Bhaja Caves

Bhaja Caves are a group of 22 rock-cut caves dating back to the 2nd century BC located off the Mumbai - Pune expressway near the city of Pune [1]. The caves are 400 feet above the village of Bhaja [1]. The most prominent excavation is its chaitya, a good example of the early development of this form from wooden architecture, with a vaulted horseshoe ceiling [1]. Its vihara has a pillared verandah in front and is adorned with unique reliefs [1]. A cistern inscription shows the name of a donor from the 2nd century AD [1]. A notable part of the monument is a group of 14 stupas, five inside and nine outside an irregular excavation [1]. The stupas are relics of resident monks, who died at Bhaja, and display an inscription with the names of three monks, Ampinika, Dhammagiri and Sanghdina [1].