Dungeshwari Hills
Dungeshwari Hills, also known as Mahakala Caves, are a group of caves in the Gaya district in Bihar, India. The caves are believed to be where Gautama Buddha spent six years of meditation before attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya.
The Dungeshwari Hills are located around 12 km from Bodh Gaya and are popular destinations for pilgrims and tourists alike. Lush green forests surround the hill range and offer breathtaking landscape views.
The caves at Dungeshwari Hills are believed to be where Buddha underwent intense penance and self-mortification before discovering the Middle Path. The largest cave is called the Mahakala Cave, which is around 108 feet long and 30 feet wide. It has a large stone carving of Lord Buddha in a meditative pose. The other caves are smaller and are believed to have been used by the Buddha's disciples for meditation.
The hills also have a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at the mountain's base. The temple is around 2000 years old and has a natural Shivlinga, believed to have been created by Lord Shiva.
The Dungeshwari Hills is a pilgrimage site and a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts. The trek to the top of the hills is moderately challenging, but the breathtaking views make it all worthwhile.
Places To Visit In Bihar Near Dungeshwari Hills:
Bodh Gaya:
Bodh Gaya is located around 12 km from Dungeshwari Hills and is one of Buddhism's most important pilgrimage sites. It is where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree, and the Mahabodhi Temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mahakala Caves:
The Mahakala Caves are located within the Dungeshwari Hills and are an important pilgrimage site in Buddhism. They are believed to be where Gautama Buddha spent six years of his life in meditation before enlightenment.
Barabar Caves:
The Barabar Caves are a group of ancient rock-cut caves located around 40 km from Dungeshwari Hills. They are believed to date back to the Mauryan period and are famous for their rock-cut architecture and inscriptions.
Rajgir:
Rajgir has located around 60 km from Dungeshwari Hills and is a historic town home to several ancient Buddhist and Jain sites. The Vulture's Peak is an important pilgrimage site in Buddhism, and the Hot Springs are believed to have healing properties.
Nalanda:
Nalanda is located around 75 km from Dungeshwari Hills and was once home to one of the oldest universities in the world. The ruins of Nalanda University are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a glimpse into the intellectual and cultural history of the region.
Nearby Places
