Top 5 Unexplored Caves And Geological Wonders Near Pune City
Pune is well connected by many important historical places and natural wonders. Bhuleshwar Caves is one of the most underrated caves to visit which is 50 kilometers from the vicinity of Pune.
1. Bhuleshwar Caves
Bhuleshwar caves and temples are located on secure land at the foothill of the Sahyadri mountain ranges approximately 50 kilometers from Pune. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is encased in several rock cut caves fashioned during the 8th century. The exquisite intricacy of carvings included into the temple's cuts gives it a classic architectural style that leaves people in awe of its beauty. The temple of Bhuleshwar is a part of a treasure trove of Brahmanical temples, but its prominence makes it one of the best to see. You can find steep sculptures deriding Lord Shiva in the form of Dravidian Architecture along with his consort Parvati in the complex.
2. Shivneri Caves
Many people visit Shivneri Fort as it is known to be the birthplace of the great warrior King Chhatrapati Shivaji, but some are not aware of the interesting Shivneri Caves that lie within the fort. These caves were built during the 1st century and assumed to have been used by monks for meditation practices, which makes them very fascinating.
3. Lenyadri Caves
Around 90 km from Pune are the Lenyadri Caves, part of a group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves. These caves stand out from the others since one of the caves is a temple built for Lord Ganesha which makes it one of the sites for Ashtavinayak. The location of the caves on the top of a hill makes them sprightly pleasing after the 300 steps climb along with a view that is very beautiful.
4. Karla Caves
Boyed up is well known as a Lonavala hot springs location where you can spend time enjoying nature and stunning views. The area's rich history and ancient Buddhist structures makes it an attraction for people around the world. The Chaitya Hall was considered to be one of the most impressive architectural feats of the time with skillful carvings and walls that told stories of Buddhist myths. The 2nd century BCE hall now forms part of chaitya complex and is a grand sight to behold.
5. Pandav Caves, Junnar
Approximately 95 kilometers away from Pune in Junnar lies the smashed cut Pandav Caves. The site is also called a head quarter cave because it is a collection of over 200 ancient smash cut caves. The first 11 caves are believed to have been used as reading and studying sections for Buddhist monks during solitary periods. This site isn't very well known so Junnar will be a delight for the peaceful ones in nature.
Final Thoughts
If you would like to adventure into something far from the traditional sightseeing locations, the caves and other geological formations in and around Pune are rich in history and adventure and are incredibly beautiful. These places not only showcase remnants of ancient cultures but also provide a peaceful environment for nature-loving travelers to appreciate.
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