Khandagiri Caves

History

It is believed that the Khandagiri caves were dug during the rule of the great emperor of the Mahameghavahana Dynasty, King Kharavela. These caves are believed to be built by Jain and Buddhist monks who used these caves as a place to pray and meditate.

Flora and Fauna

Apart from temples and historical sites, this place is also replete with flora and fauna. Animals such as elephants, wild boars, hyena, panther, jackal, fox and bears can be seen. This place is also home to colourful birds including peacocks, Indian Cuckoo, Kingfisher and Indian tree pie. Snakes and lizards are also common inhabitants of this place.

Nearby Places to See

Chausathi Jogini Temple

Located at a mere distance of a km, Chausathi Jogini Temple was built in the 9th Century by Queen Hiradevi of Bramha Dynasty. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. The temple is built in a circular form with 56 small idols placed in each cavity. The architecture of this temple is splendid with small patches filled with greenery and trees. This place is a must visit to experience serenity and calmness.Khandagiri Caves, Bhubaneswar Overview

Also known as Cuttack caves, Khandagiri Caves are artificial caves located in the state of Orissa which date back to 2nd century. This place is quite a sight to see with all the beautifully carved inscriptions and figures. This place holds a great historical significance. A large number of ancient temples with intricate carvings surround this place which have their own significance. If you want to relax and spend some quiet time amidst nature, a number of lush green parks are also located around Khandagiri Caves.

Kedareshwar Temple

Kedareshwar Temple is situated at a distance of less than a kilometre from Khandagiri Caves. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was built in 12th century by the king of Ganga Dynasty and is beautifully constructed. Myth has it that two lovers named Kedar and Gauri ran away from their homes as their parents did not wanted them to marry. The stayed in the forest and one day Gauri felt hungry. Kedar went to search for food but on his way was killed by the tiger. After listening about the death of Kedar, Gouri jumped into a pond. Therefore this temple is visited by a lot newly married couples to seek blessings. Don’t worry, even if you are unmarried you can visit this temple to seek blessings and enjoy the pristine aura.

Swarnajaleswar Temple

Located at a and distance of 1 km from Khandagiri Caves, Swarnajaleswar Temple is visited by a lot of people who come to pray and seek blessings. This Temple has rich historical significance and is beautifully built with grand architecture. This temple is a must visit if you want to spend a quiet evening relaxing and enjoying the piousness of the place.

ISKCON Temple

ISKCON temple is located at distance of 3 kilometres from Khandagiri Caves. Built in 1991 this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. This Temple also houses idols of Jagannath Balaram and Subhadra. People visit this temple in large numbers to see blessings and witness the grandeur of this place. The the tasty Prasad that is prepared and given to devotees is an added bonus and should not be missed.

Chandaka Dampada Wildlife Sanctuary

At a mere distance of a kilometre from Khandagiri caves lies a small place abundant with flora and fauna. Chandaka Dampada Wildlife Sanctuary is most popular for elephants that can be spotted easily roaming around. A lot of colourful birds including peacocks, Indian Cuckoo, Kingfisher, Indian Tree pie and many more can be spotted fluttering their wings. Apart from elephants you can also spot deers, sloth bear, fox, jackal, porcupine and Panthers. This wildlife sanctuary is open from 6am and has to be vacated by 5pm so make sure you reach on time. Elephant Safari rides are also available in the sanctuary that will help you to explore the place fully. The entry fee for the place is just Rs. 40. There are also bamboo huts located inside the sanctuary where you can stay and enjoy being amidst wilderness.

Jayadev Vatika

Jayadev Vatika is located at a distance of a kilometre from Khandagiri Caves. This place is a good picnic spot and is surrounded by verdant trees. Colourful flowers blossom in this park and you can hear the chirping of the birds perched in the trees. This place is ideal to spend some quality time with your loved ones and relax.

Museum of Tribal Arts and Artifacts

This beautiful Museum is located at a distance of around two kilometres from Khandagiri Caves. Museum of tribal arts and artifacts will give you a glimpse into the interesting lives of tribal people. The entry is free for everyone and you will be able to see artifacts like dresses, hunting gear, fishing tools and agricultural tools and accessories are showcased in this museum which once belonged to the tribals. You can even buy the beautifully handcrafted products made by tribal to take them home as souvenirs. You can visit the museum anytime between 10am to 5pm except on Mondays as the museum is closed on Monday.

Mukteswara Temple

Mukteswara temple is located at a distance of around 7 km from Khandagiri Caves. This place is popular among people interested in history and architecture. This temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Orissa. The temple is beautifully built with a lot of intricate carvings and sculptures. This temple is dedicated to Lord shiva and a lot of devotees of Lord Shiva visits temple to seek blessings. This temple is a must visit because of the beautiful carvings that depict the Hindu mythology.