Khandagiri Caves, Bhubaneswar are partly artificial and partly natural caves that attract numerous tourists especially the Jain because of the archaeological, religious and historical importance. These caves are located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha and share their presence with the famous Udayagiri Caves. These caves are located on two adjacent hills Khandagiri and Udayagiri; from where the names of these caves originally come from. Their aesthetic value can be considered from the fact that these caves are mentioned in Hathigumpha Inscription as Kumari Parvat.
Khandagiri Caves are mentioned as ‘lena’ in the Hathigumpha Inscription and it is believed that these were dug as residential blocks for Jain monks under the supremacy of Kharavela. These caves offer good archaeological aspects of that time and are even more beautiful. The landscape becomes even more serene as these are partly natural and partly man-made. Thus, these caves showcase the perfect blend of aesthetics, love for nature and human endeavours of that time. These caves were used as residential areas by Jain Monks and served as a monastery for many years. Ranigumpha Cave, nearby Udayagiri Caves is also a famous tourist attraction as it is a double-storey monastery.
Bhubaneswar is well known for its temples that serve as major tourist attractions in the whole of Odisha. These caves are well-maintained and open for public to experience the skills of craftsmen and architects of those times when the majority of modernistic designing and building tools were not present.
When one visits the famous Bhubaneswar city, it is very likely that Khandagiri Caves is told as a famous tourist destination. People from countries such as Nepal, Myanmar and even from the SAARC Nations come here every year- to witness the purity and aesthetic values of these caves. Being a nature lover, I enjoyed each and every bit of these majestic caves.
When one visits the famous Bhubaneswar city, it is very likely that Khandagiri Caves is told as a famous tourist destination. People from countries such as Nepal, Myanmar and even from the SAARC Nations come here every year- to witness the purity and aesthetic values of these caves. Being a nature lover, I enjoyed each and every bit of these majestic caves.
Khandagiri Caves are 15 in number and offer a rear view of Bhubaneswar City from the top of the Khandagiri Hill. Various Inscriptions can also be found. Some famous Caves among these 15 Caves include the Tatowa Gumpha, Ananta Gumpha, Khandagiri Ghumpha, Navamuni Gumpha, Trusula Gumpha, Ambika Gumpha, etc. Khandagiri Caves became even more special because of their advanced technique and were a must watch as they also resemble the Sanchi Caves, to some extent.