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Buddhism is a widespread religion, it is said to have originated in Bihar, India. Pandavleni caves in Nashik is one such rock-cut architecture, representing Hinayana Buddhism.
'Leni' in the Marathi language means caves and Pandav is the later name given to these caves in Maharashtra. Pandav leni was earlier called as 'Trirashmi caves', later it was changed to the current name. However, these caves in Nashik is nowhere related to Mahabharatha or Pandavas in the epic.
Buddha leni in Nashik is said to have sculpted during 3rd C BC - 2nd C AD.The Vihara and the Chaitya are the main caves among the group of 24 caves.
Vihara (Buddhist Monasteries) and Chaitya (prayer hall with a stupa) can be seen in every Buddha leni. Pandavleni caves were the meeting places for monks to pray and study Buddha or Buddhism.
Inside the Buddha leni are the statues of Buddha and the inscriptions dating to the period of 3 kingdoms: the Kshatrapas, the Satavahanas, and the Abhirs.
Located in Trirashmi mountains, it is good to visit Pandavleni caves in the early morning; as one can see the sculptures well during that time.
One should not miss a trip to Pandavleni caves in Nashik, Maharashtra.
Vihara
The main rock-cut cave of Pandavleni caves in Nashik.
Photo Courtesy: Rashmi.parab
Chaitya
The prayer hall is one of the main caves of Pandavleni.
Photo Courtesy: Prabuddha
Pandavleni caves in Maharashtra
Another view of Pandavleni caves.
Photo Courtesy: Pmohite
Statue of Buddha
Pandavleni caves is also called as Buddhaleni.
Photo Courtesy: Prabuddha
Statue of Mahavir
Sculpture of Mahavir in Pandavleni caves of Nashik.
Photo Courtesy: Raama
Sculptures of Jain Thirthankaras
Carvings of Jain Thirthankaras in the Pandavleni complex near Gomai river.
Photo Courtesy: Raama
Destroyed Mahavir Statue
Partially destroyed statue of Mahavir in Pandavleni caves in Maharashtra.
Photo Courtesy: Raama
Stupa in Pandavleni
Stupa inside Chaityagrha in Pandavleni caves.
Photo Courtesy: Prabuddha
