Nestled within the lush greenery of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the Kanheri Caves are a treasure trove of Buddhist history and architecture. Often referred to as the “Best-kept Buddhist secret of Mumbai,” this ancient monastic complex stands as a testament to India’s glorious Buddhist heritage.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, spiritual seeker, or an adventure traveler, Kanheri is a must-visit destination in Mumbai that promises a journey back in time.
Why Visit Kanheri Caves?
The Kanheri Caves, dating from the 1st century BCE to the 10th century CE, served as a thriving Buddhist monastic settlement for over 1,600 years. With 109 caves, intricate sculptures, and ancient water-harvesting systems, Kanheri offers a glimpse into the spiritual and practical life of Buddhist monks.
These caves were not merely a place of meditation but also a vibrant learning center for Buddhist teachings, making it one of the most significant Buddhist hubs in Western India.
A Historic Monastic Marvel:
From Theravada to Mahayana
The Kanheri monastery began as a center of Theravada Buddhism, emphasizing simplicity and mindfulness. Over time, it evolved into a hub for Mahayana and Tantric Buddhism, as evident from the richly adorned sculptures of Buddha and Bodhisattvas.
Cultural Legacy in Stone
The caves feature 51 ancient inscriptions and 26 epigraphs, many of which highlight the cultural and religious importance of the monastery. The rock-cut stupas, particularly the monolithic ones, are awe-inspiring examples of Buddhist art and devotion.
Architectural Highlights of Kanheri
The Great Chaitya (Cave 3)
The Great Chaitya Hall is the most imposing structure at Kanheri. Built-in stages between the 2nd century CE and the 5th century CE, this prayer hall is adorned with:
- This grand chaityagriha features a large courtyard enclosed by an intricately carved ornamental railing, with massive 9-meter-tall columns adorned with figures of male deities and Bodhisattvas.
- Guarding the entrance are two monumental Buddha statues, over 6.5 meters tall, carved in the 5th to 6th century CE. These statues depict the Varda mudra, symbolizing blessing and generosity, and depict heavenly deities in flying postures.
- The main hall, measuring 26 meters long, 13.5 meters wide, and 13 meters high, is lined with 34 octagonal columns engraved with animal figures and footprints beneath the Bodhi tree.
- At the rear stands a striking 6-meter-tall monolithic stupa with a cylindrical dome that exudes a divine aura.
- Evidence of timber usage, such as notches in the ceilings and walls, hints at the sophisticated architectural techniques of the time, although the timber itself has perished.
- While two brick stupas once stood outside the chaitya hall, only remnants remain. One stupa contained a relic accompanied by a copper plate inscription.
- The Great Chaitya is a testament to the grandeur and spiritual significance of Kanheri, offering visitors a glimpse into the site’s architectural and religious heritage.
The Rock-Cut Viharas
Many caves served as viharas, or living quarters for monks, equipped with rock-cut benches, cisterns for water storage, and ventilated windows. These viharas reflect the simplicity and functionality of monastic life.
- The caves were built on different levels of the hill. The majority of the rock-cut caves follow a standard model of a single or double room for monks, with rock-cut benches and a narrow verandah.
- Windows and holes cut into walls provided natural light and ventilation to the caves.
The Water-Harvesting System
Kanheri’s advanced water-harvesting system is a marvel of ancient engineering. Rock-cut cisterns, channels, and reservoirs ensured a sustainable water supply for the monks. Today, these cisterns are home to tiny catfish and crabs, adding a touch of life to the ancient ruins.
Rare Sculptures and Murals
- Cave 41: Features an eleven-headed Avalokiteshvara, a unique depiction across India.
- Cave 34: Contains the only surviving mural at Kanheri, a partially colored painting of Buddha.
- Cave 90: Houses beautifully preserved images of Buddha, along with depictions of Tara and Avalokiteshvara.
A Journey Through Time
Buddhism’s Golden Age
By the 3rd century CE, Kanheri had become a vital center of Buddhism in Western India. Patronized by traders and kings, the site flourished as a spiritual and educational hub.
Kanheri is the only Buddhist monastic cave settlement in India, continuously inhabited by monks, for more than 1600 years.
Surviving the Storms
Kanheri remained active even as Buddhism declined in India after the 10th century. It survived Islamic invasions but suffered during the Portuguese colonization in the 16th century when some caves were damaged or converted into Christian structures.
The remaining Buddhist ascetics still living in the cave complex were converted to Christianity by them in 1535. One Fr. Antonio even converted the main Chaitya into the Church of St. Michael.
Touring Kanheri Caves Today
How to Reach
Visitors can access the caves through the gates of Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai. A short hike through the park brings you to the caves, where a world of ancient wisdom and artistry awaits.
What to Explore
Cave 1: An imposing structure with high columns. Cave no 1 is one of the highest caves in the complex. Though, it is not one of the earliest of the structures. It was built between the 6th and 7th centuries. The cave was abandoned at an early age and was left unfinished.
Cave 2: One of the oldest caves, featuring a monolithic stupa and carvings of Avalokiteshvara. Cave 2 is one of the oldest and most significant structures at the Kanheri Caves, dating back to the 3rd to 2nd century BCE.
- Although the front walls are missing, the cave still holds its historical charm with two chambers. The first chamber has a monolithic stupa with a Harmika, a square structure symbolizing heaven, and a carved seated Buddha on the back wall.
- The second chamber also houses a monolithic stupa, with traces of its original polished dome still visible.
- Intricate carvings, added in later periods, adorn the walls, depicting preaching Buddha and Avalokiteshwara. Adjacent to the stupa lies a large vihara measuring over 16 meters wide. Additionally, a two-line inscription from the 2nd century CE adds to the historical significance of the site.
Cave 4: Left to the great chaitya is cave no 4, which is a small circular chaitya with a monolithic Stupa. The Harmika of the stupa is connected to the cave ceiling through a chhatra.
Cave 11 (Darbar Hall): A grand hall with preaching Buddha statues and Bodhisattvas.
- The long verandah of the Darbar hall has eight octagonal columns and two square columns.
- The interior of the cave is large, more than 10 meters in length and 22 meters wide.
- The Darbar hall contains a preaching Buddha image between the images of Bodhisattvas.
Cave 67: A large hall adorned with alternating small and large images of Buddha.
- The cave is very large and contains some of the most beautiful artwork inside.
- The hall is 12 meters in length and 14 meters wide.
- The sidewalls and the rear walls are covered with beautiful Buddha images of different sizes.
The last cave in the complex is Cave 101.
Don’t Miss
Beyond the caves, explore the cemetery of Buddhist monks, ancient brick stupas, and inscriptions from Japanese and Parsi pilgrims, showcasing Kanheri’s multicultural significance.
Why Kanheri Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
Kanheri Caves offer a unique blend of spiritual serenity, historical significance, and architectural grandeur. Situated amidst the natural beauty of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, this destination is perfect for:
- Nature lovers enjoying a peaceful retreat away from Mumbai’s hustle.
- Spiritual seekers tracing the roots of Buddhism.
- History buffs exploring ancient art and culture.
Plan Your Visit to Kanheri Caves with Bodhisattva Travels
At Bodhisattva Travels, we specialize in curating enriching Buddhist travel experiences. Explore the ancient caves of Kanheri with our guided tours, designed to immerse you in the history, spirituality, and artistry of this Buddhist marvel.
Discover the hidden stories of Kanheri and reconnect with the legacy of Buddhism in India. Book your journey with us today and step into the timeless charm of Kanheri Caves!