Khandagiri Caves - Bhubaneswar

Initial Thoughts Upon Arrival

Khandagiri Caves are nestled on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar and offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient history. The caves, carved into the sides of the hills, were once used by Jain monks and provide a unique look at life centuries ago. As you climb higher, you'll also be rewarded with some stunning views overlooking the city of Bhubaneswar.

Family-Friendly?

Yes, the caves are family-friendly, although they may not be the most exciting attraction for very young children. That said, we took our toddler, and he had a blast running around the open areas and climbing on the rocks surrounding the caves.

Accessible to Most People?

Visitors should be prepared for a fair amount of walking and climbing, so comfortable walking or tennis shoes are highly recommended. Unfortunately, this is not a stroller-friendly or wheelchair-accessible attraction due to the uneven terrain, stairs, and hillside pathways.

Money / Costs

Foreign visitors can expect to pay approximately ₹200 per person for admission. Make sure you have cash for this transaction, unless you are with a local who has Googlepay or UPI where they can pay electronically. 

Foreigner-Friendly?

Yes. The caves are easy to locate and navigate, making them a straightforward destination for foreign travelers. The site is well-known and frequently visited by tourists.

Overall Impression

Khandagiri Caves are a worthwhile stop when visiting Bhubaneswar, especially for those interested in history, archaeology, or scenic viewpoints. An added bonus is that the adjacent Udayagiri Caves can be visited during the same trip, allowing you to experience two important historical sites in one outing. Although we did not have the opportunity to explore Udayagiri during our visit, it is high on our list for next time.

Travel Tips

If you are using Uber or another ride-sharing service, be aware that drivers may not be permitted to pull directly up to the cave entrance. As a result, you may need to walk a short distance to meet your driver for pickup. If you prefer not to do this, there are usually plenty of auto-rickshaw drivers waiting nearby who can provide transportation.