Like the childhood game show Legends of the Hidden Temple, these caves are treasure troves of history, art, and mystery. Let’s uncover the fascinating stories behind five of India’s most intriguing caves.

1: Son Bhandar caves, Bihar In Rajgir, the Son Bhandar caves are shrouded in legend. Dating back to the Mauryan era, these 3rd-century structures are said to conceal hidden treasure. A mysterious inscription hints at the key, but no one has deciphered it yet.

Tied to Buddhist heritage, these caves, located in the Vaibhar hills, intrigue visitors with their aura of mystery. The name, which translates to ‘Store of gold’, fuels curiosity, and the allure of unlocking ancient secrets draws history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

2: Edakkal caves, Kerala Nestled in Wayanad, Edakkal caves boast carvings dating back to 6000 BC. Discovered by British officer Fred Fawcett, these naturally formed, double-chambered caves sit atop Ambukuthi Mountain, 1,300 metres above sea level — offering both history and scenic vistas.

The prehistoric carvings depict human figures, animals, and symbols from the Neolithic age. These intricate works provide a glimpse into an ancient world, making Edakkal caves an unmissable destination for history buffs and explorers.

3: Borra caves, Andhra Pradesh In the Visakhapatnam district, Borra caves showcase million-year-old limestone formations. Discovered by a cowherd who stumbled upon a Shiv Ling inside, the caves are steeped in mythology and breathtaking natural beauty — 1,400 metres above sea level.

The stalactites and stalagmites here, shaped by the Gosthani river, create a mesmerising underground world. The vast chambers with their unique legends are said to be one of the largest caves in the country.

4: Undavalli caves, Andhra Pradesh Carved out of sandstone in Vijayawada, Undavalli caves date back to the Gupta period. Their intricate design reflects ancient architectural brilliance. The highlight? A massive monolith of Lord Vishnu reclining peacefully within these rock-cut wonders.

The caves not only showcase ancient craftsmanship but also hint at religious traditions from centuries past. Visitors are drawn to their spiritual aura and the stories etched into these timeless walls.

5: Bhimbetka rock shelters, Madhya Pradesh On Madhya Pradesh’s Vindhya range foothills, the Bhimbetka shelters are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Their prehistoric paintings, dating to the Palaeolithic era, reveal the lives of early humans, offering a connection to humanity’s distant past.

Discovered in 1957, the shelters house one of India’s largest prehistoric art collections. These vivid depictions of hunting scenes, animals, and daily life make Bhimbetka an extraordinary journey into our ancestors’ world.