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Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: Ancient Jain Rock-Cut Shelters

Explore ancient Jain rock-cut caves in Bhubaneswar, showcasing intricate carvings and historical significance from the era of King Kharavela.

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Explore the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, ancient rock-cut shelters carved into twin hills near Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries BCE, these caves, commissioned by King Kharavela, served as residences for Jain monks and showcase intricate carvings and historical inscriptions, offering a glimpse into the region's rich Jain heritage and ancient art.

A brief summary to Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

  • 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

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be climbing and walking to explore the caves.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Hire a local guide to learn about the history and significance of each cave.
  • Carry water and snacks, as there are limited options available on the hills.
  • Photography is allowed, but check if there are any restrictions on using flash.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bhubaneswar Railway Station, take a local bus towards Khandagiri. The bus will drop you off near the Khandagiri Square, which is a short walk to the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves entrance. The bus fare is approximately INR 20-30. Alternatively, you can take an auto-rickshaw from the railway station to the caves for around INR 150-200.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Biju Patnaik International Airport, hire a taxi or ride-share service (Ola/Uber) to Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves. The ride is approximately 6.5 km and takes about 15 minutes. A taxi or ride-share will cost approximately INR 150-250. Parking is available near the site.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Khandagiri Square, you can easily walk to the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves entrance. It's a short, well-marked walk of about 10 minutes. Follow the main road leading towards the hills, and you'll find the entrance on your left. There are no specific costs involved in walking.

Unlock the Best of Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

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Discover more about Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, located on adjacent hills on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, represent one of the earliest examples of Jain rock-cut architecture in eastern India. These caves, dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries BCE, were carved during the reign of King Kharavela of the Mahameghavahana dynasty, primarily to serve as residential blocks for Jain monks. Originally, there were 117 caves, but only 33 remain today, with 18 in Udayagiri and 15 in Khandagiri. Udayagiri, meaning "Sunrise Hill," houses caves with fascinating carvings. The most significant is the Rani Gumpha (Queen's Cave), a double-storied structure adorned with carvings of victorious scenes, religious symbols, and royal court depictions. Other notable caves include Ganesh Gumpha, featuring a Ganesha carving, and Hathi Gumpha, which contains the famous Hathigumpha inscription, a primary source of Kalinga's history under King Kharavela. Khandagiri, meaning "Broken Hill," features several Jain temples alongside its caves. Ananta Gumpha stands out with its serpent carvings on the door arches and depictions of women, children, athletes, and animals on its walls. The caves' architecture reflects Jain monastic life, with simple dwellings for meditation and religious practices. The Archaeological Survey of India maintains the Udayagiri caves, recognizing their importance to India's cultural heritage. These caves offer a unique insight into ancient Indian art, architecture, and the Jain religion, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts alike.

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