20 Most Famous Caves of Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a state which has many caves that are like gems on the crow of Maharashtra. Rather if one could crave a visit to historical and religious destinations in Maharashtra then the caves in Maharashtra definitely account for that. The caves are beautiful beyond words and the architecture attracts photography enthusiasts from all parts of the world. If you desire some beautiful shots then all you need is to tread to these beautiful caves.

Here are the most beautiful caves in Maharashtra that provide a tranquil and serene atmosphere for travelers:

1. Ajanta Caves:

If you are in Maharashtra then a visit to the Ajanta caves is mandatory or the trip is incomplete. The 34 caves cut of rock are the most popular caves in Maharashtra are definitely high on the popularity list. The caves are carved out of solid rock with only a hammer and chisel. It is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit the Kailasha Temple which has stupendous architecture and a life-sized elephant sculpture to cast a spell on you. Read more: Top 10 facts about the Ajanta and Ellora caves, Maharashtra.

• Location: Aurangabad district, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: INR 40 for Indians, INR 600 for foreigners
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Highlights: Famous for their ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves and stunning frescoes, the Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Tips: Visit during the cooler months (October to March). Hire a guide to better understand the history and significance of the caves.

The 2 Nights 3 Days Aurangabad Package itinerary is available to view (Ajanta Caves).

2. Ellora Caves:

The list of Indian caves is incomplete without the mention of Ellora caves. It is UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts tourists from all parts of the world.

The walls of the caves feature elaborate, detailed, and elegantly created sculptures and paintings from different religions and are inspired by Hindu mythology. However, the erotic and life-sized animal sculptures attract immense gaze and attention.

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• Location: Aurangabad district, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: INR 40 for Indians, INR 600 for foreigners
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
• Highlights: The Ellora Caves feature Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples carved from rock, with the Kailasa temple being the most impressive.
• Tips: Allocate at least half a day to explore all the caves. Wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking involved.

For 3 nights and 4 days in Aurangabad Package (Ellora Caves), click here.

3. Kanheri Caves:

Krishna or the Kanheri caves are set near the Sanjay Gandhi National Park situated out of Mumbai. Tourists are attracted here for the black basalt stone used for construction purposes.

It has the Buddha sculpture, the statue of Bodhisattva, and an advanced water management system. One of the caves features a ceiling painted in brilliant colors. The art here is inspired by the Buddhist scriptures.

• Location: Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai
• Entry Fee: INR 25 for Indians, INR 300 for foreigners
• Timings: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Highlights: These ancient Buddhist caves offer a glimpse into monastic life, with intricate carvings and stupas.
• Tips: Combine your visit with a trip to the national park. Start early in the day to avoid the heat.

Read also: Explore Pune’s Nearby Rainy Retreats

4. Elephanta Caves:

Undoubtedly the most elegantly carved caves in Maharashtra. It is World Heritage Site and the caves are a popular tourist site. The carvings are inspired by the Buddhists and Hindu scriptures. Lord Shiva is depicted here in several forms and a cave dedicated to Buddhists sculptures.

Religious devotees will love the panels depicting various stories from Hindu mythology and cultural enthusiasts who are delighted with the sights of the ancient paintings that are carved on the walls.

• Location: Elephanta Island, Mumbai
• Entry Fee: INR 40 for Indians, INR 600 for foreigners
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Highlights: Known for the large rock-cut sculptures of Hindu deities, especially the iconic Trimurti statue of Lord Shiva.
• Tips: Take a ferry from the Gateway of India. Early morning visits are best to avoid crowds and heat.

Find more about the Elephanta Caves Tour Itinerary in Mumbai.

5. Bhaja Caves:

It is the best example of rock-cut architecture from the 1st century and is one of the oldest caves in the country. The embellishments and animals statues here attract the cultural buffs.

There is a famous waterfall and Lohagad fort nearby which attracts many tourists. The cave has paintings inspired by the Hinayana phase of Buddhism.

• Location: Near Lonavala, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: INR 25 for Indians, INR 300 for foreigners
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Highlights: These 22 rock-cut caves are among the oldest in Maharashtra, known for their ancient stupas and carvings.
• Tips: The trek to the caves can be slippery during the monsoon, so wear appropriate footwear. Carry water and snacks.

6. Karla Caves:

A few kilometers away from Mumbai are the beautifully designed caves cut in a rock on the side of a hill. It is the largest cave with a well-preserved prayer hall which is large and is from the 1st The walls here are adorned with magnificent sculptures of elephants, lions, and other animals.

• Location: Near Lonavala, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Highlights: Famous for the grand Chaitya hall and its intricate carvings, these caves are a testament to ancient Buddhist architecture.
• Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds. The climb up to the caves is steep, so be prepared for a bit of a workout.

7. Bedse Caves:

The caves are not much frequented and are not much frequented as compared to the Bhaja and Karla caves. Though it has a sheer presence of calmness of its own. The cave is divided into a prayer hall and a monastery.

The pillars are beautifully sculpted and are adorned with the sculptures of elephants, bulls, and lions that are placed on the entry.

• Location: Near Pune, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Highlights: Lesser-known but equally fascinating, the Bedse Caves are known for their scenic location and tranquil environment.
• Tips: Ideal for a quiet, less crowded experience. It’s advisable to visit during the morning or late afternoon.

8. Lenyadri Caves:

The caves are famous for being the birthplace of Lord Ganesha and are high on the popularity quotient. The Ganesha temple is also famous as one of the shrines of Ashtavinayak Yatra.

The caves appear beautiful from far and look strange and convoluted, carved in the rock on a hillside. As one gets closer the entrance becomes even grander and the architecture appears even grand. There is greenery around the cave making it the best place to spend the evening.

• Location: Junnar, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Highlights: A group of 30 rock-cut caves, Lenyadri is also home to a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, making it a significant pilgrimage site.
• Tips: The climb to the caves is steep, so carry water and take breaks if needed. Visit during the cooler months.

9. Pandavleni Caves:

The 24caves here are 2000 years old and are rock-cut on the Trivashmi hills. The beautiful architecture and the caves feature inspiring sculptures of animals and deities. It is built in the traditional Buddhist style and features mountains.

There are several informative museums in the area. The walls of the caves are carved by inscriptions written by monks in the 2^nd

• Location: Nashik, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Highlights: These 24 caves are a mix of viharas (monasteries) and chaityas (prayer halls), with beautiful carvings and inscriptions.
• Tips: The early morning is the best time to visit. The climb is moderate, so wear comfortable shoes.

10. Pataleshwar Caves:

Created by carving a single rock, the Pataleshwar caves are situated in the heart of the city. It has sculptures devoted to Hindu deities.

• Location: Pune, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Highlights: A rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the heart of Pune. It’s a small but historically significant site.
• Tips: Combine with a visit to the nearby Jangali Maharaj Temple. Best visited during weekdays to avoid crowds.

11. Mahakali Caves:

located in the west end of Mumbai the19 rock-cut caves are devoted to Buddhism. The most remarkable fact of the caves is that they are sparkling clean and spotless.

The walls here feature inscriptions written in Pali and thus make Mahakali Caves a source of great curiosity for archaeologists and historical lovers. The caves are carved out of soft basaltic rock with very little wear and tear even after years.

• Location: Andheri, Mumbai
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Highlights: A series of 19 rock-cut monuments dating back to the 1st century BC, these caves were used as Buddhist monasteries.
• Tips: Visit during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. The caves are not as well-known, so they’re less crowded.

12. Pitalkhora Caves:

The14 caves in Kannad style are the most picturesque caves in Maharashtra and present beautiful views of the western ghats. As one climbs up the stairs to the cave complex, a cascading waterfall welcomes the tourists.

The caves house several viharas and chaityas with beautiful sculptures of elephants and lions. The caves also feature the beautiful statue of Yaksha and gorges.

• Location: Aurangabad district, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Highlights: One of the oldest Buddhist cave complexes in Maharashtra, these caves are known for their ancient rock-cut architecture and sculptures.
• Tips: The approach road is rough, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended. Visit in the dry season to avoid slippery paths.

13. Aurangabad Caves:

It is a cluster of 12 caves that are cut out on rocks and are blessed with ethereal beauty. Once they acted as shrines to the Buddhists monks. The lush greenery and beauty of the caves make the most frequented cave.

• Location: Aurangabad, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Highlights: These 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines are less visited but offer stunning carvings and a peaceful environment.
• Tips: The caves are a short drive from the city, making them an easy addition to your itinerary. Combine with a visit to the nearby Bibi Ka Maqbara.

Also read: Top 11 Places to See in Aurangabad

14. Jogeshwari Caves:

The Jogeshwari caves are dedicated to the Buddhists monks and also feature Lord Shiva as the presiding deity. The beautiful carvings on the pillars are attractions for many.

• Location: Jogeshwari, Mumbai
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Highlights: Among the largest and earliest Hindu cave temples, the Jogeshwari Caves feature intricate carvings dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Tips: The caves are located in a busy area, so mornings are the best time to visit. The site is less maintained, so be cautious while exploring.

15. Mandapeshwar Caves:

More than a millennium old caves are situated in the picturesque location of IC colony, Mandapeshwar. It is carved of basaltic rock from Shashti Island and has varied sculptures in some of Lord Shiva. There is Lord Nataraja with Nandi here and then there is a panel depicting the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati.

• Location: Borivali, Mumbai
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Highlights: A set of rock-cut temples dating back to the 8th century, these caves are dedicated to Lord Shiva and hold historical significance.
• Tips: The caves are located near the Dahisar River, making them a peaceful retreat. The site is often overlooked, providing a quieter experience.

16. Kharosa Caves:

The cave is an amalgamation of Buddhist and Hindu culture and has the most beautiful architecture. They are located at a distance of 40 KMS from Latur. The caves feature mythological creatures from the Hindu religion carved in various stones.

• Location: Latur, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Highlights: These ancient caves are known for their rock-cut sculptures and historical significance, offering insights into the region’s past.
• Tips: The caves are less visited, so you can explore at your leisure. Carry snacks and water as facilities are limited.

17. Bahrot Caves:

Carved on the rock of Mount Bahrot, the cave is situated 1500 feet above sea level. The cave has the one and the only Parsi temple of the region and is said that the caves housed Parsi ancestors as they hid there for 13 years to hide from the Muslim invaders. The caves are protected by the Government of India and have several artifacts related to the Parsi religion.

• Location: Near Dahanu, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Highlights: These caves hold religious significance for the Parsi community as a place where their sacred fire was kept safe during invasions.
• Tips: The trek to the caves is moderately challenging, so be prepared. The best time to visit is during the winter months.

18. Kondana Caves:

The caves are about serenity and solitude as it is located in the middle of green jungles surrounded by groves of tall tropical forests. The architecture here is breathtakingly beautiful. The carvings on stone and sculptures are astonishing.

• Location: Near Karjat, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Highlights: A group of ancient Buddhist caves, Kondana Caves are known for their simple yet striking architecture and scenic location.
• Tips: The trek to the caves is easy, making it suitable for beginners. The monsoon season enhances the beauty of the surrounding area.

19. Shivtar Ghal Caves:

The cave here is home to Shivthar Ramdas swami for more than 22years and is thus the most famous cave in Maharashtra. It is perhaps another name of serenity, pristine, and calmness.

• Location: Near Mahad, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Highlights: These caves are historically significant as the place where Samarth Ramdas wrote the epic “Dasbodh.” The location is serene and spiritually uplifting.
• Tips: Ideal for a day trip combined with a visit to nearby forts. The rainy season adds to the beauty of the area, with numerous waterfalls nearby.

20. Chambharlena Caves:

Situated 400 feet above sea level on the top of a hill is a very beautiful cave in Maharashtra. It is a sacred place for Jains and features the Teerthraja Gajpantha.

• Location: Nashik, Maharashtra
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Highlights: A group of Jain caves located near the Trimbak hills, known for their spiritual significance and ancient rock-cut architecture.
• Tips: Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon. The caves are close to the Trimbakeshwar Temple, making it easy to visit both in one trip.

The calm and serene environment of the caves is all that one needs to feel relaxed and rejuvenated. The visit to the caves is soulful and will make your trip to Maharashtra very memorable.  It is the beautiful carvings in the caves that attract one and many. There is an aura of mystery embedded with beauty beyond par excellence coupled with intricate craftsmanship that attracts people from far-off lands.