Exploring the Ancient Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
Discover the ancient Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, a historical landmark in Odisha, showcasing mesmerizing Jain temples and stunning rock carvings.
A brief summary to Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
- 7Q7M+2V7, Bhubaneswar, Khandagiri, Odisha, 751030, IN
- +9118002081414
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves are an extraordinary ancient site situated near Bhubaneswar, Odisha, that beckons history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. Carved out of soft rock during the 2nd century BCE, these caves served as residential quarters for Jain monks. The intricate sculptures and inscriptions reflect the artistic prowess of that era, making it a significant historical landmark. Visitors can explore around 33 caves, each with its unique charm, showcasing fascinating carvings of deities, meditation chambers, and ancient water cisterns. The most notable caves include Hathi Gumpha, known for its large elephant carvings, and the beautiful Rani Gumpha, which features exquisite artistic details. As you wander through the serene pathways, you will feel a deep connection to the past, surrounded by the lush greenery of the surrounding hills. This site is not just a historical treasure; it also provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It's important to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy a more peaceful exploration. The caves are open to visitors every day from 8 AM to 5 PM, allowing ample time to soak in the beauty and spirituality of this remarkable place. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas and detailed carvings that tell stories of a bygone era.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be exploring uneven terrain and climbing steps.
- Carry water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the cave complex.
- Respect the historical significance of the site by not touching the carvings and sculptures.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a richer understanding of the caves' history and significance.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From any location in Bhopal, head to the nearest bus station and catch a bus heading towards Bhubaneswar. Ensure you ask for a bus that stops at Khandagiri. The journey may take several hours, so check the bus schedule in advance. Once you arrive at Khandagiri, ask locals for directions to the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, which are a short walk from the bus stop.
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Train
Make your way to Bhopal Junction railway station. Board a train headed towards Bhubaneswar. Upon arrival at Bhubaneswar Railway Station, you can take a local auto-rickshaw or a taxi to Khandagiri. It’s a well-known landmark, so drivers will be familiar with the location. The caves are approximately 5-7 kilometers from the railway station.
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Auto-Rickshaw
If you are already in Bhubaneswar, you can easily hire an auto-rickshaw to take you directly to Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves. Just inform the driver you want to visit the caves, and they will know the way. The ride should take around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Walking
If you are staying close to Khandagiri, you can walk to the caves. Follow the main road towards Khandagiri and look for signs pointing to the caves. It is a popular tourist spot, so you may encounter other tourists heading in the same direction. The walk may take about 30 minutes from the Khandagiri area.
Attractions Nearby to Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
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NABIN NIVAS
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Udayagiri View point
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Khandagiri Jain Temple
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Khandagiri caves Entry Gate
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Khandagiri Top Peak
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Manchapuri and swargapuri caves
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Rani Gumpha
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Khandagiri and Udayagiri Hills
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KHANDAGIRI SIDE HILL VIEW
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Jayadev Vatika
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Kharavela Park
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Biju Patnaik Energy Park
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Shri Ram Mandir
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Aircraft View Point,Bhubaneswar
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Greenpark MukteswarTemple
Landmarks nearby to Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves
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Rameswar Temple
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BDA City Centre (Nicco Park)
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Mausima Temple
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MAYFAIR Convention, Bhubaneswar
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Jaydev Vihar Square
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MAYFAIR Lagoon, Bhubaneswar
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Pal Heights Mall
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IDCO Exhibition Ground
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Trident Hotel Bhubaneswar
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Shree Ananta Basudev Temple
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Ekamra Haat
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Shree Parsurameswara Temple
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Regional Science Centre Bhubaneswar (Science Park)
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Shree Mukteswara Temple, Bhubaneswar
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Kedara Gouri Temple