Panhalakaji Caves, Buddhist cave complex in Ratnagiri district, India
Panhalakaji Caves is a rock-cut cave system carved into the mountainside in Ratnagiri district with approximately thirty chambers spread across multiple levels of the slope. The complex contains detailed stone sculptures, architectural features, and religious structures distributed throughout the site.
The caves originated in the 3rd century when Buddhist communities began carving the first stupa into the rock in Chamber 5. Later, Hindu and other religious groups expanded and used the site over subsequent periods.
The site reflects the coexistence of multiple faiths through Buddhist stupas, Hindu deities, and inscriptions in Brahmi and Devanagari scripts displayed within the chambers. These layers show how different religious communities used and adapted the space over time.
The caves are accessible via National Highway 4 near Dapoli and are located in mountainous terrain, so sturdy footwear and caution on uneven paths are important. The nearest railway station is at Khed, making travel by local bus or rental vehicle more practical for reaching the site.
Chamber 10 holds a rare depiction of Maha-Chandraroshana on its stupa, creating a direct link to ancient Buddhist sites in Orissa. This iconographic rarity makes this single chamber a focal point for researchers and visitors interested in Buddhist art and connections.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
