain rock-cut temples and monasteries
Best Time to Visit: November to March
How to Reach:
- By Air: Aurangabad Airport
- By Train: Aurangabad Railway Station
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Aurangabad (Ajanta – 100 km, Ellora – 30 km)
Experience Tips:
- Visit Timing: Plan separate days for Ajanta and Ellora to fully explore.
- Entry Fee: Ajanta – INR 30 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners; Ellora – INR 40 for Indians, INR 600 for foreigners.
- Activities: Admire the intricate frescoes at Ajanta and the grand Kailasa temple at Ellora.
- Travel Tips: Hire a guide for detailed historical insights, wear comfortable shoes, and carry water.
More Information on Ajanta and Ellora:
- Why The Ajanta Caves Are Famous: A Comprehensive Guide
- Facts about Ajanta & Ellora caves, Maharashtra
3. Amarnath Cave, Jammu, and Kashmir
The Amarnath Cave is one of the most famous Hindu caves located in Jammu and Kashmir. The shrine present is of Lord Shiva and is about 500 years old.
The cave is situated 141km from Srinagar and the cave has an ice stalagmite that represents the shrine of Lord Shiva and it expands and contracts with the changes of the moon. According to mythology, this is the place where Lord Shiva explained to Parvati the secrets of life and eternity of the divine.
Location: Anantnag District, Jammu & Kashmir
Highlights: Holy Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, natural ice stalagmite
Best Time to Visit: July to August (during the Amarnath Yatra)
How to Reach:
- By Air: Srinagar Airport
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus to Pahalgam or Baltal, followed by a trek or helicopter ride
Experience Tips:
- Visit Timing: During the Amarnath Yatra season.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee, but registration is required for the yatra.
- Activities: Pilgrimage trek, spiritual experience.
- Travel Tips: Prepare for a high-altitude trek, carry warm clothing, and ensure physical fitness.
Read Also:
- Amarnath Yatra Travel Guide: Dates, Routes, Registration
- 11 Interesting Facts about Jammu & Kashmir
- Welcome Back to Kashmir, India Now Opened again for Tourists
4. Bagh Caves, Madhya Pradesh
The Bagh Caves are located on the banks of the Baghani River in Madhya Pradesh and are a set of nine rock-cut structures. The Bagh Caves are known for their beautiful carvings and paintings and are also referred to as Rang Mahal.
These rock-cut caves exemplify the excellent work of art of ancient India. It is believed that these caves were built by Buddhist Monk Dataka in the late 4th century to the 6th century.
Location: Dhar District, Madhya Pradesh
Highlights: Rock-cut caves with ancient Buddhist paintings and murals
Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to Reach:
- By Air: Indore Airport (150 km)
- By Train: Ratlam Railway Station
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Indore or Ratlam
Experience Tips:
- Visit Timing: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
- Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners.
- Activities: Explore the caves and admire the ancient murals.
- Travel Tips: Carry water, wear comfortable shoes, and respect the historical significance.
Read Also:
- 20 Best Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh
- The Ultimate Guide to Gwalior Fort, Gwalior
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5. Belum Caves, Andhra Pradesh
Belum caves are the second largest natural caves in India with a length of 3229 meters and a depth of 120 meters below the entry level. The caves were formed as a result of the erosion of limestone deposited by the Chitravati River and have large chambers to walk through.
It also has Siphons and freshwater resources. The caves have been said to be discovered by Buddhist Monks in the area which has now been made into a museum at Anantapur.
Location: Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh
Highlights: Longest caves in India, stalactites and stalagmites, underground passages
Best Time to Visit: November to March
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bangalore Airport (320 km)
- By Train: Tadipatri Railway Station
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Bangalore or Kurnool
Experience Tips:
- Visit Timing: Open from 10 AM to 5 PM.
- Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indians, INR 300 for foreigners.
- Activities: Guided tours through the caves, exploring various chambers.
- Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, carry a flashlight, and stay with the group.
Read Also: Top 10 Most Famous Temples of Andhra Pradesh
6. Krem Liat Prah, Meghalaya
Kren Liat Prah is located in the Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya and is the longest natural cave in India. It is one of those caves which has not yet been explored properly and is part of 150 caves on the ridge.
The cave is about 34 km in length and various surveys go on in the caves to learn about its importance and what is inside the caves.
Location: Jaintia Hills District, Meghalaya
Highlights: Longest natural cave in India, limestone formations, subterranean river
Best Time to Visit: November to February
How to Reach:
- By Air: Shillong Airport
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Shillong (100 km)
Experience Tips:
- Visit Timing: Ensure you have a local guide for the best experience.
- Entry Fee: Typically free, but local guides may charge a fee.
- Activities: Caving, and exploring unique limestone formations.
- Travel Tips: Wear waterproof and sturdy shoes, carry a flashlight, and travel with a guide.
Read Also:
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7. Jogimara Caves, Chhattisgarh
Jogimara Caves is located in the dense forests of Chhattisgarh. The caves are said to have a natural tunnel escape known as Hathipol from which seven elephants can come out easily.
It is believed that Ram, Sita, and Laxman used to stay here during their years of exile. The cave is filled with ancient paintings and transcripts from the olden times.
Location: Surguja District, Chhattisgarh
Highlights: Ancient caves with early Brahmi script inscriptions and paintings
Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to Reach:
- By Air: Raipur Airport (330 km)
- By Train: Ambikapur Railway Station
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Ambikapur
Experience Tips:
- Visit Timing: Early morning or late afternoon.
- Entry Fee: Free entry.
- Activities: Explore the caves, ancient inscriptions, and murals.
- Travel Tips: Carry water, wear comfortable shoes, and respect the historical site.
8. Elephanta Caves, Maharashtra
Elephanta Caves has located about 7km from Mumbai and it can be reached only by ferry as it is located on an island. Seven rock-cut caves are finely carved and designed. It dates back to the 6th century AD and this cave is famous for the presence of Mahesh murti depicting the three forms of Lord Shiva.
These are some of the must-visit caves in India. Caves have always been allured by historians and scientists. Do not miss visiting these caves and travel back in time to ancient history.
Location: Elephanta Island, near Mumbai, Maharashtra
Highlights: Rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Best Time to Visit: November to February
How to Reach:
- By Ferry: Regular ferries from Gateway of India, Mumbai (1-hour journey)
Experience Tips:
- Visit Timing: Open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
- Entry Fee: INR 40 for Indians, INR 600 for foreigners.
- Activities: Explore the main cave with its grand sculptures, and visit other smaller caves.
- Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and visit early to avoid crowds.
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FAQs About Caves as Built Heritage in India:
1. What are some of the most famous caves in India?
- Ajanta Caves: Known for their stunning Buddhist rock-cut sculptures and paintings.
- Ellora Caves: Famous for their Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples carved out of rock.
- Elephanta Caves: Located near Mumbai, known for their rock-cut sculptures of Hindu deities.
2. What is the biggest cave in India?
The Liat Prah Cave System in Meghalaya is considered the longest natural cave in India, stretching over 30 kilometers.
3. Are there any caves in South India worth visiting?
- Badami Caves: Known for their rock-cut temples and intricate carvings.
- Elephanta Caves: Located off the coast of Mumbai, featuring impressive rock-cut sculptures.
- Belum Caves: The second longest caves in India, located in Andhra Pradesh.
4. What makes the Bagh Caves special?
The Bagh Caves in Madhya Pradesh are renowned for their exquisite murals and paintings that depict the life and teachings of Buddha. They are considered an important example of Indian rock-cut architecture.
5. Which cave in India is a UNESCO World Heritage site?
The Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, and Elephanta Caves are all UNESCO World Heritage sites, recognized for their historical, cultural, and architectural significance.
6. What is the longest natural cave in India?
The Liat Prah Cave System in Meghalaya is the longest natural cave in India, extending over 30 kilometers.
7. What are some of the historical aspects of caves in India?
Indian caves often served as monastic complexes for Buddhist monks, temples for Hindu worship, and shelters for early human societies. They are rich in ancient art, inscriptions, and architectural styles.
8. Are there any notable caves in central India?
- Bhimbetka Rock Shelters: Known for prehistoric cave paintings.
- Bagh Caves: Famous for their ancient murals and Buddhist significance.
9. What makes the Ellora Caves unique?
The Ellora Caves are unique because they feature a mix of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain monuments, showcasing the religious harmony and architectural diversity of ancient India. The Kailasa temple in Ellora is one of the largest monolithic rock-cut temples in the world.
