The Heritage Club
DATE: 23 rd November 2024
NAME OF THE ACTIVITY: A visit to the Karla Caves and Shri Parshwa Pradnyalaya Jain Teerth Temple
ACTIVITY PLAN: A visit to the Karla Caves and Shri Parshwa Pradnyalaya Jain Teerth Temple
The members of the Heritage Club of VPMS Pune planned their fifth activity at Karla Caves and Shri Parshwa Pradnyalaya Jain Teerth Temple on Saturday, 23 rd November 2024. The Karla Caves, known as Karli Caves, Karle Caves, or Karla Cells, comprise a complex of
ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves near Lonavala in Maharashtra. Other notable cave complexes are nearby, such as the Bhaja Caves, Patan Buddhist Cave, Bedse Caves, and Nasik Caves. The Karla Caves are historically, closely associated with the Mahāsāṃghika sect of
Buddhism. These caves existed over several centuries, the earliest dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The oldest cave shrine within the complex is believed to have been carved around 160 BCE. The development of this complex continued till the 6 th -7 th century AD.
As we moved in, the place gradually started to take shape and that’s when we realized that this place is no less than an architectural marvel. Built within the rocks of the mountain, we were awed by what looked like the main gallery. As we entered the gallery, we saw a series
of pillars on both sides with a central structure resembling a stupa. This gallery had this giant pillar outside and in between the two were many beautifully carved statues of ancient gods and demigods. The entire structure looked very similar to the Ajanta & Ellora caves.
The place had a distinct Buddhist touch to it. As we explored further, our eagerness to know about the places started to increase and we were gradually feeling lucky to have visited the place. We were amazed to note that the complex was multi-storied. A flight of stairs led to
the first floor, with many small rooms. These were the ancient classrooms for the Buddhist saints who came for their education here. We spent the next 2 hours exploring every nook and corner of the place.
While exiting the cave, we read about the Karla cave complex. We learned that the complex was built around the 6th century AD and belonged to a certain sect of Buddhism. The
Archaeological Survey of India declared this complex a national monument due to its age and exposure to deterioration. Having visited such an ancient monument, we felt blessed. On the way back, we visited the Jain Pradnalaya Temple. It was a wonderful place to visit!
The temple was magnificent. As soon as we entered, we felt good vibes, peace, and energy. It relaxed our mind and soul. It was a very calm place. The architecture was great and beautiful, clean, and well–maintained. It was an amazing experience. The students had a wonderful time. Overall, it was an enriching, educational, and enjoyable trip for all the students.
Report Compiled by:
Ms. Maria Waghmare
The best classrooms are not bound by walls but by the beauty of history and nature.
Feel the legacy of craftsmanship and let it guide your own artistry. The entrance is not just a passage- it’s an invitation to embrace humility, kindness, and enlightment
Friendship is the light that makes even the dark, cold cave feel warm!
the ancient beauty remind you of the timeless power of natural creativity.
The Jain temple’s beauty lies not just in its architecture but in the values it instils in us as we learn together.
