Place Details:
Kondana Caves, a group of 16 Buddhist caves, is situated 33 km north of Lonavala in a small village, Kondana, in Karjat. These caves with several stupas and sculptures offer a glimpse into the ancient lifestyle of the Buddhist monks. If you are a history buff, you will definitely like this place.
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An earthquake in the early 1900s destroyed the floor, many stupas and the front entrance of Kondana Caves that were excavated in the first century BC. The beautiful wooden pattern and the prayer hall along with other structures are still intact. You will see beautiful carvings on the walls of the caves. There is an inscription in the prayer hall that informs you about the donors.
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Apart from exploring the caves, you can enjoy waterfalls and greenery. You can go on a trek or try rappelling under the waterfall near Kondana Caves. You can reach the caves by taking a rickshaw or bus to Kondivade village from Karjat. From there proceed to Kharvandi village or Kondane village. You can walk to the Kondana caves from Kondane and Kharvandi. There is a shortcut to Rajmachi fort from the caves.
Photograph Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
BEST TIME TO VISIT KARJAT
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Karjat is as given below. The best time to visit Karjat is also specified.