Son Bhandar Caves are ancient rock-cut caves located in Rajgir, Bihar, India. These caves are of historical and archaeological significance, believed to be from the Jain period. They are known for their inscriptions and carvings, and there is a legend that they may have been used to store gold (son means gold in Hindi), hence the name 'Son Bhandar', which translates to 'repository of gold'.
The Son Bhandar Caves are situated in Rajgir, a city in the Nalanda district of Bihar, India, which is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Jains.
The Son Bhandar Caves are believed to date back to the 3rd or 4th century AD and are associated with Jainism. They are considered to be a part of the few existing examples of rock-cut architecture in eastern India. The caves have inscriptions in the Sankhalipi script, which has not been deciphered yet, adding to their mystery and historical significance.
Yes, tourists can visit the Son Bhandar Caves. They are a popular tourist attraction in Rajgir and are open to the public, though visitors should check with local authorities or tour operators for the latest visiting hours and any entry fees.
As of my knowledge cutoff date in 2023, there may or may not be an entry fee to visit the Son Bhandar Caves. Tourists should verify this information with local tourist information centers or online resources for the most current details.
The best time to visit the Son Bhandar Caves is between October and March when the weather is relatively cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities in Rajgir.
Other nearby attractions include the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda), the ancient cyclopean walls, the hot springs at Brahmakund, the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, and various Jain and Buddhist temples.
According to legend, the Son Bhandar Caves once served as a treasury to King Bimbisara and later to the Mauryan emperors. It is said that the cave still houses a hidden chamber with a vast amount of treasure, but the entrance to this chamber has not been found. Some locals believe that the treasure can only be retrieved by a person who deciphers the undeciphered script.
Basic facilities such as parking and small shops selling refreshments may be available near the site. For accommodation and more comfortable amenities, tourists might need to check in Rajgir city or nearby areas.
Tourists can reach the Son Bhandar Caves by flying into the nearest airport in Patna and then taking a taxi or bus to Rajgir. Rajgir is also accessible by train, with its own railway station connected to major cities. Once in Rajgir, visitors can hire local transportation such as autorickshaws or cycle rickshaws to reach the caves.
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