Nasik Caves, Pandavleni Caves, Trirashmi Caves - Buddhist Cave Architecture

Nasik caves are ancient rock-cut caves built on the Trirashmi hill about 3004 feet above the sea, hence are called Trirashmi Caves. They are also known as Pandavleni Caves. 

Nasik caves hold relevance for the current affairs section of both the IAS exam as well as various other competitive exams since it has been in news recently.

Nasik Caves or Pandavleni Caves – Why in News?

The Archaeological Survey of India – ASI has found three more caves in the Trirashmi Buddhist cave complex, also known as Pandav Leni, near Nashik, Maharashtra.

1. A detailed survey of the hill will be done to check if there are more hidden caves. An extensive study of these caves may redefine the chronology of Buddhist caves in Maharashtra
2. A preliminary examination has led archeologists to believe that these could be older than the Trirashmi caves. 
3. The Trirashmi Buddhist caves complex was first documented in 1823 by Captain James Delamaine and is now an ASI- protected site.

The article will discuss in detail the Pandavleni Caves or Nashik Caves and their architecture which forms an important part of UPSC Syllabus.

Additionally, candidates can also read about the following Buddhist caves for relevant details-

1. Ajanta Caves & Ellora Caves
2. Kanheri Caves
3. Elephanta Caves
4. Barabar Caves – Lomas Rishi Caves, Sudama Caves, Karan Chaupar Caves and Vishwakarma Caves
5. Karla Caves and Bedse Caves
6. Bhaja Caves

Details regarding other monasteries and Cave architecture in Ancient India are available on the linked page.

Nasik Caves or Trirashmi Caves – Prelims Facts

Aspirants can check out the related links given below to do comprehensive preparation of upcoming exams – 

Nasik Caves Or Trirashmi Caves Or Pandavleni Caves Complex

1. Nasik caves are a group of old Buddhist caves.
2. Their northern frontage saves the Pandavleni caves from the sun and the south-west protects from rains hence much of the carved work of these caves and many long and most valuable inscriptions have passed fresh and unharmed through 1500-2000 years.
3. These caves depict tales of the three Kings who once ruled Nashik – the Kshatrapas, the Satavahanas and the Abhirs.
4. The Pandavleni caves are a group of 24 caves which are Hinayana Faith Buddhist Caves.
5. Out of the twenty-four caves, there are two caves which are the major centre of attraction – the main cave called the Chaitya, meaning a prayer hall, has a beautiful Stupa inside. The second one is the tenth cave which is complete in terms of structure as well as in inscriptions.
6. Trirashmi caves are great examples of intricate carving and craftsmanship with outstanding sculptures.
7. The caves have the magnificent idols of Buddha and the popular Jain Tirthankaras such as Vrishabhdeo, the icons of Bodhisatva, Veer Manibhadraji and Ambikadevi are also there. Candidates can go through the list of 24 Jain Tirthankaras on the linked page. 
8. The Inscriptions in the Nasik Caves talk about the King of Western Maharashtra, Kshatrapa dynasty, Satavahana dynasty, excavation of Vihars, Shrines, Chaityas and Cisterns of the caves and gift of a village to Nasik inhabitants.
9. The Pandavleni caves have beautiful sculptures, chambers, unique water structures and stone ladders built inside the cave.
10. The caves had an excellent arrangement for water, with skillfully chiseled water tanks, exquisitely carved into the rocks.
11. The Dada Saheb Phalke Smarak lies at the foot of the Pandavleni caves and showcases the work of Dadasaheb Phalke.

Candidates can check the links provided below to assist their exam preparation – 

The facts about Pandavleni caves or Trirashmi Caves or Nasik Caves given in the article will help candidates prepare for the UPSC Prelims and Mains exams. 

UPSC Preparation related links-