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Junnar Caves in Ahmadnagar

Summer: March-May (32°C - 40°C)

Winter: December-February (10°C - 32°C)

Monsoon: June-September


Best time to visit:  October-May

Opening Time: 08:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 06:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: N/A

Entry Fees for Indians Adults:  5
Children:  N/A
Cameras:  N/A
Video Camera:  N/A
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals Adults:  5
Children:  N/A
Cameras:  N/A
Video Camera:  N/A
Around 200 caves dating back to the period from the 1st to 3rd centuries spread over 4 different hills near the town of Junnar which served as an important trading centre during that era. Most of the caves are of Buddhist origin and revered by the followers as great Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Lenyadri Caves (around 40 in number) are the most popular ones, known for the splendid chaitya griha (a type of Buddhist shrine in Cave 6) and Girijatmaj Temple (one of the 8 holy shrines of Ganesha in the state) dedicated to the Hindu God Ganesha (inside Cave 7).
 
The second group is known as Shivneri Caves (around 50 in number). These are further divided into four groups according to the directions they face. Tulja Caves (around 11 in number) form the third group which mainly consists of Buddhist viharas (dwelling places of the monks) and also a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Tulja. Manmod Caves belong to the fourth group and are further divided into Bhimasankar, Ambika and Bhutling groups of caves.
 
Verandas, chapels, halls and pillars are among the main highlights of these caves some of which also contain some interesting inscriptions and paintings. Surrounded by lavish greenery, these caves promise great peace for mind.
 

Connectivites

Road: Accessible from the Mumbai-Aurangabad Road, Junnar can be accessed on state transport buses or in taxis from various popular cities of Maharashtra. To travel from the base of one group of caves to those of others, you can rely on auto-rickshaws, jeeps and cabs. The caves can be accessed on foot by climbing the stone steps.

Railway: The closest railway station to the caves is located at Pune at the distance of about 58 km. From the station, you must hire a taxi to reach the caves. An alternative would be to board a bus from Pune to Junnar.

Airway: Pune also has the nearest airport which offers flights to Bangalore, Chennai, Goa, Delhi, Kolkata and many other cities. The distance from the airport to the caves is about 62 km. that can be covered in a taxi.