Karla caves near Lonavla. Review on Pune

Destination - Karla caves, August 2005

Location - 10kms from Lonavla

Driving Direction - From Pune, 56kms - Take Pune-Mumbai Expressway, and take the exit for Lonavla town. Immediately turn in the opposite direction from Lonavla town, and drive 6.5kms approx. and then turn left for another 3km. drive. DONOT take the old Pune-Mumbai Highway route; the roads are in very bad condition.

Contact - MTDC Karla Resort, 02114-282230/282064

These Buddhist caves date back to 160B.C. The main cave is the largest chaitya in the country and the wooden beams that support its arched roof are 2000 yrs old ! Surprisingly enough the beams are still intact with no sign of corrosion. At the entrance stands a huge pillar with lion capitals. However the second pilar broke down, and in its place a temple has been built. Local pilgrims visit this temple but I must add that it has invaded the beauty of the karla caves. There are some viharas also built alongside.

It is a steep climb up the stairs to the caves but easily do-able. Local people often volunteer to carry your kids and double as a guide. There is a shop enroute the climb where you can get cold drinks/biscuits/etc. or you can opt for a cup of tea from the many vendors who line the stairs.

It is an ideal getaway from Pune at such a short distance. You can stay overnight at the MTDC resort, and unwind. Cottage Room Cost non-a/c Rs.600 and a/c Rs. 800. These cottages have a room with TV and attached bath. You can also get a cottage with 1 double bed room + a small room with diwan & attached bath; obviously these cost a little more. Every cottage has a porch along its three sides and if you get the right one, you can see the river flowing behind and get a glimpse of the mountains behind. The resort location is wonderful but unfortunately the maintenance is not. The children's park was covered with dirt & dry leaves. You cannot keep any food in the cottage since the ants get to it faster than you for a second helping ! The food is simple & basic - poha/upma for breakfast, choice of subjis & rotis/rice for lunch/dinner. If you are picky about food, you always have the option of driving down to Lonavla. A must do - is get a cup of hot tea from the vendor who comes by around 7/8am. Sip it in the porch taking in the beautiful calm surroundings.

Boating (closed during monsoons) is also an option available at the resort. But you must check beforehand if its on. If not, take a walk to the small bridge behind, on the river - it is very serene & peaceful. The resort itself covered in lush greenery lends a calm atmosphere. I believe there is also a water park; we obviously didn't see since we went during the monsoons.

Its great for a relaxing weekend. Bhaja caves are also close by.