The breathtaking secret world of cave temples
DEEP underground, hidden in various locations around the world, lies a series of incredible cave temples. Here are some of the most fascinating finds.
DEEP underground, hidden in various locations around the world, lies a series of incredible cave temples.
From India’s Ajanta Caves to the famous Batu Cave temple in Kuala Lumpur, these are some of the most spectacular ones you can find.
So prepare to be wowed as you take a look at the spiritual treasures that lie deep within.
Ajanta Caves, India
Home to approximately 30 ancient Buddhist cave monuments, the Ajanta Caves are hand-carved into the hillside rocks in the middle of nowhere. They have been described by the Archaeological Survey of India as “the finest surviving examples of Indian art”.
Ellora Caves, India
The Ellora Caves features monuments dating from 600 A.D. and are a mixture of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain.
Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur
One of the most photographed caves in the world, visitors to the Batu Caves are welcomed by a massive 42 metre high statue of Murugan, a Hindu deity.
Phraya Nakhon Cave, Pranburi, Thailand
The spectacular Kuha Karuhas pavilion at the Phraya Cave in Sam Roi Yot National Park was built for the visit of King Chulalongkorn in 1890.
Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka
It’s not surprising to learn that this cave is known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, and is also a World Heritage Site.
Buddhist Cave, Thailand
Pindaya Caves, Myanmar
The Pindaya Caves in Shan State, Myanmar are a Buddhist pilgrimage site and a popular tourist attraction. There are 8000 Buddhist statues hidden inside.
Longmen Grottoes, China
The grottoes of Longmen in Henan, China, contain the largest and most impressive collection of Chinese art of the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties, according to the UNESCO World Heritage Convention.
Hanging Temple, China
China is home to the Hanging Temple, which is built into a cliff near Mount Heng in Hunyuan County, Datong City.
Vardzia Cave monastery, Georgia
Vardzia is a cave monastery built in the medieval kingdom of southern Georgia in the late 1100s.
Luang Prabang, Laos
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the former capital of Laos and is home to cave temples.
Yungang Grottoes, China
The Yungang Grottoes are ancient Chinese Buddhist temple grottoes near the city of Datong.