Thanale Caves, Buddhist cave complex in Raigad district, India
Thanale Caves comprise 23 rock-cut structures carved into the mountainside as a Buddhist complex. The site contains prayer halls, monastic cells, and burial mounds that served different religious purposes.
These caves were carved out in the 1st century BC as part of a trade network connecting the ancient port of Chaul to inland Maharashtra regions. Their construction reflects the spread of Buddhism along major ancient trade routes.
The caves reveal how early Buddhist communities lived through donor inscriptions and multiple stupas scattered throughout the complex. These monuments show how followers expressed their faith and supported the religious community at this location.
Access is via a roughly two-hour trek from Thanale village along marked forest trails that pass several waterfalls. The best time to visit is during drier months when the paths are easier to navigate.
The seventh cave stands out for its fine stonework featuring Buddhist rail patterns, arched designs, and carved figures on an elaborately decorated facade. This level of artistic detail is uncommon elsewhere in the complex.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
