The Khandagiri Caves also known as Tatowa Gumpha or Parrot Caves because of number of parrots carved on the arches of their entrance ways. Khandagiri caves are located at a distance of 6 kms west of Bhuwaneswar, in the Khorda district of Odisha. These caves are located along with the caves of Udaigiri which is located nearby. Often known as twin caves these are a set of natural caves. While some of them erected naturally, some were carved out of the rock. These are also known as rock cut caves.
Geography of the Khandagiri Caves
Khandagiri caves are located at the slopes of one of the twin hills which are located at a distance of 6 kms from the city of Bhubaneswar. These two hills face each other which include a number of caves. While one of the hills consists of the Udaigiri caves the other has Khandagiri caves which is situated in the hillside of these hills. These were some of the earliest caves in India which were excavated by the Jains and the Buddhist in 1st century BC. As this is one of the ancient sites in India it has been under the restoration conducted by the archaeological survey of India.
Architecture of the Khandagiri Caves
Khandagiri caves are some of the most attractive caves which can be reached by climbing a number of steps. These caves are surrounded by a number of other caves. On its right there is the Ananta cave which is carved in the shape of Elephants, women and parrots carrying flowers. Across the road there is the Khandagiri cave which has the Ananta Vasudeva cave. This is decorated with carved figures and plasters that are worth visiting. Short but steep paths lead to other parts of the hill that is covered with many more caves. These are usually numbered. After climbing few steps one reaches the first two caves which are known as Parrot caves.
When return to the path which is 30m long one crosses the Ananta cave which is the third cave in the series of caves. It has some best sculptures of Khandagiri caves. These steps finally reach you to the top which has one of the ancient Jain temples that is dedicated to the 24th Tirthankar of the Jains, Mahavir. From the top of the hill one can enjoy the panoramic view of the Bhubaneswar city including the Lingaraj Temple.
Number of caves at Khandagiri
There are 15 caves in Khandagiri caves and these are -
1- Tatowagumpha
2- Tatowagumpha
3- Anantagumpha
4- Tentuligumpha
5- Khandagirigumpha
6- Dhyanagumpha
7- Navamunigumpha
8- Barabhujigumpha
9- Trusulagumpha
10- Ambikagumpha
11- Lalatendukesarigumpha
12- Unnamed
13- Unnamed
14- Ekadasigumpha
15- Unnamed
Connectivity of the Khandagiri Caves
Visitors can visit the Khandagiri Caves through air, rail and road. The domestic airport at Bhubaneshwar is situated just 3 km from the city centre. Indian Airlines provide regular services connecting Bhubaneshwar with other major cities in India. Bhubaneshwar railway station is conveniently located at the centre of the city. The Bermunda bus stand is located just 8 km from the city centre and the state transport provides regular bus services to all the major cities.
