Bhiwandi's Hidden Buddhist Caverns

These Buddhist rock-cut caverns are located close to Janwal village and are being protected by the Directorate of Archaeology & Museums. These caves, which date from the fifth to eighth century, were previously inhabited by Buddhist monks. Currently known as the Khandeshwari Temple, it is one of the popular pilgrimage places close to Bhiwandi.

Buddhist monks travelling from Nala Sopara port constructed the Lonad Caves. The monks went first to Junnar which was the capital of the Satavahana Kingdom during the time. This kingdom was headed by King Satakarni. The caverns have since been turned into religious sites for worship and devotion.

The most notable structure here is the Chaitya griha. The Chaitya building comprises a hall, a double veranda and a shrine.

Worth seeing

The entrance's three-square columns and two pilasters are noteworthy.

The incompletely carved statue and a hall in the temple located within the network of caverns

The main beam around a gateway of the Lonad Caves in Bhiwandi bears an inscription from the Vessantara Jataka. The Vessantara Jataka is essentially a story about one of Lord Buddha's earlier incarnations. Additionally, there are flat consoles depicting the deity of wealth Panchika and the family goddess Haritti. The Buddhist deity of Lonad has recently been transformed into a Hindu idol.

Vessantara Jataka is magnified on a panel on the right side of the Lonad caverns, next to sculptures of the king and queen and their council. Vessantara's father (King) sits on a high throne surrounded by courtiers and servants, debating whether to banish the princess Vessantara.

Mahishasura Mardini and Khandeshvari are depicted in the cave, and there is a rock-cut water cistern close to Chaitya Griha.

Yaksha caryatids surround the centre entryway, which leads to the interior hall.

TIPS:

1. If you plan to visit, bring your own food and drink because amenities are not much available.

2. Wear sturdy shoes because this is a rough, steep terrain.

3. The Janwal Village serves as a starting place for those who are here for the first time.

4. The caverns are accessible by road through a small route that climbs up to the network. Cars can travel the whole length of the path, however it is very narrow and may cause issues. As a result, people choose to stroll up to the temple.

5. A stream runs beside the rugged ground as you climb up to the temple. The ascent might be treacherous due to moss on some sections. There are various rough sections near the summit of the slope. Visitors can stop here for a brief rest. The surroundings are rich with foliage and abundant with wild flowers.

Aside from the fact that the whole structure, all of the caverns, were carved out of stone, the cave walls include intriguing sculptures, paintings, and inscriptions. It is an excellent location for photographers and history buffs. The rich foliage and the backdrop of the hills make for an ideal picnic spot. It is a popular picnic location for families.