Pandu Lena Caves in Nasik
· Summer: March-May (22°C - 40°C)
· Winter: December-February (12°C - 33°C)
· Monsoon: June-September
Best time to visit:
October-March
Opening Time: 08:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 05:30 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: Nil
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: INR 2
Children:
Nil
Cameras: Nil
Video Camera: Nil
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
INR 2
Children:
Nil
Cameras:
Nil
Video Camera:
Nil
Also known as Trirashmi Caves, after the name of the hillock they are located on, Pandu Lena Caves consist of 24 Buddhist caves dating between the 2nd century BC and 2nd century AD, further extended in design up till 12th century AD. Cave number 18 is the only Chaitya (prayer hall) with stupa, while remaining 23 caves represent Buddhist viharas (monasteries). Detailed inscriptions found in many of these caves provide huge information about the rulers and Buddhist followers who donated and assisted in the process of carving these caves.
Apart from carvings and inscriptions, there are huge idols of Buddha and many other sculptures that are enough to leave one flabbergasted with delight. Cave 3 and Cave 10 are extremely admirable for their ornamented pillars. Water tanks carved from the rocks are the additional features and boast of the skills that people had centuries ago. It is a pleasure to have wonderful views of the entire city from the top of the hillock. Try visiting the caves at the earliest in the morning to watch their peak splendour under the rising sun.
Connectivites
Road:
The base of the Trirashmi Hills is about 8 km. from Nashik and can be conveniently accessed from the Nashik-Mumbai Expressway. Taxis, cabs and auto-rickshaws from the city centre can help to reach this point. From the base, you can choose among the steps or the trekking route leading to the caves.
Railway:
Nashik Road Railway Station is only about 12 km. from the foot of the hillock. Hire a taxi, a cab or an auto-rickshaw from the station to reach the base conveniently.
Airway:
Ozar Airport of Nashik is about 29 km. from the caves’ starting point. Again, you must rely on taxis and cabs to cover the road trip from the airport.