Lohani Caves, Mandu - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 1 km from Mandu Bus Stand, Lohani Caves are rock-cut caves and temples situated in the historical town of Mandu. Situated near Jama Masjid, it is one of the popular places to visit in Mandu.

The rock-cut Lohani Caves are believed to have been excavated in about the 11th or 12th century and are the oldest monolith shrines in the city of Mandav. The locals are not sure of the history of these caves but they do know that it was disputed. These caves are completely void of inscriptions and carvings and are said to have been inhabited by humans since the pre-Muslim eras, more precisely the Shiva Yogis.

There are 4-5 caves, that look like shell-shaped rooms. A waterfall flows near these caves, due to which this place becomes even more delightful. A storage tank cut into the rock served as a water source and forms the entrance to the caves. The archaeological department found 80 statues of Hindu Gods and Goddesses like Shiva, Parvati, Vishnu, and Lakshmi from this tank while excavating the site and were kept in the Chhappan Mahal Museum.

Many temple ruins were discovered around these caves. There was a 5 m high monolithic pillar standing to the south of the caves and is believed to be a part of one of the temples. There is not much to see but still, the caves and the flowing water in front of them are a visual delight.

To reach the Lohani caves one has to go down from the main road, but the stairs are wide and not too steep. So it can easily be visited with children and elderly people.

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free