Kondhane Caves Trek | Hidden Buddhist Caves Near Mumbai

Описание: Nestled in the scenic hills of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, the Kondhane Buddhist Caves are a stunning example of ancient rock-cut architecture and Buddhist heritage. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, these caves are part of the larger group of Buddhist cave complexes in India, but they are less known than their famous counterparts like Ajanta and Ellora. The Kondhane Caves consist of 16 rock-cut caves, including viharas (residential quarters for monks) and a chaitya (prayer hall), all carved into the solid rock. The main cave features a magnificent prayer hall with an intricately designed stupa at its center, representing the spiritual heart of the Buddhist community. The viharas, though simpler in design, served as living spaces where monks would meditate, study, and live in solitude.

Google map location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/He9sxFojdu3gF...
https://maps.app.goo.gl/NopaStJW7s2Cz...


To reach Kondhane Buddhist Caves, here are the best routes and tips for travelers:

1. By Road
The Kondhane Caves are located near Karjat, a small town in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, which is about 60 km from Mumbai.

From Mumbai:
You can take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to reach Lonavala. From there, take the road to Karjat. Kondhane is located about 15 km from Karjat town.
Alternatively, you can take the Mumbai-Navi Mumbai-Karjat route via the Kalyan-Bhiwandi-Karjat road.

From Pune:
You can drive via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to Lonavala and then take the same route to Karjat and further to the caves.
Once you reach Karjat, you can follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Kondhane Village, which is the base point for hiking to the caves.

2. By Train
The nearest railway station is Karjat, which is well connected to Mumbai, Pune, and other major cities in Maharashtra.

From Mumbai:
You can take a local train to Karjat. Once at Karjat, you can take a rickshaw or taxi to Kondhane Village.


Things to note before your trek:
Always start your day trek early in the morning to avoid heat.
20–30-liter backpack
2/3 liters of water
Dry fruits/energy bars/snacks (avoid oily food products)
Good trekking shoes
First aid
Sunscreen/cap, Hand Sanitizer
Wear full sleeves shirt/t-shirt and full track/hiking pants to protect you from thorns & insects.
Portable Charger/power bank


Products I use:
DJI Action 5 pro: https://amzn.to/43xJyxs
SD Card: https://amzn.to/47oiBO9
Carrying Case: https://amzn.to/4oA2Z10
Tripod: https://amzn.to/42Prw9I
Backpack 25 L: https://amzn.to/42RoJNh
Trekking shoes: https://amzn.to/48LodnX

Follow me on
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayureshpat...

Facebook:   / 18cejejcde