- Bhimbetka Caves - You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and driven to the foothills of the Vindhyachal mountains where the Mesolithic era Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka are situated. There are around 750 Rock Shelters that are to be found on seven hills spread over an area of six miles. These caves contain the earliest traces of human life on the Indian subcontinent.\n\nOf the 750 Rock Shelters, 500 contain well preserved cave paintings that dates back 30,000 years ago. These cave paintings bear a striking resemblance to those found in Australia, the Kalahari desert in Africa and Lascaux in France. Spend some time in this historical art gallery marvelling at the skills of these ancient humans. A notable painting in these caves is that of a bison attacking a man. What is noteworthy is that the painting is visible only when the sun is at a certain point in the sky.\n\nAfter the visit to the caves, take a lunch break (beverage excluded) at a local restaurant.\n\n- Bhojeshwar Temple - After lunch drive to the town of Bhojpur, a 45 minute drive away, and visit its celebrated temple that is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. This 11th century temple houses one of the biggest lingas in India and it is made out of a single rock. \n\nFor reasons that are still unknown, the construction of this temple was halted midway and it remains incomplete to date. One can see architectural plans engraved on the surrounding rocks and unfinished materials abandoned at the site. The architectural drawings carved on the rocks and the mason’s marks have helped scholars understand the temple construction techniques of 11th-century India.\n\nThe temple has been designated as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).\n\nAt the end of the tour, you will be driven back to Bhopal and dropped off at your hotel.
- 02 bottles of mineral water per person
- Lunch (beverage excluded)
- Local English speaking guide
- Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Additional food or drink
- Gratuities
Located around 30 miles from Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh in central India, are the renowned Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the area consists of five sections of naturally occurring rock shelters that have origins dating back to the Mesolithic era. Some of the preserved cave paintings in these shelters are as old as 30,000 years. During a day trip from Bhopal, explore these ancient caves and then proceed to the nearby town of Bhojpur. In Bhojpur, take a look at the 11th century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple features one of the largest lingas (a symbolic representation of Shiva) hewn from a single stone.
Key experiences:
• Bhimbetka’s 30,000-year-old cave paintings
• Bhojpur’s massive 7.5 feet tall Shiva lingam
• The 11th century rock-engraved architectural designs in Bhojpur
- Adult pricing applies to all travelers.
- A moderate amount of walking is involved. Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen and hats are highly recommended.
- Not recommended for pregnant women and people with back problems.
- A dress code is required to enter places of worship. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.
- Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
