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Goa’s Lamgao Buddhist Caves offer an enlightening look into spirituality and history. These caves, a noteworthy example of early Buddhist buildings in India, are in the little town of Lamgao and date back to the first century BCE. The intricately carved caverns, which are set into rocky hills, include chambers carved out of rock, which were used by monks as living quarters and places to meditate. For those who want to delve deeper into Goa’s rich cultural legacy than its well-known beaches, Lamgao Buddhist Caves provide a tranquil environment and historical importance.
Location
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In North Goa, India, next to the settlement of Lamgao, are the Lamgao Buddhist Caves. To reach there, use the route that leads to Lamgao after heading towards the town of Bicholim. The high terrain where the caverns are located is encircled by thick vegetation.
How To Reach Lamgao Buddhist Caves
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By Car Or Scooter: Hiring a vehicle is a practical choice. After arriving at Bicholim town, drive to Lamgao and then follow the signs. Using a GPS or maps might be useful because the roads can be twisting.
By Public Bus: From Panaji or Mapusa, take a bus to Bicholim. To go to Lamgao village, use a local cab or auto rickshaw from Bicholim.
By Auto-Rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws are a convenient means of transportation to the caverns if you’re already in a local town or hamlet.
In any event, especially if you’re depending on public transportation, it’s a good idea to examine the availability and timetable of local transportation.
Places To Visit In And Around Lamgao Buddhist Caves
1. Bicholim Town
Photo: Bssasidhar / Wikimedia Commons
In India’s Goa region’s northern region is the tranquil town of Bicholim. The city is surrounded by tranquil rivers and verdant hills, earning it a reputation for visual beauty. With a blend of historic churches and temples, it is a site where traditional Goan life flourishes. The town is well-known for its mining sector and its stunning natural areas, such as Mayem Lake, a picnic destination. Bicholim is renowned for its lively local markets, which provide an insight into the pleasant and hospitable daily lives of its people.
Distance From Lamgao Buddhist Caves: 10 km
2. Arvalem Caves
Photo: Tom Swinnen / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Arvalem caverns, sometimes called the Pandava Caves, are historic rock-cut caverns in Goa that are close to Sanquelim. It is thought that Buddhist monks sculpted these caverns, which are said to have been created in the sixth century. The five chambers of the caverns have a Shivalinga, a representation of Lord Shiva, in one of them, suggesting subsequent Hindu influence. History buffs and tourists interested in Goa’s cultural past would find Arvalem Caves to be an engrossing location due to its unpretentious exterior and enigmatic atmosphere, as well as its straightforward yet captivating construction.
Distance From Lamgao Buddhist Caves: 16 km
Timings: 8:15 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹5 – 10
3. Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: JosephAssisFernandes / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, spanning around 240 square kilometres, is a verdant oasis located near Lamgao Buddhist Caves. Tucked away in the Western Ghats, it’s a wildlife and environment lover’s dream come true. Numerous species of animals may be found in the sanctuary, such as deer, leopards, and a diverse array of birds, such as the vibrant kingfisher. It is a biodiversity hotspot because of the abundance of different plant species found in the deep woodlands.
Distance From Lamgao Buddhist Caves: 20 km
Timings: 8 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20 per person for Adults, ₹10 per person for Children, ₹30 for Still Camera, ₹150 for Video Camera
4. Mayem Lake
Photo: Aruna / Wikimedia Commons
Mayem Lake is a serene location near Lamgao Buddhist Caves that is encircled by thick vegetation. This artificial lake provides a tranquil haven away from the bustling beaches. This is the ideal place to have a peaceful picnic, take a boat ride on the placid waterways, or just take in the beautiful scenery. The lake is a good place to go birding because it is home to a variety of species. There are little restaurants close by where you may have a drink or a snack. It’s a fantastic spot in Goa to relax and take in the scenery.
Distance From Lamgao Buddhist Caves: 8 km
Timings: 9.00 AM – 6.00 PM, Sunday – Saturday
5. Saptakoteshwar Temple
Photo: Deoboo / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most venerated Hindu temples in the area is the Saptakoteshwar Temple, which is situated near Narve, Goa. Its rich history dates back to the Kadamba dynasty, about the 12th century, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s elaborate sculptures and domed top combined Hindu and Mughal architectural elements. Many followers worship Saptakoteshwar, the major god, who is a version of Shiva. The temple is a tranquil spot for spiritual introspection and cultural appreciation because of its soothing surroundings, which are surrounded by nature.
Distance From Lamgao Buddhist Caves: 7.7 km
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 8 PM
Where To Stay
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There are some cosy hotels close to the Lamgao Buddhist Caves. Sanquelim’s Riverside Retreat offers a peaceful stay complete with lovely views and contemporary conveniences. Only a short drive away, the Hotel Panchavati in Mapusa provides easy access to nearby attractions as well as a variety of food options. In Bicholim, the Hotel Sai Prasad offers basic amenities and tidy rooms at a more affordable price. Furthermore, Spacious Haven in Assagao provides a more affluent stay with opulent extras and tranquil settings.
Where To Eat
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There are several different places to eat in Goa close to the Lamgao Buddhist Caves. Try the well-liked Ruchik Goa in the adjacent village of Ponda, which is renowned for its real Goan food. Try O’Coqueiro for a more laid-back dining experience; it serves a variety of Goan and Indian cuisine. The Red Chilli is a fantastic place to get North Indian food if you’re in the mood for something unusual.
Other Factors To Consider
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- The caverns are in North Goa, close to Bicholim. It’s advisable to utilize a smaller car or make arrangements for local transportation because the roads going to the location may be narrow.
- Because the region might be isolated, it is best to visit during the day to fully enjoy the beauty of the caverns and ensure safe travel.
- Dress comfortably and use shoes that can withstand rough ground. Respect the site’s cultural value by dressing modestly.
- Getting a local guide will help you get the most out of your trip by giving you insights into the importance, history, and design of the caverns.
- To escape muddy conditions brought on by the monsoon, visit during the dry season, which runs from October to March.
- Preserve the cultural legacy of the location by keeping the surrounding area tidy and refraining from disturbing or damaging the sculptures.
A fascinating look into Goa’s rich cultural and spiritual past may be found at the Lamgao Buddhist Caves. These historic caverns provide a tranquil haven and a link to the area’s Buddhist past with its distinctive architecture and quiet setting. Even though they are less well-known, they offer important insights into historical religious and artistic manifestations. A trip through time and a visit to the Lamgao Caves showcases Goa’s equilibrium between nature and spirituality.
Cover Photo: Tsvetoslav Hristov / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
