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Pandavleni Caves

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About Pandavleni Caves

Far From City: 8 kms from city center
Cost: About Pandavleni Caves Weather: Time Required:2-3 hrs Open Time:8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Cost:Adults: INR 2,Children (Up to 15 years): Free,The entry is free for everyone on Fridays

History of Pandavleni Caves The Pandavleni Caves can be traced back to the 1st century BCE. They were initially known as Pundru, which means 'yellow ochre colour' in Pali language. This is because the caves served as the residence of Buddhist monks who wore the 'chivara' or yellow robes. These alluring caves were used to provide space for carrying out meditation and for living suitably and peacefully. The name of the caves - Pandavleni- has no reference and no connection to the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata. Some water tanks, which are built inside the rocks, served as places where meetings were held amongst the disciples. They also comprise of numerous sculptures of Bodhisattvas and Lord Buddha. Later on, the word 'Pundru' was changed to Pandu Caves. The various inscriptions in the beguiling cave are an essential source of relevant historical information. They bear testimony to the fact that Nashik in that period was ruled by three dynasties in all - the Western Kshatrapas, the Satavahanas and the Abhiras. The inscriptions also confirm that apart from the kings, local merchants and landlords also supported Buddhism and donated large amounts of money for the development of the Pandavleni Caves. Decades later, people started calling these caves as the Pandav Caves, and they continue to be recognised by this name till date, even though the name is a misnomer. Layout and Concept of Pandavleni Caves The group of these twenty-four caves was cut in a long line on the north face of the Trisasmi hill. Other than holding significant historical value, the caves also represent a brilliant phase in the rock-cut architecture style that existed in those times. Although there are twenty-four excavations in all, many of them are small and less significant. The interior of the Pandavleni Caves comes across as simple when compared to the heavily ornamented exterior. Interior of Pandavleni Caves Most of the Pandavleni Caves are Viharas, which means that they are dwellings or refuges used by wandering monks during the rainy season, while the 18th cave is a Chaitya, which is basically a shrine or a prayer hall with a Stupa at one end. The most fascinating and significant caves are cave numbers 3, 10, 18 and 20. While cave 3 is a massive vihara with 16 cells and amazing sculptures, cave 10 is even grander and more beautiful. It contains inscriptions about donations that were made by Ushadatta sometime around 120 AD. Cave 18 is a 'chaitya' with a particularly elaborate facade and is the oldest cave in the entire group. It contains beautiful, intricate carvings and a stupa. These aesthetic caves are home to shrines, cisterns, rare inscriptions, carved figures of Buddha and icons of some of the Jain Teerthankaras. One can also find sculptures that represent the kings, farmers and merchants while the rich iconography depicts a beautiful amalgamation of the Indo- Greek style of architecture. The site also boasts of an excellent and ancient water management system. Several water tanks are also located here and were skilfully chiselled out of solid rock.

Best time to visit Pandavleni Caves The best time to visit the Pandavleni Caves is during the months extending from July until February. This is because the scenic beauty gets enhanced during this time and the place looks even more attractive and enchanting. How to Reach Pandavleni Caves The place is commonly visited from the Nashik CBS Bus Station. A journey to the Pandavleni Caves from here takes about 3 hours. From Nashik, there are auto rickshaws and buses available, which will drop you to the Pandavleni Caves. The caves on the hilltop can then be reached by trekking for about 20 minutes on a path that is well built with steps.

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