Barabar Caves

Located in the twin hills of Barabar and Nagarjuni, the Barabar Caves are believed to be one of the oldest surviving rock-cut caves belonging to the Mauryan era. These monolithic caves were created under Mauryan Emperor Ashoka’s rule for the Ajeevikas (Buddhist monks). Carved out of granite they have smooth interior walls which have an echo effect. Most caves have two chambers out of which the first was where worshippers would congregate and the second (internal chamber) was meant for a small stupa. The prominent caves of Barabar are Karna Chaupar, Sudama Cave, Lamarshi (Lomas Rishi) Cave, Vishwa Zopri Cave and Nagarjuni Caves.

 

How to reach

Road – This destination is located at a distance of 47 kms from Bodh Gaya, 32 kms from Gaya, 62 kms from Nalanda and 92 kms from Patna.
Rail – Gaya Railway Station (32 kms) is the nearest railway station and is well linked to all major cities in India.
Air – Gaya Airport (32 kms) and Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (Patna) International Airport (92 kms) are the closest airports to Barabar Caves.

Climate

The climate is pleasant during winter months of October to March and is hot and humid from the months of April to Mid June until monsoons arrive. The rainy season is from Mid June to September.