Which Top Buddhist Destinations Are Famous for Buddhist Caves?

There are many caves in different states of India which testify the popularity of Buddhism in the country. While some of them are built in Buddhist style of architecture, others are known for depicting Buddha in different ways. Touring these caves of enlightenment can be one of the best parts of a spiritual tour.



Visiting any of these Buddhist caves is easy, as most of them are connected to the cities of modern India. A significant aspect of these caves is that many of them house idols of different deities like Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. This is the reason for people from different religions visiting these caves in huge numbers. Here are some of the most popular destinations with Buddhist caves as among their main highlights.



Ajanta and Ellora Caves



Located in the state of Maharashtra, the Ajanta and Ellora caves are probably the most popular Buddhist destinations in India. Ajanta caves are around 30 in number and are popular for numerous Buddhist shrines and monasteries. These caves are the finest examples of Buddhist architecture and are admired for their paintings and sculptures. These are among Buddhist destinations where monks resided as well as meditated.



Ellora caves are famous for multi-storeyed Buddhist monasteries. The 15 feet tall statue of Buddha in one of these caves is worth visiting. Apart from Buddhist caves, there are many caves belonging to Jainism and Hinduism at this place.



Barabar Caves



Bihar is definitely among the best Buddhist destinations in India, with a number of monasteries and temples to its credit. Barabar Caves in the state are known for their temples constructed using black granite stone. The Lomas Rishi cave is among the most popular Buddhist caves at this site, known for its Indian Buddhist Chaitya arch style. Besides, there are Nagarjuna caves, well-known for depecting the world-famous Jataka tales.



Bhaja Caves



Anyone interested in exploring the Theravadin phase of early Buddhism can choose to visit Bhaja Caves in Maharashtra. These caves are among Buddhist destinations that represent Buddhism through a number of symbols. Carved figures of flowers, inscriptions and pillars are among the top highlights of these caves.



Other Buddhist caves



Kanheri Caves in Maharashtra too are popular Buddhist destinations in India. One can also visit Nagarjunakonda caves in Andhra Pradesh to explore a variety of viharas, monasteries and stupas. Apart from exploring the architectural beauty at these Buddhist destinations, one can view carved pillars, Buddha images and sacred relics at these caves.



The Buddhist destinations with a number of beautiful caves introduce one to a number of things related to Buddhism. Apart from being a spiritual tour, visiting these Buddhist destinations in India can be full of fun and adventure as well.





Author





Aldwyn carlin is a professional writer presently writing for Buddhist Tour Packages and Buddhist Tour India.