Bhaja Caves

Overview | How to Reach | Sightseeing | Hotels | Map | Photos

Bhaja Caves is a group of 22 rock-cut caves located at Maval near Lonavala in Maharashtra in the western part of India. Bhaja Caves date back to the 200 century B.C. Bhaja Caves in Lonavala is a really old group of rock-cut caves in India. There is a village named Bhaja village and these caves are located 400 meters above this village.

Now it might be that the Bhaja Caves are named after this very ancient village of Maharashtra. The Bhaja caves are located on a major trade route (Mumbai-Pune expressway) that runs eastward from the Arabian Sea into the Deccan. The Deccan plateau acts as a division between north and South India.

This is like Ajanta, Ellora, Mahakali, and other prominent rock cut Structures of Maharashtra a prominent site of Buddhist culture and religion. Bhaja Buddhist Caves are important for one more reason. It is a prominent center of the Hinayana Buddhist sect.

Hinayana and Mahayana are regarded as the two most important divisions of Buddhism and this speaks a lot about the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. The Bhaja Caves have many open stupas and it is rarely seen. It is also known for its exclusive wooden structure.

The Bhaja Caves at Lonavala have a striking resemblance to the Carla caves. The large and beautiful prayer hall that has a horse-like arched gateway is very beautiful and well crafted and reminds us of the huge prayer hall of the Carla Caves. The wooden architecture makes it more impressive and an outstanding example of craftsmanship.

Other Destinations Near Bhaja Caves

Karnala Bird Sanctuary

Ekvira Temple

Khandala Lonavala

Lohagad Fort

Matheran Hill Station

Sangram Durg, Chakan

Pune City

Karla Caves