Karla Caves Tourism

Karla Caves are an ancient complex of Indian Buddhist rock-cut cave shrines located in Karli near Lonavala, Maharashtra. The caves, developed over two periods – from the 2nd century BC to the 2nd century AD, and later in the 5th – 10th century, are among the oldest Buddhist cave shrines in India. They reflect the Buddhist ideology and the artistic and architectural developments of that period. The main cave features a large, intricately carved prayer hall, or chaitya, with an impressive arched entrance and a monumental stupa at its far end. The chaitya is adorned with elaborate carvings of men, women, and animals, as well as symbols that represent the Buddha. Some of the cave complex's most notable features include its facade, wooden beams, and lion pillars. Visitors are often struck by the sheer size of the prayer hall and the sense of history that pervades the cool, dark interiors of the caves.