Pandav Leni Caves, Nashik, Full guide

History :

The caves can be traced back up to the 1st century BCE by inscriptions recording donations. Out of the twenty-four caves, two caves are a major attraction - the main cave which is the Chaitya (prayer hall) has a beautiful Stupa; the second one is cave no. 10 which is complete in all structural as well inscriptions. Both the caves have pictures of Buddha come out of a printer stuck all over the rocks there is also no water supply there. The caves are facing eastwards. So it is recommended to visit the caves early morning as in sunlight the beauty of carvings is enhanced.

The caves were called Pundru which in Pali language means "yellow ochre color". This is because the caves were the residence of Buddhist monks who wore "the chivara or the yellow robes". Later on, the word Pundru changed to Pandu Caves (as per Ancient Monuments Act 26 May 1909). Decades later people started calling it Pandav Caves - a misnomer which is used for every cave in India.

The various inscriptions confirm that Nashik in that period was ruled by 3 dynasties – the Western,Shatrapas  the Satavahanas and the Abhiras. It seems there was always a conflict between Satavahanas and the Kshatrapas over supremacy. However, all the 3 kings fully supported Buddhism. The inscriptions also confirm that apart from the kings, local merchants, landlords too supported and donated huge sums for the development of these caves.

layout :  

    The group of 24 caves was cut in a long line on the north face of a hill called Trirasmi. The main interest of this group lies not only in its bearing on its walls a number of inscriptions of great historical significance belonging to the reign of Satavahana & Kshaharatas or Kshatrapas. But also in its representing a brilliant phase in the Rock-Cut architecture of the second century CE. There are altogether 24 excavations though many of these are small & less important. Beginning at the east end they may conveniently be numbered westward. They are almost entirely of an early date and were excavated by the Hinayana sect. Mostly, the interior of the caves are starkly plain, in contrast to the heavily ornamented exterior.

Features/Place :     

Water Park, Monuments, Mountains, Inscription, Architecture, Point, Heritage, Historical, Temple.

                                                                                                                                             

couple point :                                                                                                                             

Yes couple can come here. In Pandavleni there is no restrict for couples.                                                

 

Scene :

How to Reach :

You can reach the Pandavleni Caves via Bus, Taxi, Auto, Bike or Cabs

          

Best time to visit :        In Rainy season.

 The caves are facing eastwards. So it is recommended to visit the caves early morning as in sunlight the beauty of carvings is enhanced.

Timing :

Friday	8:30am–5:30pm
Saturday	8:30am–5:30pm
Sunday	8:30am–5:30pm
Monday	8:30am–5:30pm
Tuesday	8:30am–5:30pm
Wednesday	8:30am–5:30pm
Thursday	8:30am–5:30pm

Note :- Always open in the Morning for Trecking.

Entry Fees :

Adults : 20 Rupees.

Children ( upto 15 years ) : Free

Free Entry for adults and children on Fridays.

Address :

Pandav Lene Rd, Buddha Vihar, Pathardi Phata, Nashik, Maharashtra 422010