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Front view or facade of Nasik Caves aka Pandavleni Caves, Pandu Lena, Pandu Caves or Trirashmi Leni were built by Hinayana Buddhists in 3rd century BC. Nashik tourism.

Maharashtra

Pandavleni Caves

Pandavleni caves situated in Nashik, Maharashtra, India. This 3rd BC caves were built by Hinayana Buddhists.
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Front view or facade of Nasik Caves aka Pandavleni Caves, Pandu Lena, Pandu Caves or Trirashmi Leni were built by Hinayana Buddhists in 3rd century BC. Nashik tourism.
Pandavleni caves situated in Nashik, Maharashtra, India. This 3rd BC caves were built by Hinayana Buddhists.
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map

January

5.9 - 32.4 °C

February

7.9 - 35.3 °C

March

11.1 - 38.6 °C

April

15.5 - 40.8 °C

May

19.7 - 40.1 °C

June

21.4 - 37.3 °C

July

20.8 - 31.6 °C

August

20.2 - 30.6 °C

September

19.0 - 32.3 °C

October

13.2 - 33.7 °C

November

10.3 - 32.8 °C

December

6.6 - 32.4 °C

Major Airports :

Nashik International Airport (ISK), Nagpur

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai

Nearest Railway Station :

Nasik Road Railway Station (NK)

Major Airports :

Nashik International Airport (ISK), Nagpur

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), Mumbai

A time machine to a glorious past

Perched atop the Trirasmi Hill, just beyond Nashik, lies a treasure trove of ancient heritage known as the Pandavleni Caves. These caves are silent sentinels of India's rich Buddhist legacy, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of spiritual enlightenment and architectural prowess.

Reaching the Pandavleni Caves is a task as they are on the Trirasmi Hill at a height of 3000 feet. But the result is worth it. As you ascend the nearly 200 steps to the summit, a panoramic vista awaits, rewarding you with stunning views worthy of wallpaper.

Step into the cool confines of these 24 ancient caves, and you'll be transported back in time. Marvel at the exquisite architecture, intricately carved sculptures, and meticulously chiselled water tanks that adorn the cavernous interiors. Each tells a tale of the three dynasties that once reigned over Nashik—the Kshatrapas, the Satavahanas, and the Abhirs.

Legend has it that these caverns owe their name to the Pandavas, heroes of the epic Mahabharata. Local lore whispers tales of the brothers seeking refuge within these rocky confines, evading foes and kin alike during their exile. Thus, the moniker ‘Pandavleni’ resonates through the Marathi tongue, translating to ‘Pandava caves’ and echoing the timeless saga of these legendary figures.

Despite the passage of centuries, the northern frontage of these caves has sheltered them from the elements, preserving much of their carved splendour and invaluable inscriptions dating back to as early as B.C. 250 and A.D. 600.

Let's venture inside the Pandavleni Caves and discover the ancient tales and the timeless beauty that await us.

Astounding architecture and relics await

Inside, you will discover magnificent idols of Buddha and revered Jain Teerthankaras built by monks from the Hinayana Buddhist sect who sought solace and enlightenment within these hallowed caverns. While each of the 24 caves holds its charm, Cave 3 stands out as a masterpiece. As the largest and most elaborate cave, it boasts a prayer hall and numerous cells, housing a majestic stupa and intricately sculpted idols and water tanks carved into the rocks that capture the imagination.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the Pandavleni Caves also serve as a repository of historical and cultural significance, offering invaluable insights into the lives of ancient dynasties and the spiritual practices of bygone eras. Explore the inscriptions that detail the lives of kings from the Kshatrapa and Satavahana dynasties and the excavation of vihars, shrines, chaityas, and cisterns that once thrived within these sacred walls. Delve into the fascinating accounts of the caves' rich history, from royal patronage to the enduring legacy bestowed upon the inhabitants of Nashik.

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Discover the nearby gems

The wonders of Nashik extend far beyond the Pandavleni Caves. At the foot of the caves, you will find the Dada Saheb Phalke Smarak, which showcases the work of Dadasaheb Phalke, widely considered the 'Father of Indian Cinema.' From there, go to Ramkund, where Lord Rama is said to have bathed. Dive into the grandeur of Kalaram Temple, where a black stone idol of Lord Ram resides. Explore Panchvati, situated along the left bank of the holy Godavari River, where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshman spent a crucial part of their fourteen-year exile. For those seeking deeper spiritual resonance, visiting Shirdi is a must. This spiritual haven is home to the revered shrine of Shirdi Sai Baba, one of India's most esteemed saints.

As you explore Nashik and the remarkable Pandavleni Caves, you're not merely embarking on a journey through time and culture but delving into the essence of India's spiritual and artistic heritage. Take the chance to experience the timeless magnificence of this place, which has shaped the region for millennia.

Best time to visit

 October - March

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