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Sonbhandar Caves are located in Rajgir town, Nalanda District of Bihar. These artificial man made caves are famous for their intricate inscriptions in Brahmi script, believed to be dating back to the 3rd century B.C. These caves reflect the rich history and cultural heritage of India. Its proximity to nearby tourist attractions like Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Rajgir Hot Springs and Brahmayoni Hills makes it a must-visit destination. Whether you are a history buff or a nature enthusiast, these caves have much to offer. This guided blog will provide you with the necessary information to make your trip to Sonnbhandar caves a memorable experience.
Quick Details About Sonbhandar Caves Bihar
Elevation: 73 metres (240 feet) from the sea level
Where To Stay: Homestays or Hotels are readily available in Gaya or Rajgir
Where To Eat: Restaurants or Local Eateries in Rajgir serving traditional Bihari Cuisine
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Best Time To Visit Sonbhandar Caves: October to March
Location
Photo: Paramanu Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons
The Sonbhandar Caves are located in Rajgir town, Nalanda District of Bihar. These Caves are around 3.5 kms from Rajgir City. The cave is believed to be from Mauryan Period i.e. 3rd Century B.C., surrounded by lush green hills. The caves provide a beautiful destination for the exploration of stunning landscapes that offer a blend of nature and history. The caves are famous for their intricate inscriptions on the walls. The proximity of Sonbhandar caves with other major tourist attractions makes it an ideal stop for visitors.
How To Reach Sonbhandar Caves
Photo: David Gladson / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Reaching Sonbhandar Cave is convenient due to its proximity to Rajgir City. The city is well-connected with major cities of the country and accessible via various modes of transport.
By Road: Rajgir city is well-connected by a network of highways. The city is easily accessible via NH-20. State-run buses and taxis are available to Rajgir from nearby towns.
By Air: The nearest airport to Sonbhandar Caves is Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport in Patna. The caves are around 80 kms from the airport. From the airport, you can opt for buses, taxis, or taxis to reach Rajgir.
By Train: Rajgir Railway Station is well-connected to major cities. Regular trains run from cities like Patna and Gaya. From there, you can hire a taxi or a local transport company like an auto rickshaw that will let you reach in about 20-30 minutes.
Places To Visit Around Sonbhandar Caves
Here is a list of some noteworthy tourist attractions you cannot miss on your trip to Sonbhandar Caves:
1. Rajgir Hot Springs
Photo: juggadery / Wikimedia Commons
Rajgir Hot Springs is a popular tourist destination known for its natural hot water springs. Located around 3 kms from Sonbhandar Caves, the hot springs are considered a sacred site and hold a spiritual significance. These hot springs are well-known for their therapeutic and healing properties. The hot springs are surrounded by landscapes and hills contributing to the beauty of the place.
2. Brahmayoni Hills
Brahmayoni Hills is a famous hiking area near Sonbhandar Caves. The hill holds a significant place in both Hinduism and Buddhism. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop making it a rewarding experience. You can find meditation caves and many temples on your way. The place is ideal for nature enthusiasts and people interested in spiritual reflection.
3. Nalanda University Ruins
Photo: Sumitsurai / Wikimedia Commons
Nalanda University area famous for remnants of ancient Nalanda University, is located around 17 kms from Sonbhandar Caves. Once a thriving centre of education, this university is a UNESCO World Heritage. This archaeology site offers deep insights into the glorious past of the country and is the perfect spot for history buffs.
4. Vishwa Shanti Stupa
Photo: Satyendra8 / Wikimedia Commons
Vishwa Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist stupa that is located in Rajgir Hills, Nalanda District. Located just 1.6 kms from Sonbhandar Caves, it is the world’s largest peace pagoda. This stupa is a spiritual site for Buddhists who want to enjoy the holy ambience. It is a must-visit place for tranquillity and spiritual reflection.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Oo91 / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
The trip to Sonbhandar Caves is affordable and full of enriching experiences. The total cost of your trip depends upon your preferred mode of transport. A budget-friendly trip to Sonbhandar Caves including accommodation and meals can cost you around ₹3000 to ₹5000 per day. While a more convenient trip can cost you around ₹5000 to ₹10000 per day. Accommodations are easily available in Rajgir ranging from ₹800 to ₹3000 per night.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear Comfortable Clothes: It is recommended to wear comfortable and light clothes and shoes as there is a short trek with a lot of climbing and walking to reach Sonbhandar Caves.
- Respect The Heritage: Sonbhandar Caves are one of the oldest archaeological sites in Bihar. You should not touch or damage the inscriptions to preserve their historical value.
- Plan for Other Tourist Attractions: You can explore other tourist attractions as well nearby like Nalanda University, Vishwa Shanti Stupa and Rajgir Hot Springs. So, it is recommended to plan for other tourist destinations to make your visit more memorable.
- Hire a Guide: For proper exploration and deeper insights into the caves, you should hire a guide. This can enrich your experience with the history and importance of these caves.
A trip to Sonbhandar Caves is a journey to the Mauryan Period. These caves offer deeper insights into the glorious past of India. The intricate inscriptions on these caves are enough to amaze you. Whether you are visiting Sonbhandar Caves or nearby tourist attractions, you get to experience stunning architecture and breathtaking views. So, pack your bags and plan your trip to Sonbhandar Caves with TripXL for an unforgettable experience.
Cover Photo: Paramanu Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons
