Khandagiri and Udayagiri Caves of Bhubaneswar: History, Architecture, and Their Significance

Khandagiri and Udayagiri

Khandagiri and Udayagiri, located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, are twin hills famous for their ancient rock-cut caves.These caves, dating back to the 1st century BCE, are a significant historical and archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the life of Jain monks during the reign of the Kalinga King Kharavela.

The caves are a blend of natural and man-made formations, and they hold great religious, historical, and architectural importance.

Udayagiri Caves:

Udayagiri, which means "Sunrise Hill," houses 18 caves that are considered the most important of the two hills. These caves are adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, and inscriptions that depict the life and times of the Jain monks who once inhabited them.

Hathi Gumpha (Elephant Cave):

One of the most significant caves in Udayagiri, Hathi Gumpha is famous for its long inscription, known as the Hathi Gumpha inscription, attributed to King Kharavela. This inscription provides valuable information about the king's reign, his military conquests, and his patronage of Jainism.

The Hati Gumpha front view Udayagiri Hill, 'Bhubaneswar

The Hati Gumpha inscription ceiling view

The Hathi Gumpha inscription of king Kharavela

Rani Gumpha (Queen’s Cave):

The largest and most elaborate cave in Udayagiri, Rani Gumpha is a two-storied structure with beautifully carved verandahs, pillars, and sculptures. The cave is named "Queen's Cave" due to the grandeur of its design, and it features numerous panels depicting royal processions, dancing, and other courtly activities.

The two storeyed rock-cut cave at Udayagiri, Bhubaneswar known as Ranigumpha

Ganesh Gumpha:

Bagha Gumpha:

Bajaghara Gumpha:

Manchapuri-Swargapuri Cave:

Manchapuri-Swrgapuri Cave, a two-storeyed rockcut caves at Udayagiri, Bhubaneswar

Patalpuri Cave:

Alakapuri and Chhota Hathi Gumpha:

Alakapuri and chhota Hathi rock-cut cave at Udayagiri, Bhubaneswar

Jambeswar Gumpha:

Rasui Gumpha:

Sarpa Gumpha:

Laterite Apsidal Structure:

Khandagiri Caves:

Khandagiri, or "Broken Hill," contains 15 caves that are less ornate but still historically significant.

These caves are simpler in design compared to those in Udayagiri, and they served as the living quarters for the monks.

Jaina Tirthankara Cave:

Sculptures of Jaina Tirthankaras and Sasanadevis

Ananta Gumpha:

Ananta Gumpha is one of the more notable caves in Khandagiri, known for its carvings of serpents and other Jain symbols. The cave's name, meaning "Endless Cave," reflects the Jain belief in the endless cycle of birth and rebirth.

Tatowa Gumpha:

Named after the parrot carvings at the entrance, Tatowa Gumpha is another interesting cave in Khandagiri. The parrots symbolize the Jain concept of renunciation, where the monks lived a life of simplicity and detachment from worldly pleasures.

Tatwa Gumpha a rock-cut cave at Khandagiri, Bhubaneswar

Panoramic View:

Both Khandagiri and Udayagiri offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Bhubaneswar.

Bhubaneswar city view from the top of Udayagiri Hill

Historical Significance:

The caves of Khandagiri and Udayagiri are a treasure trove of history, offering insights into the religious practices, social life, and art of ancient Odisha.

The inscriptions found in the caves, particularly in Hathi Gumpha, are of great importance to historians and archaeologists as they provide detailed accounts of King Kharavela’s reign and the spread of Jainism in the region.

The translation stone of Hathi Gumpha Inscription at Udayagiri

Khandagiri and Udayagiri are not only important Jain pilgrimage sites but also key destinations for anyone interested in ancient Indian history and architecture.

Description of the importance of Khandagiri and Udayagiri site on a stone at the entrance of Udayagiri hill

The caves stand as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Odisha and continue to draw scholars, tourists, and spiritual seekers from around the world.

Odishan Temples