Karla Caves
Caves obviously are as ancient as the hills. And in those ancient days, these were much favored by those ancient people as the ideal abode where they could be naturally protected against the elements as well as wild animals prowling on them. As days passed, they also learnt how to decorate these caves, as a result of which an art form known as “cave painting” came into existence. Karla caves, located near the picturesque hill resort of Lonavla in Maharashtra and not far from the metropolitan city of Pune are an example of how rock-cut mountain caves can be turned into natural shrines.
Before Hinduism reaffirmed its prominence on the Indian soil, Buddhism had its hay days. It is no wonder that the Buddhists in those days (2nd century BC to 2nd century AD) took fullest advantage of these natural edifices to preach the sermons of Lord Buddha. In fact, they had built a full fledged monastery in one of the Karla caves where Buddhist monks regularly lived and prayed. Even in those ancient days, these monks lived an organized life and so had purposely selected the site as it lay on a major ancient trade route right from the Arabian Sea to the Deccan Plateau. Some of these caves were used as temporary shelters for traders passing through the trade route.
The main cave boasts of a spacious and intricately carved Prayer Hall (Chaity) which is 45 meter long and up to 14 meter high. It is easily the largest rock-cut Chaity found in India. However, what makes Karla caves stand out among other similar caves in India is their arched entrances and vaulted interiors.
How to reach: Karla caves are located near Lonavla. Many tourists like to hire an auto rickshaw from Lonavla. This is a good option. There are plenty of state and private buses that can take you to Lonavla. You can take the train as well, and of course drive there too.
There is a state run holiday resort in Karla where you can stay. But there are no hotels in Karla caves or resorts in Karla caves. You can stay in Pune to visit these caves.
