Bhubaneswar & beyond · 2nd-century BCE Jain rock-cut caves
Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves
Twin hills with 33 rock-cut caves carved for Jain monks under King Kharavela, including the double-storey Rani Gumpha with exquisite friezes.
History & legend
These twin sandstone hills hold 33 caves (18 on Udayagiri, 15 on Khandagiri) excavated in the 2nd–1st century BCE as monsoon retreats for Jain monks under King Kharavela of the Mahameghavahana (Chedi) dynasty. Kharavela's 17-line Hathigumpha inscription in Brahmi script, carved above the Elephant Cave, is the main source for his reign and describes his conquests, canal repairs and return of a Kalinga Jina image taken by the Nandas. The double-storeyed Rani Gumpha ('Queen's Cave') carries some of the finest early Indian relief sculpture — royal processions, hunts and dance. Khandagiri remained a living Jain site; its hilltop temple dates from the 19th century.
Timings
Sunrise to sunset
Best time to visit
Early morning, October–March
Entry fee
₹25 Indians · ₹300 foreigners (Udayagiri)
Approx. cab from Puri (one way)
₹1,550 · 62 km × ₹25/km
Don't miss
- Rani Gumpha (Queen's cave)
- Hathi Gumpha inscription
- Hilltop Jain temple views
- Resident monkeys
Local tip: Wear grippy shoes — steps are steep and worn. Watch your snacks around the monkeys.
On the map
