Bihar is one of the States of India which is well known for its glorious history, art, architecture, customs, cultural heritage, and historical monuments. Barabar rock-cut caves are one of the most famous historical monuments of Bihar.

Barabar hill caves are one of the oldest and earliest known caves of Bihar surviving from the period of 322 BCE and situated in Makhdumpur of Jehanabad district Bihar which is 24 km north of Gaya. Barabar caves are located at the twin hills of Barabar and Nagarjuni. There are 4 caves in Barabar and 3 caves in Nagarjuni. The four caves of Barabar hills are Lomas Rishi, Sudama, Karan Chaupar, Visva karma.

Lomas Rishi and Sudama caves possess the oldest Indian rock-cut architecture having an arch-like shape. It is a man-made cave having an amazing polished surface that looks not less than a machine-polished surface.

The caves of Barabar are carved out of granite and have an amazingly polished internal surface which is also called “Mauryan polish” and contains mainly two chambers. Due to this, these caves also possess some surprising and thrilling echo effects. This place is blessed with greenery & ponds and is a stunning place to visit.

Location: Barabar hill road, Barabar, Sultanpur, Bihar
Height: 124m (Barabar hills)
Architecture: Indian rock-cut
Climatic conditions :
Winters: calm and pleasant (October to March)
Summers: Hot and humid (April to June)
The season is rainy from mid-June to September.
Founder: Makkhali Gosala
Founded:322-185 BCE(during Maurya Empire)
Type of place: Pilgrimage, Religious, caves

The Barabar History:
The Barabar caves are the only surviving remains of Ajivika faith, which is quite popular and even known to be quite similar to Buddhism and Jainism.

The Barabar caves date back to the 3rd century BCE. There are no structures or embellishments present in these caves.

The inscriptions that were found in these caves give evidence that these caves belong to the Maurya period. The inscriptions on Sudama cave also tell that the caves were given by king Ashoka to Ajivika monks in 261 BCE.

The founder of Ajivika faith was a preacher whose name was ‘Makkhali Gosala’. Barabar caves were also excavated by him during the period of Ashoka and his grandson Dasaratha.

These caves were used by monks of various religions like- Jains, Buddhists, and Ajivikas who often travel around the world to spread their ideas. These caves were given to them so that they could stay in them during monsoon as it was difficult to travel during that time.

Timings and Entry Fee:
The Barabar caves in Bihar are open on all days of the week from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The time taken to visit Barabar caves would be around 3 to 4 hours. This place is best for people who love historical places, adventure seekers, photoholics, nature lovers, etc. It is a very economical trip for anyone and the most important thing is there is no entry fee to visit these caves.

Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Barbar caves is between October and March. During this time of the year, the temperature remains about 15°C to 29°C.

Traveler Tips:
The Barabar Caves are very far from any residential area and you will not find any place to stay near the caves.

There are no restaurants or great forms of water supply so it is advised to carry some food and a water bottle with you.

There is a shiva temple at the top of the hill about 300 steps away. Do not forget to visit that place.

How to reach Barabar Caves Bihar India:
You can visit Barabar caves Bihar India in many ways according to your convenience.

By Rail:
Gaya railway station is the nearest railway station to Barabar hills and is located at a distance of about 32 km. It has a network of roads connected to all major parts and cities of India.

By Air:
The closest airports to Barabar caves are Gaya airport which is 32 km and Lok Nayak Jai Prakash international airport 92 km in Patna.

By Road:
This place is situated at a distance of 47 km from Bodhgaya, 32 km from Gaya, 92 km from Patna, and 62 km from Nalanda.

Only private vehicles are allowed here, there is no government bus available. So one can easily book cabs or taxis to reach the spots.