Panhalekaji is a small village near the banks of the river ‘thorli-dhakti kotjai’, in Dapoli taluka of Ratnagiri district. This village is not only rich in natural beauty, but also a rich ancient inheritance. Relics of ancient Indian heritage have been found in this village. These relics are ancient caves found on a mountain north facing the river thorli-dhakti kotjai. There are 28 compartments in these cave chains and 29 in another cave chain at a place called Bag Wadi.
You can find mendicant quarters, dome shaped shrines, assembly hall, statues and other such structures in these cave chains. Traces of buddhist traditions like Hinayaan & Vajrayaan, The Nath creed and the Shilahar dynasty can be found in these caves. It is an ideal place for historians and scholars. Tourists visit this place despite the slightly rough roads. The guides appointed by governments archeology department, provide detailed information about this place to the tourists. Whether you love history or are an explorer, Panhalekaji caves are the best adventure you will ever be on.
The caves in Dapoli were worked on and renovated by the Vajrayana people in the 10th century. Stupas were also erected here. You can find statues of Lord Ganesh and Devi Saraswati. The caves which conserve the illustrious history of thousands of years are a peaceful and stunning getaway. The location is still rather remote and difficult to get to know; back then, residing there would have meant leading an entirely isolated life. This also made it necessary for survival, to be self-sustaining with foraging for daily needs inside the deep jungle surrounding the mountain range.
As you step inside the caves, you will be taken back thousands of years. The smell and the sound of small water fountains nearby will saturate your senses as you stare at the amazing architecture that the Panhalakaji Caves brandish. However, the 10th cave is the most impressive in the area. Maha-Chandraroshana’s deity is depicted on the stupa, signifying the relationship between Ratnagiri in Odisha and the region’s historic Buddhist temples. According to the Buddhist histories, Tapassu and Bhallika, two wealthy traders from that era, brought Kesa Asthi to Odra, an ancient kingdom in Odisha. The Gautama Buddha’s tooth and nail relics also made their way into Odra during the succeeding eras.
Features Of Panhalekaji Caves
Rock-Cut Structures: The Panhalekaji Caves are a series of 29 rock-cut caves, carved out of the basalt rock cliffs. These caves exhibit a blend of Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles, with intricate carvings, sculptures, and inscriptions adorning the walls.
Iconography: The caves feature numerous statues and carvings of Buddhist deities such as the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and Dwarapalas (gatekeepers). Additionally, there are also Hindu depictions, including images of Lord Shiva, Ganesha, and scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Chaityas and Viharas: The caves include chaityas (prayer halls) and viharas (monasteries or dwelling places for monks). The largest cave has a chaitya hall with a stupa, which was used for meditation and prayer.
Place of Worship: Historically, the Panhalekaji Caves were an important religious site for Buddhist monks and later became a place of worship for Hindus and Jains. Today, they stand as a testament to the religious harmony and cultural exchanges of ancient India.
Spiritual Experience: Visitors often experience a deep sense of peace and reverence when exploring the caves, especially in the prayer halls and meditation spaces. The secluded environment adds to the spiritual ambiance.
To reach the caves in Dapoli, you have to start from Dapoli towards Khed. Midway after Walkoli and a right turn will take you towards the caves. The signboard is visible as you turn off the main road, but it vanishes as you make the turn. There aren’t many people around to ask for directions, and the route is largely vacant. The caves in Dapoli do not show up on Google maps making it a thrilling journey. Additionally, several hot springs present nearby are a fun place to dip into if you manage to discover them.
