One of the oldest caves in India are the Bhaja Caves used during 200 BC by Mauryan rulers. This group comprises 18 rock-cut caves that were inhabited by Buddhist monks or were used as schools for Buddhist teaching. The caves consist of Viharas, Chaityas and 14 stupas. These depict Buddha in various forms and postures, several animals and incidents from Buddhist mythology. The largest is cave 12, which is a prayer hall and the 14th cave, has a dancing couple sculpture. The glistening waterfall in the last cave fills a pool at the bottom during monsoons. The Bhaja Caves are located in Aurangabad District at a distance of 12 km from Lonavala. Malavil (3 km) is the nearest railhead, while Pune is the nearest airport.
