Udayagiri Caves – Ticket Price, Timings, Entry Fee and History

Udayagiri Caves are situated near Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, India. Being one of the most essential archaeological destinations in the country, known for its ancient rock-cut architecture and intricate sculptures. Caves date back to the Gupta period and reflect ancient India’s artistic and cultural achievements. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a traveler looking to explore India’s rich heritage, Udayagiri Caves for an unforgettable experience.

This blog provides a comprehensive guide on Udayagiri Caves, Vidisha, including ticket prices, timings, history, and location, making it an essential resource for travelers. 

Udayagiri Caves: A Historical Overview 

Udayagiri Caves are a group of 20 rock-cut caves located in the hills of Vidisha, one of the oldest towns in the Madhya Pradesh state. Caves gained popularity due to their richly sculpted treasures and various inscriptions depicting different religious and cultural features of the time. Most caves belong to Hinduism and Jainism, with some specifically dedicated to Lord Vishnu and others having images of Jain Tirthankaras. 

These caves were carved during the reign of the Gupta dynasty around the 5th century CE. Such a time is often called “Golden Age of India” due to burgeoning of arts, science, and culture. Caves are a remarkable example of the Gupta-era rock-cut architecture which, among some of the most striking sculptures and reliefs, boasts magnificence of Indian craftsmanship.

The most famous of the sculptures is the Varaha Avatar of Lord Vishnu, a quintessential example of Gupta art. Religious propitiations are undertaken in these caves, which include several Hindu deities and goddesses, besides some Jain idols, indicating the syncretic elements of Indian religious art.

Udayagiri Caves Ticket Price

The Udayagiri Caves entry fee is economical, therefore being affordable for travelers. Indians only need to pay INR 20, while for other countries, the entry price stands at INR 250. Under-15-year-old children do not have to pay at all for entry. Photography requires an additional fee, so it would always be advisable to first consult for any updates ahead of the visit.

Udayagiri Caves, Vidisha Timings | Best Time To Visit

Udayagiri Caves, Vidisha, are open from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM daily. This provides a great time to visit various rock-cut architecture and its historical inscriptions. Travelers visit early in the day. During the summer season especially, this site is closed to the government holidays. In advance, it is sensible to check the schedule beforehand.

How to Book Udayagiri Caves Tickets?

Offline

To book tickets offline for Udayagiri Caves, Madhya Pradesh, there is a counter at the site itself, from where you may buy entry tickets. Cash can be given at the counter as payment. 

Online

• Open the official website of the Archaeological Survey of India((ASI) on a browser.
• On the homepage’s top right corner, you will find the Tickets.
• Tap on Tickets, it will open the ticket window.
• Select the city and monument you are visiting. 
• Fill in the details as per the instructions.
• Finish the payment process, you will get the tickets.

How to Reach Udayagiri Caves?

By Air

The nearest major airport is Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal, which is 56 km away from Vidisha. From Bhopal, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the caves.

By Train

Vidisha is well-connected by train to major cities in India, including Bhopal, Delhi, and Mumbai. Once you arrive at the Vidisha Railway Station, you can take a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to the caves.

By Road

Vidisha is accessible by road. Regular buses and taxis are available from Bhopal, which is a major city in Madhya Pradesh. The drive from Bhopal to Vidisha takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and from Vidisha, the caves are just a short drive away.

Things to See and Do at Udayagiri Caves, Vidisha

Cave 1 – The Vishnu Sculpture

Among the prominent caves at Udayagiri, Cave 1 includes the famous sculpture of Lord Vishnu in his Varaha Avatar. In it, the deity, shaped like a boar head, is seen rescuing the earth from the ocean, a mythological image rich in aura and power in Hinduism. Visitors who have a special interest in ancient Indian art and its mythology should not miss this cave.

Cave 5 – Jain Influence

This cave holds Jain idols and thus is one of the prime evidence of Jain’s influence on this site. The carvings and reliefs of this cave are a visual treat to all interested in Jain art and culture.

Cave 6 – Rock-Cut Temple 

The second significant cave contains a rock-cut temple, with beautifully carved sculptures of gods and goddesses. This cave gives immense insights into the religious lifestyles which prevailed during those ages.

The Inscriptions

Many of the caves have inscriptions in the Brahmi script. These inscriptions offer valuable historical data regarding the Gupta period. Some even contain records of royal donations and patronage, common during that time.

Scenic Views

Besides its historical importance, Udayagiri offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The caves are located atop a hill, and the panoramic views from the top are worth the short climb.

Other Local Attractions

Some of the other heritage attractions are accessible if you plan to visit Udayagiri Caves:

• Sanchi Stupa: About 45 km from Udayagiri, Sanchi is one of the oldest and most famous Buddhist sites in India. Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see.
  
• Bhojpur Temple: Around 30 km from Vidisha lies this temple-famous for an unfinished Bhojeshwar Shiva temple containing a giant Shivalingam.
  
• Vidisha Archaeological Museum: If you’re interested in more historical artifacts, this museum in Vidisha displays a wide range of items from the Gupta period and beyond. 

Udayagiri Caves, Vidisha Location

Address: Udayagiri Caves,Udayagiri Hills, Near Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, India

Udayagiri Caves are situated near Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, about 12 kilometers from the town center. Vidisha is easily accessible from major cities like Bhopal, which is around 56 km. The caves are situated on the top of the Udayagiri Hills and be accessed through the road from Vidisha and Bhopal, which makes it an easy halt for travelers.

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