Karla and Bhaja Caves Full Day Guided Tour from Mumbai City

Searching for a one-day tour with friends near Mumbai? Take a tour of the ancient caves, which date back to the 2nd century BC, and explore one of the finest forms of rock-cut architecture. A famous place to visit for architecture lovers. Avail 250 kilometres of usage of a private car.

Tour Highlights

• Private, air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable 3-hour drive each way.
• A guided tour of the Karla Caves, featuring ancient Buddhist chaityas, intricate rock-cut carvings, and 1st century BC architecture.
• Walk through the Bhaja Caves, home to Buddhist relics and rock-cut monasteries, offering stunning views of the Western Ghats.
• Optional lunch stop at an authentic local restaurant.
• Private, expert guide providing insights into the Buddhist history, culture, and architectural details of the caves.
• Scenic views of the Western Ghats and an immersive journey into India’s ancient Buddhist heritage.

Detailed overview

• A short two-hour drive from Mumbai brings you to a group of 22 rock-cut caves known as the Karla and Bhaja caves. These caves date back to the 2nd century B.C. and are the oldest Chaitya Buddhist caves that are still in existence. There are prominent features of calm Buddhism, like the prayer hall, the stupa, and other relief structures, that give the traveler an insight into their life. The carvings on these walls show the use of wood for the first time in Indian civilization, and this is what makes the caves an important archaeological artifact. These unique caves are located in close proximity to the main village area, amidst the scenic waterfalls and lush greens.
• The Karla caves hold a magnificent Buddhist statue seated on a throne supported by a lion and surrounded by three elephants and their sides. This marvelous sculpture will leave the tourist in awe of the craftsmanship and creativity of the architects of the time.

Karla and Bhaja Caves Full Day Guided Tour from Mumbai Itinerary

• Start your day with an early morning pickup at 7:00 AM from your centrally located hotel in Mumbai. Your private guide will greet you, and you’ll set off in an air-conditioned private vehicle for a comfortable and scenic 3-hour drive to the Karla Caves. This journey takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Western Ghats, giving you a glimpse of rural life and Maharashtra’s natural beauty.
• Karla Caves Exploration
  Arriving around 10:00 AM, your guide will lead you on a fascinating walk through the ancient Karla Caves, a UNESCO-worthy site known for its Buddhist rock-cut architecture. These caves, carved into the hillside, date back over 2,000 years and served as monastic retreats for Buddhist monks, particularly during the monsoon season.
• To reach the caves, you'll ascend 200 steep steps, offering a short but invigorating trek to the entrance. Once inside, marvel at the chaityas (prayer halls) featuring intricate carvings of Buddhist motifs, deities, and symbolic designs. The largest prayer hall, known as the Grand Chaitya, measures a stunning 148 feet (45 meters) in length and was constructed in the 1st century BC. Admire the craftsmanship of the stone columns and the Buddhist stupa that dominates the hall.
• Your guide will provide in-depth historical context, explaining the significance of the Buddhist influence, the caves’ role in ancient trade routes, and the remarkable artistry that has survived through the centuries.
• Lunch Break
• After thoroughly exploring the Karla Caves, take a well-deserved break for lunch. You can dine at a local restaurant of your choice or allow your guide to recommend an authentic eatery that serves traditional Maharashtrian cuisine or other delicious Indian dishes. Relax and refresh before continuing your journey.
• Bhaja Caves Visit
• Following lunch, your guide will take you to the Bhaja Caves, located just a short drive from Karla. These caves are another historical gem, also carved into the hillside and dating back to the 2nd century BC. The Bhaja Caves feature 22 rock-cut caves with various Buddhist relics, including chaityas and viharas (monasteries). The site also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, adding a scenic dimension to your spiritual exploration.
• One of the highlights of the Bhaja Caves is the impressive waterfalls visible from the caves during the monsoon season, making the location even more picturesque. As you wander through these ancient monuments, your guide will continue to share fascinating insights into the Buddhist traditions, architecture, and the enduring legacy of these sacred spaces.
• Return to Mumbai
• After a day rich with history, culture, and awe-inspiring views, you'll begin your comfortable drive back to Mumbai. Arriving in the early evening, your driver will drop you off at your hotel, bringing your full-day guided tour to a close.