Karla caves, Maharashtra, located 11 Km north-east of Lonavala, are one of the oldest rock-cut cave temples in India.
Developed between 2nd century BCE and 5th century CE, the oldest of the cave shrines is carbon-dated to the year 160 BCE – that’s almost 2200 years ago!
Karla caves are highly ornate and richly decorated. It represents the utmost accomplishment of Indian rock-cut architecture. The main cave called the ‘Great Chaitya’ is the largest rock-cut chaitya (hall) in India – that’s 148 feet long and 46 feet high!
Located on the ancient trade route, the cave temples were funded by traders and Satavahana rulers.
Ancient Ekvira Aai Mandir (temple) said to have been established by Pandavas during their exile, is located right in front of Karla caves. The current temple structure is dated to 2nd century BCE.
Karla caves are an amazing piece of antiquity indeed!
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/zNCBw8ozMQTphA77A
#drive #heritage #nature
