Karla and Bhaja Caves are located near Lonavala in
Maharashtra. The Bhaja caves are regarded to be from the times of
Hinayana phase of Buddhism, which is of 2nd to 1st century BC. These
caves are also mainly Viharas and Chaityas and located just 3 km away
from the main road amidst green surroundings. There is also a waterfall
near the cave where tourists can refresh themselves with a dip. Lohagad
and Visapur forts are not far from these caves.
Karla Cave is the largest Hinayana Buddhist chaitya (temple) in India
built during Satavahana's rule. Karla is the best example of rock-cut
architecture, which is believed to carve out from a living rock. Some of
its 2000 year-old wooden beams are still alive. It takes nearly 20
minutes to climb up the steep way of the Karla caves. There is a 45
meter (148-foot) long Chaitya, possibly the finest of its kind in the
country. A temple has been built recently built at the entrance using
pillars from the Budhist period.
There is a sculpture of Buddha preaching seated on a lion-supported
throne, which has magnificent carvings of three elephants. The pillars
are adorned with motifs of elephants, men and riding women etc.
Nearest airport is at Pune, while nearest railway station is Malavli.
Lonavla station, 10 km from Kalra is the most convenient base for
visiting Karla and Bhaja caves.
