India hides a world beneath its surface, a world of timeless art, natural beauty, and ancient mystery. The Top 10 Famous Caves in India are more than tourist attractions; they are time capsules carved by nature and human hands over thousands of years. From the prehistoric carvings of Edakkal to the vast limestone corridors of Krem Liat Prah, these caves showcase India’s unmatched diversity in geography, culture, and history.
These underground marvels have become favorites for travelers, historians, and explorers. Some reveal the art and devotion of ancient civilizations, while others tell geological stories millions of years old. Let’s explore the 10 most famous caves in India in depth with accurate facts, figures, and insights.
Quick Overview: Top 10 Famous Caves in India
| Cave Name | Location | Type | Key Features & Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Krem Liat Prah | Meghalaya | Limestone | Longest cave in India (≈31 km), maze-like tunnels, still being explored |
| Belum Caves | Andhra Pradesh | Limestone | 3.2 km long, second-largest in India, Patalganga water stream |
| Ajanta Caves | Maharashtra | Rock-cut Buddhist | 30 caves, 2nd century BCE murals, UNESCO Heritage Site |
| Ellora Caves | Maharashtra | Rock-cut (Hindu, Buddhist, Jain) | 34 caves, Kailasa Temple (largest monolithic structure) |
| Kotumsar Cave | Chhattisgarh | Limestone | 660 m long, rare cave species, inside Kanger Valley Park |
| Borra Caves | Andhra Pradesh | Karst Limestone | 80 m deep, 150-million-year-old formations |
| Elephanta Caves | Maharashtra | Basalt Rock-cut | Island temple, 5.4 m Trimurti sculpture, UNESCO site |
| Badami Caves | Karnataka | Sandstone | 4 caves, 6th–7th century carvings, Chalukya art |
| Udayagiri & Khandagiri | Odisha | Rock-cut | 33 Jain caves, inscriptions of King Kharavela |
| Edakkal Caves | Kerala | Rock shelter | Neolithic carvings (6000 years old), Stone Age art |
1. Krem Liat Prah – Meghalaya’s Longest Natural Cave System
Krem Liat Prah, located in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, is India’s longest natural cave, stretching over 30.9 kilometers of explored passages. It is a part of a massive cave network formed by underground rivers and limestone deposits over millions of years. Unlike most caves, Krem Liat Prah continues to expand as explorers map out new branches every year. Its largest chamber, called the “Aircraft Hangar,” is so vast that it could fit an airplane. This cave isn’t just a natural wonder but also an ecological hotspot with unique cave fauna.
Highlights of Krem Liat Prah
- Total length: ≈31 km (measured passages)
- Location: Shnongrim Ridge, Jaintia Hills
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Known for: The “Aircraft Hangar” chamber
- Type: Limestone cave formed by subterranean water
2. Belum Caves – The Long Underground Passage of Andhra Pradesh
The Belum Caves in Andhra Pradesh are India’s second-longest cave system, covering 3.229 kilometers in total length. Unlike hilly caves, Belum’s passages run horizontally, making it easier to explore. These limestone caves were once inhabited by Buddhist monks, evident from relics and meditation chambers found within.
The deepest point of Belum Caves, Patalganga, lies 46 meters below ground, where an underground stream flows silently through the rock. The government has installed walkways and lighting, making it a safe and scenic tourist attraction today.
Key Facts About Belum Caves
- Total length: 3.229 km
- Depth: 46 meters (Patalganga)
- Historical use: Buddhist habitation
- Entry fee: ₹65 for adults
- Location: Belum Village, Kurnool district
3. Ajanta Caves – Ancient Murals and Monastic Art of India
The Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra date back to between the 2nd century BCE and 480 CE. These 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves are celebrated worldwide for their intricate murals, frescoes, and sculptures that depict Jataka tales and episodes from the Buddha’s life.
The caves were rediscovered in 1819 by a British officer during a hunting trip, revealing one of India’s greatest artistic treasures. They reflect the spiritual and cultural depth of early India and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site today.
Ajanta Caves Highlights
- Number of caves: 30
- Period: 2nd century BCE – 480 CE
- Art type: Murals and rock-cut sculptures
- UNESCO status: Since 1983
- Location: Aurangabad, Maharashtra
4. Ellora Caves – A Marvel of Faith and Stone Craftsmanship
The Ellora Caves, located near Aurangabad, are a living example of religious harmony and architectural brilliance. Constructed between 600 and 1000 CE, the site includes 34 rock-cut temples and monasteries representing Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
The crown jewel, Kailasa Temple (Cave 16), is the largest monolithic structure in the world, carved out of a single rock. This site is a UNESCO World Heritage monument and draws millions of visitors each year for its stunning craftsmanship.
Ellora Caves Quick Facts
- Number of caves: 34
- Built between: 6th–10th century CE
- Major cave: Kailasa Temple (Cave 16)
- Height of main shrine: 33 meters
- Location: Ellora, Maharashtra
5. Kotumsar Cave – The Underground World of Kanger Valley
Hidden inside Kanger Valley National Park, the Kotumsar Cave in Chhattisgarh is a limestone cave stretching about 660 meters. It is known for its stalactites, stalagmites, and blind cave fish that thrive in darkness. Scientists study Kotumsar for its unique subterranean ecosystem, as the oxygen level inside is much lower than on the surface. Due to this, only a limited number of tourists are allowed each day, ensuring the cave remains undisturbed.
Kotumsar Cave Facts
- Total length: ≈660 meters
- Location: Kanger Ghati National Park
- Discovered: 1900s
- Unique species: Blind fish, bats, amphibians
- Entry: With local guide only
6. Borra Caves – India’s Deepest Cave of Natural Wonders
The Borra Caves of Andhra Pradesh are the deepest caves in India, descending nearly 80 meters. Discovered by geologist William King in 1807, these karst limestone formations are believed to be 150 million years old. Visitors are mesmerized by the naturally illuminated chambers that showcase stalactite and stalagmite formations shaped by river erosion. Local tribes also believe that Lord Shiva once appeared here, adding spiritual value to its geological grandeur.
Highlights of Borra Caves
- Depth: ≈80 meters
- Age: 150 million years (estimated)
- Location: Ananthagiri Hills, Visakhapatnam
- Entry fee: ₹60 for adults
- Best season: October to February
7. Elephanta Caves – The Island Temple of Shiva
The Elephanta Caves are located on Elephanta Island, about 10 km from Mumbai. Carved out of solid basalt rock during the 6th century, these caves are renowned for the majestic Trimurti sculpture of Lord Shiva, which stands 5.45 meters high. The caves reflect ancient Indian art styles and spiritual philosophy. The island can be reached via a scenic ferry ride, making it a top weekend attraction for locals and tourists alike.
Elephanta Caves Key Details
- Main deity: Lord Shiva
- Height of Trimurti: 5.45 meters
- Construction period: 6th–7th century CE
- Location: Gharapuri Island, Mumbai
- Entry fee: ₹40 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners
8. Badami Caves – The Sandstone Art of the Chalukyas
The Badami Caves in Karnataka represent the brilliance of Chalukyan architecture. Carved out between the 6th and 7th centuries, these four sandstone caves are adorned with detailed sculptures of Hindu and Jain deities. Each cave offers a glimpse into early Indian temple art, with depictions of Vishnu, Shiva, and Mahavira. The serene Agastya Lake at the base adds a peaceful charm to this archaeological wonder.
Badami Caves Information
- Number of caves: 4
- Period: 6th–7th century CE
- Location: Bagalkot district, Karnataka
- Highlight: Sculptures of Nataraja and Vishnu
- Entry fee: ₹25 for adults
9. Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves – The Twin Jain Sanctuaries of Odisha
Near Bhubaneswar lie the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, carved during the 1st century BCE. These 33 caves were commissioned by King Kharavela for Jain monks to meditate and reside. The caves are rich in inscriptions, carvings, and motifs depicting daily life and royal activities. The Ranigumpha Cave, with its double-storey structure and intricate sculptures, stands out as the most famous among them.
Udayagiri & Khandagiri Facts
- Total caves: 33 (Udayagiri 18, Khandagiri 15)
- Period: 1st century BCE
- Patron: King Kharavela
- Religion: Jainism
- Location: Bhubaneswar, Odisha
10. Edakkal Caves – Kerala’s Stone Age Art Gallery
The Edakkal Caves in Kerala’s Wayanad district hold prehistoric rock engravings dating back over 6,000 years. Unlike deep caverns, these caves are formed by a giant boulder wedged between two cliffs, creating a natural shelter. Inside, visitors find petroglyphs, carvings of humans, animals, and symbols, believed to be from the Neolithic age. This site connects modern humanity with the earliest known settlers of the region.
Edakkal Cave Highlights
- Age: Over 6,000 years old
- Type: Rock shelter (not a cave)
- Location: Ambukuthi Hills, Wayanad
- Discovery: 1890 by Fred Fawcett
- Entry: ₹30 for Indian visitors
How Deep Are India’s Limestone Caves?
India’s limestone caves are both deep and fascinating. The Borra Caves in Andhra Pradesh descend to about 80 meters, making them the deepest natural caves in the country. In contrast, the Kotumsar Cave in Chhattisgarh stretches around 660 meters in length, showcasing unique underground formations. Both caves were shaped over millions of years by water erosion, creating stunning stalactites and stalagmites that attract geologists and tourists alike.
Which Caves Are Best for Beginners to Explore?
The Belum and Elephanta Caves are ideal for beginners because they’re easy to explore and well-equipped for visitors. Belum Caves have flat, wide pathways, proper lighting, and guided tours that make navigation simple even for first-timers. Elephanta Caves, located just a short ferry ride from Mumbai, offer a smooth walking trail with clear signboards and beautiful carvings to admire. Both caves blend comfort with history, making them perfect for anyone new to cave exploration.
FAQs About the Top 10 Famous Caves in India
Q1. Which is the longest cave in India?
The Krem Liat Prah cave in Meghalaya is India’s longest, stretching nearly 31 kilometers through limestone tunnels.
Q2. What is the second-longest cave in India?
The Belum Caves in Andhra Pradesh are the second-longest, with over 3.2 kilometers of flat underground passages.
Q3. Which caves in India have ancient paintings?
The Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra feature murals and frescoes dating back to the 2nd century BCE.
Q4. Where is the world’s largest monolithic temple located?
The Kailasa Temple at Ellora Caves in Maharashtra is the largest single monolithic rock-cut temple globally.
Q5. Which cave in India is the deepest?
The Borra Caves in Andhra Pradesh are the deepest, descending nearly 80 meters underground.
Q6. Which cave is known for blind fish?
The Kotumsar Cave in Chhattisgarh is home to blind fish species that survive without light.
Q7. Which island cave is dedicated to Lord Shiva?
The Elephanta Caves near Mumbai feature the 5.45-meter-high Trimurti sculpture of Lord Shiva.
Q8. Which cave contains prehistoric carvings in South India?
The Edakkal Caves in Kerala display rock engravings over 6,000 years old from the Stone Age.