Excavated between 268 and 232 BCE under Emperor Ashoka's patronage, as attested by inscriptions in the Sudama and Lomas Rishi caves. Three more caves were added by Ashoka's grandson Dasharatha Maurya. The caves were built for the Ajivika sect, an ascetic order founded by Makkhali Gosala.
Sacred Heritage
Barabar Caves
Jehanabad, Bihar
State:Bihar
District:Jehanabad
Why This Temple Matters
Key Takeaways
- Dedicated to Ajivika / Buddhist (Non-sectarian)
- Rock-cut (Mauryan) architecture
- Built by the Maurya (Emperor Ashoka) dynasty
- Located in Jehanabad, Bihar
- Temple timings: Sunrise to sunset daily. Entry is free.
Quick Facts
- Location
- Jehanabad
- Presiding Deity
- Ajivika / Buddhist (Non-sectarian)
- Architecture
- Rock-cut (Mauryan)
- Dynasty
- Maurya (Emperor Ashoka)
- Timings
- Sunrise to sunset daily. Entry is free.
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best Time
- October to March.
Overview
The oldest surviving rock-cut chambers in India, excavated by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. The seven caves feature a mirror-like polish on granite walls that has never been replicated.
History & Legacy
Architecture
Key Features
Excavated entirely from solid granite, with each cave consisting of a rectangular chamber with a vaulted or semi-circular roof. The Lomas Rishi Cave features an intricately carved entrance facade that imitates wooden architecture.
Religious & Cultural Significance
The Barabar Caves are the oldest surviving rock-cut architecture in India and represent the beginning of a tradition that flourished for over a millennium. The Mauryan polish on the cave walls is a technological marvel that has resisted replication.
Interesting Facts
Barabar hill holds four caves named Sudama, Lomas Rishi, Karna Chaupar and Visva Zmitra, and three more on nearby Nagarjuni hill were cut later by Dasharatha Maurya. Brahmi inscriptions inside Sudama, Visva Zmitra and Karna Chaupar record gifts made in the twelfth and nineteenth regnal years of Ashoka to the Ajivika ascetics. The carved archway of Lomas Rishi, with its row of elephants moving toward stupa emblems, is the earliest surviving stone imitation of a wooden chaitya facade.
How to Reach & Visitor Tips
Located about 30 km from Jehanabad. The nearest major railway station is Gaya Junction (70 km). Local transport is limited; hire a private taxi from Patna or Gaya.
Nearby Attractions
Nagarjuni Caves (1 km), Rajgir (50 km), Nalanda University ruins (60 km), Bodh Gaya (80 km).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who built the Barabar Caves and when?
A.
The Barabar Caves were excavated under Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE (approximately 268-232 BCE). Three additional caves were added by Ashoka's grandson Dasharatha Maurya.
What is unique about the Barabar Caves' polish?
A.
The interior walls feature a mirror-like polish known as 'Mauryan polish' that has defied replication. The technology was lost after the Mauryan period.
How do I reach the Barabar Caves?
A.
Located in Jehanabad district, approximately 100 km from Patna. The nearest major railway station is Gaya Junction (70 km).
Are the Barabar Caves related to Ajanta and Ellora?
A.
The Barabar Caves predate Ajanta and Ellora by several centuries and represent the earliest phase of Indian rock-cut architecture.
Answers are based on verified information. Site rules may change — verify locally before visiting.
Sources & References
Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
"Ministry of Tourism — official destination information"
View SourceLinks Last Checked
30 September 2026
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Visiting as an International Traveller
Foreign visitor information is being researched
Please verify with the official authority for this site before planning your visit.
Entry Status
Foreign Visitors
Verify Before VisitingVisitor Information
Entry policies are set by each site — confirm before travelling.
Entry rules for international visitorsWho can enter, permits, and what to expect at the gate.Dress Code
Modest clothing is expected — a sign of respect, not a restriction.
Shoulders covered
Knees covered
Shoes removed before entry
Head covering (women)
Rain gear available
Warm layers (winter)
Photography Guide
Outside
Inside
Flash
Drone
Tripod
Commercial
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
October to March.
Moderate to High — comfortable weather
Summer
April — June
Low — hot plains, pleasant hills
Monsoon
July — September
Low — lush landscape, travel delays possible
Language & Communication
Understanding Temple Traditions
These short explanations help make sense of what you see and experience.
Tips for International Visitors
Temple vocabulary and ritualsDarshan, pradakshina, prasadam, aarti, hundi and mandapa.Currency, donations and queuesCash, UPI, donation etiquette and how long entry queues take.Photography etiquetteSignage, flash, selfie sticks and photographing other visitors.Festival crowds and safetyAdvance booking, road closures, belongings and offline maps.
Essential Contacts
Police / Ambulance / Fire: 112 (National Emergency Number)
Tourist Helpline: 1800-111-363 (Multi-lingual, Ministry of Tourism)
Women's Helpline: 1091
Travel Preparation Checklist
Packing Checklist for Barabar Caves
Continue Reading
Rules change — confirm current policies with the site's authority before you travel.
Site-verified visitor data pending. See our sources and methodology.
By Naveen singh negi
Related:Bihar TemplesAjivika / Buddhist (Non-sectarian)Rock-cut (Mauryan)Maurya (Emperor Ashoka)Methodology
Bihar
Maurya (Emperor Ashoka)
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