Karla Caves - Hindu temple in Lonavala - Pune, India

Karla Caves is a captivating blend of history and nature. The ancient rock-cut caves boast impressive architecture and intricate sculptures that offer a glimpse into India's rich cultural heritage. The serene surroundings enhance the experience, making it a tranquil escape. While the caves are relatively small, the historical significance and scenic beauty make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a brief yet enriching exploration. To reach here you have to climb a few stair (300around) going through the local markets and have to buy entry tickets. Indian:25rs Foreigners:300rs

Very crowded stairway to active Hindu temple which is in front of the Karla cave. Beautiful view from the top. Worth the climb! Carvings are the most interesting of the Bedse, Bhaja and Karla circuit. Hairpin turns to get to the "base" climbing points.

One the ancient structure remained in Western ghats of India which displays Buddhist ideology and their love for architecture in caves. This might be one of the scenic tourist attraction couple of decades ago. The climb by stairs was pleasant and easy affair. There is a beautiful waterfall just before the caves. Gladly it's out of reach of people. But it's now marred by shops set on both sides of stairs and their encroachment extending till middle of steps. There is entrance fee for caves of Rs. 50 per person along with parking fee and entrance fee looted by villagers. As the case with all other historically important sites, this one also is poorly maintained. No informative signages, no direction boards anywhere. Our fellow countrymen have successfully carried out their responsibility of dirtying the place with all kinds of litter. Washrooms in parking are filthy.

50 rs entry ticket even before you start climbing the road of Karla caves , 50 rs parking for 4 wheeler (2 wheeler is free) and then 25 per person ticket for Karla caves entry. Caves are approx 2000 years old and if you enjoy seeing old monuments, you can visit. Avoid weekends though , there was a huge jam on the top due to cars. Its a good trek of stairs so plan accordingly.

Very beautiful place. Once a Buddhist monastery, situated atop a hill. Now more people visit it for a temple constructed recently. This Buddhist monastery was built by cutting the rock mountain. It has a meditation hall, rooms for monks, and a gathering spot. There was a small waterfall also, a natural source of water. The carvings are intricate and detailed.

The caves are definitely worth visiting. Parking for two wheelers is not an issue. For four wheelers parking is limited but maybe because I had visited during some festival. The caves are well maintained and can be visited as a day outing. Combine them with tasty snacks from Manashakti and a visit to Mapro Garden nearby.

It's situated on a hilltop and view is mesmerising. I went in rainy season hence you can see some small waterfalls. But i doubt in summer season you will be able to see these much. Try visiting in daytime as there is no source of light inside the cave. You will be able to click some good pictures. No advance ticket needed.

Karla Caves are one of the earliest and oldest examples of well-preserved, richly decorated rock-cut shrines in India and represent the pinnacle of Indian rock-cut architecture at the time, that our country is so proud of. These caves are comparable in splendour to Ajanta and Ellora. It is located in the village of Karli, 10 KM from Lonavla, a hill station in Maharashtra, constructed during Satavahana's rule, between the 2nd century AD to the 5th century AD, by the Buddhist monks for meditation and worship. These well-known Buddhist rock-cut excavations consists of 16 caves that has one of the largest Caitya Griha in India, known as the Great Chaitya, with its apsidal chamber extending 124 feet into it, and a barrel-vaulted roof 46 feet high. The chaitya griha is created with an amalgamation of timber and stone. This chamber consists of a broad central nave with two narrow aisles on either side by a row of fifteen octagonal pillars. The entrance of the Karla Caves is gorgeous. You need to show the entry ticket at the gate. The strong rock cut representation of three Lion Pillars found at the entrance of the cave looks magnificent. There is a sculpture of Buddha preaching seated on a lion-supported throne, which has splendid carvings of three elephants. The pillars are adorned with motifs of elephants, men and riding women. There are Elephant Heads carved out of single stone with minute detailing. There are a few images and structures that are sadly broken by humans, yet they look exotic as ever. Entering the cave viharas through the little patch of tiny rock cut stairs is bit of a challenge, steps inside the cave are wet with rainwater and dark without light, one needs a torch. However, windows have also been built so that sunlight is allowed to penetrate in the hall. The door of the viharas are closed with barriers and prevented from entering. These caves are located just 3 km away from the main road amidst green surroundings. There are parking available uphill at the base of the cave but not enough to support the crowd on a Sunday. Road is steep and narrow with breathtaking view of the mountain and the valley. We drove up but there was a long jam closer to the base. We had to reverse slowly and park the vehicle halfway down by the road in a little broader space. There is also a waterfall near the cave where tourists can refresh themselves with a dip. Once you reach the base, it takes nearly 20 minutes to climb up the steep way approx. 500 steps to the Karla caves. The Aai Ekveera temple has been built recently at the entrance using pillars from the Buddhist period sharing the same premises. Visiting hour: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm on all days of the week. Entry fees is INR 5 for Indian citizens and INR 100 for foreigners. Tender exact change. It works on Cash only. Caves, Lohagad and Visapur forts are not far from these caves.