Excursion

Caves

Borra Caves:
At a distance of about 90-95-km from Vishakhapatnam are the Borra Caves, which attained historical and religious importance. Borra Caves are located at distance of 90 km from Vishakhapatnam. They are spread over the Eastern Ghats and occupy an area of 2 square kilometers. The one-million-year-old Borra Caves are situated at a height 1400 feet above the sea level. These limestone caves were formed as a result of the action of Gosthani River. The river, which now flows through these caves, was once upon a time flowing over the limestone area. Due to the pressure exerted by the river water on the mineral deposits, the limestone dissolved and gradually the caves were formed. In the process, giving rise to several interesting structures like - a mushroom, a temple, a mosque, a church and many more.

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Mogalarajapuram Caves:
Just 5-km from Vijayawada are the Mogalarajapuram caves having three cave temples, dating back to the 5th century AD. Out of the 3 cave temples constructed here only one is still in good condition with the idols of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka and others. The Ardhanareeshwara Murthy found here is considered the only one of its kind in south India. These caves are datable to 5th Century AD. The idols of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka and Arthanareeswara are carved here.

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Akkana and Madanna Caves:
On the way to the Kanakadurga Temple are the rock-cut caves dedicated to Akkana and Madanna, who were ministers in the court of Abdul Hasan Tanashah in the 17th century. A short distance away is another cave that dates back to the 2nd century BC, which hosts the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara.

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Undavalli Caves:
The Undavalli caves, in the village of Undavalli, are at a distance of 8-km from Vijayawada and nearly 280-km from Hyderabad. The high hill overlooking the Krishna River hosts fine specimens of cut-in architectural and sculptural models.

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