Located in the Jehanabad district of Bihar, India, the Barabar Caves stand as a testament to the rich history and architectural genius of ancient India. These caves of the Maurya period are a fascinating exploration of the roots of rock-cut architecture. Barabar Caves consists of four main caves – Lomas Rishi Cave, Sudama Cave, Karan Chaupar, and Vishwa Zoopri – each with its own unique charm and historical significance.
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Things to Do in Barabar Cave Jehanabad
Lomas Rishi Cave:
Lomas Rishi Cave, also known as Lomas Rishi’s Grotto, is an extraordinary example of the craftsmanship of the Maurya era. Made of granite, the cave is famous for its polished surfaces and exquisite details. The entrance of the cave is adorned with intricately carved arches and patterns, displaying the advanced architectural skills prevalent during that period. Inscriptions found within provide information about the religious and cultural practices of the time.
Sudama Cave:
Sudama Cave, another gem among the Barabar Caves, is characterized by its simple yet elegant design. Sudama Cave, carved out of a massive granite rock, is a small chamber with a circular roof. The cave is devoid of elaborate carvings, emphasizing a minimalist approach. However, this simplicity adds to its charm and makes it a unique exploration for ancient architecture enthusiasts.
Karan Chaupar:
Karan Chaupar, also known as Karan Chaupar Cave, is distinctive for its horseshoe-shaped arches. The cave has a rectangular chamber with polished walls, which displays the extraordinary skill of the Maurya craftsmen. The architectural precision displayed at Karan Chaupar not only reflects the artistic prowess of the time but also indicates the religious practices prevalent during the Maurya era.
World Jeopardy:
The fourth cave in the Barabar Caves complex is Vishwa Zopri, which features a different architectural style than its counterparts. Vishwa Zoopri is a small cave with a square chamber and a polished interior. The cave holds historical significance, and its unique design contributes to the diverse architectural landscape within the Barabar Caves.
Barabar Caves History
Today we take you to Jehanabad, where you will get to hear some stories hidden in the womb of history. These stories are related to Barabar Caves, which are about two and a half thousand years old!
It is said that many secrets are buried under the ground. The same thing applies to Barabar caves also. The credit for building these caves goes to the Maurya emperor Ashoka. Yes, the same Ashoka who got the name of Shanti Samrat from the emperor. But the question arises that why did Ashoka, who was anti-war, build these caves?
According to historians, these caves were built for the monks of the Jain and Ajivika sects of that time to live and meditate. Let us tell you, Aajivik was a sect which emerged from Jainism. These caves may look ordinary, but their walls are so smooth that it seems as if they have been polished. It is said that in those days, elephant teeth were used for polishing!
The special thing about these caves is that the temperature inside them always remains the same. No matter how hot or cold it is outside, the atmosphere inside the cave is always pleasant. This is really amazing engineering, whose brilliance we still admire.
The story of Barabar Caves is not just this. Siddheshwar Nath Mahadev temple is also situated near these caves. It is said that the path to this temple secretly led to Rajgir Fort. Don’t know whether this is true or a legend, but it is certain that these caves, with their mystery and history, take us on a journey to that time. This Is Best and Famous Tourist Places in Jehanabad Barabar Caves
Best Time to Visit in Jehanabad Tourist Plaves Barabar Caves
January to December
conclusion:
The Barabar Caves, with their Lomas Rishi, Sudama, Karan Chaupar and Vishwa Zoopri caves, offer a picturesque journey into the ancient past. These architectural wonders not only showcase the ingenuity of the Maurya period but also serve as a living testament to the cultural and religious practices of that era. As we explore these caves, we discover a rich tapestry of history, art and spirituality, providing a deep connection with our cultural heritage. For enthusiasts and history lovers, a visit to the Barabar Caves is a must, offering a glimpse of the roots of India’s architectural heritage.