Bhaje Caves

Bhaja Caves or Bhaje caves is a group of 22 rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BC located in Pune district, near Lonavala, Maharashtra. The caves are 400 feet above the village of Bhaja, on an important ancient trade route running from the Arabian Sea eastward into the Deccan Plateau. (courtesy Wikipedia)

Vising these ancient caves always fill me with awe, thinking about hermitage life of Monks thousands of years back. Tiny, cold, dark rooms with stone slabs  served as sleeping quarters for everyone. While it seems they spent most of their times in the large meditation hall known as Chaityagrha. But the effort that would have taken to carve out these caves on the hillside is unimaginable considering that they didn't use any sophisticated tools. 

These particular caves are situated just outside hill-station of Lonavala. There is a steep staircase to reach the caves. Protected by ASI, there is an entry fee to visit the caves. The rustic scenery visible from top was breathtaking especially in this monsoon season. Multiple waterfalls are also part of these caves. But the highlight of the place are 14 stupas cut from stone that are still in good shape. These ancient structures have stood the test of the times and act as a time machine to travel back to simpler times.

See below some of the shots of our day trip from Pune.