Talaja Buddhist Caves

Talaja Buddhist Caves on a hill near the town of Talaja, 35 km from Palitana, are one of the earliest cave complexes in Gujarat, carved by Buddhist monks from the 3rd century BCE onwards. The most impressive structure is the Ebhala Mandapa, a large pillared hall with four octagonal columns that is considered a fine example of early rock-cut architecture. The site holds significance for Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism and is associated with the birthplace of medieval Gujarati poet-saint Narsinh Mehta. It is best combined with the Palitana visit as a half-day excursion.