Some are natural, some are artificial, but these caves near Bhubneshwar are truly intriguing. The one who visits there gets to see a lot of history and their marks which is interesting in every manner. There is a total of 18 caves out of which one is most popular which is a two storey monastery. If you are a fondler of history, do not miss the chance of being there.
They are partly natural and partly artificial caves of archaeological, historical and religious importance near the city of Bhubaneswar in Odisha, India. They have a number of finely and ornately carved caves built during the 1st century BCE. It is believed that most of these caves were carved out as residential blocks for Jaina monks during the reign of King Kharavela. Khandagiri has a total of 15 caves.
Top Attractions of Khandagiri Caves
Nandakanan Zoological Park
The Nandankanan Zoological Park was established in the year 1960 and was made available to the public in the year of 1979. What is really interesting to know about this place is the fact that it was the very first Indian Zoo which joined the World Association of the Zoos and Aquariums in the year of 2009. Furthermore, in this place, you will also be finding a botanical garden, a specific part of which has been declared as a sanctuary.
Chaunsathi Jogini Temple
This temple carries an iconic spiritual significance and is very popular among the locals. This temple has been built in a circular fashion with blocks of the sandstone. At this temple, there are around 56 idols which are made of black granite. This temple has a central altar which has got around 8 Goddess idols located on all four sides.
Barabati Fort
This is an ideal tourist spot to visit for people who have a certain inclination towards history. This fort was built in the 14th-century. However, in the current timeline, this place is located right next to the modern Barabati Stadium.
Things to Do in Khandagiri Caves
Netaji Birth Place Museum
The Netaji Birth Place Museum is one such place where you would get to see a variety of things relating to Subhas Chandra Bose himself. This tourist spot is located in the Oriya Bazaar and it would take you around 45 min to travel to this place from the caves. What is really exciting to know about this place is the fact that this is where Netaji used to live. It has been converted into a museum where you get a chance to get to know about his life from the very childhood till his becoming a freedom fighter.
Dhauli Giri Hills
These hills are just a delight to experience in their raw beauty. These are located on the Daya river which is 8 km south of Bhubaneshwar. If you visit this place then you will also be finding various edicts of Ashoka engraved on a mass of rocks. It can possibly be said that the king Ashoka had a very special place in his heart regarding this place owing to the fact that a fierce battle was fought in this place. Thus, he took special efforts to see that it becomes a significant centre of Buddhist activities.
Best Time to Visit Khandagiri Caves
If you are planning to visit Khandagiri caves, then you should know what is the best time to visit Khandagiri caves? So, given the fact that Bhubaneshwar gets very hot in summers, the months of November to March is the best time to explore this popular travel destination.
How to Reach Khandagiri Caves?
By Air
The nearest airport from this destination is the Bhubaneshwar Airport. From there you will have to catch a train or a bus to reach your destination.
By Road
The city is well connected via road network so if you travelling by road is your plan then you should not be facing any issue.
By Train
From the Khandagiri Caves, the nearest railway station is the Bhubaneshwar Railway Station which is located at a distance of around 10 km. From there you would have to either take a taxi or a bus to reach your destination.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here
