Dungeshwari Cave Temple is one of the significant cave and holy temples in Gaya. The cave temple is located in the Pragbodhi Hills in Bodhgaya city of Bihar. It comprises of three main caves containing Hindu and Buddhist shrines. In one of the cave temples, there is a beautiful golden statue of Buddha which is about 6 feet tall. The Dungeshwari Cave Temple is also called "Mahakala Caves". It is believed that Lord Buddha meditated in the three caves here before proceeding to Bodhgaya, where he finally attained enlightenment. The caves here also feature Buddhist shrines which are called Sujata Sthan by the natives.
Legend of Dungeshwari Cave Temple
Dungeshwari Cave Temple is where Gautama Buddha is said to have spent 6-7 years meditating in extreme asceticism which starved him to the edge of death. At that time, a lady named Sujata from a nearby village offered him food and water. Later Gautama realized that one cannot attain enlightenment by self-indulgence or self-abasement. He then carried on with his journey and reached Bodhgaya where he finally attained enlightenment.
Attractions in Dungeshwari Cave
These caves are situated along River Phalgu. If one needs a good break from the city, visiting these hills is a great choice. The entire drive till the caves is scenic and pleasing. These caves have several Hindu and Buddhist temples and stupas. Interestingly, one of the caves has a golden Buddha sculpture as well. These caves remind us of the rigid penance Lord Buddha underwent. An idol of Hindu goddess "Dungeshwari` is also placed in the cave temple. People are attracted to the sheer energy that these caves generate, because of their association with Lord Buddha.
How to Reach Dungeshwari Cave Temple
Dungeshwari Hills are located at a distance of about 12-15 kms from Gaya, along the Falgu river. Chinese pilgrim Hiuen Tsang has mentioned these hills in his travelogue. Getting to the Dungeshwari cave temple is relatively easier from Gaya rather than travelling up from Bodhgaya, since the latter is usually overcrowded with locals and travellers. Since there is not much distance to be covered, one can take a rickshaw directly to the caves.
Visiting Information of Dungeshwari Cave Temples
The nearest airport is Bodhgaya Airport (19 km) and the nearest railway station is Gaya Junction (13 km). Tourist can reach to Dungeshwari Cave Temple by hiring private or public transport from airport and railhead.
