Pandava Caves

Harvalem Caves - Arvalem Caves

Useful Information

Location:	Casabe De Sanquelim. Follow main road towards Honda, turn right on road to Rudreshwar Temple. 350 m before the temple. (15.552527, 74.023043)
Open:	no restrictions. [2021]
Fee:	free. [2021]
Classification:	Cave Church
Light:	bring torch
Dimension:
Guided tours:	self guided
Photography:	allowed
Accessibility:	no
Bibliography:	Mrinmayee Thakur (2017): Rock-cut Architecture: A case of Caves in Goa, Goa College of Architecture, Bachelor Thesis. academia.edu
Address:	Pandava Caves.
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History

6th century

caves created.

Description

Pandava Caves are located in Bicholim in North Goa. The architecture of the caves is quite simple and seems to be inspired by Buddhist architecture. The face of the rock was was chiseled into a vertical wall, there are rectangular doors leading to rectangular or quadratic chambers. The doors of the caves are gated with iron bar gates, so it is not possible to enter, but you can have a look inside.

They are thought to be created in the 6th century, and are associated with the legendary Mahabharata. According to local legend the Pandavas took refuge in the caves. The famous Arvalem Waterfall is next to the caves.