Short answer: The Pandavleni Caves, also called the Trirashmi Caves, are a group of ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves on a hill outside Nashik. They are about 2,000 years old and are one of the best historic sights in the city, making them a good half-day trip away from the temples during the Kumbh Mela.
What Are the Pandavleni Caves?
The caves are a set of around two dozen cells and halls carved into the rock of Trirashmi hill. They were cut by Buddhist monks in the centuries around the start of the Common Era, and several caves have carved pillars, inscriptions and a shrine hall. The site is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Why Are They Called Pandavleni?
"Leni" means cave in Marathi. Local tradition links the caves to the Pandavas of the Mahabharata, which is how the name Pandavleni arose, although the caves are Buddhist in origin. Both stories are part of how people in Nashik know the place.
How to Reach the Caves
The caves are on the Mumbai-Agra highway side of Nashik, several kilometres from the old city and Panchavati. Auto-rickshaws and taxis can take you there. Visitors climb a flight of steps up the hill to reach the cave entrances, and the view over the city from the top is a reward for the effort. For the wider journey, read how to reach Nashik.
Visitor Tips for the Kumbh
- It is a quieter outing than the ghats, so it suits a rest from the bathing-day crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the steps, and carry water and a hat.
- Rock steps can be slippery in the rainy season, so be careful.
- Check current opening hours and ticket details before you go.
- Pair it with a morning at Ramkund and the Kalaram Temple in Panchavati.
- On the Amrit Snan days, 2 August, 31 August, 11 September and 12 September 2027, roads may be closed near the ghats. See the schedule.