Pandavleni Caves

Pandav Leni - Pandav Caves


Useful Information

Location: Nashik
8 km south Of Nashik, on a plateau on Trivashmi Hill, close to the Mumbai [Bombay] Road NH3. 20 minutes walk uphill to the caves.
(19.941123, 73.748647)
Open: All year daily 8:30-17:30, last entry 17.
[2022]
Fee: Indians INR 25, Foreigner INR 300, Children (0-14) free.
[2022]
Classification: SubterraneaCave Church
Light: bring torch
Dimension: A=915 m asl.
Guided tours: self guided, D=1-2 h.
Photography: allowed
Accessibility: no
Bibliography:  
Address: Pandav Leni, Pandav Lene Rd, Buddha Vihar, Pathardi Phata, Nashik, Maharashtra 422010.
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then.
Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

1st and 2nd century excavated.

Description

These are a group of twenty-four Hinayana Buddhist Caves whose excavation was financed by the Jain Kings.

Cave No 3 is a large Vihara or monastery with some interesting sculptures. Cave No 10 is also a Vihara and almost identical in design to Cave No 3, but is much older and finer in detail. It is thought to be nearly as old as the Karla Cave near Lonavala. Cave No 18 is a Chaitya or shrine believed to be similar in date as the Karla Cave. It is well sculptured, and its elaborate facade is particularly noteworthy.

The cave houses the statues of Buddha, Jain Teerthankara Vrishabhdeo, and the icons of Bodhisatva, Veer Manibhadraji and Ambikadevi. The interiors of the caves were popular meeting places for the disciples, where sermons delivered. There are attractive water tanks that have been skilfully carved out of the solid rock.


Text by Tony Oldham (2003). With kind permission.

The site is located at the outskirts of the city Nashik, and as it is on a hillit offers a great view over the city. The trails are paved and well maintained. There is a long staircase uphill to the caves, so it is not accessible with wheelchairs and requires a little physical fitness. Plan at least one hour for the visit.