Pune's Premier Tourist Destination
Pataleshwar Caves, also known as Panchaleshwar Cave Temple, is an 8th-century rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the heart of Pune, this archaeological site represents excellent Rashtrakuta architecture.
The temple is carved out of a single basalt rock and features a main shrine, a Nandi mandapa, and two smaller shrines. The circular Nandi mandapa is particularly noteworthy with its beautifully carved pillars and intricate designs.
Despite being surrounded by modern buildings, the cave temple maintains its ancient charm and spiritual ambiance. The temple is still actively used for worship, especially during Mahashivratri and other Hindu festivals. The site offers a glimpse into ancient Indian rock-cut architecture and religious practices. You can book taxi with Pavan Cab Pune to explore this historical marvel.
Discover ancient history comfortably with Pavancab Pune to Pataleshwar Caves. Located in the heart of the city, our taxi service provides direct access to this rock-cut temple. Pavancab makes your heritage exploration convenient and time-efficient.
Easily accessible by PMPML buses - get down at Jangli Maharaj Road. Auto-rickshaws available from all major areas of Pune city.
Limited parking available on the roadside. Paid parking options available in nearby commercial complexes during business hours.
October to March (Cooler months)
Caves remain cool in summer but surrounding area can be hot. Monsoon may cause waterlogging
Maha Shivratri sees special prayers. Mondays are dedicated to Lord Shiva
Weekends and religious holidays are crowded. Early mornings are peaceful
Exploring these 8th-century rock-cut caves feels like stepping back in time. Visitors marvel at the intricate stone carvings and ancient Shiva linga. The caves remain surprisingly cool even during summer afternoons. Photography enthusiasts capture the play of light and shadows. The site is well-maintained with clean surroundings. Early morning visits offer the most peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
Pataleshwar Caves are 8th-century rock-cut temples dating back to the Rashtrakuta period, dedicated to Lord Shiva. These caves represent excellent examples of early Hindu rock-cut architecture and provide insights into the religious and cultural practices of ancient Maharashtra.
The caves are open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day. There is no entry fee for visitors. The temple is functional, so visitors should be respectful of worshippers and religious ceremonies taking place.
The main attractions include the central Shiva lingam shrine, Nandi bull statue, intricate pillars carved from single basalt rock, secondary shrines, and the unique circular Nandi mandapa. The cave temple's architecture and preservation despite being in the city center are remarkable.
Yes, photography for personal use is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted during prayer times. Professional photography and videography may require special permission from the archaeological department.
Typically, 30-45 minutes is sufficient to explore the main cave temple and surrounding area. Those interested in architecture and history might want to spend about an hour studying the carvings and reading the information boards.
Major Shiva-related festivals like Maha Shivratri, Shravan month, and Pradosham are celebrated with special prayers and rituals. During these times, the temple sees increased numbers of devotees and special decorations.
The caves are remarkably well-preserved considering their age and urban location. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) maintains the site. Some weathering is natural, but overall the carvings and structures are in good condition for their age.
The main cave area is relatively accessible, but there are some steps and uneven surfaces. Wheelchair access might be challenging in certain areas. Elderly visitors should take care on the stone floors which can be slippery.
Nearby attractions include Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum (walking distance), Saras Baug, Bund Garden, and the old city areas of Pune. Many visitors combine Pataleshwar Caves with these nearby historical and cultural sites.
While formal guided tours might not be regularly available, the temple priests and caretakers are knowledgeable and often share information with interested visitors. Information boards provide historical context and architectural details about the caves.
Book your comfortable cab with Pavancab for a hassle-free travel experience.
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