Take ‘time-out’ from your hectic life in Mumbai and plan a trip to Kanheri Caves. These caves are on a hill side and are full of lush greenery.
These caves were built over a long period of time. These are 109 caves combined. The earliest ones are of the 1st century BCE. The caves built later are any time better as compared to these built in the 1st century. The caves built in the 11th century are the most recent ones. Most of these caves were for ‘Buddhist’ viharas. The stone plinth is the only constant in all these differently styled caves.
The Kanheri caves were a ‘Buddhist’ monastery once upon a time. This was a point not only for meditation and worship but also study. These caves are located within the ‘Sanjay Gandhi National Park’ and the only way to reach these caves is trekking through the forests.
Besides enjoying the surrounding views and the caves, you can enjoy the different statues and paintings of Buddha. Some of these are not yet finished. There are many waterfalls and streams here.
History
This word, ‘Kanheri’ is from the word ‘Krishnagiri’. This means ‘Back Mountain’ in Sanskrit. The caves have been carved out of the basalt rock, black in color.
Most of the inscriptions are yet to be undeciphered but according to the people, the 1st excavations started around 1st or 2nd BCE. The large stupas and the walls indicate that these caves were important as shrines for the Buddhist.
Things to do in Kanheri Caves
The only activity available in these caves is trekking.
Among the 109 caves here, the Cave no. 3 is considered to be elaborate. Carved columns, large halls and Buddha’s statue at the entrance are at the entry.
Cave 4 is the oldest and cave 5 and 6 are ‘water cisterns’.
The other important caves are 34, 41, 11, 67 and also 90. Cave no. 11 used to be an Assembly Hall or a Durbar Hall. In the center here you find a statue of Buddha. In cave no. 34 you have paintings of Buddha on the ceilings. These have not been completed.
Best Time to Visit the Kanheri Caves
It is best to visit the Kanheri Caves during winters, when it is cool. This can be anytime between November to February. During monsoon it is uncomfortable here as you will not find it easy to trek.
Exploring these caves can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours.
Timings and Entry Fees to the Kanheri Caves
These caves are well within the boundaries of the Sanjay Gandhi National park. These are opened throughout the year. The timings are between 730 am to 5 pm.
You will be paying only Rs. 15 as entry fee to these caves. This price is for Indians. Foreign Nationals will have to pay Rs. 200
There are many reasons for paying a visit to these caves. You can enjoy the day without the noise and pollution of the city. You get an insight into history and Buddhism and also this place works apt for those who love trekking.
