Bhopal Division

Bhimbetka Caves

Enclosed in the rustic Vindhyachal ranges, Bhimbetka Caves and rock shelters portray the earliest signs of human race in South Asia. Designated as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the caves boast of rock paintings which date back to more than 30,000 years and classified into periods like Upper Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, Chalcolithic, Early Historic and Medieval. The place gets its name from Bhima, one of the five Pandavas who spent some time here during their exile period. More than 240 caves have been located in the region out of which only 15 are open for public viewing. Done in colours like red, white, green and yellow obtained from sources like animal fats, plant leaves, manganese, soft red stone, wooden coal and hematite, the paintings and drawings depict themes like dancing, hunting, childbirth, animal riding, animal fights and numerous animal figures. Surrounded by lavish green forests, these rock canvases are a must-visit to explore the earliest days of human evolution. Warnings Don’t scratch or damage the cave walls exhibiting valuable paintings.