Pataleshwar Caves

Pune is host to a number of fascinating historical structures. On Jangli Maharaj Road which happens to be one of the busiest thoroughfares of the city, lies an oasis of tranquility and peace in the middle of the hustle and bustle.

Pataleshwar Caves date back to the eighth century and are quite possibly one of the oldest structures in the city. They are also referred to as the Panchaleshwar Temple or the Bhamburde Pandav Cave Temple. The temple consists of three rock-cut cave sanctums and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The name Pataleshwar means God of the Underworld.

The structure is an architectural marvel, having been carved out of a single rock. The gigantic pillars supporting the structure are one of the temple's most striking features. The symmetry of these columns is beautiful and provides an excellent opportunity for taking pictures, especially for people who are fascinated by history and architecture. The atmosphere looks straight out of a treasure hunt action movie. The temple bears a striking resemblance to the Elephanta Caves in Mumbai.

The temple complex is peaceful and quiet, and thus a lot of people come here to study, or to spend a solitary moment of relaxation. A garden surrounds the temple complex and cool trees provide shade to enthusiastic visitors. It is a fascinating place to visit and to glimpse a piece of history and architecture, which is more than a thousand years old.