Pandava Bakhara is an old cave that is associated with mythological stories. The Cave is located in the Chandaka forest, 31 km distance from Cuttack City and 38 km from Bhubaneswar. According to local people, the Pandavas spent a few days here during their exile in this rock shelter hence the name Pandava Bakhara. The distance from the ground level to the rock shelter is about 1 km, and the road to reach the top is a bit difficult. A few years ago, a research team found traces of human habitation on the hill, which they said was 3500 to 4000 years old. According to history, the Panchu Pandava brothers (Arjuna, Bhima, Nakula, Sahadeva, and Yudhisthira) stayed in these caves during their Mahabharata-era exile (Vanvas). Therefore, this place is named after him, Pandava Bakhara.
The height of the hill on which all these caves are located is about 500 feet. The oldest artefacts found in these Pandav hills are believed to be from the Stone Age and Copper Age. There are many caves in the Pandava Bakhra Hill named Pandava Bakhara, Dabarkhola, Tiger Cave, Chanchlani Cave, Kalia Taila Cave, Narahari Cave and Anahat Cave. Pandava Bakhara Cave is a tourist attraction places near Bhubaneswar, Odisha. A small lake near Pandava Hill is believed to have been inhabited by humans long ago. Pandava Bakhara Cave is a tourist attraction places near Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Useful Travel Information
- If you are going up a mountain for the first time, you should take a local guide because they will show you the way up.
- The bike parking fee is Rs. 20, and the car parking fee is Rs. 50
- Pandava Bakhara remains a relatively unexplored heritage site, offering a unique experience for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers interested in Odisha’s ancient past.
- Surrounded by dense forests, rocky terrain and Mahanadi views, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for nature lovers.
- The site involves a short trek of around 1 km with a steep ascent towards the caves, suitable for adventure enthusiasts.
- You can see ancient artefacts and stone inscriptions.
- Location: Pathapur village, near Banki, Cuttack, Odisha.
- Distance: 31 km from Cuttack, 38 km from Bhubaneswar.
- Timing: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- The best Time to Visit Pandav Bakhara is October to March for pleasant weather.
- From the top of Pandava Bakhara hill, one can enjoy the view of the Mahanadi River and the distant mountains.
- Be advised that this place is not safe on rainy days because your feet will slip while climbing the hill.
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