Bhimbetka Caves: A Unique Archaeological Site
Numbering about 700 (only 15 rock shelters are open to the public), the Bhimbetka Caves are located 46 km from Bhopal, the state capital, in the Raisen district. Spread over an area of 10 km (length) X 3 km (width), these caves are situated at the southern end of the Vindhyachal Mountains.
The 22nd UNESCO World Heritage Site in India, the Bhimbetka Caves are named after Bhim, the famous Pandava, who is believed to have rested there after being banished from his kingdom along with with other Pandavas.
Well known for its prehistoric paintings, the caves have the largest collection of prehistoric art in India. Interestingly, some of the paintings are 12,000 years old, while others appear to have been made as recently as medieval times. The paintings are made on the walls of the numerous rock shelters located in the middle of steep cliffs.
Most of the paintings are superimposed and shed a lot of light on the first traces of human life. One can find paintings of wild buffalo, rhinoceros, bear and tiger. Hunting scenes, religious rites, work and burials are also depicted through the many cave paintings.
Aptly named pictorial writings, these paintings were done in red and white colors and have survived the vagaries of time and climate magnificently. The colors of the paints were made by mixing manganese with redstone and wood charcoal. Leaf extracts and animal fats were also sometimes used to make the colors more vibrant.
The spectacular Bhimbetka caves are also a paradise for ornithologists. Many species of birds can be seen from here, including some rare ones not seen anywhere else.
when to visit
The best time to visit the Bhimbetka caves is between October and March. The caves are open every day of the week, except Mondays, between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.