Patal Bhuvaneshwar Caves Travel Map

The Patala Bhuvaneshwar Caves are a network of limestone caves. The cave main cave is around 160 m long and 90 feet deep from the entrance point. With the passage of time, the flow of water over the limestone in these caves, has formed many stalactites and stalagmites that resemble the hair of Shiva, Kali's tongue, Aravati of Indra, Bhairav and more. The mouth of the main cave is a narrow, tunnel like opening, by which, the other interior caves can be reached. The cave is properly lit with artificial lights. In a 55 ft vertical passage inside the cave, there are steps formed on rocks, which go deep inside the earth. According to mythology, the cave of Patal Bhubaneshwar, consecrated by Adi Shankaracharya, is believed to be the dwelling of thirty three crore Hindu gods. At the entrance point of cave, is a havan kund. It is believed that Chandi Path was written by Rishi Markandeya in this cave.According to Skanda Purana, Patal Bhuvaneshwar was discovered by King Rituparna of the Suryavamsha (the ancient king of Ayodhya), in the Treta Yug. In 1191 AD, these cave were visited by Adi Shankaracharya. There are four gateways inside the Patal Bhuvaneshwar cave system, namely Randwar, Paapdwar, Dharmadwar, and Mokshadwar. Legends say that the Paapdwar was closed soon after the death of Ravana; and the Randwar, the road to war, was closed after war of Mahabharata.