Kondana Caves are located in the village of Kondhane, near Karjat, in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range. These is One-day picnic spots with waterfall near karjat during monsoon. These ancient Buddhist caves lie on the slopes of Rajmachi fort hills and are surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls, especially beautiful during the monsoon.
- Coordinates: 18.7764° N, 73.3535° E
- Distance from Karjat Station: Approx. 15 km
- Altitude: ~60-70 meters above sea level
🗺️ How to Reach Kondana Caves
🚆 By Train:
- Karjat Railway Station is the nearest railhead. It is well-connected by local trains from Mumbai CST, Dadar, Thane, and Panvel.
- From Karjat station, you can take a rickshaw or shared cab to Kondhane village (approx. ₹300–₹400 one way).
🚗 By Road:
- From Mumbai (approx. 80 km / 2.5 hrs):
- Take the Mumbai–Pune Expressway → Exit at Shedung → Drive via Karjat–Chauk Road → Reach Kondhane village.
- From Pune (approx. 110 km / 3 hrs):
- Take the Pune–Mumbai Highway → Exit at Khopoli → Head towards Karjat → Kondhane village.
🥾 Trekking Route:
- From Kondhane village, it’s a short 1.5–2 km trek (approx. 45 mins) through a forest trail and stream crossings to reach the caves.
- During monsoon, wear good grip shoes and be ready for muddy, slippery terrain.
🕰️ Best Time to Visit Kondana Caves
- Monsoon (June to September): Best time to witness the caves in their full glory with surrounding waterfalls and lush greenery.
- Winter (October to February): Pleasant weather, suitable for easy trekking and exploring.
- Avoid summers due to heat and dry terrain.
🧭 Map & Google Directions
📌 Click here to view location on Google Maps
Search for: "Kondana Caves" or "Kondhane Caves, Karjat"
🏞️ Things to Do at Kondana Caves
Explore Ancient Buddhist Architecture:
- The caves date back to the 1st century BCE, belonging to the Hinayana phase of Buddhism. You’ll find:
- A chaitya (prayer hall) with wooden beams
- Viharas (monk cells)
- Rock-cut sculptures and stupas
- Waterfalls with rappelling and adventure activities
Trek & Nature Walks:
- The lush forest trail is serene, with birds, butterflies, and small waterfalls on the way.
Waterfall Shower (Monsoon):
- A natural waterfall cascades from the cave roof – a rare and refreshing experience.
Photography & Videography:
- Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, vloggers, and Instagrammers.
📜 Historical Significance of Kondana Caves
- These caves are over 2,000 years old and among the earliest examples of rock-cut Buddhist cave architecture in India.
- It was once a significant meditation and learning site for Buddhist monks.
- Part of the larger Karla-Bhaja-Kondana-Bedse cave group, it showcases the evolution of Buddhist art in Maharashtra.
🧳 Nearby Places to Visit
- Rajmachi Fort (via Kondhane route – 3-4 hour trek uphill)
- Bhivpuri Waterfall – Popular picnic spot
- Ulhas Valley Viewpoint
- ND’s Film World (Karjat)
- Karla & Bhaja Caves (near Lonavala – 1.5 hrs from Karjat)
✅ Tips Before You Go
- Wear trekking shoes with good grip
- Carry enough water and light snacks
- Avoid during heavy rains or after dark
- Mobile network is patchy – download offline maps
- Respect nature and heritage – no littering
📷 Perfect for:
- Weekend treks from Mumbai/Pune
- History buffs and archaeology lovers
- Solo travelers, adventure groups, and family day trips
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