Bhaja Caves

Bhaja Caves, also know as the Bhaje Caves, are a group of 22 caves beautifully carved showing the magnificent architecture of ancient period. These date back to the 2nd century BC. These caves have a number of stupas, one of their significant features. This completes the Trio of the caves around Lonavala / Kamshet area.

The most prominent excavation is its Chaitya (or Chaityagrha – Cave XII). It is hoisted with 27 pillars around the walls and with a vaulted horseshoe ceiling carved in wood.

Its vihara (Cave XVIII) has a pillared verandah in front and is adorned with unique reliefs. These caves are notable for their indications of the awareness of wooden architecture. 

Supposedly this is the Bodhi tree under which lord Buddha attained Nirvana. There is no confirmation to this fact and neither did I find it real, but the folks around said so. So it is ….

The carvings prove that tabla was used in India for at least 2300 years. I think this should disprove the centuries-held belief that the tabla was introduced to India by Turko-Arab. The carving shows a woman playing tabla and another woman, performing dance.