About Karla Caves
Top Attraction
Cave, Historical, Buddhist, Architecture, Pilgrimage
Distance from Lonavala: Approximately 10.9 km.
Exploring the places to visit in Lonavala, the Karla Caves stand out as a must-see destination. Karla Caves, also known as Karli Caves, Karle Caves, or Karla Cells, are ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves and a renowned tourist attraction near Lonavala. Among the oldest Buddhist cave shrines in India, these caves house one of the country’s largest Chaityas (prayer halls with a stupa). Ekvira Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ekvira, is a prominent feature within the caves.
Historically known as Veluraka, Karla Caves boast a massive 15-meter pillar and a Buddhist monastery believed to date back to the 2nd century BC. Nearby, an ancient trade route from the Arabian Sea to the Deccan can still be seen. To reach the caves, visitors must climb approximately 150 steps, rewarding them with a glimpse into India’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage.
Karla Caves History
Constructed in two distinct phases, the Karla Caves’ initial development spanned from the 2nd century BC to the 2nd century AD, followed by a second phase from the 5th century AD to the 10th century. Remarkably, the entire cave complex is believed to have been created following a unified design, with the exception of three excavations from the Mahayana phase. Monumental effort was funded by generous donations from a diverse group of benefactors, including merchants, monks, nuns, and even a prince from a Marathi family.
Inscriptions found within the caves mention various individuals from across India, such as Vejamti, Sopara, Umehanakata, and Dhenukakata. Other inscriptions suggest land donations to the Velluraka Samgha, providing historical context for the ancient name “Veluraka.” These inscriptions not only highlight the widespread support for the construction of the caves but also trace the rich history and cultural significance of this ancient site.
Karla Caves Architecture
- Architecture of Karla Caves is truly remarkable and stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India. These caves are adorned with intricate carvings, magnificent structures, and a grandeur that leaves visitors in awe.
- One of the most prominent features of Karla Caves is the large Chaityagriha, which is one of the grandest and largest of its kind in India. The sheer size of this structure is impressive, with measurements of 37.87 meters deep, 13.87 meters wide, and 14.02 meters high. The rock-cut columns within the Chaityagriha are intricately carved and adorned with beautiful inscriptions, adding to their allure.
- As visitors move deeper into the caves, they are greeted by a magnificent semi-circular ceiling, which serves as the main object of worship. Ceiling is supported by a stunning array of wooden arches, adding a touch of architectural elegance to the space.
- Stupa within the cave complex is another noteworthy feature. It consists of a cylindrical drum rising in two stages, supporting a cubical ‘harmika’ and a seven-step square-base pyramid. The intricate design and craftsmanship of the stupa showcase the skill and artistry of the artisans who created it.
- In addition to the grand structures, Karla Caves also boast a total of 16 rock-cut excavations, with 8 of them serving as Chaityagrihas. These caves are adorned with fine sculptures depicting males, females, and animals, adding a touch of artistic beauty to the halls. One particularly striking sculpture is that of a preaching Buddha seated on a lion-supported throne, showcasing intricate carvings of three elephants.
- Pillars found within the caves are another notable feature. Resembling the iconic Ashokan pillars, these pillars are adorned with motifs of elephants, adding a unique touch to the architectural design.
- Entrance of the cave complex is graced by a temple dedicated to the Goddess Ekvira, further highlighting the spiritual significance of the site.
Karla Caves Tickets & Entry Fees
Indian, SAARC, and BIMSTEC country residents (above 15 years): INR 15 per head.
Karla Caves Timings
Open daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Time Required: Visitors typically spend more than 3 hours exploring the caves, the Chaitya, and the surrounding areas.
Weather
Climate at Karla Caves is typically tropical. Visitors can expect warm weather most of the year, with monsoon rains from June to September. Best time to visit is between October and May, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploration.
Visiting Tips Karla Caves
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Carry water and light snacks.
- People with health problems should avoid the trek.
- Bhaja Caves has 300+ stairs.
- Many stairs are steep and uneven.
Things to do at Karla Caves
At the Karla Caves, there’s a wealth of activities to immerse yourself in, each offering a unique way to connect with the site’s ancient heritage:
- Explore the Chaitya Hall: Stand in awe within the grand prayer hall, home to a magnificent stupa.
- Admire the Great Stupa: Take in the sight of the caves’ largest structure, richly adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
- See the Pillars of Ashoka: Gaze upon the ornate pillars, a legacy of the Mauryan emperor Ashoka from the 3rd century BCE.
- Visit the Ekvira Devi Temple: Offer your respects at the temple dedicated to the local deity, Goddess Ekveera, situated at the cave’s entrance.
- Photography: Capture the architectural wonders and the sweeping views of the hills that cradle the caves.
- Trekking: Embark on a short trek to the caves, surrounded by the natural splendor of the region.
- Picnicking: Share a meal with loved ones in the verdant areas enveloping the caves.
- Witness Local Traditions: Experience the cultural richness firsthand if your visit coincides with a local festival at the Ekvira Devi Temple.
How to Reach Karla Caves Lonavala?
Karla Caves distance from Lonavala is 10 km. The bus stop and the nearest railway station to Karla Caves is 11 km away, at Lonavala. Nearest major railway stations are in Pune (58 km away) and Mumbai (95 km away). Nearest airport is Pune airport, 61 km away.
To reach Karla Caves near Lonavala –
By bike – Rental bikes in Lonavala are easily available to explore the sightseeing places around. You can take one for the day and visit Karla Caves.
By cab/taxi – Also get a cab for Karla Caves. Taking a cab is the most comfortable way to visit the cave complex. They’re readily available from the top car rental companies in Lonavala. Cabs drop you at the parking, from where you can trek up to the caves.
Karla Caves Nearby Places
- Lonavala: Approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles) away
- Bhaja Caves: Around 5 kilometers (3 miles) from Karla Caves
- Lohagad Fort: Roughly 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Karla Caves
- Bhushi Dam: About 14 kilometers (9 miles) away
- Tung Fort: Approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Karla Caves
Karla Caves offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture of ancient India. With a history dating back centuries, these caves stand as a testament to the skill and artistry of the artisans who created them. Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings, grand structures, and fine sculptures that adorn the caves, while also taking in the spiritual significance of the site.
So, if you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience, be sure to add Karla Caves to your list of must-visit destinations. Come explore the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of this remarkable site today!
