Karla Caves Maharashtra

These Karla Caves, popularly known as Karla Cells are a conglomeration of enticing rock-cut caves of Buddhist origin situated at Karli close to Lonavala in the state of Maharashtra. These shrines were constructed in the period between 2nd-5th centuries. One of the oldest cave shrines belongs to the 160BC period. Budhhists were associated to traders, manufacturing and commerce had their monasteries near to the trading routes to offer shelter to the travelling traders.

These caves exhibit a prayer hall that dates back to the 1st century and are about 45meters long and 14 meters high. The halls display sculptures of elephants, lions and female and male characters. The Karla complex carved out of rocky hill housed the viharas or the residential places of the monks. These caves display intricately carved vaulted interiors and arched entrances. It exhibits a central motif, which is a large horseshoe arch, an Ashokan pillar with the stone façade and a torana located in between.

History of the Attraction

These Karla Caves has historical importance and are related to the sect of Mahasmghika of the Buddhist religion and Hinduism later. These caves follow a mixed Buddhist and Indian style of rock-cut architecture. These shrines were developed in two periods. The first period is 2nd century B.C. to the 2nd century A.D. The second period is between 5th A.D to the 10th A.D.

Getting There

Karla Caves can be reached by airplane, train or car. Tourists can reach Pune by air, which is the nearest city to Lonavala. From Lonavala to Karla tourists can travel by bus. The closest international airport to the Karla Caves is Mumbai. By availing private cabs tourists can reach Lonavala and Karla Caves. The nearest Railway Station to get to Karla Caves is Lonavala. Tourists from Pune or Mumbat can take a train to reach Lonavala and then auto to reach the Karla Caves. These caves are 12 kms from Lonavala and can be reached by bus. The earliest bus to depart Lonavala for Karla is at 6am and the last is at 7pm.

Opening/Closing Timings and days 

These caves are open everyday and the preferable time of visiting the caves is from 9a.m. to 5:30 p.m.