Temple
Pandav Leni
Pandav Leni, also known as the Trirashmi Caves, is a group of 24 ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves on Trirashmi Hill near Nashik, Maharashtra, India. Carved between the 1st century BCE and the 3rd century CE, they represent some of western India’s earliest
Temples and ghats
Location: Trirashmi Hill, ~8 km south of Nashik
Era: 1st century BCE – 3rd century CE
Number of caves: 24
Main features: Viharas (monastic halls), chaityas (prayer halls), stupas, inscriptions
Maintained by: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
History and origin
Despite their name, the caves have no connection to the Pandavas of the Mahabharata; “Pandav Leni” (Marathi for “Pandava Caves”) arose from later folklore. The complex was primarily commissioned under the Satavahana and Western Kshatrapa dynasties, reflecting the patronage of merchants and rulers who supported Buddhism’s expansion in the Deccan. Inscriptions in Brahmi and early Devanagari scripts record donations by officials, monks, and lay devotees .
Era: 1st century BCE – 3rd century CE
Number of caves: 24
Main features: Viharas (monastic halls), chaityas (prayer halls), stupas, inscriptions
Maintained by: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
History and origin
Despite their name, the caves have no connection to the Pandavas of the Mahabharata; “Pandav Leni” (Marathi for “Pandava Caves”) arose from later folklore. The complex was primarily commissioned under the Satavahana and Western Kshatrapa dynasties, reflecting the patronage of merchants and rulers who supported Buddhism’s expansion in the Deccan. Inscriptions in Brahmi and early Devanagari scripts record donations by officials, monks, and lay devotees .
How to reach
Pandav Leni,Mumbai-Agra Highway,Trirashmi Hill, near Buddha Vihar, Pathardi Phata, Nashik, Maharashtra 422010.
Directions
Plan your visit
Nashik Kumbh Mela snan dates & Shahi Snan timings
Safety, emergency help and lost & found
Where to stay for the Nashik Kumbh Mela: tents, dharamshalas and hotels
How to reach Nashik for the Kumbh Mela: train, bus, road and air
Holy dip, Asthi Visarjan and puja at Ramkund and Trimbakeshwar
Two-day Nashik and Trimbakeshwar itinerary for Kumbh pilgrims
What is the Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar?
All pilgrim guides
