Bhaja Caves are a group of 22 rock-cut Buddhist caves at Bhaja, near Lonavala in the Maharashtra state of India. These caves date back to the 2nd century BC. Bhaja is part of the ancient trade route connecting the Arabian Sea and the Deccan Plateau.

Bhaja Caves

These Caves are also known as Bhaje caves. There are a number of Buddhist Stupas (stupas are relics of Buddhist monks of those times), numbering 14, in the area. Five Stupas are inside the caves, while the remaining nine are outside. These Caves share their architectural design with the Karla Caves. These cave temples at Bhaja are protected as National Monuments by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Wooden Ceiling in Main Chaitygruha inside the Cave

Bhaja Cave XII is built in wooden architecture with a vaulted horseshoe ceiling. Cave XVII has a verandah in front with many pillars. The carving in these caves depicts a woman playing the tabla (a very ancient Indian percussion instrument) and another woman dancing. There is a waterfall near the last cave.

How do I go to Bhaja Caves?

These Caves are near Lonavala town in the Maharashtra state of India and are easily accessible by road, train, flight, etc.

There is a railway station with code LNL at Lonavala. Pune is the nearest MAJOR city with the railway station and International airport.