|
The most recent discoveries in the field of Archaeology have brought to light the existence of prehistoric settlements in Goa, which probably thrived in the ancient Caves of Goa. The natural and man made caves of Goa are among the most favored attractions of the state and are visited by tourists from all over the world.
Records indicate that there are as many as 25 man-made caves discovered so far in Goa, which are spread over 9 talukas (districts) of the state. Besides, several natural caves still exist in Goa. Most of these caves were built for religious purposes, with only a handful that had probably been carved for residential purposes.
Natural Caves in Goa :
Among the natural caves of Goa, the biggest cave is at Verna, which is spacious enough to hold more than 1200 people at a time. Another prominent natural cave complex is the Buddhist caves at Rivona, whereby the "Pitha", which is carved out of laterite, might have served as the seat of the teacher.
Man-made Caves in Goa:
The rock cut Arvalem caves in Goa are some of the prehistoric ones. Finding mention in mythological tales, these are also known as the 'Pandavas Caves.' According to folklore, the Pandavas - 5 heroes of the legendary epic Mahabharata -- sought shelter in these Arvalem caves after they were exiled. The origin of these caves has been traced to the 5th or 6th century A.D.
There is a popular belief that the Arvalem cave complex has been carved by the traveling Buddhist monks. There is credibility to such beliefs as the caves are built in similar styles as Buddhist caves in other parts of the country. Like Buddhist caves, these Goa caves are rock cut into laterite stone, with the sanctuary in the northern end and the vihara in the southern end.
The rock cut Lamgau caves of Goa are also quite renowned. In one of these caves, you will come across a stone linga installed with a tulsi vrindavan and an image of small nandi bull in the courtyard. Another cave is much larger and deeper, probably having been used as a shelter against monsoon.
Some of the most famous caves in Goa are at:
- Warkhand
- Lamgao
- Arvalem
- Narve
- Sanguem
- Mallanguini
- Rivona
- Shigaon
- Curdi
- Usgao
- Aquem
Get to know more about the caves in Goa on the site Goatrip.com and for further travel information on Goa, just log on to this site.
| 
