Nestling in the hills of Lonavala, the rock-cut Karla Caves rank amongst the oldest and finest examples of Early Buddhist temple art in India

Divinity in stone

Nestling in the hills of Lonavala, the rock-cut Karla Caves rank amongst the oldest and finest examples of Early Buddhist temple art in India

Karla Caves is where Buddhism comes alive. Nestling in the hills of Lonavala, the rock-cut Karla and Bhaja Caves rank amongst the oldest and finest examples of Early Buddhist temple art in India. The Karla Cave, the largest Early Buddhist shrine in India, imitates the look of more familiar wooden architecture. Completed in 80 BC, the impressive structure includes a representation of the Buddha, and an aisle made up of 37 pillars and carved elephant heads, which once had real ivory tusks. The Bhaja Cave complex comprises 18 caves and 14 stupas. Dating from around 200 BC, these architectural curiosities lie amidst thick greenery in a setting that’s so calm, it’s almost mystical. Just outside Karla Caves, Ekvira Temple is visited by thousands of devotees, mainly fisher folk. The twin hill resorts of Khandala and Lonavala have a special attraction for the Mumbai crowd seeking a convenient weekend holiday in the hills. A few hours by road from Mumbai, beautifully landscaped Lonavala and Khandala are famous for their seemingly innumerable varieties of chikki. But they also offer many sites worth visiting. Trekking is a good way to get around, but having a vehicle is still better, as some points of interest are at some distance from the main towns. Other attractions include Bhushi Dam, Valvan Dam, Kaivalyadhama Yoga Hospital, Duke’s Nose, Ryewood Park, Tiger’s Leap. Duke’s Nose is a cliff that resembles the nose of the Duke of Wellington. The hill fort of Korigad in Amby Valley is located roughly 3050 ft. above sea level. Lohgad attracts visitors with its wide, refreshing waterfalls, an ancient fort, and, of course, those famous caves. The MTDC Resort offers a water park and boating on a private lake. 2/3/4/6 bed AC and non-AC rooms are available.