Panhalekaji Caves
Dapoli
Architecture and Art
Rock-Cut Structures: The Panhalekaji Caves are a series of 29 rock-cut caves, carved out of the basalt rock cliffs. These caves exhibit a blend of Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles, with intricate carvings, sculptures, and inscriptions adorning the walls.
Iconography: The caves feature numerous statues and carvings of Buddhist deities such as the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and Dwarapalas (gatekeepers). Additionally, there are also Hindu depictions, including images of Lord Shiva, Ganesha, and scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Chaityas and Viharas: The caves include chaityas (prayer halls) and viharas (monasteries or dwelling places for monks). The largest cave has a chaitya hall with a stupa, which was used for meditation and prayer.
Travel Back in History with the Panhalekaji Cave
In the Taluka Dapoli of Ratnagiri district, lies Panhalekaji, a small village located close to the banks of the river Thorli-dhakti Kotjai. This community has a rich heritage in addition to being plush in natural beauty. The town has ancient Indian artefacts on display found inside the ancient Panhalekaji Caves, along the mountain range next to the river. Inside the caves in Dapoli, you can discover dome-shaped sanctuaries, statues, and other historical artefacts dating back to the Buddhist times of Hinayana & Vajrayaan, and the Shilahar dynasties. Whether you love history or are an explorer, Panhalekaji caves are the best adventure you will ever be on.
Inside the Caves
As you step inside the caves, you will be taken back thousands of years. The smell and the sound of small water fountains nearby will saturate your senses as you stare at the amazing architecture that the Panhalakaji Caves brandish. However, Panhalakaji Caves’ number 10 cave is the most impressive in the area. Maha-chandraroshana’s deity is depicted on the stupa, signifying the relationship between Ratnagiri in Odisha and the region’s historic Buddhist temples. Despite Lord Buddha’s absence during his lifetime, Buddhism was well-known in Odisha from the beginning. According to the Buddhist histories, Tapassu and Bhallika, two wealthy traders from that era, brought Kesa Asthi to Odra, an ancient kingdom in Odisha. The Gautama Buddha’s tooth and nail relics also made their way into Odra during the succeeding eras.
More About the Ancient Caves
There are 29 caves in total, forming the Panhalekaji Caves. The caves in Dapoli were worked on and renovated by the Vajrayana people in the 10th century. Stupas were also erected here. You can find statues of Lord Ganapati and Devi Saraswati. The caves which conserve the illustrious history of thousands of years are a peaceful and stunning getaway. Panhalakaji Caves are situated close to the Kotjai River. The location is still rather remote and difficult to get to know; back then, residing there would have meant leading an entirely isolated life. This also made it necessary for survival, to be self-sustaining with foraging for daily needs inside the deep jungle surrounding the mountain range.
Reaching the Caves
To reach the caves in Dapoli, you have to start from Dapoli towards Khed. Midway after Walkoli and a right turn will take you towards the caves. The signboard is visible as you turn off the main road, but it vanishes as you make the turn. There aren’t many people around to ask for directions, and the route is largely vacant. The caves in Dapoli do not show up on Google maps making it a thrilling journey. Additionally, several hot springs present nearby are a fun place to dip into if you manage to discover them.
Our Story
Cultural and Religious Importance
Place of Worship: Historically, the Panhalekaji Caves were an important religious site for Buddhist monks and later became a place of worship for Hindus and Jains. Today, they stand as a testament to the religious harmony and cultural exchanges of ancient India.
Spiritual Experience: Visitors often experience a deep sense of peace and reverence when exploring the caves, especially in the prayer halls and meditation spaces. The secluded environment adds to the spiritual ambiance.
details
Best time to visit
October to March
Time
8 am–7 pm
Address
Panhalakaji, Dapoli, Maharashtra 415713
Places Nearby
Explore other places.
Savane Beach
Savane Beach is one of the region’s cleanest and most secluded beaches. The route to the pristine beach along the curvy coastal road adds to the mesmerising beauty of the attraction. Known as a virgin beach, it is apt for those seeking a peaceful getaway to get closer to nature and away from city life.
Harnai Port
Situated 17km from Dapoli, Harnai Port consists of two forts – Suvarnadurg and Kanakdurga. Kanakdurga is the land fort while Suvarnadurg is the sea fort.
It was built in the Adil Shah rule and later captured by Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Earlier there was a route connecting both the fort but now it can only be accessed by boat, however, there is no boat service to the fort and one has to ask the fisherman for ferry.
Suvarnadurg Fort
The literal meaning of Suvanadurga is “Golden Fort” as it was considered as the pride or the “feather in the golden cap of Marathas”. Built for the Maratha Navy.
Reviews
Hear what tourists have to say about their experience.
Important historical location which need proper attention from the local authorities as well as Archaeological survey of India. No network for Vodafone users, not sure about other phone operators in this region.
Sandeep Kamal
Total 28 caves. River aside, experiencing nature. Awesome place to visit. Visit anytime. Lot of monkeys.
Jayesh
There are quite a few ancient caves at this place, if the archaeological department takes proper care of it and keeps the place in a neat condition, I’m pretty sure people would love to visit this place really liked it but it needs proper maintenance and there is no info about the caves mentioned in and around the caves.
Santosh Wankhede