Karla is known for its splendid rock cut Buddhist cave complex, which hosts the largest and the best preserved Buddhist cave temple specimens in the northwest Deccan plateau region. Amidst the hills of Lonavala, this cave modeled on the wooden architecture, display the finest and the oldest Buddhist rock cuts belonging to the 2nd to 1st centuries B.C. era.
The most splendid attraction of Karla Cave tour is its Chaitya Griha (prayer hall). This is the largest and the best preserved specimens of the region’s early Buddhist caves. The remarkable temple features an admirably sculpted porch, a soaring 14-m high facade with a horseshoe shaped window and a large pillared hall with a monolithic stupa. Also, the complex has three entrances below, one for the priest and the two others for devotees.
The chaitya hall is based on immaculate architecture and engineering skills. Its rooftop is built of Teakwood and astonishingly is still in perfect condition. The inclusion of the rare wood work as the ceiling shows the cultural assimilation to the Buddhist art, giving it an exclusive and rare look.
The 37 pillars of the hall are also sculpted with the symbols of Buddhism including lions; representing the religion’s flourishing in the Deccan. Separated by three doorways, the veranda of the cave features sculpted figures of six couples, supposed to be the wealthy patrons of the hall. Also, the caves are ornamented with many animals and different forms of human life carved out of rock.
Nestling in the hilly hinterland, Karla Cave offers another immaculate experience where the sunlight naturally falls on the cave temple shrine, offering an exclusive view to the travellers.
Excursions Tour from Karla Caves Maharashtra-
Lonavala: Lonavala is not a lonely hill town but a sprawling locale where nature blooms in its best form. A weekender delight, Lonavala is a holiday spot favoured for its countryside beauty and cooler environs. Tourists flock in huge numbers to this town during Karla cave tour and enjoy walking through the bustling market here and also for a famous Kaivalyadhama Yoga Hospital to experience yogic healing.
Pune: Maharashtra’s second largest city, Pune is the city of epithets. Also known as the Oxford of India, Monsoon Capital of the British and Cultural capital of Maharashtra, this city is traditional at heart, yet modernistic in approach. The authentic Marathi culture, cuisines, and heritage locations and palaces are the attractions to look out for in Pune during Karla Cave tour.
How to reach Karla Caves Maharashtra -
Air: Pune airport in Lohegaon, at a distance of 55 km is the nearest and a major airport of Maharashtra.
Rail: There is a local railway station at a distance of 5 km, Malavil in Bhaja Village. However, railway station in Pune is a better known and well connected railhead.
Road: The caves are reachable through the Mumbai Pune road. Buses between Mumbai and Pune go via Karla and hence are easily reachable. However, private rented vehicles are also available.
