Undavalli Caves

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News: For two days, the 7th-century Undavalli Caves became a vibrant venue for the first Andhra Pradesh Telugu Mahotsavam, celebrating the Telugu language, literature, music, poetry, folk songs, storytelling, and cultural traditions.

About Undavalli Caves

Explore the Undavalli Caves near Guntur
Source: Incredible India
  • They are a monolithic caves are example of Indian rock-cut architecture. 
  • Location: They are located near Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
    • They are believed to have been carved out of sandstone on the side of Undavalli Hill.
  • Associated river: It is situated on the bank of river Krishna.
  • Built by:
    • These multi-storeyed caves date back to the 6th–7th century CE.
    • It was built by the Vishnu Kundin rulers, who governed the region during that period.
    • The caves are a unique blend of Indian and Buddhist architectural styles.
  • Principal Diety: The principal deity in the caves is Anantasayana Vishnu (Vishnu in a reclining position). 
  • Architecture features: 
    • They are renowned for their intricate carvings and distinctive rock-cut architecture.
    • The caves are four stories high, with each floor featuring unique carvings and architectural elements.
    • The ground floor has a large open hall with sculptures of Lord Vishnu and other Hindu deities.
    • The second floor contains small cells with intricate carvings depicting different stories.
    • The third floor houses a massive reclining statue of Lord Vishnu, one of the cave’s main attractions.
    • The fourth floor contains a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, providing a place for worship and meditation.
    • An underground passage is believed to connect the caves to the Krishna River.
  • The carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, reflecting India’s rich artistic heritage.
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