Lonad Caves/Khanseshwari Devi Temple

Lonad is a village situated 11 kms from Kalyan City. Lonad is famous for the Lonad caves and the Shiva temple which frequency attracts tourists. About 4 kms from the village are these caves dug into the hills.

These caves in Bhiwandi is a group of rock cut sculptures in the mountain. One can access them easily from the National Highway 3.

When visiting the outskirts of Mumbai, one can explore these caves. It is a good weekend getaway. The Lonad cave is among the 206 places under the protection of Directorate of Archaeology and Museums.

Maharashtra is a state known for caves and these are one of the popular caves. They date back to the 5th and 8th century when it was home to the Buddhist monks who cam from Nala Sopara port on the western coast to Junnar. The rock cut Buddhist sculptures, stone figures, adorned pillars and Hindu sculptures are the prime attractions.

One cannot miss out the temple inside the caves, which has a hall and double verandah and an incomplete carved idol.