Dharashiv Caves
Many of the ancient rock-cut caves that were originally built by Buddhist as Viharas or Chaitys in several parts of Maharashtra, have turned into Hindu or Jain places of worship. According to archaeologists, these transformations had occurred later when Buddhism was on its way out of the Indian peninsula.
Take for instance, the Dharashiv caves that are perched high on the Balaghat Mountains (8 kilometers away from the city of Osmanabad) in Maharashtra. These caves bear witness to such a transformation. One of these caves, namely the cave number 2 comprises of a sumptuous amphitheater. In this cave you will find a colossal image of Buddha sitting in Padmasana. A serpent is adorning the head of Siddhartha Gautama with its outspread hood – indicative of Jain influence relating to Tirthankara, especially the 7th Tirthankara of the Jain sect. On the other hand, the figures of deer with the Dharmachakra between them undoubtedly suggest Buddhist influence on it.
This is one unique aspect of the Dharashiv caves. You will find the confluence of two religions peacefully co-existing in the structures inside the caves. Incidentally, a few more caves were also excavated from nearby areas that were, of course, purely Jain caves.
These caves are really very beautiful. However they were damaged because these are really very old. But the good news is that, renovation work carried out recently with the help of World Bank has repaired most of these damages. You will thus be able to see the caves in top condition now.
How to reach: You should first take a flight or train to Osmanabad town. The caves are located just outside the city. You can hire a taxi from the railway station or the airport, or even your hotel to visit the caves. Driving from Mumbai is not a practical option, unless of course you enjoy long drives.
These caves are located almost next door from Osmanabad town. And so, it makes sense to stay in the city instead of searching for hotels in Dharashiv caves, resorts in Dharashiv caves or cottages in Dharashiv caves.
