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| Lohagad From Pawana |
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| Bhaja Caves near Lohagad Fort |
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Bhaje Caves :
The fort is not so big as the main forts, but it acquired significance due to its geographical location and
the dominance of Buddhists and later the Satvaahans here. Building forts strengthened the peaks of Sahyadri, and the marvelous
caves and sculptures beautified their faces. The artistic works not only reveal the cultural development, but also show an
advanced architecture that is not achievable today. The caves of Ajantha and Verul are the best works, so are the caves of
Karla and Bhaje. Karla caves are little farther from here, but Bhaje caves are near Malavali. The ancient Viharas and Stupas
of Buddhists indicate that they were Heenyana Buddhists, who do not believe in idol worship. Mahayana Buddhists carved idols
of Buddha. Here we can find 8 more Stupas. There is a temple, which is Surya-Mandir or Temple of Sun . the chariot of Sun God is carved here. The constructions here are highly astonishing, and
remained intact even after more than 2000 years. The wooden planks used here have not degraded yet. The place is now under
the care of ASI.
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