Undavalli Caves


Useful Information

Location: Undavalli. 8 km west of Vijayawada, 280 km from Hyderbad.
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Classification: SubterraneaCave Church
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Address: Undavalli Caves.
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History

7th Century AD excavated.

Description

The Undavalli caves are located in the village of Undavalli. Ask around for the caretaker, and he will unlock the gate and provide you with a candle to illuminate the cave. This long easterly oriented multi storied cave with a 5 m long reclining statue of Lord Vishnu sculpted from a single block of granite, is one of the best and earliest type here. Other shrines are dedicated to Trimurti, or the triad of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

The high hill overlooking the Krishna river hosts fine specimens of cut-in architectural and sculptural models.

Other small examples within the Kosthas and over the many surrounding flat topped hills provide the thrill and joy of discovering carvings on rocks amidst the shrubby contours.


Text by Tony Oldham (2003). With kind permission.